local surf history
Genesis
Chapter 1
In 2005, Belgian surfer Jelle Rigole arrived in Kovalam as an intern with the Sebastian Indian Social Projects (SISP) and setup Kovalam Surf Club, an idea that would transform lives of Kerala’s coastal youth.
The Birth of Soul & Surf, Varkala
Chapter 2
In 2010, British travellers—Ed Templeton and Sophie Hellyer—left their corporate jobs, set out across the world, and discovered the pristine cliffs of Varkala. Drawn by its serenity, they founded Soul & Surf, a surf-and-yoga retreat that blended Western surf culture with Kerala’s laid-back charm.
Surfing During Pandemic
Chapter 3
When COVID-19 struck the tourism industry, many local youth spent their spare time at the ocean learning to surf.
Within two years, Varkala’s scene expanded from just two surf schools to thirteen ready to welcome guests.
Rise of an Asian Champion
Chapter 4
By 2025, Ramesh Budihal, once a barefoot boy from the early batches of Kovalam Surf Club became the first Indian surfer to win a medal at the Asian Championships. His lead performance qualified India for the Aichi–Nagoya Asian Games 2026.
.jpg)
Surf Kerala
Chapter 5
In September 2025, a founding group of 63 surfers came together to form Surf Kerala, a not-for-profit society.
Surf Kerala is now recognised as the official state body for growing and developing surfing in Kerala by the Surfing Federation of India (SFI).
