India, rich in epics, folklore, and scriptures, has a proud literary history that continues to express itself through myriad literary festivals. Such events bring together eminent authors and modern-day writers, bringing together thinkers, writers, and readers worldwide. Looking towards 2025, the literary festivities in India will be an excellent opportunity to meet voices from India and overseas. If you’re a book lover, here are the top 5+ literature festivals in India that you shouldn’t miss in 2025.
Why Are Literature Festivals in India Unique?
Because Indian literary festivals are an amalgamation of local, national, and international perspectives, they truly are one of a kind. Whether you are a fan of British fiction, or a lover of local vernacular like Malayali, Tamil, and Hindi Urdu, Indian literature is well represented at these literature festivals. They are intellectual forums, cultural exhibitions, and heated discussion venues concerning various issues from ancient history to current international issues.
These festivals not only allow for reading sessions or buying books but also serve as a means of meeting authors of one’s liking, having conversations, and immersing themselves in the world of words and ideas. Every festival has a different ambiance, whether it’s the grandeur of the Jaipur Literature Festival or the serene beauty of the Kerala Literature Festival.

Top Literature Festivals in India
India is home to several renowned literature festivals that celebrate literary diversity, promote cultural exchange, and bring together writers, readers, and thinkers from across the globe. Here are some of the top literature festivals in India:
Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF)
Venue: Hotel Clarks, Amer, Jaipur
Dates: 30th January – 3rd February, 2025
Known as one of the largest and most renowned literary festivals in the world, the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) is a must-attend event for any literature enthusiast. Held annually at the stunning Diggi Palace, this festival attracts some of the biggest literary icons from across the globe.
The Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) is truly a haven for all book lovers. It is one of the largest and most unique literary festivals in the world. It’s hosted every year at the beautiful Diggi Palace, bringing in some of the world’s biggest literary icons.
Why Attend:
The JLF offers everything from enlightening discussions with bestselling authors to poetry readings and workshops. The Jaipur Literature Festival 2025 promises to bring together thought leaders, Nobel laureates, Booker Prize winners, and young debut authors, making it a paradise for literature lovers.
The Jaipur Lit Fest has it all, from stimulating conversations with bestselling authors to poetry readings and workshops. Bringing together thought leaders, Nobel laureates, Booker Prize winners, and young debut authors, the Jaipur Literature Festival 2025 is a bonanza for literature lovers.
Pro Tip:
Make sure to explore Jaipur’s historic sites like Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal while you’re there. With so much going on at the Jaipur Lit Fest 2025, it’s easy to forget to enjoy the local culture and cuisine!
Kerala Literature Festival (KLF)
Location: Kozhikode Beach, Kerala
Dates: January 23–26, 2025
Among the most highly anticipated literary events in India, the Kerala Literature Festival is quickly becoming more prominent. Kozhikode will host the Festival in 2025, which will feature a mix of intellectual exchanges and scenic destinations on the Arabian Sea.
Why Attend:
The Kerala Literature Festival has built a solid reputation for showcasing an impressive array of authors, poets, and cultural figures. Although it primarily highlights South Indian literature, it embraces voices from around the globe as well. Be prepared for captivating sessions that delve into topics ranging from modern writing to classic poetry. The Kerala Literature Festival 2025 schedule promises to include some of the most acclaimed names in international literature.
Pro Tip:
While you’re enjoying the festival, make sure to seize the opportunity for a boat ride through the serene backwaters of Kerala or indulge in the famous Malabar biryani.
Hyderabad Literary Festival (HLF)
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
Dates: January 24-26, 2025
The Hyderabad Literary Festival (HLF) is a unique celebration that blends literary discussions with cultural and artistic performances. Known for its inclusive nature, HLF celebrates both regional and international voices.
Why Attend:
The HLF 2025 will bring a rich diversity of themes and subjects, ranging from literature and arts to political discourse and social issues. The festival is known for hosting thought-provoking discussions and is a great place for book lovers to network with authors and intellectuals. Also, the hydlitfest tag gives a sneak peek into the vibrant atmosphere of the festival, where creativity meets culture.
Pro Tip:
While in Hyderabad, explore the iconic Charminar, Golconda Fort, and treat yourself to the world-famous Hyderabadi Biryani.
Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters (MBIFL)
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Dates: February 6-9, 2025
The Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters is an exciting literary event in Kerala, organized by the Mathrubhumi newspaper. It’s fast becoming one of the most anticipated festivals in the country.
Why Attend:
The Mathrubhumi Literature Festival 2025 will bring together authors, poets, and thinkers from around the world to engage in stimulating conversations on literature, politics, and more. What makes this festival stand out is its unique mix of literary discussions and cultural performances, giving attendees the perfect balance of intellectual exchange and entertainment.
Pro Tip:
Take time to explore the historic city of Thiruvananthapuram. Visit its beautiful temples, beaches, and natural parks to experience Kerala’s true charm.
Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF)
Location: Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Dates: March 21–23, 2025
The Kalinga Literary Festival is known for embracing global concepts while highlighting regional Indian literature. KLF brings together the finest in literature, art, and culture and is held in the culturally vibrant city of Bhubaneswar.
Why Attend:
The festival’s topics range from social justice and climate change to literature and philosophy. The lively cultural performances are an extra bonus that adds to the experience’s complexity. For everyone interested in the world of books, the festival is an intriguing event since it features both well-known and up-and-coming voices.
The festival’s topics vary from social justice and climate change to literature and philosophy. A bonus that makes the experience complex is the vibrant cultural performances. For all those interested in the world of books, the festival is an interesting event since it features both established and emerging voices.
Pro Tip:
While attending KLF, also take time to visit the historic temples of Odisha, specifically Puri Beach and the Konark Sun Temple.
Dehradun Literature Festival
Location: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Dates: To Be Announced
The Dehradun Literature Festival is a small event that happens in the picturesque Himalayas. This literary event, therefore, creates more personal contact between the writers and the readers. It becomes much more charming with this kind of background.
Why Attend:
The Dehradun Literature Festival 2025 will seem like a wonderful opportunity for writers and readers to connect and discuss everything from local literature to world affairs. In fact, because of its laid-back atmosphere, this festival is ideal for people who like to have in-depth discussions in a more intimate setting.
Pro Tip:
Dehradun is known for its natural beauty. Hike through the many trails surrounding the city or take a day trip to Mussoorie.
Emerging Literature Festivals to Watch Out For
There are several new literary festivals that are becoming more and more well-known every year in addition to the big ones listed above:
GALF, or the Goa Arts and Literature Festival: GALF is a must-visit for anybody who enjoys both art and literature since it celebrates the distinctive fusion of Goan culture and literature.
Chennai Literary Festival: This festival celebrates Tamil literature and has been growing in stature, attracting literary figures from around the world.
Pune International Literary Festival (PILF): A knowledgeable event for both aspiring and experienced writers is the PILF, famous for its widespread and various subjects and workshops.
Tips for Attending Literature Festivals
Attending a literary festival can prove a bit difficult when so many things happen simultaneously. The following can help you take in all that a festival has to offer:
Register Early: To a pretty big extent, this is quite a significant tip as preregistration is required for many of the festivals, such as the Jaipur Lit Fest; you prevent losing out.
Pack Wisely: Carry along items such as a water bottle, some well-worn walking shoes, and a notebook for writing down your ideas and favorite phrases.
Interact with writers: You may be lucky to meet writers and have your book or books autographed at a lot of events. Don’t pass up this opportunity.
Explore the City: Culturally enriched cities do possess festivals. Try and see local sights, if any.
Conclusion
India’s literature festivals are celebrations of ideas, creativity, and the written word rather than merely occasions. A stimulating experience that will inspire, engage, and educate you is certain whether you’re attending the renowned Jaipur Lit Fest 2025 or the calm Kerala Literature Festival. So, prepare to explore the world of literature in depth at one of these fantastic festivals in 2025 by packing your luggage and making notes on your calendars.
