International Surfing Festival to Grace Varkala's Edava Beach from April 10
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Synopsis
The International Surfing Festival will take place at Edava beach in Varkala, Kerala, from April 10 to 13, featuring various surfing competitions and attracting numerous participants and tourists.
Key Takeaways
- Festival dates: April 10-13
- Location: Edava beach, Varkala
- Inauguration by Tourism Minister Riyas
- Competitions in multiple surfing categories
- Winners to receive cash prizes
Thiruvananthapuram, April 5 (NationPress) The beautiful Edava beach in Kerala’s Varkala is gearing up for excitement as it prepares to host the second edition of the International Surfing Festival from April 10 to 13. This event is anticipated to attract numerous tourists and water sports aficionados.
Situated approximately 40 km from the state capital, Varkala is celebrated not only for its stunning beaches but also as a vital pilgrimage site, recognized as the spiritual home of the esteemed social reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
The festival will be inaugurated by Tourism Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas on April 10.
During the four-day event, competitions will be held in various categories, such as SUP (Stand-Up Paddle) Technical Race, Paddle Board Technical Race, and SUP Surfing, with around 60 participants, including both local and international surfers.
Organized by the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS) under the auspices of the State Tourism Department, in collaboration with the Thiruvananthapuram District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), the event has received technical backing from the Surfing Federation of India and the International Surfing Association (ISA).
Competition categories will include National Women’s Open, National Men’s Open, National Groms (16 & under – Girls), National Groms (16 & under – Boys), International Men’s Open, and International Women’s Open.
Winners in each category will be awarded a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh.
In addition to the competitions, the festival will also provide 50 fortunate individuals with a chance to win complimentary surfing sessions valued at Rs 1 lakh through a special contest. Participants will be selected from five categories: general public, educational institutions, techies, working professionals, and digital creators (including vloggers, photographers, and influencers).
Tourism Minister Riyas expressed that this event will significantly enhance Varkala’s status as a global tourist attraction.
“Surfing has already integrated into Varkala’s culture, with several professional surfers, clubs, and coaches located here. Hosting an international event will solidify its position on the global adventure tourism stage,” he stated.
Tourism Secretary K. Biju noted that Kerala aims to establish itself as a central hub for adventure sports.
“Events like this elevate the popularity of such activities and play a crucial role in fostering a vibrant adventure sports culture in the state,” he added.
