Varkala is a charming seaside town in Kerala’s Trivandrum district. It is the only town in Kerala with 15-meter-tall towering cliffs adjacent to the majestic Arabian Sea. The surging popularity of Varkala is mainly due to its hippy and laid-back lifestyle. Hence, the Varkala tour is often on the itinerary of foreign and local tourists who wish to explore Kerala’s famous Bohemian beach town.
Varkala is the place to go because it rewards you with a dramatic landscape, sand, and sea setting. The beaches here have more to offer than the average shoreline. Apart from its beaches, the architectural splendor of Varkala will engross you completely. The presence of pristine lakes, lush green hills, and Ayurveda resorts makes Varkala one of the best destinations in Kerala.
Places to visit in Varkala
From beaches to lakes and from temples to backwaters, check out the best places to visit in Varkala that will never fail to cast their magical spell on you! Choose the best ones for your trip and click pictures for memories. Make loads of memories on your journey to this beautiful place and explore the places to visit in and around Varkala.
- Varkala Beach
- Kappil Beach
- Ponnumthuruthu Island
- Anchuthengu And Anjengo Fort
- Janardana Swami Temple
- Sivagiri Mutt
Things to do in Varkala
Discover unforgettable experiences in Varkala that will make your trip to Kerala a treasured memory for life. Whether you seek yoga or water sports, Varkala offers something for every traveler. And if you’re an adventurous spirit, the possibilities are limitless.
- Enjoy Water Sports
- For a meaningful experience, visit the Varkala Culture Center
- Observe the peace around you at the Lighthouse
- Treat your inner shopaholic to some shopping
- Delight your taste buds with local cuisine
- An old-world charm at Varkala Lighthouse
Best time to visit Varkala
Traveling to Varkala is excellent all year. Still, if you dream of enjoying the abundance of outdoor activities on beaches and cliffs, the best time to visit Varkala is in the winter, from October to February. If you want to attend the local Arattu Festival in Varkala, summer is another great time to visit Varkala, from April to June. But summer brings humidity to this coastal town. The most preferred time for backpackers to explore Varkala is in the monsoon season, from July to September.
How to reach Varkala
Varkala is well connected to the major cities and towns of the nearby states. There is no airport in Varkala; the nearest airport is Thirivanthampuram—Trivandrum International. It operates several international flights to and from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The train connectivity of Varkala is fantastic, as this excellent offbeat Kerala destination has its own railhead-Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station. In addition, Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses run from Trivandrum, Kochi, Munnar, and other towns. Read more.
Accommodation in Varkala
You would not have to stress about accommodation in Varkala as several beach resorts promise the best customer-centric amenities. Varkala is famed as an offbeat destination, and several housing types can be found, from Airbnb to luxury hotels and even homestays. Choose to stay in modern or traditional cultural accommodation in Varkala, which overlooks the Varkala cliffs. Varkala’s best international standard resorts include Hindustan Beach Retreat, Beach and Lake Ayurvedic Resort, Blue Water Beach Resort, etc.
Where to eat in Varkala?
Varkala is an eater’s delight. Beach shacks are one of the best places to eat in Varkala. Like other towns in Kerala, Varkala is known for its authentic South Indian food. You must eat Idli, Sambhar Dosa, and Uttapam on your trip to Varkala. There are tons of restaurants and beach shacks in Varkala that serve lip-smacking seafood. Pin these places to eat in Varkala; Cafe Nomad, Soul Food Cafe, Caffé Italiano, and Darjeeling Cafe.
How to get around Varkala?
Varkala is a peaceful small town; you can even explore it on foot. However, the most convenient way to get around Varkala is to hire a car and driver or take a taxi/local tuk-tuk. In addition, rental cars and motorcycles can be obtained in Varkala.
Travel tips
- Follow the basic etiquette and respect the culture of Kerala.
- Enjoy watersports safely under professional supervision.
- Varkala is excellent to visit all year round, so plan accordingly.
- Book your accommodation near the beachside and amidst lush greenery
- While visiting the beach shack, carry enough cash but be safe from pickpockets.
- Maintain the reputation of God’s Own Country and act as a responsible tourist.
