Adventure-filled 5-Day Escape to Varkala and Alleppey
Friday September 29: Arrival in Varkala
Welcome to Varkala! Start your adventure by exploring the beautiful Varkala Beach in the morning. Enjoy the golden sand, turquoise waters, and stunning cliffs. In the afternoon, head to the Varkala Cliff, a popular spot for paragliding and breathtaking views. As the evening sets in, visit the Janardanaswamy Temple, a 2000-year-old Hindu pilgrimage site with architectural splendor.
Varkala Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Varkala Cliff: INR 500 (paragliding), 2-3 hours
Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Coffee Temple: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Coffee Temple. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly brewed coffees and a range of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Olive Garden Restaurant: For lunch, head to Olive Garden Restaurant, located near Varkala Beach. This restaurant serves a mix of Indian and Continental cuisines, with options like biryani, pasta, and grilled fish. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Abba Restaurant: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Abba Restaurant, known for its delectable seafood dishes. Located near the Varkala Cliff, you can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner while relishing the flavors of grilled prawns, fish curry, and Kerala-style crab. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday September 30: Varkala Adventure
Start your day with an exciting trek to the Edava Beach. Explore the lush greenery, mangrove forests, and serene backwaters. In the afternoon, indulge in some water sports at Kappil Beach, such as kayaking or jet skiing. As the evening approaches, take a boat ride through the backwaters and witness the mesmerizing sunset.
Edava Beach Trek: Free, 4-5 hours
Kappil Beach Water Sports: INR 500 (approx.), 2-3 hours
Backwater Boat Ride: INR 800 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Coffee Temple. This cozy cafe offers a variety of dosas, idlis, and filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Clafouti Restaurant for a mix of Indian and international cuisine. Enjoy their seafood dishes and waterfront dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at The Fisherman's Wharf. This seafood restaurant offers fresh catch of the day and a delightful ambiance by the backwaters. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday October 1: Alleppey Backwaters
Today, travel to Alleppey, the Venice of the East. In the morning, embark on a houseboat cruise through the famous backwaters. Witness the beauty of the tranquil canals, lush green paddy fields, and local village life. Enjoy a delicious traditional Kerala lunch on board. In the afternoon, visit the Alleppey Beach for a relaxing time by the Arabian Sea. As the evening sets in, explore the Alleppey Market for local souvenirs and spices.
Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: INR 6,000-8,000 (approx.) for 5-6 hours
Alleppey Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Alleppey Market: Cost of purchases, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Alleppey is Cafe Catamaran, known for its fresh sandwiches and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Indian Coffee House, a historic establishment offering a variety of South Indian dishes. Enjoy their famous dosas and filter coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For a delicious dinner, try Halais Restaurant, specializing in traditional Kerala cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering seafood dishes and local delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
Monday October 2: Athirapally Waterfalls
Embark on an adventure to the majestic Athirapally Waterfalls. In the morning, journey through the scenic landscapes to reach the waterfall. Marvel at the cascading waters surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the falls. In the afternoon, explore the Thumboormuzhi Gardens and its hanging bridge. As the evening arrives, head back to Varkala.
The Bait: Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at The Bait, known for its scenic ocean views and a wide variety of breakfast options. You can expect to spend around ₹200 per person for a meal.
Sea Spice: For lunch, head to Sea Spice and indulge in a mouthwatering seafood feast. With their fresh catch of the day and flavorful spices, you can enjoy a satisfying meal for around ₹500 per person.
Asteria's: End your adventurous day with a delightful dinner at Asteria's. This restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a menu featuring both Indian and international cuisines. Dinner here will cost you approximately ₹800 per person.
Tuesday October 3: Cliff Walk and Adventure Activities
On your last day, start with a serene cliff walk in Varkala to enjoy breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. In the morning, you can also try yoga or meditation on the beach. In the afternoon, indulge in adventurous activities like surfing or paddleboarding. As the evening rolls in, relax on the beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset.
Cliff Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
Yoga/Meditation: INR 300-500 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Adventure Activities: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Del Mar which offers a delightful beachside dining experience. They serve a variety of breakfast options ranging from western dishes like pancakes and omelettes to traditional Kerala dishes like appam and idiyappam. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Abba Restaurant which is known for its delicious seafood and Arabic cuisine. They serve fresh fish dishes like grilled snapper and prawns, as well as mouthwatering shawarmas and falafels. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, try out Trattorias Restaurant which offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. They specialize in Italian cuisine and serve a variety of pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and flavorful seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventurous explorers, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, located near Varkala. Trekking to the summit offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Another hidden gem is the Kovalam Beach, famous for its water sports and lighthouse. These off the beaten path attractions and local favorites will surely add an extra layer of excitement to your adventure-filled journey!
Before finalizing your bookings, make sure to check the hotel and flight prices to find the best deals for your trip.