Varkala

Varkala beach

Quick Overview

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March
  • Weather: Pleasant winters, humid summers
  • Budget: ₹1,500–₹5,000/day

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

Nearest Railway Station: Varkala Sivagiri (2 km from main beach)

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (40 km)

By Road: Buses and cabs available from Trivandrum, Kollam

Where to Stay?

From cliffside hostels with ocean views to peaceful boutique resorts tucked away in coconut groves – Varkala has stays for every kind of traveler. North Cliff is perfect for nightlife and cafés. South Cliff offers quiet luxury.

Packing List

  • Breezy cottons & beachwear
  • Flip-flops
  • Sunscreen, hat & sunglasses
  • Reusable bottle

Top Places to Visit & Things to Do

Varkala Beach (Papanasam)
A sacred beach where people believe the waters cleanse sins. Great for swimming, sunsets & soul-soothing.

Varkala Cliff
A rare red cliff right by the sea – full of cafés, yoga spots, and cliff-edge views.

Janardanaswamy Temple
A 2,000-year-old pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu, filled with divine serenity.

Kappil Beach & Backwaters
Where rivers kiss the sea. Untouched, scenic and ideal for canoeing or meditating.

Anjengo Fort
A British-era fort with coastal views and colonial history – perfect for a quiet morning stroll.

Sivagiri Mutt
Founded by social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Spiritually rich and historically important.

Must-Try Experiences

Surfing & Sea Sports
Learn to surf or try paragliding. Great waves, great vibes.

Yoga & Ayurveda
Book a session with a sea view. Go for an Ayurvedic massage after.

Sunset Cliff Walks
North Cliff offers the best golden hour – walk, sit, soak it in.

Backwater Canoeing
Paddle slowly through the calm Kappil backwaters. Nature therapy guaranteed.

Local Cuisine

  • Breakfast: Dosa, idiyappam, appam with veg stew
  • Lunch: Kerala sadhya, Seafood, Naadan Kozhi Curry
  • Snacks: Banana chips, pazham pori
  • Drinks: Tender coconut, spiced buttermilk, filter coffee

Culture & Local Life

Varkala isn’t just a beach spot – it’s a pilgrimage destination with spiritual roots.

Buy coir mats, Ayurvedic oils, and handwoven souvenirs.

Relaxed, respectful, and community-driven. Perfect for solo travelers and spiritual seekers.

Local Insights

  • Respect Nature – no littering on cliffs or beaches
  • Languages: Malayalam, English, Hindi
  • Getting Around: Rent a scooter or walk along the cliffs

Enjoy Your Yatra!

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