Two-Day Celebration of Women’s Empowerment, Adventure, and Sustainable Tourism on January 17-18
In a groundbreaking initiative aligned with Kerala’s visionary ‘She Tourism’ project, the Wayanad Eco Tourism Association (WETA) is set to host Her Trails 2026, India’s first women conclave within the hospitality sector, on January 17 – 18, 2026. This pioneering event aims to position Wayanad as a safe, sustainable, and women-friendly destination while celebrating women achievers and adventurers from across the country.
The official logo of Her Trails 2026 was recently released by Adv. P.A. Mohammed Riyas, Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala, at a function held in Thiruvananthapuram. The logo release ceremony was attended by Mr. Gopa Varma and Ms. Ranjini Menon, curator of the event, marking the formal launch of this historic initiative.
Breaking Stereotypes, Embracing Possibilities
Her Trails 2026 brings together a powerful platform of adventurous women who have defied societal norms and carved a niche for themselves in non-conventional fields. Under the theme “Break the Stereotypes, Embrace Possibilities,” the event will showcase stories of courage, determination, and triumph that inspire and empower.
According to Ms. Ranjini Menon, owner of Turmerica Experiential Stay in Wayanad and curator of the event organized by WETA, which represents over 80 tourism establishments in the region, “With Her Trails, we aim to make Wayanad a national model for sustainable and responsible tourism – where women lead the way in eco-friendly travel, adventure, and entrepreneurship.”
Government Support and Recognition
The release of the Her Trails 2026 logo by the Tourism Minister underscores the Kerala Government’s strong commitment to promoting women-centric tourism initiatives. The event aligns seamlessly with the state’s visionary ‘She Tourism’ project, which aims to make Kerala a premier destination for women travelers by ensuring safety, quality services, and unique experiences tailored to women’s needs and preferences.
Two Days of Inspiration and Adventure
The opening day on January 17, 2026, will feature thought-provoking sessions, keynote addresses, and panel discussions at the prestigious Saptha Resort in Sultan Bathery. The inaugural and She Conclave will bring together renowned women leaders, travel influencers, and entrepreneurs who have made their mark in diverse fields.
The distinguished panel of speakers includes Safrina Latheef, mountaineer and Kerala’s first woman to summit Mount Everest; Dr. Mithra Satheesh, renowned Ayurvedic doctor and travel writer; Jainy Maria Kuriakose, wildlife and bird photographer and travel influencer; Aastha Maheshwari, top-ranked travel blogger; and Anjaly Thomas, featured solo world traveler. Other prominent participants include Nimisha Manjooran, off-roading champion and motorsport enthusiast; Adiba Jahan, cultural entrepreneur and wellness visionary; and Amrutha Jayachandran, architect, sailor, and co-founder of Mountain Meets Sea.
The conclave will feature inspiring stories from world sailors who have circumnavigated the globe, mountaineers who have scaled the highest peaks, solo travelers who have explored over 100 countries, and off-roaders who have conquered some of the toughest terrains.
The second day, January 18, 2026, promises an adrenaline-filled experience with Kerala’s first-ever all-women off-road fun drive. The Her Trails 4×4 Expedition, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Parison Tea Estate trails near Mananthavady, will bring together women adventurers from across India for this exclusive expedition.
Around 50 vehicles are expected to participate in this thrilling off-road adventure, featuring carefully curated routes designed for beginners, intermediate, and expert drivers. Participants will journey through rolling tea estates, rugged mountain tracks, forest-lined routes, and untouched natural trails, ensuring safety, thrill, and learning at every turn.
A Vision for Inclusive and Sustainable Tourism
A key focus of Her Trails 2026 is promoting inclusive and community-driven tourism. The initiative will integrate local women and tribal women into the tourism sector, providing them with opportunities for economic empowerment and skill development.
“This is not just an event-it is a movement, a mission, a milestone in women-led adventure and empowerment,” Ranjini emphasized. “Her Trails represents our shared promise to the world: Wayanad is safe. Wayanad is welcoming. Wayanad is ready.”
Curated by a Women Entrepreneur and Media Visionary
The event is curated by Ms. Ranjini Menon, one of Kerala’s most influential media personalities and a celebrated TV anchor, director, writer, blogger, and social activist. With over 25 years of distinguished experience in the visual media industry, Ranjini has championed programs that have catalyzed significant social change, particularly in advancing women’s dignity, rights, and social visibility.
A passionate advocate for community upliftment and a dynamic social entrepreneur rooted in Wayanad, Ranjini continues to champion sustainable tourism models that create meaningful, long-term impact through her venture, Turmerica Experiential Stay.
About Wayanad Eco Tourism Association
Established in 2012, WETA is a collective of eco-conscious tourism entrepreneurs, homestay owners, adventure hosts, and nature lovers unified by a common purpose: to protect Wayanad’s ecological wealth while promoting meaningful, community-driven tourism.
The association’s commitments include upholding ethical and sustainable tourism practices, empowering local communities and rural economies, preserving Wayanad’s rich biodiversity, traditions, and tribal heritage, and creating authentic, memorable, and responsible travel experiences for visitors.
WETA regularly organizes workshops for skill development in partnership with KITTS (Kerala Institute of Travel and Tourism Studies), conducts cleanliness drives in tourism destinations, and hosts workshops with various stakeholders including government agencies.
Extensive Media Coverage Expected
National television channels have been invited to cover and air the event, ensuring exceptional visibility and reach. Extensive social media coverage with high-frequency posts, reels, stories, and event highlights across all major platforms will generate strong digital traction.
The event is being organized in association with Kerala Tourism and the Responsible Tourism Mission, reflecting the state’s commitment to women-centric tourism and sustainable development.
Her Trails: More Than an Event
Her Trails 2026 represents a transformative experience that honors the spirit, resilience, and brilliance of women. Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Wayanad, it creates a vibrant space where voices, stories, and lived experiences converge to uplift, empower, and ignite inspiration.
“This pioneering initiative aims to position Wayanad on the global map as a safe, disciplined, well-managed, and women-friendly travel destination,” said WETA representatives. “We’re building a travel culture where every woman feels empowered and celebrated.”
As Kerala continues to lead the way in innovative tourism initiatives, Her Trails 2026 stands as a testament to the power of women’s leadership in shaping the future of sustainable and responsible travel. The event promises to create lasting impact, inspiring a new generation of women adventurers and positioning Wayanad as a premier destination for women travelers from around the world.
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