7-Day Varkala and 1-Day Rameshwaram Coastal and Cultural Exploration Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Relaxation

Varkala, Kerala, India on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast with freshly brewed coffee at Coffee Temple, a cozy café known for its beautiful cliffside view.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Varkala Beach Walk

Take a leisurely walk along the pristine cliff beach, famous for its natural springs and stunning Arabian Sea views.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Janardanaswamy Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, a spiritual and architectural highlight in Varkala, open from 5am to 9pm.
Free, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Juice Shack

Relish fresh organic light meals with tropical juices, perfect for the hot Kerala climate near the cliffside.
INR300, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Varkala Cliff Shops

Browse and shop for local crafts, beachwear, and souvenirs along the vibrant Varkala cliff market area.
Varies, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Darjeeling Café

Savor delicious local Kerala seafood and North Indian dishes with a relaxing ambiance overlooking the sea.
INR700, 1.5h
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Day 2: Adventure and Ayurveda

Varkala, Kerala, India on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Start your day with traditional South Indian filter coffee and dosa at this iconic local café.
INR150, 1h

9:00am

Paragliding at Varkala Beach

Experience thrilling paragliding with views of the cliffs and Arabian Sea – bookings recommended in advance.
INR3500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Café del Mar

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with continental cuisine and lovely sea views.
INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Ayurvedic Massage and Spa

Indulge in a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic treatment or massage at one of Varkala's well-known spas, open until 8pm.
INR2000, 2h

6:30pm

Sunset at Papanasam Beach

Watch the spectacular sunset at the peaceful Papanasam Beach, known for its natural springs and spiritual significance.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Clafouti

Dine at Clafouti, a bakery-café offering delicious cakes, pastries, and international meals in a charming garden setting.
INR550, 1.5h
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Varkala, Kerala, India on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tasty Waves Café

Enjoy fresh fruit bowls and South Indian delicacies at this cliffside café with great sea views.
INR300, 1h

9:30am

Visit Sivagiri Mutt

Explore this spiritual center and museum dedicated to Sree Narayana Guru, open from 8am to 6pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Juice Corner

Fuel up with healthy sandwiches, smoothies, and fresh juices just a short walk from the cliff.
INR250, 1h

2:00pm

Varkala Tunnel Beach Visit

Take a short trek down the cliff to the Tunnel Beach, a lesser-known and quiet spot great for swimming and relaxation.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Evening Tea at Coffee Temple

Relax with tea and light snacks at this popular spot while enjoying sunset views.
INR200, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Sree Arul Jyothi

Dine on authentic Kerala vegetarian thali meals in a simple, local setting.
INR350, 1.5h
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Day 4: Island and Nature

Varkala, Kerala, India on May 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Café Italiano

Starting the day with Italian-style breakfast options including coffee and pastries.
INR400, 1h

8:00am

Day Trip to Anchuthengu Fort and Estuary

Visit the historic Anchuthengu Fort and enjoy tranquil estuary boat rides, open from 9am to 5pm, about 20km north of Varkala.
INR300 for boat ride, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Local Eatery near Fort

Try regional fish curry staples in a local setting to savor authentic taste.
INR350, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Varkala and Rest

Relax at your accommodation or beach after the morning excursion.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Evening walk along Varkala Cliff

Stroll along the vibrant cliffside path enjoying art shops and cafés.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Sheik’s Fresh Fish

Sample freshly prepared seafood, a favorite among locals, available till late.
INR600, 1.5h
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Day 5: Cultural Shows and Local Crafts

Varkala, Kerala, India on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Enjoy a morning coffee and South Indian breakfast in this beautiful cliffside café.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Explore Local Art Galleries

Visit art galleries featuring works by Kerala artists displaying traditional and contemporary styles.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ocean Breeze

Dine on fresh seafood and vegetarian options with sea views at this popular restaurant.
INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Kerala Kalamandalam (If reachable by day trip) or Local Handicraft Market

Experience traditional Kerala dance and music performances or shop handicrafts when performances are available (confirm showtimes in advance).
INR500 for show, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Theekattu

Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine with a focus on fish meals in a rustic setting.
INR500, 1.5h
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Day 6: Relaxation and Yoga

Varkala, Kerala, India on May 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café del Mar

Start early with light continental breakfast and coffee by the sea.
INR350, 1h

8:30am

Morning Yoga Session on the Beach

Join a yoga class organized by local studios on the beach, perfect to invigorate body and mind.
INR700, 1h

10:00am

Visit Varkala Aquarium

Explore local marine life at the small aquarium near the town center, open 10am–5pm.
INR100, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tandoori Hut

Relish Indian tandoori and North Indian specialties in a cozy atmosphere.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Varkala Beach or Cliffside Café

Spend the afternoon unwinding on the beach or sipping drinks at a cliffside café.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Café FM

Enjoy a diverse menu including seafood and international dishes with live music in the evening.
INR600, 1.5h
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Day 7: Day Trip to Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, India on May 14, 2025

5:00am

Early Drive to Rameshwaram

Depart early for approximately 4-hour drive from Varkala to Rameshwaram to maximize sightseeing time.
INR2000 (car hire), 4h

9:30am

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the famous temple known for its magnificent corridors and sacred significance, open 5am to 9pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Shri Ram

Try traditional Tamil cuisine near the temple area with vegetarian focus.
INR400, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Dhanushkodi Beach and Ruins

Visit the serene beach and historical ruins at the tip of Rameshwaram island, accessible by car, open year-round.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Pamban Bridge

Admire the engineering marvel connecting Rameshwaram with the mainland, perfect for photos and a short walk.
Free, 1h

5:30pm

Drive back to Varkala

Return to Varkala by car, arriving in the late evening.
INR2000, 4h

9:30pm

Late Dinner at Your Accommodation or Local Eatery

Have a light meal upon return to Varkala after a long day trip.
INR300, 1h
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Day 8: Departure and Leisure

Varkala, Kerala, India on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Clafouti

Enjoy your last breakfast in Varkala with fresh pastries and coffee in a quaint setting.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Last Beach Stroll and Local Shopping

Spend your final hours relaxing on Varkala Beach or picking up souvenirs at local shops.
Varies, 2h
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