Complete Travel Guide

Best Places to Visit in Varkala

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Varkala, Kerala, you are heading to one of the most beautiful coastal destinations in South India. Famous for its dramatic red laterite cliffs, Arabian Sea views, golden beaches, spiritual atmosphere and relaxed cafés, Varkala is an excellent destination for couples, families, solo travelers and beach lovers.

Varkala offers much more than a beach holiday. From the famous Varkala Cliff and Varkala Beach to ancient temples, peaceful backwaters and nearby natural attractions, there are plenty of places to visit in Varkala during a short weekend trip or a longer Kerala holiday.

Whether you are planning a 1-day Varkala trip, a 2-day Varkala itinerary or a Kerala tour package, this guide covers the top attractions and things to do in Varkala.

Quick Information About Varkala

Travel Information	Details
Destination	Varkala, Kerala
Famous For	Varkala Beach, Varkala Cliff and Janardhana Swamy Temple
Best For	Beaches, relaxation, wellness, couples and sightseeing
Nearest Airport	Thiruvananthapuram International Airport
Nearest Railway Station	Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station
Ideal Duration	2–3 days
Best Time to Visit	October to March
Main Attraction	Varkala Cliff and Papanasam Beach

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Varkala

1. Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Varkala. The beach is famous for its beautiful Arabian Sea views and the dramatic cliffs rising above the shoreline.

The beach is ideal for relaxing, watching sunsets, taking photographs and enjoying the coastal atmosphere.

Things to Do at Varkala Beach

Watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea
Take a relaxing beach walk
Enjoy photography
Spend time with family or friends
Explore nearby cafés and restaurants
Enjoy the scenic coastline

The northern section near Varkala Cliff is particularly popular with tourists.

2. Varkala Cliff

Varkala Cliff is one of the most iconic attractions in Kerala and a must-visit destination when exploring the best places to visit in Varkala.

The striking laterite cliffs overlook the Arabian Sea and provide spectacular views of the coastline. The cliff area is also home to restaurants, cafés, shops, resorts and wellness centres.

Why Visit Varkala Cliff?

Panoramic sea views
Beautiful sunset viewpoints
Restaurants and cafés
Shopping
Photography
Relaxed evening atmosphere

A walk along the cliff during sunset is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Varkala.

3. Janardhana Swamy Temple

Janardhana Swamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Located close to Varkala Beach, the temple is an important spiritual attraction in the town.

The temple’s traditional Kerala architecture and peaceful surroundings make it one of the most interesting cultural places to visit in Varkala.

Visitors should follow the temple’s dress code and entry rules.

4. Sivagiri Mutt

Sivagiri Mutt is another important attraction near Varkala. It is associated with Sree Narayana Guru, a renowned social reformer and spiritual leader from Kerala.

The peaceful surroundings and spiritual significance make Sivagiri an excellent addition to a Varkala sightseeing itinerary.

Highlights

Sivagiri pilgrimage centre
Spiritual atmosphere
Sree Narayana Guru’s legacy
Peaceful surroundings
Cultural experience

If you are interested in Kerala’s history and spirituality, Sivagiri Mutt should be included in your list of best places to visit in Varkala.

5. Kappil Beach

Kappil Beach is located a short distance from central Varkala and offers a quieter coastal experience.

Unlike the busy areas around Varkala Cliff, Kappil provides a more peaceful environment. The meeting of the backwaters and Arabian Sea creates a beautiful landscape.

Things to Do at Kappil

Enjoy the beach
Take photographs
Explore the backwater surroundings
Enjoy a peaceful drive
Watch the sunset
Spend time away from crowds

Kappil is particularly suitable for travelers who want to explore places around Varkala beyond the main tourist areas.

6. Kappil Lake

Kappil Lake is one of the scenic natural attractions near Varkala. Surrounded by coconut palms and greenery, the backwaters offer a completely different experience from the beaches.

A visit to Kappil Lake can easily be combined with Kappil Beach during a Varkala sightseeing trip.

Best Experience

The journey towards Kappil is itself scenic, with Kerala’s coastal landscape, coconut plantations and backwaters providing excellent photography opportunities.

7. Varkala Aquarium

Located near the beach area, Varkala Aquarium is a simple attraction that can be included in a family itinerary.

It is especially suitable for families traveling with children and travelers looking for a short activity between beach visits.

8. Anjengo Fort

Anjengo Fort, also known as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historic attraction located near Varkala.

The fort has connections with the colonial history of Kerala and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s historical past.

Why Visit Anjengo Fort?

Historical significance
Coastal location
Photography
Exploring Kerala’s colonial history
Less crowded experience

History enthusiasts should consider adding Anjengo Fort to their list of places to visit in Varkala.

9. Ponnumthuruthu Island

Ponnumthuruthu Island is a beautiful island located near Varkala and is surrounded by the Anjengo backwaters.

The island is known for its greenery and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can reach the island by boat and enjoy a quiet escape surrounded by nature.

The attraction is ideal for travelers interested in exploring the less-commercial side of Varkala.

10. Edava Beach

Edava Beach is another beautiful coastal attraction near Varkala. It is less commercialized than the main Varkala Beach and is suitable for travelers looking for a peaceful beach experience.

The area is particularly attractive during sunset and is a good option for photography and relaxing walks.

Best Things to Do in Varkala

Exploring the best places to visit in Varkala is only part of the experience. The destination also offers several activities.

1. Watch the Sunset

Varkala Cliff provides excellent sunset views. Find a comfortable spot along the cliff and watch the sun disappear over the Arabian Sea.

2. Explore the Cliff

Take a leisurely walk along the cliff and explore the cafés, restaurants, shops and viewpoints.

3. Relax at the Beach

Spend a few hours at Varkala Beach enjoying the sea and coastal atmosphere.

4. Try Ayurvedic Wellness

Varkala is known for Ayurveda and wellness experiences. Travelers can explore reputable Ayurveda centres and spas for traditional treatments.

5. Enjoy Local Food

Try Kerala dishes such as appam, vegetable stew, puttu, kadala curry and fresh seafood at local restaurants.

6. Explore the Backwaters

Visit Kappil Lake and nearby backwater areas for a peaceful experience away from the main tourist zone.

7. Shop at Varkala Cliff

The cliff area has numerous shops selling clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs and beachwear.

Best Time to Visit Varkala

The best time to visit Varkala is generally from October to March, when the weather is more comfortable for sightseeing and beach activities.

October to March

This is the most popular travel season. The weather is generally suitable for exploring beaches, cliffs, temples and nearby attractions.

April to May

The temperature can be higher, but travelers who do not mind the heat can still enjoy Varkala.

June to September

The monsoon brings heavy rainfall to Kerala. Varkala can look particularly green and beautiful during this season, but outdoor sightseeing and beach activities may be affected by rain and sea conditions.

How to Reach Varkala

By Air

The nearest major airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. From the airport, travelers can reach Varkala by taxi, private cab or other local transportation.

By Train

Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is well connected with several cities in Kerala and other parts of India.

For travelers arriving by train, the railway station is one of the most convenient ways to reach Varkala.

By Road

Varkala can be reached by road from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and other major Kerala destinations.

A private car or taxi is particularly convenient if Varkala is part of a larger Kerala itinerary.

How Many Days Are Enough for Varkala?

A 2-day Varkala itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors.

Day 1

Check in to your hotel
Visit Varkala Beach
Explore Varkala Cliff
Enjoy sunset
Explore cliffside cafés and restaurants

Day 2

Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple
Visit Sivagiri Mutt
Explore Kappil Lake
Visit Kappil Beach
Return to Varkala

If you have an additional day, you can explore Anjengo Fort, Ponnumthuruthu Island and nearby attractions.

Where to Stay in Varkala

Varkala Cliff

Best for first-time visitors, couples and travelers who want restaurants, cafés and attractions within walking distance.

North Cliff

A good choice for travelers looking for accommodation close to the main tourist area.

Varkala Beach Area

Ideal for travelers who want easy access to the beach.

Kappil

Best for travelers looking for a quieter stay surrounded by nature.

Varkala Travel Tips

Plan beach activities according to weather and sea conditions.
Carry sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable footwear.
Wear appropriate clothing when visiting temples.
Keep valuables secure while visiting crowded areas.
Carry cash for smaller local shops where required.
Respect local customs and religious places.
Check current attraction timings and entry rules before visiting.
Book accommodation early during the peak season.
Consider staying near the cliff if you want easy access to restaurants and cafés.
Keep at least two days to properly experience Varkala.

Places to Visit Near Varkala

If you have additional time, consider combining Varkala with:

Kollam
Thiruvananthapuram
Kovalam
Poovar
Munroe Island
Jatayu Earth Center
Alleppey
Kanyakumari

Varkala can therefore be easily incorporated into a longer Kerala tour itinerary.

Varkala Travel Budget

Your Varkala trip cost depends on your accommodation, transportation and activities.

Budget Trip

Suitable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mid-Range Trip

A comfortable hotel, local restaurants and private transportation can provide a good balance between comfort and cost.

Luxury Trip

Luxury resorts, private transfers, premium dining and wellness experiences will increase the overall cost.

For the latest hotel prices, transportation costs and activity charges, travelers should check current rates before booking.

Detailed FAQ: Best Places to Visit in Varkala

Varkala is one of Kerala’s most distinctive coastal destinations, combining a dramatic laterite cliff, beaches, pilgrimage sites, backwaters and a relaxed café-and-wellness atmosphere. Kerala Tourism highlights Varkala Beach, the cliffs, Sivagiri Mutt, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Kappil Lake and Ponnumthuruthu Island among the area’s attractions.

1. What are the best places to visit in Varkala?

The best places to visit in Varkala include:

Varkala Beach
Varkala Cliff
Varkala Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple
Sivagiri Mutt
Kappil Beach
Kappil Lake
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Thiruvambady Beach
Anjengo Fort
Varkala Tunnel
Odayam Beach
Papanasam Beach

The combination of beach, cliff, spirituality and backwaters is what makes Varkala different from a conventional beach destination.

2. Is Varkala Beach the main tourist attraction in Varkala?

Yes. Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is the destination’s best-known attraction. The beach is famous for its distinctive laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. Kerala Tourism describes the cliffs as a major feature of Varkala’s landscape.

Visitors come here for:

Beach walks
Sunset views
Swimming when conditions are suitable
Surfing
Photography
Relaxing at beach cafés
Yoga and wellness activities

Sea conditions can become strong, so visitors should check local conditions before entering the water.

3. What is special about Varkala Cliff?

Varkala Cliff is one of the defining geographical features of the destination. The laterite cliffs rise above the Arabian Sea and provide elevated views of the coastline. The cliff area also has restaurants, hotels, shops and cafés, making it one of the liveliest parts of Varkala.

It is especially popular around sunset.

Best for: Couples, photographers, backpackers, families and travelers who enjoy scenic coastal walks.

4. Why is Papanasam Beach famous?

Papanasam is another name associated with Varkala Beach and has religious significance. The name is traditionally interpreted as relating to the washing away of sins, and the beach is associated with Hindu rituals connected with ancestral rites.

Apart from its spiritual importance, the beach is also popular for its scenic setting beneath the laterite cliffs.

Visitors should be respectful around areas being used for religious rituals.

5. Is Varkala good for couples?

Yes. Varkala is particularly suitable for couples because it combines:

Sunset views
Cliff walks
Beach time
Cafés and restaurants
Ayurveda and wellness experiences
Yoga
Boutique accommodation
Nearby backwaters

A couple could spend the morning exploring Varkala’s cultural attractions, enjoy lunch near the cliff, relax at the beach and finish the day watching the sunset.

6. What is the best place to watch sunset in Varkala?

The Varkala Cliff is one of the most popular places for sunset views because it overlooks the Arabian Sea from an elevated position.

The cliff walkway provides opportunities to stop at different viewpoints, restaurants and cafés while enjoying the coastal scenery.

For a quieter experience, travelers can also consider less-crowded beach areas around Odayam and Thiruvambady.

7. Is Sivagiri Mutt worth visiting in Varkala?

Yes, particularly if you are interested in spirituality, Kerala history and the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru.

Sivagiri Mutt is one of Varkala’s major pilgrimage destinations. Kerala Tourism lists Sivagiri among the important pilgrim centres of Varkala.

It offers a very different experience from Varkala’s beach and café areas.

Best for: Spiritual travelers, families, cultural travelers and pilgrims.

8. What is special about Janardhana Swamy Temple?

Varkala Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple and one of Varkala’s important pilgrimage sites. Kerala Tourism describes it as a major attraction associated with the town and notes its proximity to Papanasam Beach.

The temple can be combined with a visit to Papanasam Beach because the two attractions are relatively close.

Visitors should follow the temple’s dress code and photography rules.

9. What is Kappil Beach famous for?

Kappil is known for its combination of beach and backwaters.

Kerala Tourism identifies Kappil Beach as one of the major attractions around Varkala. The surrounding landscape gives visitors the opportunity to experience both coastal scenery and the backwater environment.

Kappil is a good option if you want to get away from the busier cliff area.

Best for: Couples, photographers, families and nature lovers.

10. What is Kappil Lake?

Kappil Lake is a scenic backwater area near Varkala where inland waterways meet the coastal landscape.

The lake is particularly attractive for travelers who want a quieter side of Varkala beyond the main beach and cliff. Kerala Tourism lists Kappil Lake among the major tourist spots around Varkala.

A visit to Kappil can be combined with Kappil Beach for a half-day excursion.

11. Can I visit Ponnumthuruthu Island from Varkala?

Yes. Ponnumthuruthu Island, also known as Golden Island, is one of the attractions listed by Kerala Tourism around Varkala. The island is surrounded by backwaters and is accessible as part of a backwater excursion.

It is a good option for travelers interested in:

Backwaters
Boat rides
Nature
Photography
Quiet surroundings

12. What is Thiruvambady Beach like?

Thiruvambady Beach is a quieter coastal attraction near the main Varkala beach area.

It can be a good choice if you want to experience the coastline away from the busiest sections around Papanasam and the North Cliff.

Kerala Tourism lists Thiruvambady Beach among Varkala’s major tourist spots.

13. Is Odayam Beach worth visiting?

Yes. Odayam Beach Varkala is a quieter beach option north of the main cliff area.

It is suitable for travelers who prefer a more relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Compared with the main Varkala Cliff area, Odayam can feel less commercial and is worth considering for travelers staying several nights in Varkala.

14. What is Anjengo Fort?

Anjengo Fort, also known as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historical attraction near Varkala. Kerala Tourism includes Anjengo/Anchuthengu among the important places to visit around Varkala.

It is particularly interesting for travelers who want to add some history to a beach holiday.

You can combine the fort with nearby coastal attractions for a longer sightseeing day.

15. Is Varkala Tunnel a tourist attraction?

Yes. The Varkala Tunnel is listed by Kerala Tourism among the area’s major tourist spots.

The historic tunnel is an interesting addition to an itinerary for visitors interested in Kerala’s old transportation and engineering heritage.

It is generally better treated as a supplementary attraction rather than the primary reason for visiting Varkala.

16. How many days are enough to visit Varkala?

2 nights and 3 days is a good duration for a first Varkala trip.

Day 1

Check-in
Varkala Cliff
Papanasam Beach
Sunset

Day 2

Janardhana Swamy Temple
Sivagiri Mutt
Kappil Beach
Kappil Lake

Day 3

Relaxed breakfast
Beach/café time
Departure

If you want a slower holiday with Ayurveda, yoga and beach relaxation, 3–4 nights would be better.

17. Is Varkala better than Kovalam?

They offer different experiences.

Varkala is particularly known for its dramatic cliff, beach, cafés, wellness atmosphere and spiritual attractions.

Kovalam is more traditionally associated with its crescent-shaped beaches and established beach-resort tourism.

Choose Varkala if you want:

Cliff views
Backpacker/café atmosphere
Wellness
Spiritual attractions
A more distinctive landscape

Choose Kovalam if your priority is a classic beach-resort holiday.

18. What are the best places to visit in Varkala for families?

Families can consider:

Varkala Beach
Varkala Cliff
Janardhana Swamy Temple
Sivagiri Mutt
Kappil Beach
Kappil Lake
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Anjengo Fort

For families with young children, avoid allowing children near cliff edges and check sea conditions before swimming.

19. What are the best places in Varkala for honeymoon couples?

For a honeymoon, consider:

Varkala Cliff
Papanasam Beach
Sunset viewpoint
Odayam Beach
Kappil Lake
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Ayurveda/wellness experiences
Beachside cafés

A good honeymoon plan would combine Varkala + Alleppey/Kumarakom if you want both beach and backwater experiences.

20. What are the best places to visit in Varkala for photography?

The best photography opportunities include:

Varkala Cliff
Papanasam Beach
Sunset from the cliff
Kappil Lake
Kappil Beach
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Odayam Beach
Anjengo Fort

The combination of laterite cliffs, Arabian Sea, coconut palms and backwaters gives Varkala a particularly varied landscape.

21. Is Varkala good for Ayurveda and wellness?

Yes. Varkala has developed into a significant wellness destination, with Ayurveda centres, spas and yoga facilities around the beach and cliff area. Kerala Tourism specifically highlights Ayurveda, yoga and wellness as part of the Varkala experience.

Travelers looking for a wellness holiday can combine:

Beach + Ayurveda + Yoga + Meditation + Healthy food

for a 3–7 day stay.

22. Can I go swimming at Varkala Beach?

Swimming is possible when sea conditions are suitable, but visitors should not assume that the water is always safe.

Kerala Tourism specifically cautions that waves can be strong at times and recommends checking conditions before swimming.

Follow local warnings, lifeguard instructions and designated swimming areas.

23. Is Varkala suitable for a one-day trip?

Yes, but a one-day trip will cover only the main attractions.

A practical day trip could include:

Morning: Janardhana Swamy Temple + Sivagiri Mutt

Afternoon: Varkala Cliff + lunch

Evening: Papanasam Beach + sunset

If you want to include Kappil Lake, Kappil Beach or Ponnumthuruthu Island, staying overnight is preferable.

24. What are the best free places to visit in Varkala?

Some experiences that generally do not require a major entry fee include:

Varkala Beach
Cliff walks
Sunset viewing
Odayam Beach
Thiruvambady Beach
Exploring the local streets around the cliff

Individual attractions and activities may have their own charges, so check locally before visiting.

25. Where should I stay in Varkala for sightseeing?

For first-time visitors, staying around the North Cliff/Papanasam area is convenient because many restaurants, cafés, shops and accommodation options are concentrated around the cliff.

For a quieter holiday, consider accommodation around:

Odayam
Thiruvambady
South Cliff

Your choice should depend on whether you prioritize nightlife and restaurants, beach access, peace and quiet, or resort-style accommodation.

26. How far is Varkala from Thiruvananthapuram?

Varkala is in Thiruvananthapuram district. Kerala Tourism lists Varkala railway station approximately 3 km from Varkala and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport approximately 57 km away.

This makes Varkala a relatively convenient destination to add to a South Kerala itinerary.

27. Can Varkala be included in a Kerala tour package?

Absolutely. Varkala works particularly well in a South Kerala itinerary.

Example 5-night itinerary

Kochi → Alleppey → Kovalam → Varkala → Thiruvananthapuram

Or:

Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey → Varkala → Kovalam

Varkala can add a beach and wellness component to a conventional Kerala itinerary.

28. What is the best time to visit Varkala?

The most popular period for a Varkala beach holiday is generally during the drier months from around October to March, when conditions are more suitable for sightseeing and beach activities.

The monsoon can bring heavy rain and rougher sea conditions. Kerala Tourism notes that Varkala is less frequented during the monsoon because of heavy rainfall and sea erosion.

29. Is Varkala worth visiting during the monsoon?

Yes, if you are interested in greenery, Ayurveda, wellness and a quieter atmosphere rather than swimming and conventional beach activities.

However, beach conditions can be rougher during the monsoon, and Kerala Tourism notes increased rainfall and sea erosion during this period.

For a monsoon trip, prioritize:

Ayurveda
Resorts
Cafés
Yoga
Local sightseeing
Scenic cliff views

rather than planning the entire trip around swimming.

30. What is the best way to explore Varkala?

A combination of walking + local transport + a hired vehicle for nearby attractions works well.

The cliff and beach areas are best explored at a relaxed pace.

For attractions farther away, such as Kappil, Anjengo Fort or Ponnumthuruthu, arranging local transportation can save time.

31. What are the must-visit places in Varkala for first-time visitors?

If you have limited time, prioritize these five:

1. Varkala Cliff
2. Papanasam/Varkala Beach
3. Janardhana Swamy Temple
4. Sivagiri Mutt
5. Kappil Beach & Lake

These provide a good introduction to Varkala’s beaches, cliffs, spirituality, history and backwaters.

32. Is Varkala good for a 2-night Kerala holiday?

Yes. A 2-night stay is enough to experience the main attractions without rushing.

Suggested itinerary

Day	Places to Visit
Day 1	Check-in → Varkala Cliff → Papanasam Beach → Sunset
Day 2	Janardhana Temple → Sivagiri Mutt → Kappil Beach → Kappil Lake
Day 3	Odayam Beach → Breakfast → Departure

For couples, adding a wellness or Ayurveda experience can make the itinerary more relaxing.

33. What makes Varkala different from other Kerala destinations?

Varkala’s biggest advantage is that several experiences come together in one destination.

You get:

Beach + Cliff + Backwaters + Temple + Pilgrimage + Ayurveda + Yoga + Cafés

The laterite cliff directly overlooking the Arabian Sea is particularly distinctive and is one of the defining features of the destination.

34. What are the best nearby places to visit from Varkala?

If you have an additional day, consider:

Kappil
Anjengo/Anchuthengu
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Kollam
Thiruvananthapuram
Kovalam
Jatayu Earth Center

The exact choice depends on your interests and available travel time.

35. How can I include Varkala in a Kerala honeymoon package?

A Varkala honeymoon can be combined with Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey.

Example 7-night Kerala honeymoon

Munnar – 2 nights
Thekkady – 1 night
Alleppey – 1 night
Varkala – 2 nights
Thiruvananthapuram – 1 night

This gives couples a mix of mountains, wildlife, backwaters and beaches.

Quick FAQ Summary

Question	Quick Answer
Best attraction in Varkala?	Varkala Beach & Cliff
Best for couples?	Cliff, beach, sunset & wellness
Best spiritual attraction?	Sivagiri Mutt & Janardhana Temple
Best nearby backwater destination?	Kappil
Best quiet beach?	Odayam/Thiruvambady
Ideal stay	2–3 nights
Best season	October–March
Nearest railway station	Varkala
Nearest major airport	Thiruvananthapuram
Best for families?	Beach, temple, Kappil & sightseeing
Best for honeymoon?	Varkala + Alleppey/Kumarakom
Best sunset location?	Varkala Cliff
Main beach	Papanasam/Varkala Beach

Conclusion

Varkala is one of Kerala’s most attractive coastal destinations and offers an excellent combination of beaches, cliffs, spirituality, nature and relaxation.

From the famous Varkala Beach and Varkala Cliff to Kappil Lake, Sivagiri Mutt, Janardhana Swamy Temple and Anjengo Fort, there are plenty of best places to visit in Varkala for every type of traveler.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a romantic holiday or a longer Kerala vacation, Varkala deserves a place on your itinerary.

Planning a Kerala holiday? Explore Kerala tour packages with MyHappyJourney.com and create a customized Varkala itinerary for your trip.