Varkala 4-Day Itinerary for August 2023

1. Day 1: Janardhana Swami Temple
   10 minutes (2.5 km) from Varkala Beach

   Start the day by visiting the ancient Janardhana Swami Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple has a beautiful architecture and is surrounded by peaceful surroundings. After the visit, head towards the nearby Varkala Beach and spend some time enjoying the waves, sun, and sand. In the evening, head towards the nearby Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual and cultural centre, to witness the enchanting evening prayer ceremony.

2. Day 2: Kappil Beach and Anjengo Fort
   20 minutes (8.3 km) from Janardhana Swami Temple

   Begin the day by visiting the scenic Kappil Beach, a tranquil and less-crowded beach located between the backwaters and the Arabian Sea. Enjoy breathtaking views of the backwaters and take a boat ride to explore the nearby mangroves. Afterward, head towards the nearby Anjengo Fort, a 17th-century fort, and learn about its history and significance. In the evening, return to Varkala Beach and enjoy the vibrant sunset views.

3. Day 3: Ponnumthuruthu Island and Varkala Tunnel
   30 minutes (13.5 km) from Kappil Beach

   Begin the day by taking a boat ride to Ponnumthuruthu Island, a serene and scenic island located amidst the backwaters. Explore the ancient Shiva-Parvati Temple located on the island and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Afterward, head towards the nearby Varkala Tunnel, an underground tunnel built during the British era. Explore the tunnel and learn about its history and significance. In the evening, head towards the nearby Edava Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.

4. Day 4: Papanasam Beach and Sivagiri
   15 minutes (4.5 km) from Ponnumthuruthu Island

   Begin the day by visiting the holy Papanasam Beach, a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. Take a dip in the holy waters and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Afterward, head towards the nearby Sivagiri, a spiritual and cultural centre dedicated to the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Explore the shrine, temple, and museum located on the hill and learn about the life and teachings of Sree Narayana Guru. In the evening, return to Varkala Beach and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Recommendations

If you want to explore more beaches around Varkala, you can visit the nearby Thiruvambadi Beach, Kollam Beach, and Vettakada Beach. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Ashtamudi Lake and explore the backwaters by boat. To maximize your fun, try the local seafood and beverages, attend local cultural events, and shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Janardhana Swami Temple (1 hour, free)
• Varkala Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Sivagiri Mutt (1 hour, free)
• Kappil Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Anjengo Fort (1-2 hours, free)
• Ponnumthuruthu Island (2-3 hours, boat ride costs around INR 500)
• Varkala Tunnel (1 hour, free)
• Papanasam Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Sivagiri (1-2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 500 for boat ride to Ponnumthuruthu Island

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.