Thursday, November 23, 2023: Arrival and Sunset Beach Walk
Start your nature-filled adventure in Varkala by arriving at the Trivandrum International Airport. From there, make your way to your chosen accommodation in Varkala by taking a pre-booked taxi or local transport. Once settled, head to Varkala Beach in the afternoon, one of the most popular beaches in the area. Take a leisurely walk along the cliffside, known as the Varkala Cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy the golden hues of the sunset as the evening sets in. As the night approaches, explore the local restaurants and cafes offering delicious seafood delicacies.
Varkala Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Varkala Cliff: Free, 1-2 hours
Local Seafood Restaurants: $10-20 per person
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe del Mar, a charming beachside cafe serving a variety of freshly baked goods and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Abba Restaurant, a popular spot known for its delicious Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Theeram Restaurant, offering a beautiful ambiance and a wide range of seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, November 24, 2023: Nature Walk and Kappil Lake
Embark on a nature walk in the morning and explore the Edava-Pozhikkara Beach, a hidden gem known for its serene and untouched beauty. Witness the unique sight of the backwaters merging with the Arabian Sea. Spend your afternoon at Kappil Lake, a tranquil freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a boat ride and soak in the scenic beauty of the lake's surroundings. As the evening sets in, savor delicious local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
Edava-Pozhikkara Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Kappil Lake: $5-10 for boat ride, 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: $10-20 per person
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Varkala is Chill & Grill Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Sea Soul Restaurant which offers a variety of seafood dishes such as grilled fish and prawn curry. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Abba Restaurant & Pub, a cozy restaurant serving a mix of Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy their delicious kebabs and biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Saturday, November 25, 2023: Cliff Beaches and Ayurvedic Massage
Explore the stunning cliffside beaches on this day. Start with a visit to Papanasam Beach, also known as Varkala Beach, famous for its natural spring believed to have healing properties. Enjoy a dip in the holy waters while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to the lesser-known Odayam Beach, a secluded haven with pristine sand and crystal-clear waters. Relax and rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage at one of the many traditional wellness centers near the cliff. End the day with a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
Papanasam Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Odayam Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Ayurvedic Massage: $30-50 per person
Restaurants
A popular choice for breakfast is The Juice Shack, known for its fresh fruit juices and healthy breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Café del Mar, a charming beachfront café offering a variety of international dishes and seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal here is about $15 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try Abba Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Indian cuisine and stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The average cost for a meal here is about $20 per person.
Sunday, November 26, 2023: Janardanaswamy Temple and Backwaters Cruise
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Marvel at the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere of this spiritual site. In the afternoon, embark on a backwaters cruise along the scenic Varkala backwaters. Enjoy the picturesque views of the palm-fringed waterways and witness the local way of life. You can also indulge in a traditional Kerala-style lunch on the houseboat. Spend your last evening in Varkala by capturing the beautiful sunset views at the beach and reminiscing about the memorable experiences.
Janardanaswamy Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Backwaters Cruise: $50-100 per person
Beach Sunset: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Coffee Temple, a charming café known for its delicious coffee and freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try out Abba Restaurant, a popular spot offering a variety of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, check out The Cliff Restaurant, a waterfront eatery famous for its seafood specialties and stunning ocean views. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts seeking lesser-known spots, a visit to Karkidakam Beach, located a short distance from Varkala, is a must. This secluded beach is untouched by commercialization and offers a tranquil ambiance. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Varkala Tunnel, an underground passageway that connects the North and South Cliff. Locals often use this tunnel as a shortcut, and it provides a unique experience for adventurous travelers. Additionally, a visit to the Anjengo Fort, a historical fort built by the British in the 17th century, offers a glimpse into the region's colonial past while being surrounded by lush greenery.