Best Time To Visit Varkala

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Kerala India

6 out of 47 Places to visit in Kerala

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What is the best time to visit Varkala?

The mesmeric hamlet of Varkala, owing to its geographical location on the south-western coastline of India, mostly experiences moderate to high temperatures throughout the year. The seasonal changes are very subtle, but the mercury levels play a significant role in defining a good time to visit the region. So Winters (between October and February) is the best season for a visit to Varkala because the temperature is more relaxed and the sun is gentler compared to the summers. One can expect a decent level of humidity all through the year but winters, bring colder air and pleasant ambience that add to the fun of exploring the charming village. Summers are a complete no-no for tourists as the heat levels touch a sweltering 40°C every year during the peak season. Monsoons, on the other hand, can be a good time for budget travelling but the peak months must be avoided as the region is susceptible to extremely heavy rainfall putting a halt to tourism for months till winter begins.

Weather in Varkala

Upcoming Varkala Weather

Monthly Weather in Varkala

Month	Avg. Minimum (°C)	Avg. Maximum (°C)
January	24	32
February	24	32
March	26	33
April	27	34
May	26	33
June	26	31
July	25	31
August	26	31
September	25	31
October	25	32
November	25	31
December	25	32

Winter (October - March)

Once the monsoon ends after September, October sets the mood for winter in Varkala. As the season transitions, a slight decrease in the minimum temperature is experienced from 24°C to 21°C. Most of the day remains moderate (around 30°C), but the pleasant and dry climate allows tourists to explore all the attractions to the fullest. Thus, winters, from November to February, are deemed the best time to visit Varkala. The weather mostly remains balmy with clear skies drawing most tourists to the coastline for recreational and adventure activities. Varkala beach is seen bustling with activities like paragliding, jet skiing, parasailing, boating, swimming etc. Thiruvambad, Edava, Chilakoor and Kappil are also some more beaches that can be explored along with the Varkala Cliffs and Anjengo Fort.

Important pilgrim sites like the Saint Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church Moongode, Vishnu Temple, Kaduvayil Juma Masjid, Janardhanaswamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt etc. can also be visited. Some of the important festivals are also celebrated during this season that cannot be missed while there. Navratri is celebrated in October, Thrikarthika in November, Christmas & New Years in December/ January and the Annual Festival in February-March. Visiting during the winter season is, basically, the best time to explore and absorb the beauty, history, culture and the fun aspects of Varkala.

Monsoon (July - September)

Varkala receives an average annual rainfall of about 550 mm, but there are weeks with torrential downpours that often play spoilsport. Monsoons being an off-season for tourists, is not always advisable to visit or explore the village. The month of July marks the beginning of the season, and it goes on till September every year, keeping the mercury levels between 24°C and 29°C which is quite pleasant. Therefore, most monsoon lovers are drawn to this part of the country. The regional festivals also attract many visitors on the occasion of Onam and Karkidaka Festival celebrated in July and August. But one needs to be aware that August is the wettest month of the season. July and September can also prove to be a good time for travellers on a smaller budget.

There is a considerable drop in the tariff and other expenses. Plus, the coastline transforms into a paradise when the regional flora thrives after a few showers making it one of the most scenic locations in the country. It can become an attractive and economic affair for those who find monsoons romantic and enchanting. Since Varkala is located on the coastline, it is always better to keep a closer watch on the weather forecast, go all prepped up with appropriate raingear and sometimes even let mother nature plan the day ahead. Visiting the beaches may not be possible when it is raining; however, those who make it to this beautiful little hamlet in Kerala during monsoons are sure to be mesmerised by its tranquil and refreshing ambience.

Summer (April - June)

The summer season, which begins in March and lasts till June, is the least recommended time to visit Varkala. The maximum temperature hovers around 39°C and can even exceed 40°C during the peak months of April and May. March can be a little bearable in this part of the country, but the levels of humidity are high. The sun may also not seem as gentle to make exploring the hamlet any convenient. Many do visit for the 10-day long Arattu Festival which is held every year either in March or April. A visit to the Janardhan Swamy temple, which is also the venue for the festival is advisable. The traditional dance form - Kathakali is performed in its most authentic way and must not be missed when attending the festival.

Events in Varkala

Sivagiri Pilgrimage

30th December - 1st January

The Sivagiri Pilgrimage aims at helping pilgrims achieve a thorough spiritual and physical clean up by indulging in a 10 day purification process.

Arattu Festival in Janardhanaswamy Temple

12th March 2019 to 21st March 2019.

One of the most significant festivals in Kerala, the ten day Arattu festival is celebrated in the Janardhanswamy temple with elephant processions, ornamental silk umbrellas and all night kathakali dances. The Arattu is more of a ritual than a temple festival. A grand procession, a ceremonial bath and serving of a sweet dish - Palpayasam; marks the festivities of the Arattu. Although it is celebrated twice a year in Kerala; March - April and October - November, it is held from 12th to 21st March 2019 in Janardhana Swamy Temple, Varkala.