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3-Day Itinerary: Varkala, Kovallam, Athirapilly Waterfall

Saturday September 30: Varkala

Start your trip in Varkala, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and cliffs. In the morning, visit Papanasam Beach, where you can take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea and relax on the golden sands. Afterward, head to the Janardanaswamy Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site offering stunning views of the coastline. In the afternoon, explore the Varkala Cliff, a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while taking in panoramic views of the ocean. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset at the Varkala Beach and indulge in a beachside dinner.

  • Papanasam Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Varkala Cliff: Various costs, 2-3 hours
  • Varkala Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday October 1: Kovallam

On the second day, travel to Kovallam, a charming beach town located near Thiruvananthapuram. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Lighthouse Beach, known for its picturesque shoreline and lighthouse offering panoramic views. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy local snacks and coconut water. In the afternoon, head to Hawah Beach, where you can relax under the swaying palm trees and take part in water sports activities. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage at one of the many wellness centers in the area. As the evening approaches, savor a seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.

  • Lighthouse Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Hawah Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
  • Beachfront Dinner: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Monday October 2: Athirapilly Waterfall

Conclude your trip with a visit to the majestic Athirapilly Waterfall, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India." Start your day with a scenic drive through the lush Western Ghats to reach the waterfall. Spend the morning exploring the area around the waterfall, taking in its breathtaking beauty and capturing memorable photos. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature or savor local delicacies at the nearby restaurants. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling boat ride at the nearby Vazhachal Waterfall. Take in the serene surroundings and spot diverse wildlife along the river. Wrap up your trip by returning to your accommodation or exploring the neighboring attractions.

  • Athirapilly Waterfall: Entrance fee: INR 30, 3-4 hours
  • Vazhachal Waterfall Boat Ride: INR 250, 2-3 hours
  • Picnic Lunch or Restaurant: Prices vary, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varkala, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Edava Beach, a serene and less crowded beach known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. Another hidden gem is the Kappil Lake, located near the Varkala Cliff, where you can take a boat ride and witness the confluence of the lake and the Arabian Sea. In Kovallam, make sure to visit the Samudra Beach, a secluded and less touristy beach offering a peaceful retreat. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, an ancient rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Kovallam. These hidden gems and local favorites allow you to escape the crowds and discover the true beauty of these destinations.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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