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6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Varkala

Wednesday, December 20: Arrival in Varkala

Welcome to Varkala, a beautiful coastal town in Kerala! After checking into your hotel, head to Varkala Beach in the morning. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the cliffside, taking in the stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, visit the Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2,000-year-old Hindu pilgrimage site. As the evening approaches, make your way to the Cliff Walk, where you can indulge in delicious street food and watch a mesmerizing sunset.

  • Varkala Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Cliff Walk: Cost of food, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Explore Auroville

Embark on a day trip to Auroville, a unique experimental township located near Varkala. Start your morning by visiting the Matrimandir, a striking golden dome and spiritual center. Spend the afternoon exploring the serene Auroville Beach, where you can relax and unwind. In the evening, attend a cultural event at the Bharat Nivas or indulge in a delicious organic meal at one of Auroville's vegetarian cafes.

  • Matrimandir: Free, guided tours available (donation-based), 2-3 hours
  • Auroville Beach: Free, relaxation time varies
  • Bharat Nivas: Free entry, event-specific costs, 1-2 hours
Friday, December 22: Backwaters Cruise in Alleppey

Take a day trip to Alleppey and experience the serene backwaters of Kerala. Begin your morning by boarding a traditional houseboat and enjoy a leisurely cruise through the scenic canals. Marvel at the lush greenery, coconut groves, and quaint villages along the way. Indulge in a delicious Keralan lunch served on the houseboat. Afternoon brings more cruising and sightseeing. In the evening, disembark and return to Varkala.

  • Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: Budget-friendly options available, full-day activity
Saturday, December 23: Yoga and Ayurveda Experience

Immerse yourself in the holistic practices of yoga and Ayurveda in Varkala. Start your morning with a rejuvenating yoga session on the beach, guided by experienced instructors. Afterward, pamper yourself with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage or treatment at one of the local wellness centers. Spend the afternoon exploring the local markets and picking up organic products. In the evening, attend a yoga or meditation class to unwind.

  • Yoga Session on the Beach: Free or affordable group classes, 1-2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage/Treatment: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
  • Local Market: Cost of shopping, 1-2 hours
  • Yoga/Meditation Class: Affordable group classes, 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Explore the Varkala Cliff

Spend the day exploring the vibrant Varkala Cliff, a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and viewpoints. Start your morning by hiking up to the Varkala Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the cliffside cafes. In the afternoon, take a dip in the natural mineral springs at Sivagiri Mutt. As the evening sets in, explore the local shops and indulge in delicious seafood at one of the cliffside restaurants.

  • Varkala Lighthouse: Affordable entry fee, 1-2 hours
  • Cafes on the Cliff: Budget-friendly meals, time varies
  • Sivagiri Mutt: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Cliffside Shopping and Seafood: Cost of shopping and food, time varies
Monday, December 25: Varkala Beach Activities

Spend your last day in Varkala enjoying the activities offered at Varkala Beach. Start your morning with a surf lesson or rent a paddleboard to explore the waves. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to explore the nearby Kappil Lake and enjoy the serene backwaters. As the evening approaches, join a beach yoga session to relax and unwind. End your day with a beachside bonfire and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

  • Surf Lesson or Paddleboard Rental: Affordable prices, 2-3 hours
  • Kappil Lake Boat Ride: Affordable options available, 2-3 hours
  • Beach Yoga: Free or affordable group classes, 1-2 hours
  • Beachside Bonfire: Free, evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Anjengo Fort, a historical site with picturesque views of the sea. Another hidden gem is Edava Beach, a secluded and less crowded beach where you can enjoy tranquility. Locals love exploring the nearby Ponnumthuruthu Island, known for its lush greenery, ancient temple, and boat rides through the mangrove forests. These attractions offer a unique and budget-friendly experience away from the usual tourist crowds.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

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