Experience Varkala in 4 Days: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Explore Varkala Beach and Janardhana Swami Temple
    Start at your hotel and walk 20 minutes (1.5 km) to Varkala Beach

    Start your trip with a visit to Varkala Beach. It's popular with both locals and tourists who come to enjoy the shimmering waters and stunning sunsets. You can indulge in some beach activities like swimming, surfing, and relax with various massage services. Then, make your way to Janardhana Swami Temple, only a short walk from the beach. This ancient temple, built in the 12th century, is steeped in history and culture. It boasts of stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful surroundings.

  2. Day 2: Backwaters of Varkala and Village Visit
    30 minutes (14 km) by car or tuk-tuk from your hotel

    Enjoy a scenic drive to the serene Kappil Lake Backwaters and marvel at the natural beauty of this hidden gem. Take a boat ride and explore the small islands and canals around the scenic lake. Afterward, travel to a quaint village nearby and experience the everyday lifestyle of the locals, their traditional homes, and cuisine. Get a glimpse of their way of living, which depicts simplicity and cultural richness.

  3. Day 3: Hill Station at Ponmudi and Golden Island
    1 hour 45 minutes (69 km) by car or taxi from your hotel

    Get ready for a day trip to the gorgeous Ponmudi Hill Station, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. Admire the breathtaking views, enjoy pleasant weather, and walk around to explore the gorgeous region. later in the day, head to Golden Island known for its beautiful backwaters, panoramic views, and scenic beauty. Try out some local seafood and have a picnic in the evening for a relaxing end to the day's activities.

  4. Day 4: Explore Kovalam Beach and Light House
    1 hour 15 minutes (50 km) by car or taxi from your hotel

    On the final day of your trip, visit the popular Kovalam Beach, located just south of the city, and enjoy its lively atmosphere. You can sunbathe and relax on the golden sands or take a stroll around the promenade to explore the local markets, shops, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Light House to catch a glimpse of the majestic Arabian Sea. This 35-meter-high lighthouse, located on top of a cliff, has a spectacular view of the beach.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Varkala Beach (Free)
  • Janardhana Swami Temple (30 minutes, Free)
  • Kappil Lake Backwaters (2 hours, ₹400 for boat ride)
  • Hill Station at Ponmudi (6 hours, ₹2000 for taxi/bus)
  • Golden Island (3 hours, ₹300 for boat ride)
  • Kovalam Beach (Free)
  • Light House (30 minutes, ₹50 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹2750

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit Anjengo Fort, an ancient British fort with rich history and stunning seaside views. Alternatively, visit Ezhimala Beach and Hill, known for its famous ancient temple and scenic beauty. For those with less time, consider skipping the village tour and Golden Island boat ride. Instead, visit the Chilakoor Beach, a secluded beach with high cliffs, turquoise water, and serene atmosphere.

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