Cliff beach walk and sunset viewing
2 hours | Easy
Where to visit
PlanMyOffbeat destination photo recordWhere to visit in Varkala?
Kerala, India
Quick answer
Varkala is a coastal town in southern Kerala renowned for its dramatic clifftop beaches and the unique phenomenon of laterite cliffs rising directly from the Arabian Sea. It is a spiritual destination home to the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple and has become a major wellness and yoga hub attracting travellers seeking both adventure and rejuvenation.
Varkala is a coastal town in southern Kerala renowned for its dramatic clifftop beaches and the unique phenomenon of laterite cliffs rising dire...
Shortlist
A compact starting point, kept useful for real travelers.
Janardhana Swamy Temple visit
1 hour | Easy
Ayurveda massage and treatment
Half day | Easy
Yoga and meditation classes
1 hour | Easy
Rock climbing and rappelling
3 hours | Moderate
Backwater boat tour
Half day | Easy
Swimming and water sports
2 hours | Easy
Odayam Beach
A quieter, less crowded beach with rock formations and natural rock pools perfect for photography and peaceful exploration. | 8 km
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Good first tap
Varkala offers one of India's most visually striking coastlines with golden-sand beaches backed by towering cliffs, combined with a vibrant bohemian atmosphere, world-class wellness retreats, and spiritual heritage that make it ideal for both relaxation and exploration.
Best time
October to March
How to reach
From Trivandrum city, take NH66 north towards Varkala. The drive is approximately 52 km and takes 1.5 hours on well-maintained roads. Regular buses and taxis are available from Trivandrum.
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