VARKALA
Pricing
Duration
Tour Type
Overview
Varkala is a stunning coastal town in Kerala, India, known for its dramatic red cliffs, pristine beaches, and spiritual ambiance. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty.Here’s a detailed guide to help you explore Varkala:
Highlights of Varkala
- Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach): Famous for its red cliffs and golden sands, this beach is believed to have holy waters that wash away sins. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and watching sunsets.
- Varkala Cliff: A scenic stretch lined with cafes, shops, and yoga centers overlooking the Arabian Sea. It’s the heart of Varkala’s tourist vibe.
- Janardanaswamy Temple: A 2,000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, attracting pilgrims and history lovers alike.
- Sivagiri Mutt: A spiritual center founded by social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, offering insights into Kerala’s cultural and religious heritage.
Wellness & Activities
- Yoga & Ayurveda: Varkala is a hub for yoga retreats and Ayurvedic treatments. Many resorts offer wellness packages focused on rejuvenation and healing.
- Surfing & Water Sports: The beach offers opportunities for surfing, parasailing, and other water activities.
- Shopping: Explore local markets for handmade jewelry, clothes, spices, and souvenirs.
Food & Cafes
- Enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Kerala dishes, and international cuisine at cliffside cafes.
- Must-try dishes include Kerala Sadya, Malabar fish curry, and banana fritters.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March is ideal, with pleasant weather and clear skies.
- Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) if you’re planning beach activities.
Included
Excluded
- Accommodation with breakfast for 3 nights 4 days
- Pick up & drop at railway station
- Wayanad sightseeing
- Fuel, driver allowance, Parking, Toll, Hill charges
- All Taxes
- Entry fees, Camera fees, Portage, Insurance, Tips & Gratuity, any personal expenses.
- Meals other than mentioned.
- Ac will not work in Hilly region
Tour Plan
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Theme:Â Acclimatization and the Varkala Vibe.
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Highlights:Â Varkala Cliff, Papanasam Beach, Sunset.
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Morning/Afternoon:
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Arrive at Trivandrum International Airport (TRV).
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Pre-book a taxi for the ~1.5-hour drive to Varkala. The scenic drive is a nice introduction to Kerala's landscape.
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Check into your hotel or a cliff-side resort. For the best experience, try to get accommodation on or with easy access to the North Cliff.
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Late Afternoon:
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Take your first walk along the breathtaking Varkala Cliff. Lined with cafes, shops, and guesthouses, the cliff offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
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Walk down the steps to Papanasam Beach (also known as Varkala Beach). It's believed that a dip in the waters here has spiritual cleansing properties ('Papanasam' means 'washing away sins').
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Evening:
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Find a perfect spot at one of the cliff-top cafes to watch a spectacular sunset.
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Dinner:Â Enjoy a candle-lit dinner at a cliff-side restaurant, feasting on fresh seafood and international cuisine. The atmosphere here is unparalleled.
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Theme:Â Tranquil Waters and Ancient Temples.
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Highlights:Â Kappil Backwaters, Anjengo Fort, Sivagiri Mutt.
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Morning:
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After breakfast, take a short trip to Kappil Lake (about a 15-minute drive north). Enjoy a peaceful shikara boat ride through these serene, less-crowded backwaters. The calmness and view of the parallel beach are mesmerizing.
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Afternoon:
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Visit the historic Anjengo (Anchuthengu) Fort, a 17th-century British settlement. Explore the old fort walls and lighthouse for a glimpse into colonial history.
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Enjoy a late lunch at a local restaurant near the backwaters or on your way back.
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Late Afternoon:
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On your return to Varkala, visit the Sivagiri Mutt, the sacred tomb and ashram of the revered social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru. It's a serene and spiritually significant site.
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Evening:
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Return to Varkala Cliff. Explore the different shops for hippie clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
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You could also book a traditional Ayurvedic massage or yoga session—Varkala is a hub for both.
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Theme:Â Sun, Sand, and Exploration.
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Highlights:Â Black Sand Beach, Surfing, Varkala Lighthouse.
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Morning:
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Head south to the less-crowded Black Sand Beach (south of Papanasam Beach). The unique black sand is due to the presence of thorium-rich monazite.
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For the adventurous, this is the day to try surfing or stand-up paddleboarding. There are several surf schools along the main beach.
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Afternoon:
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Have a relaxed lunch at a beach shack.
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Visit the Varkala Lighthouse for a different panoramic view of the coastline. The walk through the quiet, leafy surrounding area is very pleasant.
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Evening:
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This is your chance to relax and do nothing. Read a book on the cliff, take a final swim, or simply soak in the vibe.
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Farewell Dinner:Â Choose a different cliff-side restaurant to experience another menu. Don't miss a fresh fruit shake or a lassi.
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Theme:Â A Peaceful End and Lasting Memories.
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Highlights:Â Janardanaswamy Temple, Final Cliff Walk.
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Morning:
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If you're an early riser, witness the sunrise from the cliff—it's as beautiful as the sunset.
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Visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2,000-year-old Vishnu temple located near the cliff. It's an important pilgrimage center. (Remember to dress modestly).
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Enjoy a final Kerala-style breakfast (like Appam with stew) at your favorite cafe.
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Late Morning/Afternoon:
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Check out from your hotel.
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Drive back to Trivandrum International Airport for your flight, feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
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