Varkala
( Kerala )
Introduction
Varkala — Kerala’s only cliff-side beach destination — is a serene coastal town where dramatic red cliffs meet the endless Arabian Sea.
Known for its peaceful beaches, yoga retreats, Ayurveda centers, cafés, sunsets, and spiritual energy, Varkala offers a perfect blend of relaxation, wellness, and natural beauty.
Unlike crowded beach destinations, Varkala flows at a slower pace — mornings with yoga and sea breeze, afternoons with café hopping, and evenings painted with golden sunsets over the ocean.
Varkala is not just a beach town; it’s a soulful escape for mind, body, and spirit.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala |
| Best Time to Visit | October–March |
| Ideal Duration | 2–4 Days |
| Famous For | Cliff beach, yoga, sunsets, Ayurveda |
| Nearest Airport | Trivandrum International Airport |
| Nearest Railway Station | Varkala Sivagiri |
| Local Transport | Autos, taxis, scooters |
| Language | Malayalam, English, Hindi |
| Vibe | Calm, spiritual, beachy |
Destination Overview
Varkala is divided into:
Varkala Cliff
Cliff-top cafés, yoga centers, shops & sunset viewpoints.
Varkala Beach (Papanasam)
Wide sandy beach with spiritual importance.
Surrounding Areas
Lakes, backwaters, temples & villages.
Varkala is ideal for solo travelers, couples, wellness seekers, and slow travelers.
Top 11 Attractions in Varkala
1. Varkala Cliff
Famous For: Cliff-side views & cafés
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
India’s only sea-facing cliff lined with cafés, yoga centers, shops, and stunning sunset points.
Tips:
• Evening walks are magical
2. Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach)
Famous For: Spiritual beach
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
Expanded Description:
Believed to wash away sins — ideal for swimming, rituals & long walks.
Tips:
• Swim only in safe zones
3. Kappil Beach & Backwaters
Famous For: Beach + lake views
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Where backwaters meet the sea — perfect for kayaking & photography.
Tips:
• Visit during sunrise
4. Sivagiri Mutt
Famous For: Spiritual center
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Expanded Description:
A sacred ashram associated with Sree Narayana Guru.
Tips:
• Visit during Sivagiri Theerthadanam
5. Anjengo Fort (Anchuthengu)
Famous For: Colonial fort
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Historic fort overlooking the sea with Portuguese & British-era ruins.
Tips:
• Great photography spot
6. Ponnumthuruthu Island (Golden Island)
Famous For: Backwater island
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
Small peaceful island with a temple surrounded by coconut trees.
Tips:
• Boat ride required
7. Edava Beach
Famous For: Quiet beach
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
Less crowded beach perfect for solitude and sunset walks.
Tips:
• Carry water & snacks
8. Varkala Aquarium
Famous For: Marine life
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Small aquarium showcasing local marine species.
Tips:
• Short visit recommended
9. Jatayu Earth’s Center
Famous For: World’s largest bird sculpture
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A massive sculpture with cable car, adventure park & viewpoints.
Tips:
• Allocate half day
10. Black Sand Beach
Famous For: Unique sand
Timings: 24 hrs
Expanded Description:
A secluded beach with dark sand and peaceful surroundings.
Tips:
• Visit early morning
11. Sunset Viewpoints on Cliff
Famous For: Golden sunsets
Timings: Evening hours
Expanded Description:
Multiple cliff edges offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
Tips:
• Best after 5:30 PM
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Local Kerala Food
Karimeen fry
Appam & stew
Seafood thali
Fresh coconut curries
2. Cliff Cafés
Darjeeling Café
Cafe del Mar
3. Restaurant
Abba Restaurant
God’s Own Country Kitchen
How to Reach
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Cliff & Beach
Varkala Cliff Walk
Café hopping
Sunset viewpoint
Day 2 – Nature & Culture
Kappil Beach & Backwaters
Anjengo Fort
Edava Beach
Day 3 – Spiritual & Nearby
Sivagiri Mutt
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Jatayu Earth’s Center
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–3000/night |
| Food | 300–700/day |
| Local Travel | 200–500/day |
| Activities | 200–1500 |
| Ayurveda | Optional |
Hidden Gems of Varkala
1. Helipad Cliff Point
Quiet sunset spot away from crowds.
2. Secret Cliff Caves
Small caves near Papanasam Beach.
3. Local Yoga Ashrams
Authentic, less commercial retreats.