Thiruvananthapuram International Film Festival

About this place

The International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) is an annual film festival organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy on behalf of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala, and held in Thiruvananthapuram. Established in 1996, the festival has developed into one of India’s prominent international film festivals, with a strong emphasis on world cinema, Indian cinema and Malayalam films. Its programme brings together films from different countries and cinematic traditions, with sections that have included the International Competition, World Cinema, Indian Cinema Now, Malayalam Cinema Today, Country Focus, retrospectives, contemporary selections, homages and specially curated packages. The International Competition is open to films from Asian, African and Latin American countries, while the wider programme gives audiences access to a broad range of contemporary and historically significant works. IFFK is particularly associated with serious film appreciation and provides a platform for independent, artistic and socially engaged cinema alongside established international productions. The festival's significance extends beyond screenings, with programmes such as the Open Forum and workshops creating opportunities for audiences, filmmakers, technicians and other members of the film community to exchange ideas. The annual Aravindan Memorial Lecture is another notable component of the festival. Awards presented during IFFK include the Golden Crow Pheasant (Suvarna Chakoram) for Best Film, along with awards for direction, debut direction and audience choice, as well as recognitions presented by organisations including NETPAC and FIPRESCI. A Lifetime Achievement Award is also given to a filmmaker for a substantial contribution to cinema. Screenings and festival activities take place at multiple venues across Thiruvananthapuram, making IFFK a city-wide cultural event rather than a programme confined to a single theatre. The festival attracts filmmakers, critics, students, researchers and cinema enthusiasts from Kerala, India and abroad, contributing to Thiruvananthapuram's established reputation as a centre for film culture. Its emphasis on diverse cinematic voices and opportunities for discussion makes the festival particularly relevant to audiences interested in cinema as an artistic and social medium. The Kerala State Chalachitra Academy describes IFFK as one of the premier film festivals of India and notes that the eight-day festival is traditionally held in Thiruvananthapuram in December. The 30th edition was held from December 12 to 19, 2025.

🚆 Railway: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is the principal railway station for IFFK venues in the city; distances vary by screening venue, with several central venues within a few kilometres.

✈️ Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport, with the distance varying according to the festival venue.

🚌 Bus: Thiruvananthapuram has extensive KSRTC and city bus services connecting the railway station, central areas and the various locations used for festival screenings and events.

🏨 Stay: Hotels, lodges, hostels and homestays are widely available across Thiruvananthapuram, particularly around Thampanoor, East Fort, Palayam and other central areas.

✅ Notes: IFFK is traditionally held in December as an eight-day festival. The 2025 edition took place from December 12–19. The 2026 dates, screening venues, registration procedures, accreditation and programme should be confirmed through the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy's official IFFK announcements before planning a visit.