Start your trip by enjoying the serene beauty of Varkala Beach in the morning. Take a leisurely walk along the cliff, marveling at the stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Afterward, head to the Janardanaswamy Temple, one of the oldest temples in Kerala, to experience its spiritual ambiance. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at one of the beachside spas. As the evening approaches, savor a delicious seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant while witnessing a breathtaking sunset.
Varkala Beach: INR 0, 3-4 hours
Janardanaswamy Temple: INR 0, 1-2 hours
Ayurvedic Spa: INR 2000-4000, 1-2 hours
Seafood Dinner: INR 500-1000, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Coffee Temple Cafe, a charming cafe known for its delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit Darjeeling Cafe, a cozy restaurant that offers a variety of Indian and Tibetan dishes. Their momos and thukpa are highly recommended. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, dine at the famous Abba Restaurant, known for its delectable seafood dishes. Try their spicy fish curry or grilled king prawns. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, September 4: Jatayu Nature Park Adventure
Embark on an exciting day trip to Jatayu Nature Park, a unique destination nestled in the picturesque hills of Chadayamangalam. Start your morning with an exhilarating hike to the Jatayu Rock, a colossal sculpture that offers panoramic views. Explore the park's various attractions, including the Jatayu Earth's Center, a museum showcasing the mythological tale of Jatayu. Enjoy adventurous activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining. In the evening, relax with a refreshing cup of tea while relishing the captivating sunset.
Hike to Jatayu Rock: INR 400, 4-5 hours
Jatayu Earth's Center: INR 350, 2-3 hours
Adventure Activities: INR 1000-2000, 2-3 hours
Tea Break: INR 50-100, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Italiano for a delightful meal of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Abba Restaurant to savor authentic Kerala cuisine with a stunning view of the surrounding hills. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in a unique dining experience at Sky Grill, located on the rooftop of a cliffside hotel. Enjoy a variety of delicious seafood dishes while gazing at the starlit sky. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Backwater Cruise and Departure
On your final day, venture into the enchanting backwaters of Kerala. Take a captivating boat cruise along the tranquil waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional wooden houses. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and witness the local life along the backwaters. In the afternoon, savor a traditional Kerala lunch on a houseboat and experience the region's culinary delights. Bid farewell to the serene backwaters and head to the airport for your departure.
Backwater Cruise: INR 2000-3000, 4-5 hours
Traditional Kerala Lunch: INR 500-1000, 1-2 hours
Airport Transfer: INR 1000-1500, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café del Mar, offering a beachfront setting and a delicious menu of international and local breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a flavorful lunch at Abba Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood dishes and stunning views of the backwaters. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to The Sky Lounge at Gateway Varkala, where you can enjoy panoramic ocean views while savoring delectable Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varkala and Jatayu, don't miss the opportunity to visit Anjengo Fort, a historic fort built by the British East India Company. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into the region's colonial past and provides breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Additionally, the local favorite spot is the Edava Beach, located near Varkala. This lesser-known beach offers tranquility and serenity, perfect for a peaceful getaway.