In the morning, take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea and witness the mesmerizing sunrise at Varkala Beach. The beach offers a plethora of activities like surfing, paragliding, jet-skiing, and sunbathing. Grab a quick breakfast from the local vendors selling delicious South Indian delicacies like idli, dosa, and vada. In the afternoon, head to the renowned 2,000-year-old Janardhanaswamy Temple, one of the most ancient temples in India. Admire the temple's intricate architecture and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. In the evening, stroll along the magnificent cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, dotted with numerous shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and beachwear. Savor the breathtaking views of the sunset and relax in one of the cafes that offer mouth-watering seafood and continental cuisine.
Start your day early and head to the serene backwaters of Munroe Island for a 3-hour houseboat ride. Marvel at the lush greenery, mangroves, and coconut groves while enjoying a traditional Kerala-style breakfast on the houseboat. After the houseboat ride, stop by Kollam Beach, located 20 minutes away, and relax on the golden sands or take a dip in the clear blue waters. In the afternoon, visit the Thenmala Ecotourism Center, located an hour away from Kollam Beach. Explore the dense forests, gushing waterfalls, and adventure activities like rock climbing and ziplining. In the evening, return to Varkala and enjoy a sumptuous dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.
Don't miss out on the Sivagiri Mutt, a significant pilgrimage center, located 6 km from Varkala. You can also visit the Anjengo Fort, located on the way to Varkala, which was built by the British East India Company in 1695. Day trips to nearby destinations like Kanyakumari, Alleppey, and Thekkady are highly recommended. To maximize your fun, try surfing lessons at Varkala Beach or enroll in a cooking class to learn the secrets of South Indian cuisine.
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