Places to Visit in Varkala in 2 Days/3 Days

Fed up of the daily hustle of life? Or the numerous trekking trips and need a coastal getaway? Varkala in Kerala is an underrated gem that is bound to impress you with its beaches and cliffs. To make your trip easier, we have crafted a guide that will shed light on the activities and places you can visit in Varkala in 2 or 3 days. Read our guide and find out why Varkala might be your next destination, ideal for families and couples alike.

Why Varkala?

Natural Beauty : While there are many serene beaches, rocky cliffs and rich local culture out there, why does Varkala stand out? Firstly, Varkala has the best of them all, catering to the preferences of everyone. The notable red laterite cliff and the magnificent Arabian Sea with pleasant waves, make it a fascinating destination. 

Spiritual and Cultural Attractions : Well the destination goes beyond fun, it is an important spiritual and cultural attraction. Some of the prominent  sites where devotees may pay their dues is the Janardhana Swamy Temple and Papanasam Beach, where devotees take a dip. The name translates to “washing away sins” in Sanskrit, thus making the beach sacred.

Adventure Activities : Perhaps the most famous adventure activity in Varkala is surfing. This activity is ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers too with various beaches offering different conditions. Apart from these, visitors can also indulge themselves in trekking the rocky cliffs or paragliding to mix things up.

Day 1 Itinerary: Exploring Varkala

• Morning : Head to the Varkala Beach and Papanasam Beach for a morning stroll and yoga.
• Late Morning : Vist the Janardhana Swamy Temple. This temple is considered to be nearly 2000 years old and is dedicated to Lord Visnu.
• Afternoon : Eat lunch at some of the surrounding cafes such as Café del Mar and Darjeeling Café. Follow this up by trekking to the Varkala Cliff.
• Evening : Capture the gorgeous sunset at the Black beach.

Day 2 Itinerary: Adventure and Relaxation

• Morning : Dive into water spots and begin by taking a surfing lesson. Visitors can also opt for paddleboarding and paragliding if available.
• Late Morning : Drive to the Kappil Beach and enjoy the serene backwaters.
• Lunch : Enjoy lunch at a beachside cafe, the popular ones include Clafouti or The Juice Shack.
• Afternoon : Head to Sivagiri Mutt, an ashram founded by Sree Narayana Guru, around 2 to 3 kilometers away from Varkala.
• Evening : Conclude your day with an  Ayurvedic Spa, enjoy the Ayurvedic massage and therapy sessions.

Day 3 Itinerary (For a 3-Day Trip)

• Morning : Visit the Ponnumthuruthu Island, also known as the Golden Island. It is located approximately 10 kilometers away from Varkala and houses the  ancient Shiva-Parvati temple.
• Late Morning : Explore the Anjengo Fort, a major historical landmark near Varkala accompanied by the lighthouse.
• Lunch : Have a traditional Sadhya meal
• Afternoon : Head to the local markets and explore the cultural heritage.
• Evening : Watch the sunset from the Varkala Cliff.

Additional Activities and Nearby Attractions

• Varkala Tunnel : Visitors can explore the Varkala Tunnel, built during the 19th century. This was utilised heavily by the British for their water transport, having a length of over 1000 meters. Additionally, the tunnel was also crucial in transferring goods from Trivandrum to Kollam. Completed way back in 1877, this tunnel is a product of excellent craftsmanship. 
• Yoga Centres : Varkala is also famous for its immense wellness centres and yoga sessions, allowing visitors to unwind. The sessions usually range from short term courses or quick sessions on yoga, education about  Ayurveda and medication and a detox session to free your brain from stress.
• Other day trips : Varkala is a great destination that paves the way for other one day trips during your stay. This includes a short day trip to Kollam, offering a houseboat ride on the Ashtamudi Lake. The Munroe Island, located around 40 kilometers from Varkala is also a popular spot, showing traditional life and lushful greenery. 

Suggested Travel Tips for a Varkala Trip

Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Varkala is during the pleasant months from October to March or Summer months.. Monsoon should be avoided due to the dangerous rain showers that enhance the surge of the water.

How to Get There : Travellers can drop off at the closest railway station, that is the  Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station. For the people coming by flight, the closest airport is the Trivandrum International Airport.

Where to Stay : There are various hotels available, both cheap and best or luxury, depending on your budget. The  Soul & Surf and Getaway Hotel are few famous options, it is important to check for basic amenities.

Packing Essentials : Carry comfortable clothes, trekking shoes, sunscreen, watergear and other essentials. 

Sample Budget for a 2-Day/3-Day Trip

Travel : The travel costs may range depending on the train and flight ticket. 

Accommodation : A luxurious beachside resort or hotel may be expensive and for affordable options under about INR 1,000 per night or mid range from INR 3000 – 4000 might also be suitable.

Food : It is important to calculate food expenses and check if the hotels are offering this service. Foods from local stalls may also be suitable or premium dining that may reach INR 3000 per head.

Total Estimated Budget

For a 2-day trip: INR 5,000-10,000 ( excluding train or flight ticket)

For a 3-day trip: INR 8,000-15,000 ( excluding train or flight ticket)

In conclusion, Varkala emerges as the perfect coastal paradise for everyone. Be it beach activities and outdoor sports or water games and trekking, it has about everything. The fascinating and serene beachside views while capturing a sunset with your loved ones is absolutely charming. Be it a quick day trip or a longer 2 day or 3 day trip to Varkala, this is the perfect escape. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Author

Nisha Patel

With a sharp eye for hidden weekend getaways, Nisha is an expert in planning refreshing escapes from the bustling city life. Whether it’s a serene lakeside retreat or a mountain hideaway, she helps readers uncover the perfect spots to recharge and reconnect.