Ultimate 3-Day Varkala Beach Getaway: Culture, Cuisine and Coastal Charm

Day 1: Beach and Cliff Exploration

Varkala, India on June 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast with fresh coffee, local Kerala breakfast dishes and ocean views right from the cliff side café, setting the tone for a relaxed start.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Varkala Beach

Spend your morning sunbathing and swimming at Varkala Beach, renowned for its natural mineral springs and stunning cliffs along the Arabian Sea.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Juice Shack

Relish fresh fruit juices and healthy meals with a casual cliff-top ambience overlooking the sea, perfect for a light and refreshing lunch.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Cliff Walk & Shops

Walk along the cliff path exploring local handicraft shops, boutiques, and enjoying panoramic sea views ideal for photography and souvenir hunting.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Sunset at Varkala Cliff

Watch the stunning sunset from the cliffs, a must-see experience that invites peace and natural beauty to the end of your first day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Darjeeling Cafe

Enjoy authentic Kerala seafood paired with cosy atmosphere and local charm right on the cliff, open till 10pm.
INR700, 1.5h

Day 2: Cultural Heritage and Spiritual Sites

Varkala, India on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee Temple

Start your day again at this highly rated café known for its aromatic coffee and freshly baked snacks.
INR250, 1h

9:00am

Janardanaswamy Temple

Visit the historic 2000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple, a major pilgrim site dedicated to Lord Vishnu with beautiful traditional Kerala architecture. Open from 5am to 12pm and 5pm to 8pm.
INR20, 1.5h

11:00am

Sivagiri Mutt

Explore Sivagiri Mutt, the spiritual centre founded by social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, and admire the peaceful surroundings and informative displays.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Clafouti Restaurant & Cafe

Dine on expertly prepared Kerala and continental dishes at this highly recommended restaurant close to the cliff area.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Anjengo Fort ruins

Take a short trip to Anjengo Fort ruins about 5 km south of Varkala, learning about the colonial history and enjoying seaside views. Best visited before late afternoon.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Relax at Papanasam Beach

Return to Varkala and relax on Papanasam Beach, famous for its holy waters and soothing atmosphere.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mango Tree

Dine beneath mango trees with local favourites and fresh seafood, a perfect finish with soothing ambience, open till 10pm.
INR700, 1.5h

Day 3: Markets and Coastal Excursion

Varkala and Kovalam, India on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Juice Factory

Start your day with fresh tropical fruit juices and light options at this popular outlet in the cliff area.
INR200, 1h

9:00am

Varkala Market Exploration

Browse vibrant local markets in Varkala for handmade crafts, spices, and souvenirs, capturing authentic Kerala market life.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Drive to Kovalam

Enjoy a 1.5-hour scenic drive south to the famous Kovalam Beach, known for its crescent-shaped shoreline and lighthouses.
INR500 (taxi fare approx.), 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Halais Restaurant, Kovalam

Taste traditional Malabar cuisine and fresh seafood with a sea view close to Kovalam beach.
INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Kovalam Lighthouse visit and Beach Time

Climb the Kovalam Lighthouse for panoramic views and spend some relaxing time at the adjacent beaches.
INR40, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Varkala

Head back to Varkala to prepare for departure or enjoy a quiet evening.
INR500 (taxi fare approx.), 1.5h

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Cliff View Restaurant

End your trip with an elegant dinner featuring Kerala specialities and international cuisine with sunset cliff views.
INR800, 1.5h