Saturday, September 30: Arrival and Beach Paradise
Welcome to Varkala, Kerala! Begin your romantic getaway by checking into a cozy beachfront resort or boutique hotel. Take a leisurely morning walk along the beautiful Varkala Beach, enjoying the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the vibrant cliffs. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating couples' spa session at one of the acclaimed Ayurvedic centers. As the evening sets in, savor a candlelit dinner on the beach, feasting on fresh seafood delicacies under the starry sky.
Varkala Beach: Free, half-day
Ayurvedic Spa: INR 5,000-10,000 per couple, 2-3 hours
Beachside Dinner: INR 2,000-4,000, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe del Mar, known for its delicious international dishes and stunning ocean views. The average cost for a meal here is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Jicky's, a charming restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Thai. Enjoy their delectable dishes while admiring the picturesque surroundings. The average cost for a meal here is about $15 per person.
Treat yourselves to a memorable dinner at Abba Restaurant, an exquisite beachfront eatery famous for its fresh seafood and romantic ambiance. Indulge in their mouthwatering dishes while enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves. The average cost for a meal here is about $25 per person.
Sunday, October 1: Cultural Exploration and Cliff Views
Immerse yourselves in the rich cultural heritage of Varkala by visiting the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple in the morning. Explore the intricate architecture and witness the sacred rituals. Afterward, head towards the stunning cliffs of Varkala, known as the "Golden Grove." Enjoy a scenic cliff walk and find a cozy spot to watch the mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea. In the evening, treat yourselves with a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views.
Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Cliff Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
Rooftop Dinner: INR 2,000-4,000, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Abba Restaurant, located near the Janardanaswamy Temple. Indulge in their fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Darjeeling Cafe, a charming restaurant nestled amidst the cliffs of Varkala. Enjoy their delectable Tibetan and Nepali dishes with breathtaking views. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a romantic candlelit dinner at Clafouti Restaurant, a rooftop dining experience overlooking the Arabian Sea. Relish their wide range of international cuisines and fresh seafood. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Backwater Cruise and Cultural Delights
Embrace the serene beauty of Kerala's backwaters with a day trip to the nearby Kappil Lake. Embark on a romantic boat cruise along the tranquil backwaters, witnessing lush greenery and diverse bird species. After the cruise, visit a local spice plantation and learn about Kerala's renowned spices. Indulge in a traditional South Indian lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Kerala cuisine. In the evening, attend a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the region's traditional art form.
Kappil Lake Cruise: INR 2,000-4,000 per couple, half-day
Spice Plantation Visit: INR 500-1,000 per person, 2-3 hours
Kathakali Dance Show: INR 500-1,000 per person, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
The Riverside Cafe: Start your day with a scenic breakfast at The Riverside Cafe, overlooking the beautiful backwaters. Their menu offers a variety of fresh and healthy options, with an average cost of about 200 rupees per person.
Spice Garden: For lunch, head to Spice Garden, a charming restaurant located within a spice plantation. Enjoy a delicious meal cooked with freshly harvested spices, with an average cost of about 400 rupees per person.
The Ocean Grill: Indulge in a romantic evening at The Ocean Grill, a beachfront restaurant known for its stunning views and delectable seafood dishes. Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience, with an average cost of about 800 rupees per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Adventure and Farewell
Embark on an adventurous day by taking a morning surf lesson at Varkala's famous surf school. Challenge the waves hand in hand and create unforgettable memories. Afterward, explore the iconic Anjengo Fort, an architectural marvel steeped in history. Enjoy a rejuvenating couple's yoga session amidst nature, followed by a farewell dinner at a beachside restaurant, cherishing the moments spent in the tropical paradise.
Surf Lesson: INR 2,000-3,500 per person, half-day
Anjengo Fort: Free, 1-2 hours
Couple's Yoga: INR 1,000-2,000 per couple, 1-2 hours
Beachside Dinner: INR 2,000-4,000, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Cafe Del Mar, known for its delicious breakfast spreads and stunning ocean views. Indulge in their fresh fruit bowls and fluffy pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Abba Restaurant, a local favorite serving authentic Kerala cuisine. Try their flavorful fish curry and coconut rice. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a romantic candlelit dinner at The Cliff, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Savor their grilled seafood platter and delectable desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a honeymoon experience off the beaten path, consider a visit to the peaceful Edava Beach, located a short distance from Varkala. This pristine beach offers secluded corners and breathtaking sunsets, perfect for intimate walks and romantic picnics. Another local favorite is the Kappil Pozhi, a backwater lagoon surrounded by coconut groves. Rent a small boat and spend a few hours exploring this hidden gem, immersing yourselves in the untouched natural beauty. Finally, don't miss a visit to the quaint fishing village of Varkala, where you can witness the traditional lifestyle and interact with friendly locals.