
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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