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Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala

["Varkala is a stunning coastal town in Kerala, renowned for its unique red laterite cliffs that run adjacent to the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views, serene beaches like Papanasam, ancient temples, and a bohemian vibe that attracts travelers seeking both spiritual solace and relaxation."]

Priya Patel
Written byPriya Patel
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Best Time To Visit Varkala

Arattu Festival

25th March

The Arattu festival is a grand ten-day celebration held at the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, culminating in a ceremonial dip of the deity's idol in the Arabian Sea.

  • It features vibrant processions with caparisoned elephants and traditional percussion ensembles like Panchavadyam.
  • Thousands of devotees gather to participate in sacred rituals and witness colorful cultural performances throughout the festival.
  • This spectacular event provides a deep and authentic insight into the rich spiritual traditions and cultural heritage of Kerala.

FESTIVAL AND EVENTS

Hotels in Varkala

Discover curated hotels, trending escapes, and unique spots that fit your vibe and budget.
Cozy Beach Hostel

Cozy Beach Hostel

4.2

Budget-friendly accommodation with shared facilities and beach access for the perfect getaway.

Starting from

1,500per person
Backpacker's Paradise, Arambol

Backpacker's Paradise, Arambol

4

Clean dorms and private rooms near the beach with communal kitchen and lounge area.

Starting from

1,200per person
Budget Beach Resort, Calangute

Budget Beach Resort, Calangute

3.8

Affordable beachfront stay with basic amenities and easy access to popular beaches.

Starting from

2,000per person
Economic Stay, Baga

Economic Stay, Baga

4.1

Simple and clean accommodation near nightlife and beach activities.

Starting from

1,800per person
Budget Beachside Cottage, Morjim

Budget Beachside Cottage, Morjim

4

Charming cottage steps from the beach with basic amenities and peaceful surroundings.

Starting from

1,600per person
Affordable Guesthouse, Vagator

Affordable Guesthouse, Vagator

3.9

Clean rooms with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, close to famous beach clubs and restaurants.

Starting from

1,400per person
Budget Stay, Candolim

Budget Stay, Candolim

4.2

Simple accommodation with breakfast included, walking distance to beach and local markets.

Starting from

1,700per person
Economical Beach Lodge, Palolem

Economical Beach Lodge, Palolem

4.1

Cozy lodge with garden views, bicycle rentals, and easy access to pristine beaches.

Starting from

1,300per person
Varkala Tourism: A Guide to Kerala's Stunning Cliff Beach

Overview of Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala

Varkala is a special town in the state of Kerala. It sits by the big blue Arabian Sea. This town is famous for its tall red cliffs.

The cliffs run right next to the water. This makes the views very beautiful and unique. People come here to feel calm and happy. This Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala is a great place for a trip.

You will find lovely beaches and old temples. The town has a very relaxed and easy feel. This helpful Varkala travel guide shows you the best spots. It helps you plan your perfect holiday. Many travelers love the peaceful vibe here.

Varkala offers both rest and fun things to do. You can find quiet spots for yourself. Or you can join fun activities on the beach. It is a true gem of south India. Everyone can find something they love in this town.


Entry Details and Timing for Varkala Tourism: A Guide to Kerala's Stunning Cliff Beach

Varkala is a town, so it is always open. You can walk around the cliffs and beaches any time. But most shops and cafes have set hours. They usually open around 9 in the morning.

They close around 10 at night. Some places might stay open later. This is true in the main tourist season. So you can always find a nice place to eat.

To see all of Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala, you need a few days. A trip of three to four days is good. This gives you time to see the sights. It also gives you time to relax by the sea. You will not feel rushed with this plan.


What To Expect at Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala

When you visit Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala, expect amazing views. The main path is on top of the Varkala cliff. You can walk along this path for a long way. On one side are small shops and cafes. On the other side is the wide open sea.

The shops sell clothes, jewels, and local crafts. The cafes have tasty food and fresh drinks. You can sit and watch the waves all day. The sound of the sea is very calming. It is a great place to relax and forget your worries.

The people in Varkala are very friendly. They will welcome you with a warm smile. You can try local Kerala food here. The seafood is very fresh and tasty. The streets are small but full of life and color. You will feel the happy and spiritual energy of the town.


History of Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala

The history of Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala is very old. For many years, it has been a holy place. People came here to pray and find peace. It was known as a place for spiritual healing.

An old story says a king was told to build a temple here. This was to wash away his bad deeds. This made the town a key religious center. The town grew around this important temple. It is still a very sacred place for many people today.

The cliffs are also special for another reason. They are a rare type of rock formation. Scientists study these cliffs to learn about the earth. This makes Varkala famous for both its history and its nature. It is a blend of old beliefs and natural wonder.


Famous Things about Varkala Tourism: A Guide to Kerala's Stunning Cliff Beach
  • Varkala is famous for its unique red cliffs by the sea.
  • It is a major spot for yoga and wellness retreats.
  • The town has many old temples and holy ashrams.
  • You can enjoy some of the best sunsets in Kerala here.

More About Varkala Scenery: The Cliff Beach of Kerala

The scenery at Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala is stunning. The high red cliffs meet the deep blue sea. On top of the cliffs, you see tall green coconut trees. They sway gently in the cool sea breeze. This mix of colors is a true feast for the eyes.

The sunsets here are truly special. The sun paints the sky in shades of orange and pink. It slowly dips into the sea. Many people gather on the cliff to watch this daily show. It is a very peaceful and memorable moment.

The coastline is part of the beautiful Kerala beaches network. The main beach in Varkala is long and sandy. You can see small fishing boats in the water. The waves are perfect for a fun swim. The natural beauty here is pure and untouched.


Architecture and Style of Varkala Tourism: A Guide to Kerala's Stunning Cliff Beach

The buildings in Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala have a simple style. Many guest houses and shops are built to face the sea. They have open spaces like balconies and verandas. This lets the cool sea air flow through the rooms.

You will see a mix of old and new styles. Some buildings show traditional Kerala design. They use a lot of wood and have sloped tile roofs. This helps with the heavy monsoon rains. These old homes have a classic, earthy charm.

The newer places for tourists are more modern. But they still keep a simple and relaxed feel. The focus is on comfort and enjoying the view. The whole town feels very open and connected to nature. The style is not loud but very pleasing.


Best Time to Visit Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala

The best time to visit Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala is from October to March. During these months, the weather is very pleasant. The sun is warm but not too hot. There is very little rain, so you can enjoy the outdoors.

This is the main season for visitors. So, the town is lively with many things to do. If you want to avoid big crowds, try the start or end of the season. The weather is still good, but fewer people are around.

The summer months from April to May can be very hot. The monsoon season is from June to September. It brings a lot of rain. The sea can be rough during this time. But the town looks very green and fresh.


How to Reach Varkala Tourism: A Guide to Kerala's Stunning Cliff Beach

It is easy to reach Varkala. The nearest airport is in Trivandrum, about 50 kilometers away. You can get a taxi or a bus from the airport. The drive takes about one to two hours.

Varkala also has its own railway station. It is called Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station. Many trains from big cities in India stop here. The station is just a few kilometers from the cliff area.

Buses are another good option. There are many state-run and private buses. They connect Varkala to other towns in Kerala. Good roads make the journey smooth. Planning your Varkala tourism trip is very simple with these options.


Travel Tips for Visiting Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala
  • Wear comfortable shoes to walk along the cliff.
  • Carry water bottles to stay hydrated.
  • Follow the local rules and customs.
  • Stay safe at the spot, especially near the cliff edge.
  • Respect the Varkala: The Cliff Beach of Kerala and its clean nature.
  • Bring good clothes for both beach and temple visits.
  • Do not bring banned items like single-use plastic.

Top Attractions In or Near Varkala Tourism: A Guide to Kerala's Stunning Cliff Beach

Here are some top places to visit in and around Varkala.

  1. Papanasam beach: This spot is in Varkala and has holy waters that are said to wash away sins.
  2. Janardanaswamy Temple: This spot is in Varkala and has an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  3. Sivagiri Mutt: This spot is near Varkala and is a famous spiritual center and ashram.
  4. Kappil Lake: This spot is near Varkala and has a serene lake that meets the Arabian Sea.
  5. Anjengo Fort: This spot is near Varkala and has a historic fort with a tall lighthouse.
  6. Edava Beach: This spot is near Varkala and has a quiet, clean beach with lovely views.

Your Questions, Answered

Varkala is famous for its unique, stunning red laterite cliffs that border the Arabian Sea. It's the only place in southern Kerala where you can find such cliffs, offering spectacular views, especially at sunset. The town is also known for Papanasam Beach, believed to have holy waters that wash away sins.
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), about 45 km away. Varkala has its own railway station, Varkala Sivagiri (VAK), which is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and India. It's also easily accessible by road from nearby towns like Trivandrum and Kollam.
Key attractions include the Varkala Cliff, Papanasam Beach, the 2000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple, the Sivagiri Mutt ashram, Kappil Lake for boating, and the quiet Odayam and Edava beaches for those seeking tranquility.
Yes, Varkala is generally considered safe and welcoming for solo travelers. The laid-back atmosphere, numerous cafes, yoga retreats, and affordable accommodation options make it a popular choice. However, as with any destination, it's always wise to take standard safety precautions.
Apart from relaxing on the beach, you can indulge in activities like surfing, parasailing, and jet-skiing. The town is a major hub for yoga and Ayurveda, with many centers offering courses and treatments. You can also explore the local markets and enjoy fresh seafood at the cliff-top restaurants.
The ideal time to visit Varkala is during the winter season, from October to March. The weather during these months is pleasant and dry, with comfortable temperatures perfect for sightseeing and beach activities. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rain.
Papanasam literally means 'destroyer of sins'. It is a sacred belief among Hindus that taking a dip in the waters of Papanasam Beach will wash away one's sins. The beach is also a place where devotees perform final rites and rituals for their ancestors.
Varkala offers a diverse culinary scene. The North Cliff is lined with restaurants and cafes serving a wide range of cuisines, including fresh seafood, traditional Keralan dishes, and international options like Italian, Tibetan, and Continental. You can enjoy a meal with a stunning view of the ocean.

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