4-Day Family Friendly Nature Itinerary in Varkala, Kerala

Day 1: Beach Bliss

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cliff House

Enjoy a hearty breakfast overlooking the sea at The Cliff House, famous for its delicious banana pancakes and fresh juices.
Located directly on Varkala Cliff, short walk from your accommodation.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Varkala Beach

Spend time soaking in the sun and enjoying the sandy shores, perfect for families with kids playing in the gentle surf.
Reach the beach by descending the steps from the cliff.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Maria’s Restaurant

Savor some local Kerala specialities at Maria’s, known for its fish curry and a variety of vegetarian options.
A short 10-minute walk away from Varkala Beach.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Exploration and Beach Activities

Engage in water sports or simply relax by the beach; paragliding and kayaking are popular family activities here.
All activities are available near the beach area.
INR 2000 per family for activities, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Varkala Lighthouse

Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and a beautiful sunset.
A 15-minute walk from the beach.
INR 20, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Juice Shack

Wrap up your day with a refreshing dinner at The Juice Shack, featuring healthy smoothies and quick bites.
Located on the cliff side, it’s easy to reach.
INR 500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Mangrove Adventure

Varkala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe del Mar

Delight in a breakfast with a view at Cafe del Mar, known for a variety of South Indian breakfast items and coffee.
A scenic 15-minute walk from the beach area.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Mangrove Forest

Explore the stunning mangrove forest, home to diverse wildlife and lush greenery, ideal for a nature walk.
Hire an auto-rickshaw to get to the forest area, approximately 30 minutes away.
INR 300, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a local eatery nearby, tasting delicacies like fish curry or dosa.
Choose a local eatery around the mangrove area.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Boat Ride in Mangroves

Take a family-friendly boat ride to explore the unique ecosystem of the mangroves.
Boat rentals are available at the entry point of the forest.
INR 1000 for a family boat ride, 2 hours

4:30PM

Bird Watching

Engage in some bird watching as various migratory birds flock to the mangroves, offering a great learning opportunity for kids.
Birds are visible around the riverbanks of the mangrove area.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to Varkala

Head back to Varkala and prepare for dinner.
Get an auto-rickshaw back; approximately 30 minutes.
INR 300, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at God's Own Country

Indulge in a family dinner with diverse Kerala cuisines and seafood options.
Conveniently located in Varkala town.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Thiruvananthapuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Prathap

Start with a traditional South Indian breakfast at Hotel Prathap, with options like idli and sambar.
A 30-minute drive from Varkala to Thiruvananthapuram.
INR 450, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple

Explore the majestic Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple, a cultural landmark, and appreciate its beautiful architecture.
Right in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, easily accessible.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Maruthu Mammankam

Experience local festivities and fairs at this cultural hub if luck permits, featuring art and food.
Nearby the temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Ceylon Bake House

Delight in baked goodies and snacks at Hotel Ceylon, perfect for a quick and delicious lunch.
A short 10-minute taxi journey from the temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Museum

Visit the nearby Napier Museum to see antique artifacts and classical artwork.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through the Botanical Garden

Take a leisurely stroll through the lush botanical gardens, a peaceful place to unwind.
Adjacent to the museum.
INR 10, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to Varkala

Head back to your Varkala accommodation to relax before dinner.
30-minute cab ride back.
INR 400, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Oasis Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious wrap-up meal at Oasis Restaurant with various vegan and non-vegan options.
Easy access from your accommodation.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Relaxation and Reflection

Varkala, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Suwarnam Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring traditional Kerala dishes.
Short drive or walk from your place of stay.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Varkala Beach

Spend a leisurely morning at the beach, enjoying the waves and building sandcastles with the kids.
Quick walk down to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Tasty Kitchen

Enjoy a hearty homemade meal at The Tasty Kitchen, perfect for a family.
Easily reachable by a short walk from the beach.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Explore local shops at Varkala Cliff for unique souvenirs ranging from spices to handmade crafts.
A stroll along Varkala Cliff, just a few minutes away.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Varkala Beach

Capture memories as you watch a stunning sunset at the beach, perfect for family photos.
Back to the beach for sunset.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Anjappar's Restaurant

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner featuring a mix of traditional south Indian and North Indian dishes.
Conveniently located, close to your stay.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability