Start your family-friendly trip in Varkala at the Varkala Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Kerala. The beach is known for its breathtaking sea views and sunset, natural springs, Ayurvedic resorts, and a long stretch of food and shopping shacks that run parallel to the cliff. You can opt to indulge in water sports or soak up the sun, and enjoy delicious Kerala cuisine from one of the various vendors.
Your second day in Varkala can begin with a visit to Sivagiri Mutt, the tomb of the great Hindu reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The ashram is known for its serene environment, architectural beauty and calm garden.
Just a 10-minute drive from the Mutt will take you to Anjengo Fort, built by the British East India Company. The fort protects an ancient cemetery and a church, providing a glimpse of the colonial era.
Spend your last day exploring Varkala's local gems. Kappil Lake is a breathtaking lagoon with serene backwaters and beautiful surroundings. You can board small boats to traverse the calm waters of the lake and appreciate the variety of birds and surrounding coconut groves.
A quick 5-minute drive from Kappil Lake will take you to the Varkala Tunnel, which is a marvel of engineering, as it connects the village of Edava to the Varkala Beach. The Tunnel is also believed to have a good history, if you are interested, take a guide.
Varkala boasts of some incredible sights to explore. If you have additional time, you may want to visit the 2000-year-old Janardhanaswamy temple, Varkala cliff or the Keralam Museum of History and Heritage. Do carry sunscreen and a hat for sun protection and stay well hydrated during the sightseeing.