One Day Itinerary for Varkala

  1. 8:00AM: Varkala Beach
    10 minutes (2.3 km) from Kuzhithurai Railway Station

    Varkala Beach is one of Kerala's finest coastal marvels, a romantic spot where the Arabian Sea waves dance and curl up to meet the sand. You can relax in the sun, try seafood, or rent a surfboard or paddle and ride the gentle waves.

  2. 10:00AM: Varkala Cliff
    5 minutes (1 km) from Varkala Beach

    The beautiful path built on the sea is a highlight of Varkala and one of the best places to explore in Kerala. The trail runs parallel to the Arabian Sea, along the edge of the cliff, and offers great views of the coast as well as the ancient Janardhana Swami Temple and Sivagiri Mutt.

  3. 11:30AM: Janardhana Swami Temple
    15 minutes (4 km) from Varkala Cliff

    Janardhana Swami Temple is a Hindu temple situated in the heart of Varkala. It is a splendid example of Kerala style architecture, dating back to the 12th-century. The temple is known for its breathtaking artwork and ancient inscriptions which date back to the Chera Dynasty.

  4. 1:00PM: Lunch at Darjeeling Cafe
    5 minutes (1 km) from Janardhana Swami Temple

    This cafe is a beautiful spot serving the best Chinese, Italian, and Indian food, coupled with a charming atmosphere, Darjeeling Cafe is a highly recommended eating place in Varkala. The menu is delicious, the staff is lovely, and the ambiance is impressive.

  5. 3:00PM: Sivagiri Mutt
    20 minutes (6 km) from Darjeeling Cafe

    Sivagiri Mutt is the establishment of social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. This pilgrimage center is visited by devotees, travelers, and historians. The towering and vibrant statue of Sree Narayana Guru and lots of paintings and sculptures make it an excellent sightseeing spot. The place also offers an oasis of calm.

  6. 5:00PM: Ponnumthuruthu Island
    25 minutes (7 km) from Sivagiri Mutt

    Ponnumthuruthu Island is an idyllic place where travelers can escape the chaos of the city and revel in the peaceful atmosphere of the surroundings. The island is covered with lush tropical vegetation, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. The trip will end with a captivating sunset at this site.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Varkala Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • Varkala Cliff (1 hour, Free)
  • Janardhana Swami Temple (1 hour, ₹10)
  • Darjeeling Cafe (1.5 hours, ₹600 for two)
  • Sivagiri Mutt (2 hours, Free)
  • Ponnumthuruthu Island (1.5 hours, ₹500 for two)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹1,200

Useful Tips

If you have less time, you can skip Ponnumthuruthu Island and only visit the other sites. If you have more time, explore the other beautiful beaches in Varkala, such as Kappil or Odayam beach. Also, try the local cuisine and visit the Varkala Fish Market to get a glimpse of Varkala's local culture.

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