Home to majestic cliffs, lush coconut trees, unspoiled beaches, and the mesmerizing Arabian Sea, Varkala is truly one of the best seaside getaways in India. Varkala is blessed with a postcard-worthy natural setting and still retains a quaint rustic charm. With its idyllic beaches, yoga and Ayurveda centers, and unspoiled vegetation, Varkala is an ideal destination to get back in touch with your life, soul and nature. Here is a complete list of amazing things to do in and around Varkala:
Beaches
Varkala’s biggest attraction is its spectacular beaches, some of the best in the country. The most popular beach in Varkala is Papanasam Beach, also known as Varkala Beach. Literally meaning ‘wash away sins’, taking a dip in the serene waters of Papanasam Beach is believed to wash away all your sins. This serene beauty of this beach is further accentuated by the rocky cliffs that flank its shoreline.
If it’s seclusion and privacy you’re after, head to Thiruvambadi Beach near Varkala. This secluded beach is one of the rare black sand beaches in India. Kappil Beach is another quiet and peaceful beach near Varkala. This beach has a stunning natural location bounded by the Arabian Sea to the west and to its right is Lake Edava Narayan. With a picturesque backwater lake next to the beach, this palm-fringed blue beach looks like something out of a postcard. Kappil Beach is also one of the few beaches in Varkala that is not lined with shacks and cafes, making it an ideal beach for photography.
Anjengo fort and lighthouse
Situated along a beautiful beach near Varkala, this 17th century fort was built by the British East India Company and served an important purpose during the Anglo-Mysore War. Anjengo is also known as Anchuthengu, which literally translates to 5 coconut trees in Malayalam. This fort is best explored on foot. Inside the fort there is a cemetery dating from 1704. A few steps from the fort is the lighthouse that served as a signal station for ships and cruise ships from England. Climb to the top of the tower for fascinating views of the Arabian Sea. The lighthouse is open every day between 9:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. While you’re here, also explore the nearby fishing village for a glimpse of Kerala’s rustic rural side.
Sivagiri Mutt
Sivagiri Mutt is worth a visit for the soul-seeking traveler. This mull was built in 1904 on top of Sivagiri Mountain by Sri Narayan Guru, a popular thinker and reformer. Every year thousands of pilgrims come here during Gurudeva Jayanti and hold vibrant processions, cultural programs, conferences and parties. A visit to Sivagiri Mutt is perfect for meditation and some quiet time.
Janardan Swami Temple
This 12th century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the most important temples and popular tourist spots in Kerala. According to local legend, the history of this temple dates back two thousand years. This beautiful temple has a stunning location amid coconut trees on a cliff overlooking Papanasam Beach.
Yoga and Ayurveda
If the paradisiacal tropical beaches and laid-back Varkala lifestyle haven’t soothed you enough, awaken your senses, mind, body and soul with tried-and-true Yoga and Ayurveda therapy. With several yoga centers, Varkala is a hotspot for yoga enthusiasts. Most of the popular yoga classes are located near the iconic Varkala Cliff. At Varkala you can take lessons in different types of yoga, including laughter yoga!
After a day well spent exploring and surfing, what better way to end it than with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage! Along with massages, you can pamper yourself with Ayurvedic therapies and treatments.
Shopping
Shop till you drop at the colorful street market near North Cliffs in Varkala. If customization is what you are looking for, look no further; Many stores accept orders for tailored clothing, from skirts to kaftans to dresses! In addition to clothing, you can also buy scarves, sarongs, CDs, spices, trinkets, and tea and coffee powders.
Food
Being a seaside town, Varkala is a seafood lover’s paradise. Most restaurants, cafes, and thattukadas (street vendors) serve a variety of local delicacies and seafood. But thanks to the influx of Western tourists you can find European, Chinese, Mexican and Tibetan restaurants. One of the must-visit cafes is the cozy Kerala Mama Kumari’s Home. Make sure you’re hungry because at this family-run cafe you can savor a splendid 14-course authentic Kerala vegetable meal served on a banana leaf.
Perched high on the famous Varkala cliffs, Vedanta Wake Up! It is the perfect base for exploring Varkala. In Vedanta Wake Up! You can stay in tastefully designed organic bamboo huts, a truly tropical experience.