The Ultimate Travel Guide
Looking for the best places to visit in Varkala in 2 days? Varkala is one of Kerala’s most beautiful coastal destinations, combining dramatic laterite cliffs, golden beaches, spiritual landmarks, cafés, shopping streets and peaceful backwaters.
Unlike many beach destinations, Varkala offers more than just a seaside holiday. Its famous cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, Papanasam Beach, Janardhana Swamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt make it an excellent destination for couples, families, solo travellers and friends.
If you have only 2 days in Varkala, a well-planned itinerary allows you to experience the major attractions without rushing from one place to another.
In this guide, discover the best places to visit in Varkala in 2 days, the best things to do, where to stay, how to reach Varkala from Bangalore, and a practical 2-day Varkala itinerary.
Quick Varkala Travel Overview
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Varkala, Kerala |
| Ideal Duration | 2 Days / 1 Night or 2 Nights |
| Best Known For | Varkala Cliff, Papanasam Beach, sunsets and spirituality |
| Nearest Railway Station | Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station |
| Nearest Airport | Trivandrum International Airport |
| Best For | Couples, families, solo travellers and beach lovers |
| Main Experiences | Beaches, sightseeing, cafés, shopping, spirituality and Ayurveda |
| Recommended Stay | Varkala Cliff / North Cliff area |
Varkala is approximately 3 km from its railway station, while Trivandrum International Airport is around 57 km away, according to Kerala Tourism.
Why Visit Varkala?
Varkala stands out because of its unusual coastal landscape. The famous laterite cliffs rise above the Arabian Sea and create panoramic viewpoints along the coastline.
The Varkala Formation, the geological formation associated with these cliffs, is recognised as a geological monument.
But the attraction isn’t only natural beauty.
Varkala also offers:
- Beautiful beaches
- Cliff-top cafés
- Spectacular sunsets
- Surfing and other water activities
- Ayurveda and wellness experiences
- Ancient temples
- Spiritual centres
- Local shopping
- Seafood and Kerala cuisine
- Peaceful backwater experiences
This combination makes Varkala particularly attractive for travellers who want a relaxed Kerala holiday with sightseeing and beach time.
Best Places to Visit in Varkala in 2 Days
If you are visiting Varkala for just two days, these are the places you should prioritise.
1. Varkala Cliff
The Varkala Cliff is undoubtedly the highlight of the destination.
The laterite cliffs rise dramatically above the Arabian Sea and offer some of the best views in Varkala. The cliff-top area is also home to restaurants, cafés, shops and accommodation.
Take a leisurely walk along the cliff, stop at a café overlooking the sea and enjoy the changing colours of the sky around sunset.
Things to do
- Walk along the cliff
- Watch the sunset
- Enjoy a sea-view café
- Shop for souvenirs
- Take photographs
- Explore nearby restaurants
For a first-time visitor, the cliff should be at the top of your Varkala itinerary.
2. Papanasam Beach
Also known as Varkala Beach, Papanasam Beach is one of the most important attractions in Varkala.
The beach is famous for its beautiful coastline, cliff views and spiritual significance. The name Papanasam is traditionally associated with the belief that bathing in its waters washes away sins.
You can spend your morning walking along the beach or return in the evening to enjoy the sunset.
Kerala Tourism also notes that Varkala Beach offers activities including surfing and other adventure experiences, although sea conditions should always be checked before entering the water.
Best experience
Visit in the early morning for a peaceful walk or around sunset for spectacular coastal views.
3. Janardhana Swamy Temple
Located close to Papanasam Beach, the Janardhana Swamy Temple is one of Varkala’s most important spiritual landmarks.
The ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a history stretching back centuries. Kerala Tourism describes it as an important pilgrimage centre and highlights its distinctive architecture, wooden carvings and ancient inscription.
Why visit?
- Ancient temple architecture
- Spiritual significance
- Close to Varkala Beach
- Historical importance
- Peaceful surroundings
Visitors should dress respectfully and follow the temple’s rules regarding entry.
4. Sivagiri Mutt
Located around 3 km from Varkala town, Sivagiri Mutt is an important spiritual and cultural attraction associated with Sree Narayana Guru.
The large campus includes the Samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru and the Sharada Temple. Kerala Tourism notes that the Mutt occupies around 200 acres and remains an important pilgrimage centre.
This is an excellent place to include on the second day of your Varkala trip.
Ideal for
- Spiritual travellers
- History enthusiasts
- Culture lovers
- Travellers looking for peaceful surroundings
5. Kappil Beach and Kappil Backwaters
If you want to experience a quieter side of Varkala, head towards Kappil.
Kappil combines a scenic coastal landscape with backwaters, making it different from the busier Varkala Cliff area. Kerala Tourism identifies Kappil Beach and its surrounding backwaters as important attractions near Varkala.
A short visit here can add variety to your two-day trip.
What to do
- Enjoy the beach
- Take photographs
- Relax beside the backwaters
- Enjoy a peaceful drive
- Explore the surrounding scenery
6. Varkala’s Cliff Cafés and Shopping Street
One of the most enjoyable things about Varkala isn’t a single attraction—it’s the atmosphere around the cliff.
The streets are filled with cafés, restaurants, shops, handicrafts, clothing, jewellery and souvenirs.
Kerala Tourism describes the cliff-top area as a popular place for restaurants and shopping.
Spend some time here in the evening rather than treating Varkala purely as a sightseeing destination.
Best Things to Do in Varkala in 2 Days
A short Varkala trip can include plenty of experiences.
1. Watch the sunset from Varkala Cliff
This is one of the experiences you shouldn’t miss.
2. Relax at Papanasam Beach
Spend a few hours enjoying the beach rather than trying to visit too many attractions.
3. Explore the cliff-top cafés
Enjoy Kerala food, seafood, fresh juices or international dishes while overlooking the sea.
4. Try surfing
Varkala is known for surfing, although conditions and availability vary. Always follow local safety instructions.
5. Experience Ayurveda
Varkala has numerous Ayurveda and wellness centres around the tourist areas.
6. Shop for souvenirs
Look for handicrafts, jewellery, clothing and other locally inspired items.
7. Visit the spiritual landmarks
Janardhana Swamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt provide a completely different experience from Varkala’s beach culture.
Best 2-Day Varkala Itinerary
Day 1: Beach, Cliff and Sunset
Morning
8:00 AM – Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast near the cliff area.
9:00 AM – Janardhana Swamy Temple
Visit the ancient temple and spend some quiet time exploring its surroundings.
10:30 AM – Papanasam Beach
Walk towards the beach and enjoy the coastline.
Spend some time relaxing rather than rushing to the next attraction.
12:30 PM – Lunch
Choose a restaurant around the cliff area and try Kerala cuisine or fresh seafood.
2:00 PM – Relax at the hotel
Return to your hotel for some rest.
4:00 PM – Varkala Cliff Walk
Explore the cliff-top area, cafés and shops.
5:30 PM – Sunset
Find a good viewpoint along the cliff and enjoy the sunset over the Arabian Sea.
7:00 PM onwards – Dinner and café hopping
Spend the evening exploring the restaurants and cafés around North Cliff.
Day 2: Sivagiri, Kappil and Relaxation
8:00 AM – Breakfast
Have breakfast and check out if you are staying for only one night.
9:00 AM – Sivagiri Mutt
Visit Sivagiri Mutt and learn about Sree Narayana Guru and the spiritual significance of the site.
11:00 AM – Kappil Beach and Backwaters
Continue towards Kappil and enjoy the quieter coastal and backwater landscape.
1:00 PM – Lunch
Have lunch before returning towards Varkala.
2:30 PM – Free Time
Depending on your departure time, use the afternoon for:
- Ayurveda treatment
- Shopping
- Café hopping
- Beach relaxation
- Photography
4:30 PM – Final Varkala Cliff Visit
If your departure is later in the evening, spend your final hours enjoying the cliff and sea views.
Then proceed to Varkala railway station, airport or your next destination.
Best Time to Visit Varkala
The best time for a typical beach holiday in Varkala is generally during the cooler and drier months.
October to February
This is an attractive period for sightseeing, beach activities and exploring the town.
March to May
The weather becomes hotter. Early morning and evening sightseeing can be more comfortable.
June to September
The southwest monsoon brings heavier rain. Varkala can look beautifully green during this period, but beach activities and sea conditions can be affected.
Kerala Tourism specifically notes that Varkala sees lower beach visitation during the monsoon because of heavy rainfall and sea erosion.
How to Reach Varkala from Bangalore
By Flight
The most convenient option is usually to fly from Bangalore to Trivandrum International Airport and continue by road or train to Varkala.
The airport is approximately 57 km from Varkala.
By Train
Varkala has its own railway station, making train travel a convenient option for travellers coming from different parts of India.
By Road
Bangalore to Varkala is a long road journey. It can work well for travellers who enjoy road trips, but for a two-day holiday, flying or taking a suitable train can save considerable travel time.
How Many Days Are Enough for Varkala?
1 Day
Possible, but rushed.
You can cover Varkala Cliff, Papanasam Beach and the main sightseeing areas.
2 Days
Ideal for a short Varkala getaway.
You can comfortably combine beaches, cliffs, temples, Sivagiri and Kappil.
3 Days
Better for travellers who want a slower holiday with more time for Ayurveda, surfing, cafés and relaxation.
4+ Days
Recommended if you want to combine Varkala with other Kerala destinations.
Where to Stay in Varkala
For first-time visitors, staying near Varkala Cliff is particularly convenient.
North Cliff
Best for:
- Couples
- First-time visitors
- Cafés and restaurants
- Nightlife
- Shopping
- Sea views
Near Papanasam Beach
Best for:
- Beach lovers
- Families
- Travellers looking for a quieter stay
Around Sivagiri
Best for:
- Spiritual travellers
- Peaceful stays
- Visitors interested in Sree Narayana Guru’s legacy
Varkala for Different Travellers
Varkala for Couples
Varkala is excellent for couples because of its sunsets, cliff-top cafés, beach walks and relaxed atmosphere.
Varkala for Families
Families can enjoy the beach, sightseeing, temples and nearby attractions. Parents should supervise children around cliffs and the sea.
Varkala for Solo Travellers
The compact tourist areas, cafés and beach atmosphere make Varkala appealing for solo travellers.
Varkala for Friends
Friends can combine beach time with cafés, shopping, surfing and nearby sightseeing.
Varkala for Senior Citizens
A slower itinerary focusing on temples, scenic viewpoints, comfortable accommodation and relaxed sightseeing may work better than trying to cover too many attractions.
Varkala Travel Tips
- Check sea conditions before swimming.
- Be particularly careful near cliff edges.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable footwear.
- Keep a light rain jacket during the monsoon.
- Dress respectfully when visiting temples and spiritual sites.
- Don’t try to cover every attraction in one day.
- Keep some free time for the beach and cliff.
- Book accommodation early during busy holiday periods.
- Use local taxis or autos for attractions outside the main cliff area.
- Keep your itinerary flexible around weather and sea conditions.
Places to Visit Near Varkala
If you have additional time, consider adding:
- Kappil
- Anjuthengu / Anchuthengu
- Kollam
- Munroe Island
- Jatayu Earth Center
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Kovalam
For a two-day Varkala trip, however, it is better to concentrate on Varkala itself rather than spending most of your holiday travelling between destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Varkala
What are the best places to visit in Varkala in 2 days?
The main attractions to prioritise are Varkala Cliff, Papanasam Beach, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt and Kappil Beach and Backwaters.
Is 2 days enough for Varkala?
Yes. Two days are enough to experience Varkala’s major attractions while still leaving time for the beach, cafés and sunset.
What is Varkala famous for?
Varkala is famous for its dramatic laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, Papanasam Beach, spiritual landmarks and relaxed beach-town atmosphere.
Which beach is famous in Varkala?
Papanasam Beach, commonly known as Varkala Beach, is the destination’s most famous beach.
Is Varkala good for couples?
Yes. Varkala is particularly popular with couples because of its scenic cliff views, beaches, sunsets, cafés and relaxed atmosphere.
Is Varkala good for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy the beaches, temples, sightseeing and nearby attractions, although children should be closely supervised near the cliffs and sea.
What is the best time to visit Varkala?
October to February is generally a comfortable period for sightseeing and a beach holiday, while the monsoon months can bring heavier rain and rougher sea conditions.
How far is Varkala from Trivandrum Airport?
Varkala is approximately 57 km from Trivandrum International Airport according to Kerala Tourism.
How far is Varkala railway station from Varkala?
Varkala’s railway station is approximately 3 km from the main tourist area.
Can I visit Varkala and return in two days?
Yes. A two-day itinerary is suitable for a short getaway, particularly if your transport arrangements minimise travel time.
Final Verdict: Is 2 Days Enough for Varkala?
Absolutely.
A well-planned 2-day Varkala trip gives you enough time to experience the destination’s famous cliff, relax at Papanasam Beach, watch the sunset, visit Janardhana Swamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt, and explore the quieter Kappil area.
The key is not to turn your trip into a checklist.
Spend time enjoying the Varkala Cliff, have a relaxed meal overlooking the sea, walk along the beach and leave enough space in your itinerary to simply enjoy Kerala’s coastal atmosphere.
For travellers looking for a hassle-free Kerala holiday, MyHappyJourney.com can help plan Varkala holidays and customised Kerala tour packages based on your travel dates, budget and preferred experiences.
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