Two Days in Varkala

Saturday, October 28, 2023: Exploring Varkala

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the beauty and serenity of Varkala. In the morning, head to the stunning Varkala Beach for a peaceful walk along the shore. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Arabian Sea and the majestic cliffs that line the coastline. Afterward, visit Janardanaswamy Temple, a famous ancient Hindu temple located close to the beach. Dive into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala as you explore the intricate architecture and vibrant rituals of the temple.

• Varkala Beach: Enjoy the beach for free. Estimated time: 2-3 hours.
• Janardanaswamy Temple: Entry is free. Estimated time: 1-2 hours.

In the afternoon, satisfy your taste buds with a traditional Kerala lunch at a local restaurant. Indulge in authentic dishes like appam, puttu, and karimeen. After lunch, take a leisurely boat ride on the beautiful Varkala Backwaters. Cruise along the peaceful canals, surrounded by lush greenery and observe the local way of life. It's a perfect way to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Kerala.

• Local Restaurant: Estimated cost: INR 300-500, estimated time: 1 hour.
• Varkala Backwaters Boat Ride: Estimated cost: INR 500-800, estimated time: 2 hours.

In the evening, don't miss the breathtaking view of the sunset at Varkala Cliff. This popular viewpoint offers a mesmerizing panorama of the Arabian Sea as the sun dips below the horizon. Afterward, explore the bustling markets near the cliff, where you can find unique souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and local spices.

• Varkala Cliff Sunset View: Free of cost. Estimated time: 1 hour.
• Shopping at Varkala Markets: Estimated cost: varies, estimated time: 1-2 hours.

Restaurants

• A perfect spot to kickstart your day, Café Del Mar offers a delightful breakfast menu with a variety of healthy options such as fresh fruit bowls, avocado toast, and smoothie bowls. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For a tasty lunch, head to Abba Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in dishes like Malabar fish curry, appam with chicken stew, and traditional thali. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, head to Trattoria Roma, a charming Italian restaurant in Varkala. Enjoy their mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta dishes, and delectable desserts. The average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in Varkala, head to Coffee Temple. This charming café offers a range of freshly brewed coffees, refreshing smoothies, and delectable breakfast dishes such as pancakes and omelettes. The average cost for a meal at Coffee Temple is about 300 INR per person.
• When it comes to lunch, don't miss out on the incredible seafood at Abba Restaurant. Located near the Varkala Cliff, this restaurant serves mouthwatering seafood delicacies including grilled prawns, fish curry, and lobster thermidor. The average cost for a meal at Abba Restaurant is about 700 INR per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner experience at Darjeeling Café. Situated in a cozy garden setting, this café offers a variety of Indian, Tibetan, and continental dishes. From savory momos to flavorful curries, Darjeeling Café has something for everyone. The average cost for a meal at Darjeeling Café is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, October 29, 2023: Wellness and Adventure

Start your second day with a rejuvenating yoga or meditation session at one of the many wellness centers in Varkala. Immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere and experience the ancient practices that have made Varkala a popular wellness destination. Afterward, treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic massage for a truly revitalizing experience.

• Yoga or Meditation Session: Cost varies. Estimated time: 1-2 hours.
• Ayurvedic Massage: Cost varies. Estimated time: 1-2 hours.

In the afternoon, embark on an exciting adventure at Ponnumthuruthu Island. Take a short boat ride to this scenic island, known for its lush greenery, coconut groves, and ancient Shiva Parvathi Temple. Explore the island's nature trails, spot rare birds, and enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings.

• Ponnumthuruthu Island Visit: Estimated cost: INR 500-800, estimated time: 3-4 hours.

In the evening, savor a seafood feast at one of the beachside restaurants. Varkala is known for its fresh seafood, and you can indulge in mouthwatering dishes like grilled fish, prawns, and lobster while enjoying the sound of crashing waves. End your trip with a leisurely beach walk under the moonlit sky, feeling refreshed and grateful for the wonderful experiences in Varkala.

• Beachside Seafood Dinner: Estimated cost: INR 800-1500, estimated time: 1-2 hours.
• Beach Walk: Free of cost. Estimated time: 1-2 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

As you explore Varkala, make sure to visit Anjengo Fort, a hidden gem along the coast. This historical fort offers a glimpse into Kerala's colonial past and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Locals also love spending time at Kappil Lake, a serene backwater stretch near Varkala. Rent a boat or take a peaceful walk along the lakeside to enjoy the tranquility and breathtaking natural beauty.

Don't miss the opportunity to try delicious local snacks like banana chips and jackfruit chips, which are popular among locals and make for tasty souvenirs to bring back home.

For a unique cultural experience, watch a Kathakali performance, a classical dance form that tells stories through expressive movements and elaborate costumes. It's a mesmerizing art form that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

Discover these hidden gems and local favorites to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Varkala.

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