Varkala is popular for
Varkala in next 3 month
Weather in Varkala
21/33°C
20/34°C
23/34°C
23/33°C
24/32°C
24/30°C
23/29°C
23/31°C
23/29°C
22/30°C
22/32°C
24/30°C
December in Varkala is cool and comfortable with moderate air quality.
Usual trip duration
A 2-3 day trip to Varkala allows you to explore the stunning beaches, indulge in water sports, visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, and experience the laid-back vibe of the coastal town.
Moderate to expensive
Ideas To Plan Your Trip
Beach Yoga: Find inner peace by the sea 🧘
Ayurvedic Massage: Rejuvenate with ancient therapy 🌿
Cliff Sunset: Marvel at the coastal beauty 🌅
Cultural Cuisine: Indulge in local flavors 🍛
Surfing Lessons: Ride the waves with experts 🏄
Spa Retreat: Pamper yourself amidst tranquility 💆
Night Market: Explore local crafts and foods 🌃
Rock Climbing: Conquer the coastal cliffs 🧗
Fishing Excursion: Experience sea-to-table adventure 🎣
Nature Hike: Discover hidden coastal gems 🌳
Places To Visit
Varkala Cliff
NATURAL LANDMARK
Varkala Beach
BEACH
Janardanaswamy Temple
RELIGIOUS SITE
Sivagiri Mutt
RELIGIOUS SITE
Papanasam Beach
BEACH
Varkala Art Gallery
ART GALLERY
Varkala Aquarium
AQUARIUM
Places To Eat
An Elephant Eatery
Cafe Sarwaa on the cliff
BARBECUE 13 RESTAURANT
Sree Vinayaka Pure Veg Restaurant
InDa Cafe
Chimney Family Restaurant
ARABIAN GRILL
Cafe del Mar
Clafouti Restaurant
Green Pepper Beach Resort
Caffe Italiano Varkala
Little Tibet
Trattorias Restaurant
Gods Own Country Kitchen
Sandy Bay cafe Varkala
Hotel Aryas Pure Veg
Zeit Restaurant
Fabin Arabia
Frequently Asked Questions about Varkala
The best time to visit Varkala, Kerala, is during the winter months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and exploring the coastal town. The temperature ranges from a comfortable 22°C to 30°C, making it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the cliffs and beaches. The monsoon season (June to September) experiences heavy rainfall and can be less ideal for travel. While the summer months (April and May) can be hot and humid, the winter season offers a refreshing and enjoyable experience for tourists visiting Varkala.
Reaching Varkala is relatively straightforward, with multiple transportation options available:
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | The nearest airport to Varkala is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), which is approximately 50 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked cab to reach Varkala. The journey usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Trivandrum Airport is well-connected to major cities in India and several international destinations. |
| By Train | Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station (VAK) is a major railway station, well-connected to various cities in India, including Trivandrum, Kochi, Chennai, and Mumbai. Regular trains are available, making it a convenient option for travelers. From the railway station, you can easily hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach your accommodation in Varkala. |
| By Road | Varkala is well-connected by road to nearby cities and towns in Kerala. State-run KSRTC buses and private buses operate frequently from Trivandrum, Kollam, and other major cities. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for local transportation within Varkala. The road journey offers scenic views of the Kerala countryside. |
Varkala is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Here's a list of the main attractions:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Varkala Cliff | The iconic red laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea offer breathtaking views and are lined with shops, restaurants, and guesthouses. |
| Papanasam Beach | Also known as Varkala Beach, it's believed that a dip in its waters washes away sins. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. |
| Janardanaswamy Temple | An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located near Papanasam Beach. It's a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. |
| Sivagiri Mutt | The headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham, founded by social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. It's a peaceful place for meditation and reflection. |
| Kappil Beach and Backwaters | A serene beach where the backwaters meet the sea. It offers stunning views and opportunities for boating and kayaking. |
| Ponnumthuruthu Island | Also known as Golden Island, it is a small, uninhabited island accessible by boat, featuring a Shiva-Parvati temple. |
Varkala offers a variety of activities to suit different interests:
- Beach Relaxation: Spend time relaxing on Papanasam Beach, enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.
- Surfing: Varkala is becoming increasingly popular for surfing, with several surf schools offering lessons.
- Ayurvedic Treatments: Indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments and massages at various centers.
- Yoga and Meditation: Participate in yoga and meditation classes offered by various studios.
- Boat Rides: Take a boat ride through the backwaters or to nearby islands like Ponnumthuruthu.
- Cliff Exploration: Explore the Varkala Cliff, browse the shops, and enjoy the panoramic views.
- Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding from the cliffs, offering stunning aerial views.
- Cooking Classes: Learn to cook authentic Kerala cuisine at local cooking classes.
While Varkala is a relatively liberal tourist destination, it's important to be mindful of local customs and traditions. Although swimwear is acceptable on the beaches, especially Papanasam Beach, it's advisable to avoid overly revealing clothing. When visiting temples or other religious sites, dressing modestly is a must. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Respecting local sensitivities will help you have a more positive and immersive experience in Varkala.
Varkala serves as an excellent base for exploring other beautiful locations in Kerala. Here are some popular nearby destinations:
| Destination | Distance (approx.) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) | 50 km | Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Kovalam Beach, Shanghumukham Beach. |
| Kollam | 30 km | Ashtamudi Lake, Munroe Island (for backwater cruises), Thangassery Lighthouse. |
| Poovar Island | 70 km | Known for its backwaters and golden sand beaches. |
| Alleppey (Alappuzha) | 120 km | Famous for its backwater houseboat cruises, Vembanad Lake, and Nehru Trophy Boat Race. |
Varkala offers a unique shopping experience, primarily concentrated along the Varkala Cliff. Here are some of the best places to shop:
| Shopping Spot | What to Buy |
|---|---|
| Varkala Cliff Shops | Handicrafts, jewelry, clothing, spices, souvenirs, and Tibetan artifacts. You'll find a variety of shops selling beachwear, casual clothing, and unique handmade items. |
| Local Markets | Spices, tea, coffee, and local produce. These markets offer a glimpse into the daily life of the locals and provide an opportunity to buy fresh ingredients. |
| Ayurvedic Product Shops | Ayurvedic oils, herbs, and beauty products. Varkala is known for its Ayurvedic treatments, and you can find authentic Ayurvedic products here. |
| Art Galleries | Local art, paintings, and sculptures. Several art galleries showcase the work of local artists, offering unique and original pieces. |
Remember to bargain while shopping at the Cliff shops and local markets to get the best deals.
Varkala boasts a diverse culinary scene with numerous restaurants and cafes catering to various tastes. Here are some of the best places to eat:
| Restaurant/Cafe | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Cafe del Mar | International, Seafood | Beautiful cliff-top setting, fresh seafood, and continental dishes. |
| Darjeeling Cafe | Indian, Tibetan, Continental | Rooftop seating with sea views, momos, and Indian curries. |
| Clafouti | Bakery, Cafe | Freshly baked goods, pastries, cakes, and coffee. |
| God's Own Country Kitchen | Kerala Cuisine | Authentic Kerala dishes, seafood, and traditional flavors. |
| Little Tibet | Tibetan, Indian | Momos, Thukpa, and other Tibetan delicacies. |
Yes, ATMs are available in Varkala, mainly located in the town center and near the railway station. However, it's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially if you plan to explore remote areas or shop at smaller establishments. Currency exchange facilities are also available, primarily at authorized exchange centers and some hotels. It's recommended to exchange currency at authorized locations to ensure you get a fair rate. Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and shops, but smaller establishments may prefer cash transactions.
Varkala offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:
- Luxury Resorts: High-end resorts offering premium amenities, private beaches, and spa services.
- Boutique Hotels: Stylish and unique hotels with personalized service and comfortable rooms.
- Guesthouses: Budget-friendly options with basic amenities, often located near the cliff and beach.
- Homestays: Experience local hospitality by staying in a family-run homestay.
- Villas: Private villas with multiple rooms, ideal for families or groups.
- Ayurvedic Resorts: Resorts specializing in Ayurvedic treatments and wellness programs.
It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season (October to March), to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
Varkala is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. The local community is welcoming and the crime rate is relatively low. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and well-being.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
- Keep your valuables secure.
- Be cautious of touts and scammers.
- Follow local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Swim only in designated areas and be aware of the currents.
By taking these simple precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Varkala.
The local language spoken in Varkala is Malayalam. However, English is widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas. Hindi is also spoken and understood by many people. Learning a few basic Malayalam phrases can be helpful and appreciated by the locals.