P.C. Vishnunadh Inaugurates KTDC Payasam Mela at Grand Chaithram, Thiruvananthapuram
The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) kicked off its Grand Payasam Mela at properties across the state as part of this year’s Onam celebrations, with the state-level inauguration held on August 19, 2026, at KTDC Grand Chaithram, Thampanoor, Thiruvananthapuram.
The event was inaugurated by Kerala Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunadh, in the presence of Mr. Harshil R. Meena IAS, Managing Director, KTDC; Mr. G.S. Rajmohan, Marketing Manager, KTDC; and Mr. Girish Kumar, Accounts Officer and Financial Controller, KTDC.
The Mela brings together a wide variety of traditional Kerala payasams prepared by KTDC’s skilled chefs, with an emphasis on preserving the authentic taste, quality and aroma of the festive delicacies. At Grand Chaithram, the payasam sales outlet will remain open from August 19 to 25, between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m., with payasam also available until 1 p.m. on August 26.
Visitors can choose from an array of traditional varieties, including Ada Pradhaman, Palpayasam, Kadala Payasam, Palada Payasam, Navarasa Payasam and Carrot Payasam, while special varieties such as Pineapple Payasam, Banana Payasam, Parippu Pradhaman, Mango Payasam and Wheat Payasam will be offered on designated days. Payasam is priced at ₹460 per litre and ₹240 per half-litre, inclusive of taxes.
Alongside the Payasam Mela, KTDC will also host traditional Onam Sadya at Mascot Hotel and Grand Chaithram on August 25 and 26, with the Sadya served at Mascot Hotel from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The Payasam Mela will extend to several other KTDC properties on different dates before August 27, including Bolgatty Palace & Island Resort in Kochi; Malabar Courtyard, Muzhappilangad, in Kannur; Folkland, Parassinikadavu, in Kannur; Loom Land in Kannur; and Rain Drops in Chennai.
The initiative is aimed at introducing visitors and residents to the distinctive flavours of Kerala’s traditional payasams and Onam cuisine, while showcasing KTDC’s culinary expertise and its continued commitment to quality. For more information, visitors can contact KTDC or visit its official website.
