Tourism News
Hungarian PM Viktor Orban Enjoys Private Vacation in Kerala
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, along with his wife and two daughters, was on a private vacation in Kerala, drawing attention with his local experiences. The family’s low-key visit captivated the public, especially after pictures of Orban enjoying an autorickshaw ride in Fort Kochi went viral on social media.
Accompanied by a Keralite who manages an Ayurveda centre in Hungary, Orban’s vacation sparked rumours about his health, which he addressed directly. In an interview with Hungarian media outlet Blikk, he dismissed the speculation, stating, “I’m healthy as a rock.” Reports suggest his wife is undergoing Ayurvedic therapy at a luxury resort in Alappuzha.
Orban’s itinerary reflects his interest in India’s cultural and historical richness. He mentioned his admiration for Vasco da Gama, who passed away in Kochi, as a key reason for visiting the city. Highlighting India’s growing global significance, he noted that India’s economy is on the verge of explosive development, and encouraged cultural exploration over luxury vacations.
The family visited iconic Kerala locations, including the Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple in Alappuzha, known for its serpent worship, as well as the Alappuzha backwaters, Thekkady wildlife sanctuary, and Munnar’s hill stations. Orban’s trip, which concluded on January 16, also coincided with Donald Trump’s preparations for another presidential campaign, sparking interest in international circles.
While state officials have clarified that Orban’s visit was strictly personal, Kerala’s tourism industry is keen to highlight the state’s appeal as a global travel destination through this high-profile visit. His experiences underscore Kerala’s unique blend of natural beauty, wellness tourism, and cultural heritage, reaffirming its status as “God’s Own Country.”
