Two-Day Itinerary to Varkala on a Shoestring Budget

Saturday, October 21, 2023: Exploring Varkala

Morning: Start your day by visiting the iconic Varkala Beach, known for its stunning cliffs and pristine waters. Take a leisurely walk along the lengthy coastline, enjoy the breathtaking views, and soak up the sun. Afterward, you can indulge in a delicious South Indian breakfast at one of the local beachside cafes.

• Varkala Beach: Free, 3 hours
• Local Cafe: ₹200-₹400 ($3-$6), 1 hour

Afternoon: Head towards the picturesque Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual ashram and the final resting place of the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Explore the serene surroundings, visit the temple, and embrace the tranquility. Additionally, you could take a short hike to the nearby Janardanaswamy Temple, an ancient temple with a rich history.

• Sivagiri Mutt: Free, 2 hours
• Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1 hour

Evening: As the sun starts to set, make your way to Varkala Cliff, a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a stroll along the cliff, browse through the local handicrafts, and savor a hearty dinner while enjoying the mesmerizing sunset views.

• Varkala Cliff: Free, 3 hours
• Dinner at a local restaurant: ₹300-₹500 ($4-$7), 1.5 hours

Restaurants

• Sea View Cafe: This beachside cafe offers a wide variety of South Indian breakfast options, such as idli, dosa, and appam. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• The Bohemian Lounge: Located near Varkala Beach, this restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• Oottupura: Experience the authentic flavors of Kerala at this traditional restaurant. They serve delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.

Restaurants

• Indian Coffee House: A popular establishment known for its traditional South Indian breakfast dishes such as idli, dosa, and vada. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• Tibetan Kitchen: A charming restaurant offering a variety of Tibetan and Nepalese dishes, including momos, thukpa, and Tibetan bread. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.

Restaurants

• Ayyappa Bakery: Enjoy a variety of freshly baked goods and traditional South Indian breakfast options at Ayyappa Bakery. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• Shree Harlass Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Shree Harlass Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian thali meals and vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Oottupura Restaurant: Indulge in a delectable dinner at Oottupura Restaurant, offering a wide range of Kerala cuisine including seafood delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.

Sunday, October 22, 2023: Varkala Backwaters Exploration

Morning: Embark on a budget-friendly backwater adventure by taking a local bus to Kappil Lake, located around 7 kilometers from Varkala. Enjoy a soothing boat ride on the tranquil lake, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful landscapes. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty and capture memorable photographs.

• Kappil Lake: Free, 3 hours
• Local bus fare: ₹20 ($0.30) round trip, 1 hour

Afternoon: Indulge in a delightful picnic at Anjengo Fort, a historical Portuguese fort with stunning sea views. Take a relaxing stroll around the fort's premises, explore the ancient architecture, and find a quiet spot for lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings.

• Anjengo Fort: Free, 2 hours
• Picnic lunch: ₹200-₹300 ($3-$4), 1 hour

Evening: Conclude your Varkala visit by witnessing the vibrant culture of Kathakali, a traditional dance-drama form of Kerala. Attend a Kathakali performance at one of the local theaters and experience the awe-inspiring storytelling through intricate facial expressions and graceful movements.

• Kathakali performance: ₹200-₹500 ($3-$7), 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those seeking off the beaten path attractions, venture to Vettakkada Beach, a secluded and less-crowded beach offering peaceful surroundings and mesmerizing sunsets. It's an ideal spot to unwind and escape the bustling tourist areas.

If you're interested in exploring the local cuisine, visit the bustling Varkala Town Market, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks at affordable prices. Engage with the locals, experience the vibrant atmosphere, and shop for unique souvenirs.