A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary for Varkala

1. Day 1: Exploring the Beach
   Start your day by exploring the Varkala Beach, famous for its beautiful cliffs and serene atmosphere. Spend some time soaking in the sun, swimming in the gentle waves or trying out water sports like kayaking or surfing. Once you have had your fill of the beach, head over to the Janardanaswamy Temple, about 5 minutes' walk away. An ancient temple full of history, it is known for its intricate architecture and stunning location on a hill overlooking the beach.
   Distance estimate from previous location: 5 minutes' walk

   After all the fun in the sun, enjoy a refreshing drink and snack at one of the many beachside shacks. After a good meal, stroll through the local market for some souvenirs.

2. Day 2: Kappil Lake and Elephant Ride
   Start your morning by venturing out to Kappil Lake, located 20 minutes from Varkala by car. The lake offers a serene and picturesque landscape and is great for a family outing with a scenic boat ride.
   Distance estimate from previous location: 20 minutes' drive

   After the scenic boat ride, drive down to Kerala Elephant Ride for a fun elephant ride experience. This elephant sanctuary is dedicated to creating a safe environment for the elephants while adopting eco-friendly measures. Enjoy the sunset while riding your elephant.

3. Day 3: Visit a nearby hill station
   Take a trip to the nearby Ponmudi Hill Station early in the morning. It's about 2 hours from Varkala by car. The scenic drive up offers a treat to the eyes with a stunning view of the Western Ghats. explore the beautiful landscapes and spend a day in nature.
   Distance estimate from previous location: 2 hours' drive

   Dedicate the rest of the day on a nature walk, hiking the winding paths through misty hilltops and enjoy a picnic amid scenic vistas. If lucky, you might get to see a Malabar Gaint squirrel that is native to the region.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Kappil Lake Boat Ride (30 minutes, INR 300)
• Kerala Elephant Ride (30 minutes, INR 800)
• Total Estimated Cost: INR 1000

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, you can visit the nearby Anjengo Fort, a 20-minute drive from Varkala, known for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Alternatively, if you have less time, skip Ponmudi Hill Station and spend the day at the beach instead.