Affordable Adventure in Varkala: A 3-day Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Friday, November 3: Get Acquainted with Varkala

Begin your trip by exploring the picturesque beach town of Varkala. Start your morning by visiting the beautiful Varkala Beach, known for its stunning cliffs and golden sands. Take a refreshing dip in the clear blue waters or simply relax on the beach. In the afternoon, head to the Janardanaswamy Temple, an ancient Hindu temple located near the beach. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and admire the architectural beauty. As evening falls, make your way to the Varkala Cliff, a vibrant area filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy the sunset view from one of the cliffside cafes while indulging in some local delicacies.

• Varkala Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Varkala Cliff: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Del Mar where you can enjoy a delicious spread of fresh fruit platters, homemade granola, and fluffy pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, visit Abba Restaurant and try their mouthwatering seafood dishes, such as grilled fish and prawns. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at Darjeeling Café and savor their delectable Indian and Tibetan cuisine. Don't miss trying their momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.

Saturday, November 4: Adventure in Nature

Set out for a day of adventure and exploration in the natural wonders surrounding Varkala. Start your day by visiting the Papanasam Beach, known for its pristine waters and spiritual significance. Take a dip in the holy waters or enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore. In the afternoon, head to the Varkala Aqua Tourism Center, where you can go kayaking or canoeing in the backwaters. Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings and spot local wildlife. As the sun starts to set, make your way to the Edava Beach, a hidden gem with calm waters and less crowded than other beaches in Varkala. Enjoy the tranquility and witness a breathtaking sunset.

• Papanasam Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Varkala Aqua Tourism Center: Affordable, 2-3 hours
• Edava Beach: Free, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Vintage Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Vintage Cafe, located near Papanasam Beach. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit bowls. Average cost for a breakfast here is about $5 per person.
• Seafood Shack: For lunch, head to Seafood Shack, a popular restaurant near Varkala Aqua Tourism Center. Indulge in a mouthwatering seafood feast with options like grilled fish, prawn curry, and fried calamari. Average cost for a lunch here is about $10 per person.
• Oceanic Delights: Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at Oceanic Delights, a restaurant overlooking Edava Beach. With a menu offering a mix of local and international cuisines, you can enjoy dishes like coconut shrimp curry, wood-fired pizza, and grilled meats. Average cost for a dinner here is about $15 per person.

Sunday, November 5: Cultural Exploration

Spend your last day in Varkala exploring its rich cultural heritage. Begin by visiting the Sivagiri Mutt, a renowned ashram founded by Guru Narayana. Explore the serene surroundings and learn about the teachings of the guru. In the afternoon, head to the Anjengo Fort, a historical fort built by the East India Company. Take a walk through history as you explore the well-preserved ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. As evening sets in, make your way to the Varkala Art Village, a unique space showcasing local art and culture. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps even participate in an art workshop or watch a cultural performance.

• Sivagiri Mutt: Donation-based, 2-3 hours
• Anjengo Fort: Free, 1-2 hours
• Varkala Art Village: Free entry, cost varies for workshops

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites in Varkala

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Kappil Lake, located about 7 km from Varkala. This hidden gem offers serene backwater views and is perfect for a peaceful boat ride or picnic. Another local favorite is the Varkala Tunnel, a relatively unknown tunnel carved through a cliff, with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea from various viewpoints. It's a great spot for nature lovers and photographers. Both of these attractions provide a unique experience while being easy on the wallet.