Start your trip with a relaxing day at the famous Varkala Beach. Enjoy the morning breeze and take a dip in the Arabian Sea. Have a cheap seafood lunch at the beach shacks followed by an Ayurvedic massage. Stay back to catch the sunset and have dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Begin your day with a visit to the Sivagiri Mutt, a popular ashram dedicated to the philosopher and social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru. Then head over to the nearby Janardhana Swamy Temple, a 2000-year-old temple located on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the temple town and enjoy some local street food.
Travel back in time and explore the ruins of the 18th-century Anchuthengu Fort, built by the British East India Company. The fort is located on a picturesque island at the mouth of the Kallada River. Afterward, head to the nearby Kappil Beach for a quiet afternoon by the backwaters. Try the local spicy fish curry at one of the beachside restaurants.
Take a morning walk along the Varkala Cliff, a scenic stretch of red laterite cliffs overlooking the sea. Stop by the local shops and cafes en route. Afterward, head to the serene Edava Beach, located a few kilometers north of Varkala. Relax by the beach and watch the fishermen bring in their catch. End the day with a quiet dinner by the beach.
Take a day trip to the tranquil Ponnumthuruthu Island, also known as the Golden Island. The island is accessible only by boat and is home to a 100-year-old Shiva-Parvati temple. Afterward, head to the nearby city of Kollam, located on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake. Explore the historic port town and try the local delicacies at the Chinnakada market.
Start your day with a visit to the Varkala Aquarium, a small but interesting aquarium showcasing the marine life of the region. Then head over to the nearby Kappil Lake, an idyllic backwater brimming with migratory birds and surrounded by coconut groves. Take a boat ride on the lake or relax in a hammock by the shore.
End your trip with a visit to the secluded Aaliyirakkm Beach, also known as the 'Backpacker's Beach'. It is a great spot for surfing and has a relaxed vibe. Afterward, head over to the nearby Kappil Pozhi, a serene estuary lined with mangroves. Take a boat ride through the estuary and explore the local fishing villages. End the day with a cheap seafood dinner by the beach.
Don't miss the chance to try some of the authentic Kerala cuisine, such as Appam, Puttu, and Fish Curry. You can also consider taking a day trip to the nearby backwater destinations of Alleppey and Kumarakom. To maximize your fun, try to catch a local festival or cultural event happening in the region. Finally, make sure to purchase some local handicrafts and souvenirs from the local markets.
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