Varkala is a coastal destination in Kerala known for its red cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, lively cliffside cafés, sandy beaches, and surfing spots. Beyond the coastline, visitors can explore Janardhana Swamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt or spend time at yoga and wellness centres.
Two days are enough to explore Varkala’s main attractions, while three days allow more time for surfing, wellness experiences and nearby excursions. This Varkala travel guide covers the best places to visit, things to do, the best time to travel, how to reach the destination and where to stay.
If you are planning a longer trip through the state, our Kerala Travel Guide can help you combine Varkala with destinations such as Munnar, Alleppey and Kochi.
Best Places to Visit in Varkala
Varkala’s main attractions include its iconic red cliffs, Papanasam Beach, Thiruvambady Beach, and Janardhana Swamy Temple. If you have extra time, Kappil Beach and Lake offer a quieter coastal experience, while Sivagiri Mutt provides a glimpse into Kerala’s spiritual heritage. Jatayu Earth’s Center is another option for travellers planning an excursion beyond Varkala.
1. Varkala Cliff and North Cliff
Varkala Cliff is one of Kerala’s most distinctive coastal landmarks, with red laterite formations overlooking the Arabian Sea. North Cliff is the liveliest part of the area, known for its sea-view cafés, restaurants, small shops and accommodation.
Walk along the designated pathways, browse the shops or settle into a café overlooking the sea. Sunset is a popular time to visit, especially if you want to enjoy the coastal views and lively atmosphere.
Safety note: Cliff erosion can make exposed areas unstable, particularly during the monsoon. Stay on designated paths, follow local warnings and barricades and never climb unstable cliff faces or approach the edge for photographs.
2. Papanasam Beach
Papanasam Beach is Varkala’s principal beach and an important religious site. It is known for its sandy shoreline, sunset views and association with Hindu rituals. The name is traditionally linked to the belief that bathing here washes away sins.
Visitors come to relax by the sea, watch the sunset and observe religious ceremonies. The nearby Janardhana Swamy Temple makes it easy to combine a beach visit with a cultural stop.
Swimming conditions can change with the weather and sea currents. Follow local warnings and lifeguard instructions before entering the water.
3. Thiruvambady Beach
Thiruvambady Beach offers a quieter alternative to the busier Papanasam shoreline. It is often associated with Varkala’s Black Sand Beach area and appeals to visitors looking for a more relaxed coastal walk.
Compared with North Cliff, the surrounding area has fewer concentrated tourist facilities, making it suitable for travellers who prefer a quieter beach setting. Check the local access point before visiting if you are specifically looking for the Black Sand Beach area.
4. Kappil Beach and Lake
Kappil is known for its distinctive landscape, where the Arabian Sea and backwaters sit close together. The beach and lake offer a scenic change from Varkala’s busier cliffside area, with opportunities for photography, coastal views and a relaxed drive.
Consider visiting Kappil if you have additional time beyond Varkala’s main attractions. If you are travelling without your own vehicle, plan your return transport.
5. Janardhana Swamy Temple
Janardhana Swamy Temple is an important Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and one of Varkala’s principal cultural landmarks. Located near Papanasam Beach, it is known for its traditional architecture and longstanding religious significance.
Visitors should dress respectfully and follow the temple’s current entry rules. Access to certain areas may be restricted according to religious customs, so check the rules before visiting rather than assuming every part of the temple is open to all visitors.
If you visit during a religious festival, allow additional time for crowds and ceremonies.
6. Sivagiri Mutt
Sivagiri Mutt is a spiritual centre associated with Sree Narayana Guru, a prominent Kerala spiritual leader and social reformer. The site offers insight into his teachings and legacy, making it a worthwhile stop for travellers interested in Kerala’s cultural and social history.
Unlike the beach and cliff attractions, Sivagiri Mutt is a separate visit away from the main coastal area. Consider combining it with the temple or another cultural stop if your schedule allows.
7. Jatayu Earth’s Center
Jatayu Earth’s Center, located in Chadayamangalam outside Varkala, is known for its monumental sculpture of Jatayu from the Ramayana. The hilltop attraction combines the sculpture with panoramic views and a cable-car experience.
Allow approximately half a day for the visit, including travel time. Check current opening hours, ticket prices, and cable-car availability before setting out, as these details can change.
Jatayu works best as an optional excursion when it fits your wider Kerala route. It is not a core attraction within Varkala itself, so travellers on a short beach break may prefer to spend their time exploring the local coastline.
Best Time to Visit Varkala
The best time to visit Varkala is generally October to February, when the weather is more comfortable for sightseeing, beach visits, and exploring North Cliff. March to May is hotter and more humid, while June to September brings monsoon rainfall and potentially rough sea conditions.
The best season depends on your priorities, whether that means exploring the coastline, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing Kerala during the monsoon.
Season | Weather and conditions | Best for | What to consider |
| October to February | Generally more comfortable, with less monsoon rainfall | Sightseeing, beach visits, cliffside cafés and cultural attractions | December and January can be busier, so book accommodation early. |
| March to May | Hotter and more humid | Short beach breaks and quieter sightseeing outside peak holiday periods | Plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon. |
| June to September | Monsoon rainfall, rougher seas and changing coastal conditions | Rainy-season scenery and a quieter atmosphere | Swimming and outdoor activities may be affected by weather, sea conditions and access restrictions. |
Which season should you choose? For a first trip to Varkala, October to February is the most practical choice for combining sightseeing and beach time. If you visit during the monsoon, keep your plans flexible and follow local safety instructions around beaches and cliffs.
If you are combining Varkala with other destinations in Kerala, our Best Time to Visit Kerala guide can help you plan the wider trip.
Best Things to Do in Varkala
The best things to do in Varkala include walking along North Cliff, enjoying its sea-view cafés, trying a surfing lesson and joining a yoga class. You can also spend time at Papanasam Beach or take a scenic outing to Kappil Beach and Lake.
1. Walk Along North Cliff and Enjoy the Cafés
Exploring North Cliff is one of Varkala’s signature experiences. Walk along the cliffside pathways, browse the small shops, and choose a café overlooking the Arabian Sea. The area is especially popular around sunset, when visitors gather for the views and stay for dinner.
Cafés such as Cafe Del Mar, Darjeeling Cafe, and InDa Cafe are among the names to look out for while exploring the area. For budgeting, allow approximately ₹300–₹800 per person for a meal, depending on the restaurant and your order.
2. Try a Surfing Lesson
Varkala offers surfing lessons for beginners as well as opportunities for more experienced surfers. If you are new to the sport, an instructor-led session is a practical way to learn basic techniques and water safety.
As an indicative budget, allow around ₹1,500–₹3,000 per person for a beginner lesson. The final price depends on the school, session length, group size and whether equipment is included, so confirm these details before booking.
Surfing conditions vary with the weather and waves. October to April is generally a more suitable period to explore surfing options, while monsoon conditions can make the sea rougher.
3. Spend Time at Papanasam Beach
Set aside time to relax at Papanasam Beach, whether that means walking along the shore, enjoying the coastal scenery or watching the sunset. Its religious significance also makes it different from a conventional beach destination.
Swimming is not always safe because waves and currents can change. Follow local safety instructions and enter the water only when conditions permit.
4. Join a Yoga Class
Varkala has yoga studios and wellness centres offering drop-in classes and longer programmes. A single class is a convenient option if you want to include a wellness experience without committing to a retreat.
As a planning estimate, a drop-in class may cost around ₹300–₹500, depending on the studio and session. Confirm the current rate and schedule directly with the provider.
5. Take a Coastal Outing to Kappil Beach and Lake
If you have extra time, head to Kappil for a change of scenery. The proximity of the Arabian Sea and backwaters creates a distinctive coastal landscape that is well suited to photography and a relaxed drive.
This outing is best added after you have explored Varkala’s main attractions. If you are not travelling with your own vehicle, arrange return transport in advance.
How Many Days Do You Need in Varkala?
Two days are enough to explore Varkala’s main attractions, while three days allow time for surfing, yoga and nearby excursions. The ideal duration depends on whether you want a short beach break or a more relaxed coastal holiday.
Suggested Varkala Itinerary
Duration | What to cover |
| 1 day | North Cliff, Papanasam Beach, Janardhana Swamy Temple and sunset by the coast |
| 2 days | Cover the main attractions, explore cliffside cafés and add Thiruvambady Beach or a surfing lesson |
| 3 days | Enjoy a slower pace, include Kappil Beach and Lake or plan an excursion to Jatayu Earth’s Center |
A Practical 2-Day Varkala Itinerary
Day 1: Beaches, Temple and North Cliff
- Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple and explore Papanasam Beach.
- Spend the afternoon walking along North Cliff and browsing its shops.
- Watch the sunset and enjoy dinner at one of the cliffside cafés.
Day 2: Surfing and Coastal Exploration
- Start with a surfing lesson or a yoga class, depending on your interests.
- Visit Thiruvambady Beach for a quieter coastal experience.
- If you prefer an excursion, spend part of the day exploring Kappil Beach and Lake.
If you want to visit Jatayu Earth’s Center, consider adding a third day or arranging the stop around your onward journey. The extra travel and time at the attraction can make a two-day beach itinerary feel rushed.
How to Reach Varkala
Varkala is accessible by train, air, and road. Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is the most convenient arrival point for many visitors, while Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest major airport.
By Train
Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station connects the town with several destinations across Kerala and India. From the station, take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to North Cliff, Papanasam Beach or your accommodation. Confirm that your chosen train stops at Varkala.
By Air
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is approximately 40–50 km from Varkala by road. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are convenient options for reaching your accommodation.
By Road
Varkala is connected to Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and other destinations in Kerala. Taxis and private vehicles are useful for direct transfers or for including Varkala in a wider Kerala road trip.
For more information about reaching different destinations across the state, see our How to Reach Kerala guide.
Where to Stay in Varkala
The best area to stay in Varkala depends on your budget and preferred atmosphere. North Cliff is ideal for travellers who want cafés, restaurants and a lively beach-town setting, while areas farther from the main cliff offer a quieter stay.
Area | Best for | What to expect |
| North Cliff | First-time visitors and café lovers | Close to restaurants, shops and cliffside views; busier during peak season |
| South Cliff | A quieter coastal stay | More relaxed surroundings, with access to the main attractions depending on your location |
| Varkala Town and railway station area | Budget-conscious travellers | Practical for train arrivals and local transport, but farther from some cliffside spots |
| Odayam and Edava | Travellers seeking a quieter beach setting | Less commercialised surroundings; check transport access before booking |
Plan Your Kerala Trip with Desh Videsh Travels
Varkala is a great addition to a Kerala holiday, whether you want a relaxing beach break or a longer journey combining coastal towns, hill stations, and backwaters. If you are planning to explore more of the state, browse our Kerala tour packages to explore options for your trip.
