Start your trip by enjoying the serene beauty of Varkala Beach in the morning. Take a leisurely stroll along the cliff, admiring the stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local market near the beach, where you'll find traditional handicrafts, clothing, and delicious street food. As the evening sets in, head towards the Sunset Point, located on the cliff, to witness a breathtaking sunset over the ocean.
Varkala Beach: Estimate cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Local Market: Estimate cost: Variable, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunset Point: Estimate cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Sea View Café: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at this beachside café, offering a range of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee blends. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Ocean Breeze Restaurant: Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at this charming restaurant, overlooking the azure waters of Varkala Beach. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Cliff Diner: Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at this rooftop restaurant, serving a variety of global cuisines with a spectacular view of the sunset. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Ayurvedic Retreat
Start your day with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage at one of the many wellness centers in Varkala. In the afternoon, visit the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual ashram dedicated to the teachings of the philosopher Sree Narayana Guru. Explore the tranquil surroundings and learn about the Guru's philosophy on social equality. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the cliff, enjoying the breathtaking views and stopping for a delicious seafood dinner at one of the cliffside restaurants.
Ayurvedic Massage: Estimate cost: INR 1500-2500, Time spent: 2 hours
Sivagiri Mutt: Estimate cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Cliffside Dinner: Estimate cost: INR 800-1500, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a healthy breakfast at the Varkala Beach Resort's beachside cafe. Indulge in freshly baked pastries and enjoy the ocean view. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Café Italiano for a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Their wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes are a delight. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a seafood feast at Abba Restaurant. Located on the cliffside, this restaurant offers stunning sunset views while indulging in delicious fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, October 1, 2023: Backwaters Exploration
Embark on a day trip to the nearby Kerala backwaters. Board a traditional houseboat and cruise through the intricate network of canals, witnessing the lush greenery and local village life. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the houseboat while peacefully gliding through the tranquil waters. In the afternoon, visit the Anjengo Fort, a historic 17th-century fort, and learn about its colonial past. As the evening approaches, return to Varkala and relax on the beach or indulge in a yoga session.
Backwater Houseboat Trip: Estimate cost: INR 5000-8000 per boat, Time spent: 6-7 hours
Anjengo Fort: Estimate cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Beach Relaxation/Yoga: Estimate cost: Free/Variable, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday, October 2, 2023: Temple Trail
Begin your day by visiting the Janardhanaswamy Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in the region. Explore the intricately carved architecture and witness the serene atmosphere of this spiritual place. In the afternoon, head to the Kappil Lake, a picturesque backwater stretch lined with coconut trees and offering stunning views. Take a boat ride on the lake and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. As the evening sets in, experience a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the traditional art form of Kerala.
Janardhanaswamy Temple: Estimate cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Kappil Lake: Estimate cost: INR 300-500 for boat ride, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kathakali Performance: Estimate cost: INR 300-500 per ticket, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café del Mar, a cozy beachfront café offering a variety of freshly made pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Abba Restaurant, a popular spot known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes. From grilled fish to prawn curry, their menu is a seafood lover's paradise. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Clafouti Restaurant, a charming eatery serving a fusion of Mediterranean and Indian cuisine. Try their signature dishes like lamb tagine or butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday, October 3, 2023: Cliffside Delight
On your last day, start by exploring the Edava Beach, located a short distance from Varkala. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the scenic beach and discover unique seashells. In the afternoon, visit the Varkala Aquarium to witness a stunning display of colorful marine life. Spend some time at the Papanasam Beach, also known as the Varkala Beach. Take a dip in the natural spring believed to have medicinal properties. Before bidding farewell to this beautiful destination, grab a traditional South Indian meal and relish the local flavors.
Edava Beach: Estimate cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Varkala Aquarium: Estimate cost: INR 20-50, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Papanasam Beach: Estimate cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
South Indian Meal: Estimate cost: INR 200-400, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Italia, a charming Italian restaurant located near Varkala. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee, mouthwatering pastries, and hearty omelettes. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head over to Abba Restaurant, known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Indulge in flavorful biryanis, curries, and tandoori dishes. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Trattorias, a cozy restaurant offering a mix of Italian and Indian delicacies. Feast on wood-fired pizzas, creamy pastas, and aromatic curries. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varkala, don't miss the opportunity to visit The Golden Island, a small island located near Varkala Beach. This hidden gem offers a scenic escape from the crowds and provides an ideal spot for birdwatching. Another local favorite is the Varkala Tunnel, an old British-built tunnel that connects Varkala Beach to the railway station. Walking through the tunnel provides a unique experience and a glimpse into the area's history. Finally, make sure to try the famous Kerala-style fish curry at one of the local beachside restaurants for an authentic culinary delight.