Varkala 7-Day Itinerary on a Shoestring Budget in July 2023

1. Day 1: Varkala Beach
   10 minutes (3.5 km) from Varkala Cliff

   Morning: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the beach while watching the fishermen at work.

   Afternoon: Take a refreshing swim in the sea and enjoy the stunning views of the sunset.

   Evening: Indulge in some street food and shop for souvenirs at the beachside shops.

2. Day 2: Janardhana Swamy Temple
   5 minutes (1.5 km) from Varkala Beach

   Morning: Explore the ancient temple and learn about its rich cultural history.

   Afternoon: Take a stroll around the temple pond and observe the serene environment.

   Evening: Attend the temple's evening aarti and witness the beautiful rituals and traditions.

3. Day 3: Sivagiri Mutt
   10 minutes (3.6 km) from Janardhana Swamy Temple

   Morning: Visit the ashram and pay respects to the great philosopher and social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru.

   Afternoon: Enjoy a vegetarian meal at the ashram's canteen and learn about its eco-friendly practices.

   Evening: Meditate in the peaceful surroundings and attend the evening prayers.

4. Day 4: Kappil Beach
   20 minutes (8.2 km) from Sivagiri Mutt

   Morning: Take a leisurely walk along the serene beach and enjoy the picturesque views.

   Afternoon: Take a boat ride through the backwaters and witness the local life.

   Evening: Enjoy some seafood at the beachside shacks and experience the local nightlife.

5. Day 5: Anchuthengu and Anjengo Fort
   30 minutes (13.5 km) from Kappil Beach

   Morning: Explore the historic fort built by the British East India Company.

   Afternoon: Take a dip in the nearby beach and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

   Evening: Watch the sunset from the fort's vantage point and learn about its military history.

6. Day 6: Ponnumthuruthu Island
   40 minutes (21.4 km) from Anchuthengu and Anjengo Fort

   Morning: Take a boat ride to the serene island and explore the lush greenery.

   Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch on the island and observe the various bird species.

   Evening: Take a dip in the island's natural pool and watch the sunset over the backwaters.

7. Day 7: Varkala Cliff
   30 minutes (15.4 km) from Ponnumthuruthu Island

   Morning: Take a walk along the cliff and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and shoreline.

   Afternoon: Visit the various shops and restaurants on the cliff and indulge in some local cuisine.

   Evening: Watch the sunset from the cliff and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Recommendations

Don't miss the Varkala Tunnel, a historic British-era railway tunnel, and the Kollam Backwaters for a scenic day trip. Consider taking a local yoga or Ayurvedic class to enhance your experience. To maximize your fun, rent a moped or bicycle to explore the various attractions at your own pace.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Varkala Beach (3 hours, free)
• Janardhana Swamy Temple (2 hours, free)
• Sivagiri Mutt (3 hours, free)
• Kappil Beach (4 hours, 500 INR)
• Anchuthengu and Anjengo Fort (4 hours, 100 INR)
• Ponnumthuruthu Island (6 hours, 1000 INR)
• Varkala Cliff (3 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: 1600 INR (excluding food, transportation, and accommodation)

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