Tourism Department’s pavilion at KTM celebrates Kerala’s art and culture

Kochi / September 25, 2026

Kochi, Sep 25: The pavilion of the Kerala Tourism Department, highlighting Kerala as a hub of art and culture, stands out as the main attraction at the Kerala Travel Mart (KTM-2026).

The pavilion showcases the state's rich artistic traditions through Theyyakkolam, under the theme "The Magical Everybody." It drew foreign and interstate buyers, along with local delegates attending the KTM.

Tourism Minister PC Vishnunadh visited the pavilion during the expo's inauguration and praised its captivating design.

Designed as part of efforts to promote cultural tourism, the pavilion invites visitors to experience Kerala's unique artistic and cultural features firsthand. The tourism department expects the pavilion to offer a unique experience for tourists interested in exploring Kerala's art forms and culture. By highlighting these elements, the pavilion emphasises the state's commitment to experiential tourism. It aims to promote tourism in the Malabar region by showcasing Theyyam, a ritual art form from North Malabar.

The "Kerala Festival Destination" pavilion spans 40 square meters and features a full-scale representation of the Kandanar Kelan Theyyam, which stands 11 feet high and 6 feet wide. The Kandanar Kelan Theyyam is predominantly performed in the Kasaragod, Payyannur, and Taliparamba areas, with the main ceremony involving a fire entry.

To represent this, an artificial bonfire has been created near the Theyyam in the pavilion. Four fire lanterns have been attached to the Theyyam pole to signify the night ceremonies. A video presentation has also been arranged to explain the ritual significance and distinctive characteristics of Theyyam.

The expo is part of the 13th edition of the KTM 2026, India’s leading tourism and trade fair, held at the Sagara and Samudrika convention centres on Wellington Island, Kochi.

The fair features 383 vendor stalls from tourism entrepreneurs and 25 stalls from various government institutions, including those from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and India Tourism.

The event that opened on Thursday will continue until September 27.

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