Places to Visit in Varkala

Flaunting one of the best cliff beaches in Kerala, Varkala is a lesser known yet absolutely paradisiacal destination that houses forts, pilgrimage sites, springs, natural fisheries and more.

Varkala Landscape Image
Varkala Landscape Image
Varkala_beach
Varkala_religious

Things To See & Do

Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach

Stunning Cliff Beach
Also known as Papanasham Beach, it is popular for the natural spring, which is believed to have medicinal properties and can also wash away sins.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Janardhana Swamy Temple

Janardhana Swamy Temple

An ancient temple in Kerala
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, praying at this 2000-year-old temple is believed to cure devotees of all their ailments. Its architectural beauty and magnificent idols are a plus.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Kappil Lake

Kappil Lake

A Serene Estuary
Surrounded by lush coconut groves, the best views of the tranquil lake can be enjoyed from atop the bridge that spans across the lake.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Bekal Fort Near Varkala

Bekal Fort Near Varkala

Kerala’s Largest Fort
Sprawled over 40 acres, this centuries-old fort towers up to about 130 feet above sea level. Its magnificent keyhole-shaped architecture overlooks the gorgeous Bekal Beach.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Anjengo Fort

Anjengo Fort

A Historical Landmark
Also known as Anchuthengu Fort, this majestic fort built during the British era served as their first trade settlement in Kerala. It flaunts fascinating architecture and a picturesque setting.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Ponnumthuruthu Island

Ponnumthuruthu Island

A Stunning Backwater Island
Also known as Golden Island, this quaint island surrounded by Anjengo backwaters flaunts a scenic setting, and is famous for an ancient Shiva Parvati Temple.

3-4 hours

Suggested Time

Thiruvambady Beach

Thiruvambady Beach

A Black Sand Beach
Nestled near the North cliff amidst swaying coconut palms, this peaceful and secluded beach is the perfect place to escape the city bustle.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Best Time To Visit Varkala

All year round destination

  • OCT-MAR

    Peak Season

  • APR-MAY

    Moderate Season

  • JUN-SEP

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant and balmy days with clear skies.
  • Things You'll Love:Indulging in water sports, exploring the tourist attractions and attending the local festivals.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

1/2

Arattu FestivalMarch and October

NavratriOctober

ThrikarthikaNovember

Book Your Trip to Varkala

From

Travel Options to reach Varkala

Our Recommendations

Flight to Cochin Airport, then Train to Varkala

Booking Options Starting From

₹7,686

BOOK NOW

Flight to Thiruvananthapuram Airport, then Train to Varkala

Booking Options Starting From

₹7,097

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Stay in Varkala

Recommended Options

VIEW ALL

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹3,184

EXPLORE
Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort

Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort

Varkala Beach

3.7/5

₹3,654

Onwards

Black Beach Resort

Black Beach Resort

Varkala Beach

3.3/5

₹3,044

Onwards

Blue Water Beach Resort

Blue Water Beach Resort

Odayam Beach

3.9/5

₹2,854

Onwards

4 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹7,106

EXPLORE
Sajjoys

Sajjoys

Varkala Beach

4.4/5

₹5,660

Onwards

Gateway Varkala - IHCL SeleQtions

Gateway Varkala - IHCL SeleQtions

Mundayil Road

4.3/5

₹9,000

Onwards

Elixir Cliff Beach Resort and Spa

Elixir Cliff Beach Resort and Spa

Aaliyirakkam Beach

4/5

₹6,659

Onwards

5 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹8,089

EXPLORE
Private Sea View Villa - Privasea

Private Sea View Villa - Privasea

Edava Beach

4.7/5

₹9,499

Onwards

Solaris Beach View Resort Varkala By VOYE HOMES

Solaris Beach View Resort Varkala By VOYE HOMES

Edava Beach

3.8/5

₹6,680

Onwards

Places to Visit in Varkala - A Treasured Coastal Glory of Kerala


Varkala is a coastal town of Keralaaccessible easily from Thiruvananthapuram. It is a hidden treasure where you can explore natural beauty. The city is also known for its high tourist footfall, especially hippies, and is great for spiritual retreats. You can explore numerous places to visit in Varkala for 3 days or more and get to know this coastal paradise.


Panoramic Attractions to Visit in Varkala


Explore some amazing places to visit in Varkala with friends and family, soaking in the picturesque vistas.

  • Varkala Cliff:This location is among the top places to visit in Varkala for 2 days or less for its picturesque coastline against the Arabian Sea.
  • Janardhana Swamy Temple:Visit this revered religious pilgrimage destination for blessings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is 2000 years old and is among the best places to visit in Varkala for couples seeking divine blessings.
  • Sivagiri Mutt:This popular ashram located in the heart of the city is a must-see on your first city visit for its extensive holistic practices.
  • Anjengo Fort:The magnificent Anjengo or Anchuthengu Fort from the British era is one of the best tourist places in Varkala. History buffs love visiting it for its impressive architecture.

Other must-visit picturesque places here include - 

  • Ponnumthuruthu:Visit this golden island for its century-old Shiva-Parvathi statue.
  • Jatayu Earth’s Centre:The largest bird sculpture in the world is located here, making it a top photography and exploration destination.
  • Varkala Bali Mandapam:Witness the popular ritual Bali Tharpanam here.

Top Beaches in Varkala


Varkalais home to some of the most mesmerising beaches in India. These are also among the best places to visit in Varkala with family or friends.

  • Varkala Beach:Sunbathe on this quiet hamlet with shimmering sandy stretch.
  • Kappil Beach:Capture picturesque frames at this scenic stretch of the Arabian coast with golden sand and soothing sunsets.
  • Black Sand Beach:Experience the unique black sand bed and absorb the relaxing vibes of this beach which is among the best places to visit in Varkala at night.
  • Odayam Beach:Visit this secluded beach with laid-back vibes and pristine golden sands for time away from the city rush.

Activities in Varkala


In Varkala, you can also try various exciting activities like - 

  • Mangrove Forest Kayaking
  • Jet Skiing and Parasailing
  • Exploring cafe culture
  • Varkala Aquarium Visit
  • Local Handicraft Stores Visit
  • Temple Visits

Tourist Places in Varkala

Anjengo Fort, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Thiruvambady Beach, Ponnumthuruthu Island, Kappil Lake

State

Kerala

Best Time to Visit in Varkala

October to March

Things to Do in Varkala

Bekal Fort Near Varkala, Varkala Beach, Hindustan Beach Retreat, Indigo Homestay, Palmtree Bungalow

Places to visit in Varkala with Family

Deshadan Cliff & Beach Resort, InDa Hotel, Boho's Hotel, The Sanctum Spring Beach Resort, Trattorias

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Varkala

What are some of the most famous restaurants and eateries to explore in Varkala?

If you are a foodie, Varkala is the right place for you. Varkala has many famous restaurants and eateries for you to explore, some of which are Cafe del Mar, Darjeeling Cafe and ABBA.

What are the best places to visit in Varkala?

The most loved attractions in Varkala are Varkala Beach, Janardhana Swamy Temple and Kappil Lake.

What is the best time to visit Varkala?

Ideally the best time to visit any place is considered when the weather conditions are delightful. For Varkala, you can choose to go in October, November, December, January, February and March which is the peak season and July, August and September which is the moderate season. Both will serve you well to unwind from your tedious routine.