7-Day Comprehensive Coastal and Cultural Journey: Varkala to Rameshwaram, India

Day 1: Beach and cliff views

Varkala, India on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and healthy vegetarian breakfast options with a relaxed ambiance near Varkala Beach.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Varkala Beach and Cliff

Take a walk along the stunning cliff overlooking Varkala Beach, known for its unique sandstone cliffs and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Juice Shack

Savor fresh cold-pressed juices and vibrant vegan/vegetarian dishes perfect for a light and nutritious meal.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Varkala local market

Browse through artisan handicrafts, casual shops, and beachfront boutiques offering unique souvenirs.
Free to browse, 2h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Varkala Cliff

Relax and watch the magnificent sunset over the Arabian Sea from the cliffside viewpoint.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Darjeeling Cafe

End your day with authentic North Indian and Tibetan dishes served with ocean views in a cozy open space.
INR600, 1h30m

Day 2: Local heritage and relaxation

Varkala, India on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Start the day with a wholesome vegetarian breakfast and coffee in a charming café setting.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Janardanaswamy Temple

Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, notable for its Dravidian architecture and spiritual ambiance. Open 5am–1pm, 4pm–9pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Anjengo Fort ruins

Explore the historical Portuguese fort ruins nearby with views of the sea and local fishing activities.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Clafouti

Enjoy fresh bakery treats, healthy snacks, and light lunch dishes in a relaxing café environment.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relaxation at Varkala Beach

Swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on the beach to unwind during the afternoon hours.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Tea and snacks at Vera's Cafe

Rest with a cup of chai and light snacks at this local favorite with friendly service.
INR150, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The German Bakery

Sample international cuisine and freshly baked breads in a cozy setting overlooking the cliff.
INR700, 1h30m

Day 3: Nature and spirituality

Varkala, India on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Brewberrys Cafe

Relish fresh coffee, hearty breakfasts, and pastries in a lively atmosphere.
INR350, 1h0m

8:30am

Kappil Lake excursion

Visit the tranquil Kappil Lake for canoe rides and soothing backwater views in a lush environment. Open early till evening.
INR200, 2h0m

11:00am

Sivagiri Mutt visit

Explore the peaceful ashram and learn about the legacy of Sree Narayana Guru at this key spiritual site. Open 9am–6pm.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Coffee Temple

Enjoy a relaxed lunch featuring local and healthy dishes.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Stroll and shop along Varkala Cliff

Finish the afternoon browsing small shops and taking in last views of the cliff and ocean breeze.
Free to browse, 2h0m

5:00pm

Early dinner at Juice Shack

Conclude the day with fresh juices and vegetarian snacks in a relaxed setting.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 4: Adventure and wellness day

Varkala, India on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Fuel up with a variety of healthy breakfast options and artisanal coffee.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Yoga session at the cliff

Join a morning yoga class overlooking the sea, a rejuvenating start in the fresh coastal air. Sessions generally begin around 9am and last 1 hour.
INR500, 1h0m

11:00am

Ayurvedic spa experience

Relax with a traditional Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment at one of Varkala’s reputed wellness centers to refresh the body and mind.
INR1500, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Zephyr Restaurant

Enjoy diverse Indian and seafood dishes offering fresh flavors in a chilled beach vibe setting.
INR600, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Varkala Waterfalls (natural springs)

Explore the nearby natural waterfalls for a refreshing dip and photo opportunities. Ideal afternoon outing to beat the heat.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Evening walk and sunset

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the beach watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Darjeeling Cafe

Savor your last dinner in Varkala with flavorful North Indian and Tibetan fare with a sea breeze ambiance.
INR600, 1h30m

Day 5: Travel to Rameshwaram

Varkala to Rameshwaram, India on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at Brewberrys Cafe

Enjoy a quick but nutritious breakfast before traveling.
INR350, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Rameshwaram

Embark on a scenic approximately 6-7 hour trip by car or taxi from Varkala to Rameshwaram covering about 330 km along the coast, enjoying the changing landscapes.
INR3000 (approx. taxi fare), 7h0m

3:30pm

Check-in and rest at hotel

Settle into your accommodation and rest after the journey.
Varies by hotel, 1h30m

5:00pm

Evening at Rameshwaram Beach

Stretch your legs with a relaxing walk along the pristine Rameshwaram Beach as the sun sets.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Dine on South Indian and Tamil Nadu specialties at your hotel or nearby restaurant to prepare for next day’s exploration.
INR500, 1h30m

Day 6: Rameshwaram temples and sights

Rameshwaram, India on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a filling breakfast to start a day of sightseeing.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Ramanathaswamy Temple

Visit the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its impressive corridors and spiritual significance. Open 5am–12pm, 5pm–9pm.
Free, 2h0m

10:30am

Dhanushkodi Beach

Explore the tranquil and historic Dhanushkodi Beach, located at the tip of Rameshwaram Island, known for its ruins and mythological relevance.
INR50 entrance fee, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Aryaas

Enjoy authentic Tamil meals at this well-regarded local restaurant, specializing in vegetarian cuisine.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Agni Theertham

Visit this sacred bathing spot on the beach close to the Ramanathaswamy Temple, ideal for a spiritual experience.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Gandhamadhana Parvatham

Climb to the highest point in Rameshwaram for panoramic island views and visit the ancient Sri Lanka temple replica.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Relish classic South Indian meals with a wide range of dosas, idlis, and curries to conclude your day.
INR500, 1h30m

Day 7: Return to Varkala and departure

Rameshwaram to Varkala, India on May 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast in preparation for the return trip.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive back to Varkala

Enjoy the scenic return journey by road from Rameshwaram to Varkala, approximately 7 hours.
INR3000 (approx. taxi fare), 7h0m

3:30pm

Rest at hotel or prepare for departure

Arrive back in Varkala, rest or prepare for onward travel depending on your plans.
Varies, Flexible

7:00pm

Dinner at local favorite

Enjoy a farewell meal at your choice of Varkala’s popular beachside café or restaurant, savoring local seafood or vegetarian delicacies.
INR600, 1h30m