Varkala 3-Day Itinerary - July 17-19, 2023

1. Monday July 17: Varkala Beach
   10 minutes (3.2 kilometers) from Varkala Town

   Spend your morning at the picturesque Varkala Beach, known for its stunning cliffs and clear blue waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore, soak up the sun, or try some water activities like swimming or surfing. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Varkala Town, where you can browse local shops, visit the Janardanaswamy Temple, or indulge in delicious South Indian cuisine. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the cliff-top viewpoints overlooking the Arabian Sea.

   • Relax on Varkala Beach: Free, All day
   • Explore Varkala Town: Depends on activities chosen, 3-4 hours
2. Tuesday July 18: Sivagiri Mutt and Varkala Lighthouse
   15 minutes (4.5 kilometers) from Varkala Beach

   Start your day by visiting the serene Sivagiri Mutt, a prominent ashram dedicated to the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Explore its beautiful grounds, learn about Guru's teachings, and experience the peaceful ambiance. In the afternoon, head to the Varkala Lighthouse, located on top of a cliff. Climb the lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding area. Take memorable photos and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. In the evening, treat yourself to a relaxing Ayurvedic massage at one of the wellness centers in Varkala.

   • Visit Sivagiri Mutt: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Explore Varkala Lighthouse: ₹100 ($1.35), 1-2 hours
   • Enjoy Ayurvedic Massage: ₹1500-3000 ($20-40), 1 hour
3. Wednesday July 19: Kappil Lake and Anjengo Fort
   25 minutes (8.5 kilometers) from Varkala Lighthouse

   Start your day by visiting the tranquil Kappil Lake, a scenic backwater destination where the lake meets the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a boat ride through the calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery and coconut groves. Experience the serenity and spot local bird species in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, explore the historic Anjengo Fort, built by the British East India Company in the 17th century. Wander through the ruins, learn about its history, and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline. In the evening, savor a delicious seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant.

   • Boat ride at Kappil Lake: ₹200 ($2.70), 1-2 hours
   • Explore Anjengo Fort: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Seafood dinner: ₹500-1000 ($6.70-13.40), 1 hour

Recommendations

If you have additional time, consider visiting the nearby Ponnumthuruthu Island, known for its serene beauty and ancient temple. For a day trip, you can explore the backwaters of Alleppey, Kerala's famous network of canals and lagoons. Another great idea is to indulge in a Kathakali dance performance or attend a yoga session to immerse yourself in the local culture. To make the most of your money and have a lot of fun, try bargaining at local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. Don't forget to taste the delicious local cuisine, such as appam, seafood curries, and banana fritters.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices here.