31 Places To Visit In Varkala

Q: Can you suggest an itinerary for Varkala?

Day 1: Reach Varkala preferably by noon and take some rest. In the evening, you can go to the main market for a stroll, especially where you can buy precious curios and souvenirs, which you can take home for your families. Day 2: The 2nd day should be the ideal time for starting your trip through Varkala. You should begin ideally with Varkala beach, an astounding creation of nature, famous for its solitude, unlike the commercial beaches in Goa. Thereon, you can proceed to Sivagiri Mutt, another favourite tourist hotspot in Varkala. Day 3: This day can be reserved for a visit to one of the famous temples of Varkala, i.e. Janardhanswamy Temple. Thereon, you can go towards the historical Anjengo Fort.

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Beach (9)
Temple (3)
Landmark (2)
Backwater (1)

1. Jatayu Earth's Centre

Day Trip 4.5 /5

22 km from city center

Landmark

Jatayu Earth's Centre, located about 25 km from Varkala in Kerala, is a tourist attraction known for housing the world's largest bird sculpture, depicting the mythical eagle Jatayu from the Ramayana. Spread across a rocky hill, the centre offers adventure activities, a museum, and a 6D theatre experience, along with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The centre also focuses on eco-touri (Read More)sm and conservation of local heritage.

Top Things To Do 4.4 /5

1 km from city center

Water Sports

Highlights: Jet Skiing in Varkala, Parasailing in Varkala (Read More), Banana Boat ride, Mangrove Forest Kayaking, Varkala

Water sports in Varkala offer a range of activities for visitors looking to be more active along the coast. Set against Varkala's cliffs, beaches, and the waters of the Arabian Sea, the area is a popular spot for those wanting to try adventure activities by the sea.

Top Things To Do 4.5 /5

1 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Highlights: Darjeeling Cafe, Varkala, Evening Markets

Varkala Cliff sits above the Arabian Sea and is one of the well-known landmarks along Kerala's coastline. The cliff is sometimes referred to as Ezhara Beach, and the area offers a mix of scenic views, local shops and cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere by the sea.

Top Things To Do 4.4 /5

2 km from city center

Beach

Highlights: Water Sports in Varkala, Varkala

Set amid a beautiful setting about 10 km from the calm hamlet of Varkala in Kerala, Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a stretch of sand known for its relative solitude compared to the more commercial beaches of Thiruvanant (Read More)hapuram, Kerala. The backdrop of the Arabian Sea against Kerala's cliffs here is distinctive, since these sedimentary rock formations aren't found elsewhere along the state's otherwise flat coastline.

Varkala Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

4 Nights / 5 Days

Kerala Bliss: Tea Gardens, Backwaters & Beaches - 4N/5D Tour Ex-Kochi

Munnar(2N) → Alleppey(1N) → Varkala(1N)

₹ 16,400

21% off

₹12,800/person

5 Nights / 6 Days

Scenic Kerala Retreat - Munnar to Varkala via Jatayu: Ex Kochi

Munnar(2N) → Thekkady(1N) → Alleppey(1N) → Varkala(1N)

₹ 24,800

40% off

₹14,800/person

4 Nights / 5 Days

4 Night 5 Day Tour Package for Kerala

Munnar(2N) → Varkala(1N) → Alleppey(1N)

₹ 15,750

11% off

₹14,000/person

9 Nights / 10 Days

Explore Kerala: 9-Night Scenic Backwaters and Hills Tour

Munnar(2N) → Thekkady(1N) → Alleppey(1N) → Kovalam(3N) &rar...

₹18,859/person

7 Nights / 8 Days

7N/8D Monsoon Honeymoon Package

Munnar(2N) → Thekkady(1N) → Alleppey(1N) → Varkala(1N) &rar...

₹27,000/person

5 Nights / 6 Days

Madurai to Trivandrum 5N 6D Spiritual & Leisure Tour Package

Madurai(1N) → Rameshwaram(1N) → Kanyakumari(2N) → Trivandru...

₹9,900/person

View All Packages For Varkala

5. Black Sand Beach

Top Attraction 4.3 /5

3 km from city center

Beach

Black Sand Beach in Varkala is a lesser-known beach located just north of the main Varkala Beach. Known for its striking black sand, caused by heavy mineral deposits, the beach offers a quieter, less crowded stretch of coastline than the busier spots in Varkala.

Top Attraction 4.2 /5

1 km from city center

Temple

Highlights: Arattu Festival in Janardhanaswamy Temple, Va (Read More)rkala

Janardhanaswamy Temple in Varkala is located 25 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the annual Arattu festival held here draws thousands of devotees. It is an ancient temple dating back around 2,000 years. Varkala has been a Hindu pilgrimage site since the 12th century, and the temple was built during this period.

7. Kappil Beach

Great For Family Outing 4.1 /5

6 km from city center

Beach

Kappil Beach is a serene, scenic coastal stretch located about 7 km from Varkala, Kerala. It offers a peaceful alternative to the more popular Varkala Beach, with golden sands and the calm backwaters of the Edava-Nadayara Lake nearby. The beach is good for leisurely walks, sunset views, and quiet picnics, with its combination of beach and backwater views offering a mix of coastal and inland scener (Read More)y.

Hidden Gem 4.3 /5

5 km from city center

Beach

Ponnumthuruthu, also known as Golden Island, is located 20 km from Varkala. It is known for its roughly 100-year-old Shiva-Parvathi temple set amid coconut groves along the sandy banks, in the tranquil backwaters of the Kallada River. Ponnumthuruthu is known for its natural beauty, lush greenery, and sacred temples, and is accessible only by boat, offering visitors a peaceful retreat away from cit (Read More)y life.

Top Things To Do 4.3 /5

13 km from city center

Backwater

The mangrove forest in Nedungolam, Paravur, in the district of Kollam, is located at a distance of 18 km from Varkala. Perfect for a half-day trip, one can go on a 4km kayaking during the morning or evening. Sailing through these canals of Nedungolam, especially the mangrove forest, is a must-try experience. Mangrove Village Adventures is a leading tour operator for this experience.

Top Things To Do 4.5 /5

Varkala's cliff and beach area has a well-known cafe culture, with a mix of beachfront shacks and cliff-top cafes overlooking the Arabian Sea. Many serve fresh coffee, seafood, and other local dishes, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring Varkala.

4.1 /5

2 km from city center

Beach

Thiruvambadi Beach, located 1 km off Thiruvambadi road, is a cherished retreat for residents of Thiruvananthapuram seeking a break from city life. Also known as Black Sand Beach, it lies adjacent to the North Cliff, offering a quiet, uncrowded stretch of coastline with gentle tides.

Top Attraction 4.2 /5

9 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Anjengo Fort, also known as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historic fort located in Varkala, Kerala, approximately 12 kilometers from Varkala town. It holds significant historical importance as one of the earliest British East India Company outposts in India. Constructed in the 17th century, Anjengo Fort served as a strategic trading post for the British, primarily engaged in the spice trade with local ru (Read More)lers.

13. Sivagiri Mutt

Popular among Locals 4.1 /5

2 km from city center

Ashram

Sivagiri Mutt in Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram district, is one of the popular ashrams of Sree Narayana Guru. The ashram celebrates Guru Deva Jayanti in August and Guru Deva Samadhi in September every year. Janardhana Swami Temple and Varkala Beach are nearby attractions worth visiting along with Sivagiri Mutt. Sree Narayana Guru (1855-1928) was a saint, social reformer, and philosopher who made Var (Read More)kala his headquarters.

1 km from city center

Lighthouse

Varkala Lighthouse was built in 1684 by the British to assist the navigation of ships coming from Britain. It stands 130 feet tall on the Varkala Beach and attracts tourists for a mesmeric bird's eye view it provides of the Arabian sea and the backwaters. It, therefore, is a perfect attraction for photographers, beach lovers and picnickers._

Popular among Locals 4.1 /5

2 km from city center

Landmark

Varkala Bali Mandapam is a cultural and religious site located near Varkala Beach in Kerala. It is used for the Hindu ritual of Bali Tharpanam, in which devotees offer prayers and ancestral rites, especially during Karkidaka Vavu (the new moon in July or August). The site draws many visitors and devotees who come to pay respects to their ancestors, set against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.

4.3 /5

5 km from city center

Beach

Odayam Beach is a quieter, less crowded beach a short distance from the main Varkala Beach in Kerala. Known for its golden sands and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a more secluded experience than the busier shores of Varkala. Framed by palm trees, it's a good spot for walks along the coast, sunbathing, or relaxing by the water, and its calm waters make it suitable for swimming too. While Odayam Be (Read More)ach itself doesn't have major commercial establishments, it has a few guesthouses, homestays, and small restaurants serving local seafood and Kerala cuisine.

4.0 /5

5 km from city center

Beach

Edava Beach lies along the Arabian Sea coast near Varkala, among Kerala's more secluded beaches. Located just 2 km from Kappil Beach and 5 km from Varkala Railway Station, this quiet stretch of sand offers a break from busier tourist spots nearby. Encircled by palm trees, Edava Beach is worth a stop for travelers exploring the Varkala area.

Instagram Worthy 4.2 /5

2 km from city center

InDa Cafe is one of the top places to chill and have amazing food, in Varkala. The USP of the cafe is to produce food which is not just tempting to the tongue but also the eyes. The chef's combine the Indian flavours with the Western style of cooking to create visually gorgeous, mouth watering food. The most recommended dish to try at the place is the Buddha Bowl.

2 km from city center

Aquarium

Varkala Aquarium has a decent collection of fishes in a number of large sized that can be viewed from a walkway that spirals upwards. One can find a number of species including Karimeen, Pirahnas, Eels etc. The aquarium also has a 3D theatre where information about more species of fishes is given using the 3D technology. The aquarium is a perfect attraction to see over a day-long picnic.

2 km from city center

Historical Site

Varkala Tunnel is an old tunnel built in 1867 by Sir T. Madhava Rao who was also the Dewan of Travancore during that time. This took about 14 years to build the tunnel that runs a little over 900 feet and allowed traders to halt before proceeding with their journey towards Thiruvananthapuram. This historic inland waterway is a great example of the Colonial era architecture in the region.

Instagram Worthy 4.1 /5

2 km from city center

Darjeeling Cafe is one of the most popular cafes in Varkala, offering amazing food with an amazing view of the seaside. With a simple yet elegant decor, the place stands out from the rest. The meals are served in authentic South Indian style and have similar flavours. You should definitely check out this place if you are in town.

1 km from city center

Beach

Chilakoor Beach is located at a distance of about 15 kms from the town of Varkala in Kerala. Lined with gorgeous casuarina groves, the drive to the beach takes you through traditional coastal villages which lets you have a glimpse of the rural Kerala life. The beach is also popular for its serene environment and beautiful sunset views.

9 km from city center

Mosque

Kaduvayil Juma Masjid is dedicated to a Muslim Saint, Saint Kaduvayil Thangal who is believed to have magical powers. It is one of the important Sunni Pilgrimage Centres in the region but its beautiful architecture also attracts tourists. The well maintained structure possesses a divine vibe that can put a troubled soul at peace in an instant.

Saint Sebastian's Pilgrim Church Moongode

6 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

Located on the banks of the backwaters of Varkala, Saint Sebastians Pilgrim Church Moongodu is an important pilgrim centre for the Christians. It was built by the Portuguese Missionaries and is famous for Feast procession of Saint Sebastian which is held every year in the month of February when the beautiful church is transformed into a colourful and bustling attraction especially for the follower (Read More)s.

3.9 /5

1 km from city center

Aaliyirakkam Beach, located near Varkala in Kerala, is a lesser-known beach offering a quieter escape from more crowded tourist spots. Its clean sands and calm waters make it suitable for relaxation, sunbathing, and quiet walks along the shore, and it's close to Varkala's cliffs with good sunset views.

6 km from city center

Lake

Kappil Lake is a mesmerising estuary famous for being a tranquil picnic spot surrounded by dense coconut trees. It further becomes a part of the Arabian sea and offers a breath-taking view that can be witnessed clearly from the bridge over the lake. The lake is also famous for pedal boating. The boats can be hired from the boat club located near the water body._

2 km from city center

Beach

Papanasam Beach, also called Papasnanam Beach, is a scenic seashore famous among beach lovers. The beach is also known as Varkala Beach and holds spiritual and religious significance; people believe that taking a dip in the sea washes away one's sins. The water is also believed to nourish medicinal plants nearby, giving it healing properties. The location is also known for the Varkala Cliff and a (Read More)natural water spout nearby.

Arattu Festival in Janardhanaswamy Temple

Popular among Locals 4.2 /5

Fairs & Festivals

The Arattu Festival, celebrated at the revered Janardhanaswamy Temple in Varkala, Kerala, is a grand religious event that reflects the state’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Known for its elaborate rituals, processions, and a profound sense of devotion, the festival attracts devotees and visitors from across the country. The Arattu Festival is celebrated twice a year, once during March-Apri (Read More)l and again in October-November, making it a significant event in Kerala’s festival calendar.

Popular among Locals

1 km from city center

Asparagus is a store in Varkala where one can find ecological handicrafts and textiles that are dyed with natural dyes. Tourists can purchase artefacts and fabrics that are unique to the region. The friendly salesmen ensure the customers get the best products they have. They also have an in-house tailor who can sew garments according to specific requirements from the fabrics purchased.

8 km from city center

Temple

Vishnu Temple is an ancient temple dating back around 2,000 years, located very close to Varkala Beach in Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is dedicated to Janardhana Swami, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Its traditional Kerala temple architecture, with a copper-sheeted dome, carved Navagrahas in wood, and a copper-plated roof, is worth seeing. The temple is also associated with a lege (Read More)nd involving Lord Brahma, who is said to have cursed his Prajapatis, and Narada, who helped them absolve their sins.

12 km from city center

Temple

Sarkara Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. It is known for the Kaliyoot festival, celebrated every year in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (March), and the Meenabharani festival held during Attavishesham. Kaliyoot is a ritual presentation of the legendary figures Bhadrakali and Darika, representing good and evil. During the 10-day Meenabharani festival, a procession takes the Goddess o (Read More)n five elephants to the Bhagavathy Palace.

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FAQs on Varkala

How can I commute within Varkala?

A diminutive town, it can be accessed by using auto rickshaws or even by walking.
Read More

What are the top hotels in Varkala?

There are 232 Hotels in Varkala which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Varkala are Blue Waves Beach Residency, MakeMyDream, CEMARI RESORT, Thathamma homestay, Ganga Yamuna Retreat, The Veda Village. You can see all the hotels in Varkala here

What are the top sightseeing places in Varkala?

The top sightseeing places in Varkala are Water Sports in Varkala, Varkala Beach, Edava Beach, Thiruvambadi Beach, Anjengo Fort, Sivagiri Mutt.

How much does a package cost for Varkala?

The packages for Varkala start at INR 9000 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

Can you suggest an itinerary for Varkala?

Day 1: Reach Varkala preferably by noon and take some rest. In the evening, you can go to the main market for a stroll, especially where you can buy precious curios and souvenirs, which you can take home for your families.

Day 2: The 2nd day should be the ideal time for starting your trip through Varkala. You should begin ideally with Varkala beach, an astounding creation of nature, famous for its solitude, unlike the commercial beaches in Goa. Thereon, you can proceed to Sivagiri Mutt, another favourite tourist hotspot in Varkala.

Day 3: This day can be reserved for a visit to one of the famous temples of Varkala, i.e. Janardhanswamy Temple. Thereon, you can go towards the historical Anjengo Fort.

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Places To Visit In Varkala

"Kerala cliffside beach town with Ayurveda, waves, and sunsets"

31 Places To Visit In Varkala

1. Jatayu Earth's Centre

2. Water Sports in Varkala

3. Varkala Cliff

4. Varkala Beach

Varkala Travel Packages

Kerala Bliss: Tea Gardens, Backwaters & Beaches - 4N/5D Tour Ex-Kochi

Scenic Kerala Retreat - Munnar to Varkala via Jatayu: Ex Kochi

4 Night 5 Day Tour Package for Kerala

Explore Kerala: 9-Night Scenic Backwaters and Hills Tour

7N/8D Monsoon Honeymoon Package

Madurai to Trivandrum 5N 6D Spiritual & Leisure Tour Package

5. Black Sand Beach

6. Janardhanaswamy Temple

Top Hotels In Varkala

7. Kappil Beach

8. Ponnumthuruthu

9. Mangrove Forest Kayaking

10. Cafes in Varkala

11. Thiruvambadi Beach

12. Anchuthengu Fort (Anjengo Fort)

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Varkala

13. Sivagiri Mutt

14. Varkala Lighthouse

15. Varkala Bali Mandapam

16. Odayam Beach

17. Edava Beach

18. InDa Cafe

19. Varkala Aquarium

20. Varkala Thurappu (Varkala Tunnel)

21. Darjeeling Cafe

22. Chilakoor Beach

23. Kaduvayil Juma Masjid

24. Saint Sebastian's Pilgrim Church Moongode

25. Aaliyirakkam Beach

26. Kappil Lake

27. Papanasam Beach

28. Arattu Festival in Janardhanaswamy Temple

29. Asparagus

30. Vishnu Temple

31. Sarkara Devi Temple

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Varkala

How can I commute within Varkala?

What are the top hotels in Varkala?

What are the top sightseeing places in Varkala?

How much does a package cost for Varkala?

Can you suggest an itinerary for Varkala?

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