5-Day Beach & Culture Itinerary in Varkala and Kollam, India

Day 1: Cultural Experience in Kollam

Kollam, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Allseason

Start your journey with traditional Kerala breakfast delights, such as puttu and kadala curry, at Hotel Allseason.
Located conveniently at your accommodation.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Thangassery Lighthouse

Visit the iconic Thangassery Lighthouse for stunning views of the Arabian Sea and an insight into local maritime history.
Take a short taxi ride to the lighthouse (15 min).
INR 20, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit Kollam Beach

Stroll along faithful Kollam Beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the calming environment.
A short taxi drive from the lighthouse (10 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Seafood Grill

Dine at The Seafood Grill, taking in the ocean views while enjoying an assortment of fresh seafood dishes.
Easily situated near Kollam Beach, just a walk away.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Ashtamudi Lake Boat Tour

Experience a mesmerizing boat ride on the enchanting Ashtamudi Lake, marveling at its biodiversity and tranquil surroundings.
Local boat services are available near the beach area.
INR 800, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Kollam Port

Explore the bustling Kollam Port, an important center for trade and commerce in the region.
Return to Kollam town by taxi (20 min).
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Indian Coffee House

Wrap up your day dining at Indian Coffee House, where you can indulge in local specialties and delightful coffees.
Located in the town center, easily accessible from the port.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Arrival Day in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Savor pancakes and fresh fruit juices at Coffee Temple to kick-off your Varkala adventure.
A short taxi ride to Varkala (40 min).
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Relax at Varkala Beach

Spend your morning soaking in the sun and relaxing on the golden sands of Varkala Beach.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Garlic House

Enjoy a delicious meal featuring locally sourced seafood and Italian dishes at The Garlic House.
Nearby Varkala Beach, very convenient.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Janardhana Swami Temple

Explore the ancient Janardhana Swami Temple and learn about its cultural significance.
A short walk from The Garlic House.
Free, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Explore Varkala Cliff

Take a leisurely walk along the Varkala Cliff for breathtaking views and local shops selling handicrafts.
Accessible on foot from the temple, follow the cliff trail.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Waves

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at The Waves, offering a variety of tasty seafood dishes with a sunset view.
Located at the foot of Varkala Cliff, easy to reach after your walk.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure and Relaxation in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Thiruvambadi Restaurant

Fuel up with delicious local idli and sambar at the popular Thiruvambadi Restaurant.
Close by your hotel, easy access.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Paragliding Experience

Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling paragliding session over Varkala's picturesque coastline.
Book in advance; coaching and equipment provided at the site (near Varkala Beach).
INR 4,000, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Aamara Restaurant

Savor a mix of Indian and continental dishes at Aamara, situated along the cliffside.
A quick walk from your morning activity venue.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Papanasam Beach

Enjoy a serene visit to Papanasam Beach, known for its spiritual significance and tranquil ambiance.
Walk from Aamara (15 min).
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Ayurvedic Spa Session

Pamper yourself with an Ayurvedic spa treatment at one of Varkala's renowned wellness centers.
Pre-book a session at a local spa a short distance away (taxi not needed).
INR 2,500, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Trattorias

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine at Trattorias, known for its charming ambience.
A short walk from your spa.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural and Scenic Journey in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at 24/7 Cafe

Start your day with an array of breakfast options at the 24/7 Cafe, serving up delicious food all day long.
Near the beach, easy to access.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Anjengo Fort

Visit Anjengo Fort for a blend of historical significance and beautiful coastal views.
Take a taxi ride to Anjengo Fort (20 min).
INR 50, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Varkala Sivagiri Mutt

Discover the spiritual aspects of Varkala at the famous Sivagiri Mutt, and learn about its significance in Kerala's history.
Return to Varkala town (20 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at God’s Own Country

Indulge in authentic Kerala meals at God's Own Country, known for its homely environment and delicious flavors.
A short walk from the mutt.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Varkala Aquarium

Explore marine life at the Varkala Aquarium, perfect for families and seafood enthusiasts alike.
An easy auto-rickshaw ride from the restaurant (10-15 min).
INR 200, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at Black Beach

Unwind at the unique black sand of Black Beach, ideal for seeing dramatic cliffs and catching the sunset.
Head back towards the cliffs (20 min).
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Café del Mar

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at Café del Mar, known for its relaxed beach vibes and great seafood.
Located conveniently along the shore, perfect ambiance for your last night.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Leisure Day in Varkala

Varkala, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Nanna's Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Nanna's known for their banana pancakes and fresh juices.
Easy access from your accommodation.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Yoga Session on the Beach

Participate in a rejuvenating yoga session at the beach to connect with nature and improve your well-being.
Check for local instructors at Varkala Beach, usually organized in the mornings.
INR 500, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through Varkala's vibrant local markets and shop for handicrafts and unique souvenirs.
Short walk from the beach area.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Homely Restaurant

Enjoy a flavorful lunch featuring local favorites such as fish curry with rice at The Homely Restaurant.
Located near the market, convenient after shopping.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Cooking Class

Join a local cooking class to learn to prepare traditional Kerala dishes, perfect for food lovers.
Pre-book with a cooking school near Varkala Beach (5 min walk).
INR 1,200, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Surf and Turf

Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at Surf and Turf, known for both its seafood and vegetarian options with a view of the ocean.
Located along the beach, perfect for enjoying your last evening.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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