Tourism News
Vasantholsavam Inaugurated: Tourism Minister Lights Up Thiruvananthapuram
On December 25, Tourism Minister Shri P. A. Mohamed Riyas inaugurated the Department of Tourism's annual flower show, ‘Vasantholsavam’ and light show, marking the beginning of Christmas and New Year celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram. Held at the sprawling Kanakakunnu Palace grounds, the 10-day event concluded on January 3, 2025.
The inauguration was attended by Shri G. R. Anil, Minister for Food and Civil Supplies; Shri A. A. Rahim MP; Mayor Smt. Arya Rajendran; Shri V. K. Prashanth, MLA; and Shri I. B. Satheesh, MLA. Also present were Smt. Sikha Surendran, Director of Tourism; Dr Reena K. S., Councillor; Shri P. Vishnuraj, Additional Director of Kerala Tourism; and Shri Satheesh Miranda, Secretary of the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC).
Shri Riyas highlighted that in 2024, an unprecedented number of domestic tourists visited Kerala. He also announced that in addition to Thiruvananthapuram, cities like Kochi and Kozhikode would be illuminated for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Themed ‘Illuminating Joy, Spreading Harmony,’ the New Year light show adorned the city streets and heritage structures with vibrant displays. The flower show featured curated exhibits with flowers sourced from outside Kerala, enhancing its appeal.
Kanakakunnu Palace and its surroundings, along with illuminated city streets, created a festive atmosphere. The event included trade fairs, amusement parks, food festivals and cultural programmes. Shri Riyas emphasized that the illumination and festivities symbolized unity, harmony and happiness while providing a platform for convergence.
Additional attractions included an enormous globe, a model of a European street reminiscent of Christmas in London, and displays like Cinderella, a polar bear, and a dinosaur crafted using lights. Visitors also enjoyed a garden of flower pots, a herbal plant expo, a biodiversity exhibition, rare bonsai collections and a cut flower display. Unique collections from government institutions and nurseries were also showcased. Various competitions in multiple categories for nurseries and landscaping were organized for individuals and organizations, adding a competitive edge to the festivities.
The Vasantholsavam and Light Festival, organized by Kerala Tourism in collaboration with the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), welcomed visitors from Christmas Day morning and drew large crowds, including domestic and foreign tourists, who came to experience the vibrant festive spirit of Kerala’s capital city.
