Kerala is gearing up to host India’s first-ever Wedding and MICE Conclave in Kochi from August 14 to 16, aiming to transform the state into a major global hub for destination weddings and corporate events. Organized by the Kerala Travel Mart Society (KTM Society) in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, the event will serve as a B2B networking platform for domestic and international buyers, wedding planners, event professionals, and hospitality stakeholders.

Announcing the conclave at a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Tourism Minister Shri P.A. Mohamed Riyas stated that the initiative is part of a broader plan to promote integrated tourism development in Kerala. “The conclave aims to tap into Kerala’s immense potential in this fast-growing segment and showcase the state as a one-stop destination for high-end weddings and large-scale events,” he said.

So far, 360 domestic and 40 international buyers have registered, alongside 65 sellers from the wedding and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) sectors. The event will open with an inaugural session on August 14 at Grand Hyatt, Bolgatty Island, followed by business meetings and exhibitions on August 15 and 16 at Le Meridien, Kochi.

The state’s successful marketing campaigns post-pandemic have already begun to show results, with around 1,000 destination weddings hosted in Kerala last year alone, the Minister noted. With strong infrastructure, scenic diversity, and cultural richness, Kerala is fast becoming a top choice for wedding tourism.

The conclave will also promote government-supported accommodations like homestays, PWD rest houses, and tourism guest houses, in addition to luxury hotels and resorts, to cater to a wider audience.

KTM Society President Jose Pradeep highlighted that the event, themed ‘Center Stage Kerala’, is aligned with the state’s vision to become a premier destination for both weddings and business tourism. “It will bring together wedding planners, conference organisers, hospitality brands, and logistics providers to collectively shape the future of this sector,” he said.

The event will feature:

• Pre-scheduled B2B meetings

• Expert-led training workshops

• Exhibitions from destination wedding service providers

• Seminars featuring international speakers

• Familiarisation trips to top wedding and MICE destinations across Kerala including Kochi, Munnar, Kumarakom, Wayanad, and Kovalam.

From showcasing Kerala’s serene beaches and backwaters to its historic architecture and cuisine, the conclave will provide a 360-degree look at the state’s offerings for unforgettable events.

“This is not just about high-profile weddings—it’s about inclusive growth,” Minister Riyas added. “When the tourism sector thrives, everyone from auto drivers to resort owners benefits.”

With high expectations and a strong industry response, the Wedding and MICE Conclave promises to be a landmark event in Kerala’s journey towards becoming a top-tier event tourism destination.