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All work and all play: ‘Startup pod’ to redefine Kerala’s workcation, travel experience

At the startup pod, high-speed internet, 24x7 access, meeting spaces, and the required hi-tech features will be available. For this, a three-storey structure, with the project estimated to cost around Rs 6 crore, will be constructed in Varkala, Kerala

Moneycontrol City Desk | August 20, 2025 / 16:25 IST
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Kerala's first ever "startup pod," designed for work and travel, is set to open in Varkala, a popular destination among tech professionals. The initiative, implemented jointly by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) and the state’s tourism department, is expected to woo tech professionals and entrepreneurs to enjoy workation in the state, The New Indian Express reported. (Photo: X)
Kerala's first ever "startup pod," designed for work and travel, is set to open in Varkala, a popular destination among tech professionals. The initiative, implemented jointly by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) and the state’s tourism department, is expected to woo tech professionals and entrepreneurs to enjoy workation in the state, The New Indian Express reported. (Image created for representational purpose only)
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The workpod will be set up at the tourism department’s land near the government guest house in Varkala. An KSUM official was quoted by TNIE as saying that the initiative aims to offer new tourism experiences and woo professionals, entrepreneurs, and startups. (Photo: X)
The workpod will be set up at the tourism department’s land near the government guest house in Varkala. An KSUM official was quoted by TNIE as saying that the initiative aims to offer new tourism experiences and woo professionals, entrepreneurs, and startups. (Photo: X)
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“The startup pod will serve as hubs for remote working, innovation, and brainstorming. It’s also going to be a ‘test bed’ to attract tech investments and foster an ecosystem of startups. People can stay here for a month or two to brainstorm new ideas or develop a product while enjoying the natural beauty of the location. All amenities required for remote working, and a relaxing stay, will be ensured,” the official was quoted as saying. (Photo: X)
“The startup pod will serve as hubs for remote working, innovation, and brainstorming. It’s also going to be a ‘test bed’ to attract tech investments and foster an ecosystem of startups. People can stay here for a month or two to brainstorm new ideas or develop a product while enjoying the natural beauty of the location. (Photo: X)
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At the pods, as per the report, high-speed internet, 24x7 access, meeting spaces, and the required hi-tech features will be available. For this, a three-storey structure, with the project estimated to cost around Rs 6 crore, will be constructed. (Photo: @kirubaakaran)
At the pods, as per the report, high-speed internet, 24x7 access, meeting spaces, and the required hi-tech features will be available. For this, a three-storey structure, with the project estimated to cost around Rs 6 crore, will be constructed. (Photo: X/@kirubaakaran)
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KSUM CEO Anoop P Ambika told TNIE that the project is in the final stages and is expected to be completed in eight months. (Photo: @KeralaTourism)
KSUM CEO Anoop P Ambika told TNIE that the project is in the final stages and is expected to be completed in eight months. (Photo: @KeralaTourism)
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“We have shortlisted four startups that have come forward to invest in the project. We will be finalising the design soon. By aligning Kerala’s vibrant startup ecosystem with our tourism vision, KSUM’s collaboration with the tourism department is not just about tech. It’s about transforming tourism into a canvas for design-led innovation, creative entrepreneurship, and cultural expression,” Anoop was quoted as saying. (Photo: @ZyiteGadgets)
“We have shortlisted four startups that have come forward to invest in the project. We will be finalising the design soon. By aligning Kerala’s vibrant startup ecosystem with our tourism vision, KSUM’s collaboration with the tourism department is not just about tech. It’s about transforming tourism into a canvas for design-led innovation, creative entrepreneurship, and cultural expression,” Anoop was quoted as saying. (Photo: X/@ZyiteGadgets)
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“The startup pods will help generate opportunities for the state too. Those coming here will have a direct connect with KSUM and they can launch startups in Kerala,” an official was quoted by TNIE as saying. (Photo: Image created by AI for representational purpose only)
“The startup pods will help generate opportunities for the state too. Those coming here will have a direct connect with KSUM and they can launch startups in Kerala,” an official was quoted by TNIE as saying. (Image created by AI for representational purpose only)

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