Game to enjoy Kerala's exciting blue waters in style this Easter weekend? Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram, which is aiming to be a global water sports hub, is hosting the year's first International Surfing Festival till March 31.
The event was inaugurated on Friday by actor-surfing athlete Sudev Nair. Around 100 domestic and foreign athletes are taking part in the event organised by the International Surfing Association, Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society and the District Tourism Promotion Council, with the Surfing Federation of India. Water sports lovers can practice and experience surfing, first-hand, at the event. Rory Symes, the renowned Australian surfer, is the head judge of the competitions. The event will be held in the 'International Cup,' 'Groms' and 'Open' categories. 

What can beginners do?
If you are planning to visit Varkala with friends and try a hand at surfing during the festival, the trainers of Moonwave Surf School can offer a free lesson. Trainer Akhilesh Krishnan aka Kannappan says, "During the International Surfing Festival till March 31, we give free lessons to groups of surfing enthusiasts (minimum 5 people) in the evenings. The lesson is given at the beaches around Varkala, depending on how friendly the waves are. These days, the lessons are conducted at Pozhikkara Beach, though Edava, Kappil, Varkala and Black beaches are also popular training spots." He says that the surfing lessons  are conducted around 4.30 pm and can last 1.5 hours. The free lesson costs Rs 1,500 on other days. Those interested can contact Akhilesh on 90371 58575. 

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