3-Day Adventure Itinerary in Varkala, July 2023

1. Day 1: Cliff Beach
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Varkala

   Start your adventure in Varkala at the beautiful Cliff Beach. In the morning, enjoy a thrilling session of paragliding, where you can soar high above the cliffs and capture breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Afternoon presents an opportunity for some adrenaline-pumping activities such as jet skiing or kayaking. As evening approaches, you can relax on the beach, watch the mesmerizing sunset, and try some delicious seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

2. Day 2: Anjengo Fort and Ponnumthuruthu Island
   35 minutes (12.8 miles) from Cliff Beach

   Embark on an adventurous day exploring the historic Anjengo Fort. In the morning, visit this ancient fort that offers a glimpse into Varkala's past. Afterward, head to Ponnumthuruthu Island, also known as Golden Island, for a unique experience. Enjoy a serene boat ride through the backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and charming villages. Spend the afternoon exploring the island, visiting the ancient Shiva Parvati Temple and relishing a picnic amidst nature. Wrap up the day by witnessing a mesmerizing Kathakali performance in the evening, showcasing traditional Kerala art forms.

3. Day 3: Varkala Tunnel and Kappil Lake
   20 minutes (8.7 miles) from Ponnumthuruthu Island

   Embark on an adventurous day exploring the hidden gems of Varkala. Start your morning by visiting the Varkala Tunnel, a fascinating underground passage that leads to a secluded beach. Explore the tunnel and enjoy the thrill of discovering a hidden beach. Afterward, head to Kappil Lake, where you can indulge in a variety of water activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Spend the afternoon amidst the tranquil surroundings of the lake, surrounded by coconut groves and backwaters. As the sun sets, capture the picturesque views and savor a delicious dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

Recommendations

If you're looking for more adventure, consider taking a day trip to the nearby Thenmala Dam and Eco-Tourism Zone. Here, you can experience thrilling activities like trekking, zip-lining, and mountain biking. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to visit the pristine Kovalam Beach, located just a short distance from Varkala. To maximize your fun, make sure to interact with the friendly locals, sample authentic Kerala cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Varkala.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Paragliding at Cliff Beach (2 hours, price varies based on package)
• Jet Skiing at Cliff Beach (1 hour, price varies)
• Kayaking at Cliff Beach (2 hours, price varies)
• Anjengo Fort visit (2 hours, ₹100 entrance fee)
• Boat ride to Ponnumthuruthu Island (1 hour, ₹500 per person)
• Kathakali performance (2 hours, ₹300 per person)
• Varkala Tunnel exploration (1 hour, free entry)
• Kappil Lake activities (2-3 hours, prices vary)

Total Estimated Costs: ₹900-1500