Red laterite cliffs dropping straight to the sea, with a cliff-top path of cafés and yoga studios above the beach.
Varkala is the only place in south Kerala where cliffs meet the sea. The walk along North Cliff at sunset, with the beach below and fishing boats heading out, is one of the most memorable evenings on a Kerala trip.
Papanasam beach below the cliff is considered sacred, and the 2,000-year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple is a short walk away. North of town, Kappil is where the backwaters meet the sea, so Varkala pairs well with an Alleppey houseboat.
Trivandrum airport (TRV) is 45 km away. Varkala Sivagiri railway station is 3 km from the cliff, on the main Kerala coastal line.
A cliff-top path lined with cafés, best from 5 PM for sunset.
The main beach, known for its natural springs and temple rituals.
An ancient Vishnu temple overlooking the sea.
Backwater boating where the lake meets the Arabian Sea.
The ashram and resting place of social reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
Drop-in yoga classes and Ayurveda centres along the cliff.
3 itineraries. Each can be changed to suit your dates.
3N / 4D
Kochi – Alleppey – Varkala – Trivandrum
4N / 5D
Trivandrum – Varkala – Kovalam – Poovar – Kanyakumari
9N / 10D
Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Varkala – Kovalam – Kanyakumari
One night is enough to see the cliff at sunset and the beach in the morning. Two nights if you want a real beach break.
Yes, though the cliff edge has few railings, so keep an eye on small children. Families often prefer a resort a little away from the cliff.
Send your travel dates and number of guests. A planner from our Kochi office replies with a day-by-day itinerary and a fixed price, usually the same day.
