Region
Kerala
Best time
November to March
Ideal stay
2 nights
Type
Domestic
Varkala: what to expect
Varkala is a cliff-top beach town, with cafes and guesthouses on the red laterite cliffs and a long beach below. It is calmer and more relaxed than many beach destinations.
The Janardhana Swami Temple is a pilgrimage site, and Papanasam Beach is regarded as sacred.
Who should visit Varkala
- Couples and solo travellers who like cafes and sunsets
- Beach lovers who want a quieter place than Goa
- Travellers ending a Kerala circuit with some beach time
Best time to visit Varkala
| When | Conditions | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Nov – Mar | Dry and pleasant | Best season |
| Apr – May | Hot and humid | Cheaper |
| Jun – Sep | Monsoon | Rough sea, swimming restricted |
How to reach Varkala
Varkala is about 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram, an hour by road, and has its own railway station.
Top places and experiences in Varkala
Varkala Cliff
A cliff walk lined with cafes and shops.
Papanasam Beach
A beach with a temple at its edge.
Janardhana Swami Temple
An old Vishnu temple.
Kappil Lake
A backwater a short drive away.
Sivagiri Mutt
A spiritual centre founded by Sree Narayana Guru.
How long to stay and what packages look like
A comfortable stay in Varkala is 2 nights.
Varkala beach break
Two nights on the cliff.
Varkala and Kovalam
Two beaches in one plan.
Varkala with backwaters
Includes Kappil.
What affects the cost of a Varkala trip
We do not publish a fixed price because it changes with season and choices. These are the factors that move it most:
- Cliff-view versus inland stay
- Season
- Transport from Thiruvananthapuram
Ask each agent for an itemised quote so you can compare hotels, transport, entry fees and meals separately.
Planning your Varkala trip?
Post your travel requirement on QuoteMyTrip and receive multiple tour plans and quotes from travel agents.
- Free for travellers
- Multiple tour plans and quotes
- Compare before you decide
- No obligation to book
Where to stay in Varkala
North Cliff
Cafes and guesthouses, lively.
South Cliff
Quieter.
Papanasam area
Close to the temple.
Travel tips for Varkala
- Check lifeguard flags before swimming
- Dress modestly in temples
- Carry cash for small cafes
- Avoid swimming in monsoon
Frequently asked questions
Is Varkala good for swimming?
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Only where lifeguards are present, and not in monsoon.
Varkala or Kovalam?
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Varkala is quieter with cliffs; Kovalam is more resort-like.
How many days?
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Two nights.
How can I compare Varkala packages?
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Post your dates, group size and budget on QuoteMyTrip. Travel agents can respond with Varkala plans and prices that you can compare side by side.
Related pages
Related articles
Planning your Varkala trip?
Post your travel requirement on QuoteMyTrip and receive multiple tour plans and quotes from travel agents.
- Free for travellers
- Multiple tour plans and quotes
- Compare before you decide
- No obligation to book