The 13th Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) 2026 concluded in Kochi on September 27 after four days and a record 58,000 business-to-business meetings. Held at venues including the Lulu International Convention Centre and the Sagara-Samudrika Convention Centres on Willingdon Island, the event marked a milestone for state-level tourism in India.

More than 3,000 buyers registered, including around 800 international delegates from over 75 countries and 2,250 domestic buyers. Organisers reported 45,000 pre-scheduled meetings and 13,000 additional on-site interactions, connecting global travel agents with Kerala’s tourism businesses.

Discussions at the mart focused on how the industry can adapt to changing traveller expectations and technology. Participants considered artificial intelligence’s growing role in planning and curating trips, while stressing that human interaction remains central to a memorable travel experience.

The state government and industry stakeholders also outlined plans to strengthen Kerala’s position in wellness and cruise tourism. Their approach centres on integrating specialized experiences with traditional leisure travel, rather than offering them as separate products.

Wellness and Ayurveda were prominent themes, reflecting rising international interest in preventive health and mental well-being. Cruise tourism also featured strongly. In his inaugural address, Chief Minister VD Satheesan set out an ambitious vision for making greater use of Kerala’s extensive coastline.

Together, the discussions and expansion plans point to a broader strategy: building tourism around distinctive, high-value experiences while preparing for changes in technology and travel demand.