Welcome to Varkala! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to Varkala Beach, a stunning cliffside beach where you can relax and soak up the sun. Explore the unique shops and cafés along the cliff, offering beautiful views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the 2,000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple and learn about its rich history and religious significance. As the evening sets in, witness a mesmerizing sunset at the cliff while savoring fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
Start your day with a visit to Kappil Beach, located around 7 km from Varkala. Enjoy a serene morning walk along the secluded shoreline and capture beautiful photographs. Afterward, head towards Anjengo Fort, a historic Portuguese fort with a picturesque setting overlooking the backwaters. Explore the fort's architecture and learn about its significance during colonial times. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the fort's tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, take a boat ride through the tranquil backwaters of Kappil Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, return to Varkala and explore the local markets, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage and wellness experience in the morning. Varkala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments, offering a variety of massages and therapies to relax your mind and body. After the wellness session, visit the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual center dedicated to the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Explore the ashram's serene ambiance and learn about Guru's teachings. Enjoy a healthy lunch at a nearby Ayurvedic restaurant. In the evening, join the New Year's Eve celebration at one of the beachfront venues, with live music, cultural performances, and fireworks lighting up the sky.
On the final day of your itinerary, visit Ponnumthuruthu Island, a small uninhabited island known for its serene beauty and ancient Shiva Parvathi Temple. Take a boat ride and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the island. Explore the temple, surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning views of the backwaters. Have a delicious lunch at a traditional Kerala restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Varkala Lighthouse, located on the cliff, and climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline. Spend your evening at Varkala Beach, enjoying the beachside cafes and bidding farewell to the city.
While exploring Varkala, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Edava Beach, a tranquil and less-crowded stretch of sand located just north of Varkala. Explore the vibrant fish market near Varkala Train Station and witness the local fishing culture. Engage in a cooking class to learn traditional Kerala cuisine. Also, consider taking a day trip to the beautiful backwaters of nearby Alappuzha and enjoy a houseboat ride for a unique experience.
For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.