a house on the shore of the ocean

Explore Varkala

Best Time to Visit

All Time

an aerial view of a beach with a bunch of boats
an aerial view of a beach with a bunch of boats
  1. Best Time to Visit Varkala

    1 October to March (Winter Season)
    The most pleasant time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.

    2 April to May (Summer Season)
    Temperatures rise up to 35°C, making it hot and humid. Early mornings and evenings are better for exploring.

    3 June to September (Monsoon Season)
    Varkala receives heavy rainfall during this time. The lush greenery is beautiful, but beach and outdoor activities may be limited.

    For the best experience, plan your trip between October and March when the weather is most comfortable.

Overview of the Destination

Varkala, a scenic coastal town in Kerala, is renowned for its stunning cliffside views, golden beaches, and serene ambiance. The Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach) is a major attraction, famous for its natural springs believed to have therapeutic properties. The dramatic cliffs lined with cafes, shops, and yoga centers make it a hub for relaxation and spirituality. Varkala also offers activities like paragliding, surfing, and Ayurvedic therapies, attracting adventure seekers and wellness enthusiasts. The Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2,000-year-old pilgrimage site, adds a spiritual touch to the town. Varkala promises a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility.

Main Attractions

Main Attractions

Main Sightseeing Attractions in Varkala

1 Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach)
A stunning beach surrounded by majestic cliffs, ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying sunsets. It’s believed the waters have holy, purifying properties.

2 Varkala Cliff
Known for its breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Perfect for leisure walks and dining.

3 Janardanaswamy Temple
A 2,000-year-old Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

4 Kappil Beach and Backwaters
A serene spot where the backwaters meet the sea. Great for boating and unwinding amidst nature’s beauty.

5 Anchuthengu Fort
A historic fort built by the British East India Company, offering a glimpse into Kerala's colonial past.

6 Sivagiri Mutt
The sacred pilgrimage site and resting place of Sree Narayana Guru, attracting followers for spiritual reflection.

7 Edava Beach
A quiet, less crowded beach ideal for peaceful strolls and enjoying the scenic coastal landscape.

Activities

Activities in Varkala

1 Surfing
Varkala Beach is a hotspot for surfing, offering lessons and equipment rentals for beginners and pros.

2 Paragliding
Soar above the cliffs and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coastline and Arabian Sea.

3 Yoga and Ayurveda
Numerous yoga centers and Ayurvedic spas offer classes and therapies for relaxation, healing, and rejuvenation.

4 Boat Rides in Backwaters
Explore the calm and scenic Kappil backwaters through boat rides, enjoying nature at its finest.

5 Beach Walks and Sunset Views
Leisurely walks along Varkala Cliff and beaches, especially during sunset, provide mesmerizing views and tranquility.

6 Shopping on Varkala Cliff
Explore stalls selling handmade jewelry, clothes, local handicrafts, and spices.

7 Temple Visits
Experience the cultural and spiritual significance of sites like Janardanaswamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt.

8 Photography
Capture the picturesque cliffs, golden beaches, and backwater views for unforgettable memories.

Travel Tips for Varkala

1 Best Time to Visit
Visit between October and March for pleasant weather and enjoyable beach activities. Avoid monsoons (June to September) due to heavy rainfall.

2 Clothing Essentials
Pack light cotton clothes, swimwear, hats, and sunglasses. Carry a light shawl for temple visits and cooler evenings.

3 Footwear
Wear comfortable sandals or flip-flops for beach walks and lightweight shoes for exploring the cliff and backwaters.

4 Stay Options
Choose cliffside accommodations for stunning sea views or opt for budget-friendly homestays and beach cottages.

5 Local Transport
Use auto-rickshaws, bicycles, or rented scooters to explore Varkala town and nearby attractions.

6 Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated while enjoying beachside activities.

7 Beach Safety
Follow safety instructions for swimming and avoid deep waters during strong tides. Lifeguards are available at major beaches.

8 Explore the Cafés
Try cliffside cafés offering delicious seafood, local Kerala dishes, and international cuisine with stunning views.

9 Wellness and Ayurveda
Take advantage of yoga retreats and Ayurvedic treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation.

10 Shopping
Explore stalls along Varkala Cliff for local handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry. Bargain politely for the best deals.

11 Photography
Early mornings and sunsets are ideal for capturing Varkala’s cliffs, beaches, and landscapes.

12 Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly while visiting temples and interact respectfully with locals to enjoy a welcoming experience.

a man walking down a path through tall grass
a man walking down a path through tall grass

Travel To Varkala By Road

  • Varkala is accessible via NH66 and is well-connected to major cities in Kerala. Regular KSRTC buses and private buses operate from cities like Trivandrum (40 km) and Kochi (170 km). Taxis and private vehicles are also convenient options.

a white car parked on the side of the road
a white car parked on the side of the road

Travel To Varkala By Rail

  • Varkala has its own railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, and Bangalore. The station is just 3 km from Varkala Beach.

train tracks during golden hour
train tracks during golden hour

Travel To Varkala By Air

  • The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (Thiruvananthapuram), located 40 km from Varkala. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to reach Varkala.

Israel transportation plane
Israel transportation plane

Varkala Itinerary

"This is a customizable Varkala itinerary, tailored to suit your preferences and travel style."

Varkala Sightseeing Itinerary

Varkala Beach: A blend of spirituality and scenic beauty, this beach is divided into two sections. The southern area, near the sacred Janardhana Swamy Temple, holds religious significance for Hindus, while the northern part, known for its natural mineral spring, is a haven for tourists. Renowned for its sacred waters believed to cleanse sins, Varkala is aptly called Papanasam or "Destroyer of Sins." Evenings here are serene, with mesmerizing sunsets and a tranquil ambiance, complemented by affordable, delicious seafood delicacies offered by local eateries.

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