Varkala, Kerala — Things to Do (Tourism Guide)

Varkala is a relaxed coastal town in Kerala known for its dramatic red cliffs, sun-soaked beaches, spiritual sites, Ayurvedic treatments and a lively cliff-top café culture. Whether you want beach time, wellness experiences, cultural visits or easy day-trips, Varkala offers a compact, walkable base with options for every kind of traveler.

Quick facts

• Location: On the Arabian Sea coast in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala.
• Nearest airport: Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) International Airport — ~45–60 km.
• Nearest railway station: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station (on the Shoranur–Thiruvananthapuram line).
• Best time to visit: November to February for dry, pleasant weather; monsoon months attract Ayurvedic guests.

Main attractions and things to do

1. Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach) & The Cliff

The cliff and the beach are the heart of Varkala’s appeal.

• Walk the cliff: Explore cafés, boutiques, Ayurvedic centres and viewpoints running along the cliff-top promenade.
• Sunset views: Watch spectacular sunsets from cliff-top cafes or the beach below — a must-do.
• Beach time: Relax, sunbathe or swim (exercise caution with currents; swim near lifeguards where present).
• Photo opportunities: The contrast of red cliffs, blue sea and palm trees is very photogenic.

2. Janardana Swami Temple

This ancient Hindu temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu) is an important pilgrimage site with a history spanning centuries.

• Dress and decorum: Observe temple dress codes and customs; remove footwear before entering.
• Cultural experience: Attend an evening aarti or watch traditional rituals if you time your visit right.

3. Sivagiri Mutt

A spiritual and social institution associated with Sree Narayana Guru. The complex sits slightly inland and offers peaceful grounds and a museum-like feel.

4. Kappil Lake & Backwater Boat Rides

Short drive north of the cliff, Kappil Lake forms a photogenic estuary where backwaters meet the sea.

• Boating: Take a serene boat ride in the estuary and enjoy birdlife and mangrove views.
• Kayaking / SUP: Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking options are available seasonally.

5. Ponnumthuruthu (Golden Island)

A small island temple complex set in tranquil backwaters — ideal for a slow half-day trip. Boats run from nearby jetties.

6. Anchuthengu (Anjengo) Fort & Lighthouse

A short drive south, Anchuthengu (historic Anjengo) has a colonial-era fort, lighthouse and coastal scenery worth a morning visit.

7. Ayurvedic Treatments & Yoga

Varkala has many Ayurvedic clinics and wellness centres offering traditional therapies, massages and courses. Yoga classes, meditation sessions and short retreats are widely available on the cliff and nearby centres.

• Tip: If you’re booking Panchakarma or an extended therapy, plan for several days — many treatments require multiple sessions.

8. Food, Cafés & Nightlife

The cliff is dotted with cafes, bakeries and restaurants serving fresh seafood, Kerala cuisine and international dishes.

• Seafood: Try local specialties like fish curry, prawn dishes and grilled catch-of-the-day.
• Café culture: Chill at cliff-side cafés with music, sunset views and relaxed vibes.
• Evening entertainment: Live music, small bars and occasional beach parties (seasonal).

9. Shopping & Local Markets

Browse handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, Ayurvedic oils, spices and souvenirs along the cliff bazaar and local streets.

Activities & Adventure

Swimming and Water Safety

Swimming at Varkala is popular but be mindful of undercurrents. Swim in daylight, avoid rogue waves near rocky sections and follow local advice.

Surfing, Paddle Sports & Boat Tours

• Surfing: Occasional surf lessons or board rentals are available when conditions suit; inquire locally about safety and seasons.
• Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Try on calmer backwater stretches (Kappil, nearby lakes).
• Local boat tours: Short sunset or backwater rides are pleasant ways to explore estuaries and islands.

Day Trips and Short Excursions

• Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram): Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam beaches and local museums — about 45–60 km away.
• Alappuzha (Alleppey) Houseboat: Arrange a day or overnight houseboat cruise on Kerala’s backwaters (a longer day-trip option).
• Kollam: Explore coastal Kollam, Ashtamudi Lake and waterfront markets.

Suggested itineraries

One-day relaxed

• Morning: Walk the cliff, breakfast at a cliff café.
• Midday: Beach time and lunch (seafood recommended).
• Afternoon: Boat ride on Kappil Lake or visit Janardana Swami Temple.
• Evening: Sunset from the cliff and dinner with live music.

Three-day wellness & culture

• Day 1: Arrive, settle in at a cliff-side guesthouse, sunset and café dinner.
• Day 2: Morning yoga, Ayurvedic massage or therapy; afternoon visit to Sivagiri Mutt and Janardana Swami Temple.
• Day 3: Kappil Lake boat trip, Ponnumthuruthu island, late afternoon departure or extra night for houseboat trip to Alleppey.

Practical tips and local customs

• Respect temples: Dress modestly for temple visits and follow local customs (remove shoes, no photography in certain areas).
• Swimming caution: Avoid swimming alone or at night; heed lifeguard and local warnings about currents.
• Monsoon travel: The monsoon period (June–September) brings heavy rain — great for Ayurvedic treatments, less ideal for beach activities.
• Connectivity & ATMs: Varkala has decent mobile connectivity and ATMs, but carry some cash for small vendors.
• Stay options: Range from budget guesthouses and beach shacks to boutique resorts and Ayurvedic centers.

Responsible tourism

• Minimize plastic: Carry a reusable bottle — avoid single-use plastics on the beach.
• Respect nature: Don’t disturb wildlife, and avoid littering the beach and backwaters.
• Support local businesses: Eat at local restaurants, buy from local artisans and hire local guides for excursions.

Final note

Varkala blends beach relaxation, spiritual heritage and wellness in a compact, welcoming setting. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway, a healing retreat, or a vibrant cliff-side sunset with good food, Varkala is a memorable and accessible destination on Kerala’s coast.