Adventure in Varkala: A 3-Day Itinerary for July 2023

1. Day 1: Surf's Up at Varkala Beach
   10 minutes (2.2 km) from Varkala Cliff

   Start your day early with a surfing lesson at Varkala Beach. The waves are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike, and the instructors are friendly and knowledgeable. Afterward, grab a quick breakfast at one of the beachside shacks before heading to Varkala Cliff. Here, you can hike along the cliff, taking in the stunning ocean views and fresh sea breeze. In the afternoon, head back to the beach for some more surfing or relax on the sand with a good book. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants along the cliff before heading back to your hotel.

2. Day 2: Kayaking and Canoeing in Kappil Lake
   20 minutes (7.2 km) from Varkala Beach

   Today, head to Kappil Lake for a morning of kayaking and canoeing. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is home to many species of birds and fish. Afterward, grab lunch at one of the local restaurants before heading to the Janardhana Swamy Temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Varkala. In the evening, head back to Varkala Beach for a sunset yoga session on the sand.

3. Day 3: Trekking in Ponmudi Hills
   2 hours (60 km) from Varkala Beach

   Today, take a day trip to the Ponmudi Hills for some breathtaking views and a challenging trek. The trek takes approximately 3-4 hours and takes you through dense forests and open grasslands. Along the way, you'll see exotic birds, butterflies, and even some wild animals. Afterward, head to the Golden Valley for a picnic lunch and some relaxation time by the waterfall. On the way back to Varkala, stop by the Neyyar Dam for a scenic boat ride and some stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider checking out the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual and cultural center dedicated to the teachings of the famous philosopher and social reformer Sri Narayana Guru. You could also take a day trip to the nearby backwaters of Alappuzha, where you can explore the winding canals and lush greenery on a houseboat or canoe. To maximize your fun, be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Varkala Beach Surfing Lesson (2 hours, 1000 INR)
• Kappil Lake Kayaking and Canoeing (3 hours, 500 INR)
• Janardhana Swamy Temple (1 hour, 0 INR)
• Varkala Beach Sunset Yoga (1 hour, 300 INR)
• Ponmudi Hills Trekking (4-5 hours, 0 INR)
• Golden Valley Picnic (2 hours, 500 INR)
• Neyyar Dam Boat Ride (1 hour, 200 INR)
• Total Estimated Costs: 2500 INR ($34 USD)

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