In a significant move to position Kerala as India’s leading destination for wedding and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism, the state will host a first-of-its-kind conclave this monsoon. The event aims to align Kerala’s tourism strategies with evolving global trends and unlock the full potential of niche tourism sectors.
Titled the ‘Wedding and MICE Conclave,’ the event will take place from August 14 to 16 and is being organised by the Kerala Travel Mart Society in collaboration with the state government. The conclave will be inaugurated on August 14 at 5 PM at the Grand Hyatt, Bolgatty Island, in Kochi. The subsequent business meetings and seminars will be held at Le Meridien, Kundannur, on August 15 and 16, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
At the Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) 2024, Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan emphasised Kerala’s strong potential to become a hub for wedding and honeymoon tourism. Inspired by this vision, the upcoming conclave aims to consolidate Kerala’s efforts in becoming a competitive force in the global tourism market, noted Tourism and PWD Minister Shri P.A. Mohamed Riyas. The idea for the international conference emerged from deliberations following the Chief Minister’s address at the 12th KTM last September.
According to Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri K. Biju, the event aims to position Kerala as a prime destination for weddings and MICE tourism by leveraging its scenic beauty and robust infrastructure in locations such as Kochi, Munnar, Kumarakom, Kollam, Kovalam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Bekal. These destinations offer diverse settings—beaches, backwaters, hills, and heritage sites—ideal for events and ceremonies.
The conclave will bring together professionals from various sectors, including wedding planning, corporate events, hospitality, and tour operations. It will also feature training workshops, modern marketing strategies, and technology-driven solutions in collaboration with leading wedding and MICE companies, said Kerala Tourism Director Smt Sikha Surendran.
Delegates attending the conclave will have the opportunity to explore Kerala’s key MICE and wedding destinations through organised tours. Emphasis will be placed on promoting the state’s pristine beaches, historic architecture, luxurious resorts, and tailored wedding and honeymoon packages. The event will also celebrate Kerala’s rich culture with performances of traditional and classical art forms such as Kathakali and Carnatic music, along with a showcase of the region’s culinary heritage.
KTM Society President Shri Jose Pradeep highlighted that B2B meetings will enable direct interaction between stakeholders like tour operators, wedding planners, and hoteliers. A special exhibition segment will spotlight offerings in both sectors—from conference venues and logistics providers to wedding décor, catering, photography, and bridal services, added KTM Secretary Shri S. Swaminathan.
The conclave will further include seminars with international experts, reinforcing Kerala’s commitment to aligning with global best practices in tourism development.