6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Varkala

  1. Day 1: Morning at Varkala Beach
    10 minutes (4.7km) from Trivandrum International Airport

    Start your trip with a relaxing morning at Varkala Beach. Let the kids build sandcastles or try out surfing lessons. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy a refreshing coconut water or fresh seafood in one of the nearby beach shacks.

  2. Day 2: Explore the Anjengo Fort
    25 minutes (9.5km) from Varkala Beach

    Learn about the history of the Dutch and British colonial rule in Kerala at the well-preserved Anjengo Fort. Admire the sea views and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of this ancient monument.

  3. Day 3: Visit the Janardhana Swamy Temple
    15 minutes (5.5km) from Anjengo Fort

    Take the family to the Janardhana Swamy Temple, a 2000-year-old shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Admire the intricate wood carvings and stone sculptures, and learn about the temple's history and culture.

  4. Day 4: Explore the Kappil Lake
    30 minutes (13.2km) from Janardhana Swamy Temple

    Spend a leisurely day exploring the Kappil Lake, located where the sea and backwaters meet. Take a boat ride, go fishing or simply take a walk along the lake's promenade. Enjoy lunch at one of the many local seafood restaurants.

  5. Day 5: Visit the Varkala Cliff and Beach
    20 minutes (6km) from Kappil Lake

    Enjoy a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea from atop the Varkala Cliff. Take the staircase down to the Varkala beach and spend the day sunbathing, swimming, or indulging in some beach sports. Treat yourself to some Ayurvedic massages and head to the nearby street shops for souvenirs.

  6. Day 6: Back to Trivandrum International Airport
    1 hour (42.5km) from Varkala Beach

    Departure day has come too soon! Before you leave, visit one of the traditional handicrafts stores for some souvenirs to remember your captivating trip to Varkala.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Surfing lessons at Varkala Beach (2 hours, INR 2000)
  • Entry fee for Anjengo Fort (1 hour, INR 25/person)
  • Offerings at Janardhana Swamy Temple (1 hour, Donation based)
  • Boat ride at Kappil Lake (1-2 hours, INR 500-800)
  • Ayurvedic massage at Varkala Beach (1 hour, INR 1000-2000)
  • Handicrafts souvenir shopping (1 hour)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 4525-5825 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, try visiting the beautiful backwaters of Poovar Island, indulging in some adventure sports, or walking the nature trails at the Varkala Cliff. Alternatively, if you have less time, skip the Kappil Lake to spend more time at the Varkala Beach and Cliff.

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