With Kerala preparing to host some of the nation’s biggest literary festivals in 2026, a buzz is growing among writers, readers, and culture-lovers who seek experiences beyond the festival gates. For many, the ideal literary journey is not just about attending panel discussions and book launches, but immersing themselves in history, heritage, and local colour. This season, the Old Lighthouse Bristow, nestled beside the Arabian Sea in the heart of Fort Kochi, presents itself as the quintessential retreat for literary enthusiasts arriving in Kerala.

Kerala Literature Festival 2026: A Global Convergence

The ninth edition of the Kerala Literature Festival (KLF), set to unfold from January 22 to 25, 2026, on the sunlit beaches of Kozhikode, is already anticipated as Asia’s largest literature festival. More than 500 speakers, including Nobel Laureates, Booker Prize winners, and celebrated thinkers, will present over 300 sessions across four days. Supported by Kerala Tourism and the Department of Culture, KLF is renowned not only for its dynamic programming but also for its coastal venue and vibrant ambience. The festival is expected to welcome over half a million eager souls, all swept up in a shared celebration of literature, art, and dialogue.

Alongside KLF, the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters (MBIFL) 2026 will be held from January 29 to February 1 at Kanakakunnu Palace in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring over 300 writers from around the world. Meanwhile, India’s first travel literary festival, Yaanam, held in Varkala, is expected to continue from previous years, offering another vibrant literary experience during the year.

But with so much happening across Kerala, why should travellers consider Fort Kochi and the Old Lighthouse as part of their festival itinerary?

A Heritage Retreat in Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi has long enchanted visitors with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling waterfront markets. The Old Lighthouse Bristow Hotel stands out as a unique heritage stay that embodies both period charm and modern comfort. Originally built as a colonial lighthouse to guide ships safely to port, this boutique hotel now seamlessly blends history with hospitality, inviting guests to slow down and immerse themselves in the stories of the coast.

The hotel’s ocean-facing rooms, cosy gardens, and artistic interiors offer more than just relaxation; they inspire creativity. Literary travellers can unwind beside the waves, read under swaying palms, or pen their own stories in tranquil surroundings charged with the spirit of maritime adventure.

Beyond the Festival: Exploring Kochi’s Literary Soul

Many festival-goers use the days before or after these events to journey around Kerala, with Fort Kochi topping their list for culture, art, and heritage. Staying at the Old Lighthouse lends easy access to the area’s bookshops, art galleries, and historic sites. From the Indo-Portuguese Museum and local cafes to bustling spice markets, every corner of Fort Kochi is steeped in the crossroads of cultures and the spirit of old-world storytelling.

Day trips can be planned to nearby literary or cultural events or simply to explore the architecture and tales that make Kochi a muse for countless writers. Walking tours often include visits to iconic landmarks, allowing guests to trace the footprints of poets and authors inspired by this seaside town.

For the Literary Enthusiast: More Than a Stay

Guests choosing the Old Lighthouse for their festival-time accommodation find a blend of private comfort and immersive experiences. Personalised service, from customised décor to themed menus, can turn a literary journey into something truly memorable. Whether sipping chai on the terrace while watching cargo ships or joining informal book readings with fellow travellers, the hotel fosters an atmosphere ripe for reflection, discussion, and creativity.

Conclusion: Kerala’s Festivals, Kochi’s Heritage, Your Story

This festival season, the Old Lighthouse in Fort Kochi isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a bridge between the vibrant present of Kerala’s literary scene and its storied past. For literary tourists, it promises not just rest, but inspiration and discovery. Whether attending KLF, MBIFL, or the continuing Yaanam travel literary festival, let the Old Lighthouse guide your journey, enriching it with every sunrise, every story, and every conversation on its historic shores.

Come, think, reflect, and embrace your creativity at The Old Ligthhouse Bristow!