5-Day Itinerary for Varkala

  1. Day 1: Varkala Beach
    10-minute drive (3 km) from Varkala Railway Station

    One of the most loved beach destinations in Kerala, Varkala has a stunning coastline and cliff views. Walk, swim, soak up the sun, or read a book while enjoying the serenity of the beach.

  2. Day 2: Janardanaswamy Temple
    10-minute drive (3 km) from Varkala Beach

    One of the top attractions in Varkala, the Janardanaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a history of more than 2000 years. Visitors can witness the traditional Hindu rituals and architecture.

  3. Day 3: Kappil Lake
    20-minute drive (7 km) from Janardanaswamy Temple

    Kappil Lake is a serene backwater destination for tourists. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and catch glimpses of the surrounding village and coconut groves. There are also small shops, restaurants, and cafes for food and drinks.

  4. Day 4: Anjengo Fort
    30-minute drive (13 km) from Kappil Lake

    Also known as Anchuthengu Fort, this historical site is located right on the coast and was once a trading post for the Dutch, Portuguese and British. Explore the fort ruins, old cannons, and enjoy the sea view.

  5. Day 5: Ponnumthuruthu Island
    40-minute drive (14 km) and a 10-minute boat ride from Anjengo Fort

    A small island on the backwaters, Ponnumthuruthu is an ideal place to unwind amidst nature. The Sree Narayana Guru Meditation Centre, an ancient Shiva temple, and the lush vegetation are the main attractions on the island.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Varkala Beach (3-4 hours, free)
  • Janardanaswamy Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Kappil Lake (2-3 hours, boat ride from INR 400)
  • Anjengo Fort (1-2 hours, free)
  • Ponnumthuruthu Island (4-5 hours, boat ride and entry fee from INR 200)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 600-800

Useful tips

If you have more time, you can visit the nearby destinations like Kollam, Alleppey, or Kochi. For those with less time, it is recommended to cut short visits to Anjengo Fort or Ponnumthuruthu Island. Don't forget to carry sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes for your beach visit. Avoid visiting the sites during peak hours, especially on weekends when the crowds are high.

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