15 Best Experiences You Should Not Miss

Varkala is one of Kerala’s most beautiful coastal destinations, known for its dramatic laterite cliffs, golden beaches, Arabian Sea views, spiritual landmarks, Ayurveda experiences and relaxed holiday atmosphere. Unlike many busy beach destinations, Varkala combines beach, nature, adventure, wellness and spirituality in one compact destination.

If you are planning a Kerala holiday, knowing the best things to do in Varkala can help you make the most of your stay. From watching the sunset from Varkala Cliff and relaxing at Papanasam Beach to exploring ancient temples, enjoying Ayurveda and taking a backwater trip, there is plenty to experience.

Quick Varkala Travel Guide

Travel Information	Details
Destination	Varkala, Kerala
Best for	Couples, families, solo travellers, wellness travellers
Ideal duration	2–3 days
Famous for	Varkala Cliff, Papanasam Beach, Ayurveda
Nearest railway station	Varkala Sivagiri
Nearest airport	Thiruvananthapuram International Airport
Main experience	Beach, sightseeing, wellness and adventure

Varkala is particularly distinctive because the laterite cliffs rise directly beside the Arabian Sea. Kerala Tourism identifies the area as the Varkala Formation, a significant geological feature and a geological monument.

1. Relax at Varkala Beach

One of the first things to do in Varkala is simply spend time at Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach.

The beach sits beneath the famous cliffs and offers a combination of sea views, sandy shores and a relaxed atmosphere. You can walk along the beach, sit beside the Arabian Sea, enjoy the sunset or simply spend a few hours doing nothing.

Papanasam also has religious significance, and many visitors come here for the traditional rituals associated with the sacred waters.

Best for: Couples, families, photographers and anyone looking for a relaxing beach experience.

2. Walk Along Varkala Cliff

The iconic Varkala Cliff is arguably the defining attraction of the destination.

The cliff-top path provides spectacular views over the Arabian Sea and is lined with cafés, restaurants, shops and places to relax. It is an excellent area for an evening walk, particularly around sunset.

Rather than rushing through the area, spend a couple of hours exploring the cliff, stopping at viewpoints and enjoying the atmosphere.

Tip: Stay a safe distance from cliff edges and follow local safety instructions.

3. Watch the Sunset from Varkala Cliff

Sunset is one of the most memorable experiences in Varkala.

As the sun drops toward the Arabian Sea, the cliff-top viewpoints provide wide coastal views. The combination of the laterite cliffs, sea and changing evening sky makes this one of the best photography opportunities in Varkala.

The beach and cliff area are also surrounded by cafés and restaurants, making it easy to combine sunset viewing with dinner.

4. Try Surfing and Water Sports

Varkala is not just about relaxing on the beach. Adventure seekers can also try activities such as surfing, parasailing, paragliding and stand-up paddleboarding, depending on weather and operator availability.

If you are new to surfing, consider taking an introductory lesson rather than heading into the water alone.

Sea conditions can change, so always follow instructions from qualified activity providers and check conditions before entering the water.

Best time for many adventure activities: The more favourable season is generally around November to March, although availability depends on weather conditions.

5. Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple

The Janardhana Swamy Temple is one of Varkala’s most important spiritual attractions.

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Janardhana, the temple has a long history and distinctive traditional Kerala architecture. Kerala Tourism notes an ancient inscription dating to 1252 CE on the temple premises.

The temple is also closely associated with Papanasam Beach and traditional rituals for departed souls.

Visitors should dress respectfully and follow the temple’s rules regarding entry and photography.

6. Explore Sivagiri Mutt

For travellers interested in spirituality, history and social reform, Sivagiri Mutt is an important place to visit.

Located around 3 km from Varkala town, the complex is associated with Sree Narayana Guru, the renowned social reformer and spiritual leader.

The campus includes his Samadhi and the Sivagiri Sarada Temple. The distinctive architecture and peaceful surroundings make it very different from the atmosphere around Varkala’s busy beach area.

7. Experience Ayurveda in Varkala

Varkala is also well known for its Ayurveda and wellness experiences.

You can find Ayurveda centres and wellness establishments around the beach and cliff areas offering treatments, massages and wellness programmes. Kerala Tourism specifically highlights Ayurveda, yoga and meditation as part of Varkala’s tourism experience.

If you are booking an Ayurveda treatment, choose a reputable centre and confirm exactly what treatment is included before starting.

Best for: Couples, wellness travellers and visitors looking for a relaxing Kerala holiday.

8. Spend Time at Thiruvambady Beach

Looking for a quieter beach?

Head to Thiruvambady Beach, also known as the Black Sand Beach.

Located near Varkala’s North Cliff, it is generally quieter than Papanasam Beach and has distinctive dark sand. Kerala Tourism describes it as a peaceful alternative for visitors looking to escape the crowds.

It is a good choice for a relaxed walk, photography or simply enjoying a quieter coastal setting.

9. Enjoy a Yoga or Meditation Session

Varkala’s laid-back atmosphere makes it particularly attractive to travellers interested in yoga and meditation.

Several establishments around the beach and cliff area offer yoga and wellness experiences. You can start the morning with a session and spend the rest of the day exploring the coast.

For travellers looking for a slower Kerala holiday rather than a packed sightseeing itinerary, this can be one of the most rewarding things to do in Varkala.

10. Explore the Cafés and Local Food

The cliff area is filled with cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy meals while taking in coastal views.

Try local Kerala dishes, seafood and vegetarian options. You can also find cafés serving international-style food, making Varkala particularly convenient for longer stays and international travellers.

A good way to experience Varkala is to combine an evening cliff walk with dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the sea.

11. Go Shopping at Varkala Cliff

The cliff area is also a popular shopping zone.

You can browse shops selling:

Handicrafts
Clothing
Jewellery
Souvenirs
Books
Decorative items
Beachwear

Take your time comparing products and prices, particularly if you are shopping for souvenirs.

12. Take a Backwater Trip Near Varkala

Varkala is primarily known for its beaches and cliffs, but the surrounding region also offers opportunities to experience Kerala’s backwaters.

Ponnumthuruthu Island, surrounded by backwaters, is one of the attractions mentioned by Kerala Tourism near Varkala. A boat ride through the surrounding waterways can provide a completely different experience from the beach.

This is a good option if you want to combine coastal scenery with Kerala’s traditional backwater landscape.

13. Visit Kappil Beach and Backwaters

Kappil is another attractive area to add to a Varkala itinerary.

The landscape around Kappil combines coastal scenery and backwaters, creating a quieter experience away from the main Varkala Cliff area.

If you have an extra half-day, Kappil can be a worthwhile addition to your Varkala sightseeing plan.

14. Take Beautiful Travel Photos

Varkala is an excellent destination for photography.

Some of the best subjects include:

Varkala Cliff
Arabian Sea views
Papanasam Beach
Sunset
Fishing boats
Thiruvambady Beach
Traditional architecture
Local markets
Backwaters

Early morning and late afternoon generally provide softer light and more comfortable conditions for exploring outdoors.

15. Enjoy a Slow, Relaxed Day

You don’t have to fill every hour with sightseeing.

One of the best things about Varkala is its relaxed atmosphere. Spend the morning at the beach, have lunch at a cliffside café, enjoy an Ayurveda treatment in the afternoon and watch the sunset in the evening.

For couples and honeymoon travellers especially, leaving some unplanned time can make the holiday more enjoyable.

Best Things to Do in Varkala for Couples

If you are travelling as a couple, consider this combination:

Sunrise or morning beach walk
Breakfast at a cliffside café
Ayurveda or wellness session
Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple
Explore Varkala Cliff
Sunset by the Arabian Sea
Romantic dinner

Varkala works particularly well for couples who prefer a relaxed beach holiday rather than a heavily scheduled sightseeing trip.

Best Things to Do in Varkala with Family

Families can enjoy:

Papanasam Beach
Varkala Cliff
Janardhana Swamy Temple
Sivagiri Mutt
Kappil area
Backwater experiences
Local food
Shopping

Families should take particular care around the cliff edges and check sea conditions before swimming.

How Many Days Are Enough for Varkala?

1 Day in Varkala

A one-day visit can cover:

Varkala Cliff → Papanasam Beach → Janardhana Swamy Temple → Sunset

2 Days in Varkala

Two days provide a much better experience.

Day 1:
Varkala Cliff → Papanasam Beach → Janardhana Swamy Temple → Sunset

Day 2:
Sivagiri Mutt → Thiruvambady Beach → Ayurveda/wellness → Kappil or backwater experience

3 Days in Varkala

Three days allow you to slow down and include more wellness, beach time, water activities and nearby attractions.

For most travellers, 2–3 days is a comfortable duration for Varkala.

Best Time to Visit Varkala

The ideal time depends on what you want to do.

October to February

This is generally one of the most comfortable periods for sightseeing, beach activities and outdoor exploration.

March to May

The weather becomes hotter. Early morning and evening are more comfortable for outdoor activities.

June to September

The southwest monsoon brings rain to Kerala. Varkala can look beautifully green during this period, but heavy rain and sea conditions can affect beach activities and outdoor plans.

Kerala Tourism notes that Varkala sees fewer visitors during the monsoon because of heavy rainfall and sea erosion.

How to Reach Varkala from Bangalore

By Flight

The nearest major airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. From the airport, Varkala can be reached by road or rail.

By Train

Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is the most convenient railway station for the destination. Kerala Tourism lists Varkala railway station as being only a few kilometres from the main tourist area.

For travellers coming from Bangalore, taking a train can be a practical option if you prefer not to fly.

By Road

Driving from Bangalore to Varkala is possible, but the journey is considerably longer than flying. It can make sense as part of a larger Kerala road trip.

Varkala Travel Tips

Check sea conditions before swimming.
Follow lifeguard and local safety instructions.
Be careful near cliff edges.
Carry sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable footwear.
Keep some time free instead of creating an overly packed itinerary.
Respect local customs when visiting temples.
Book accommodation early during busy travel periods.
Compare Ayurveda centres before booking treatments.
Keep some cash available for smaller shops and local expenses.
During monsoon, check weather and local conditions before planning beach activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Varkala

What is Varkala famous for?

Varkala is famous for its dramatic laterite cliffs, Papanasam Beach, Arabian Sea views, Ayurveda, yoga, spirituality and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

What are the best things to do in Varkala?

The best experiences include visiting Papanasam Beach, walking along Varkala Cliff, watching the sunset, exploring Janardhana Swamy Temple, visiting Sivagiri Mutt, trying water sports and enjoying Ayurveda.

Is Varkala worth visiting?

Yes. Varkala is particularly appealing if you want a combination of beach, nature, wellness, spirituality and relaxed sightseeing.

How many days are enough for Varkala?

Two to three days are ideal for experiencing the major attractions without rushing.

Is Varkala good for couples?

Yes. The beaches, sunsets, cliffside cafés, wellness experiences and relaxed atmosphere make Varkala a popular choice for couples.

Is Varkala suitable for families?

Yes, although families should take care around the cliffs and check sea conditions before swimming.

Can I do water sports in Varkala?

Depending on weather and operator availability, activities can include surfing, parasailing, paragliding and stand-up paddleboarding.

What is the best time to visit Varkala?

For comfortable sightseeing and outdoor activities, the cooler months are generally preferable. October to February is a popular period, while monsoon months can bring heavy rain and rougher coastal conditions.

Which beach is best in Varkala?

Papanasam Beach is the main and most famous beach, while Thiruvambady Beach offers a quieter alternative with distinctive dark sand.

Can Varkala be included in a Kerala tour package?

Yes. Varkala can be combined with destinations such as Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Alleppey, Kumarakom and Munnar, depending on the length of your Kerala holiday.

Final Thoughts

Varkala is much more than a beach destination. Its combination of dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, spiritual landmarks, Ayurveda, adventure activities and laid-back cafés makes it one of the most distinctive places to visit in Kerala.

Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, wellness retreat or a wider Kerala tour, spending 2–3 days in Varkala gives you enough time to enjoy the destination without rushing.

If you are planning a Kerala holiday and want Varkala included in a customized itinerary, MyHappyJourney.com can help you plan your accommodation, transportation and sightseeing as part of a complete Kerala holiday package.