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Things to Do in Varkala

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a six-kilometer stretch of golden sand, azure waters, and redstone cliffs in the back. Bordered by coconut trees and blissful serenity, Varkala Beach is a rejuvenation point for those who wish to escape the bustle of the city. 

It is popular for its spiritual significance, as it is believed that a dip in the waters will wash away one’s sins. The natural springs gushing out from the cliffs are said to have medicinal properties that can cure any ailment. You can take a walk along the shore, collect seashells, watch fishing boats on the horizon, and bask in the sun while witnessing the magical sunset view.

Location: Varkala Beach Rd, Varkala, Kerala 695141

Visiting the 2000-year-old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is one of the most important things to do in Varkala for religious travellers and cultural buffs. Perched on the top of a cliff near Varkala Beach, Janardhana Swamy Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

The temple features traditional Kerala-style architecture with a high arched entrance, a copper dome over the circular sanctum, a square mandapa with wooden carvings of Navagrahas and Chakra Tirtha, and two ancient bells. If you visit the temple in March or April, you can witness the famous Arattu festival.

Location: Near Papanasam Beach, Varkala, Kerala 695141

Timings: 4 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 8 PM

Nature lovers visiting Varkala should not miss a trip to the Kappil Beach nestled between the Edava Lake and the Arabian Sea. Known for its pristine beauty, calm backwaters, lush greenery, and scenic views, Kappil Beach offers a wide range of things to do in Varkala. 

The serene ambiance of the beach makes it an idyllic spot for relaxation where you can take a leisurely walk, dip your toes in the clear waters of the sea, and enjoy stunning sunset views. You can also take a boat ride through the Kappil backwaters, see traditional fishing boats and huts, and indulge in birdwatching to spot native and migratory birds.

If you are travelling with kids, visiting the Varkala Aquarium is one of the must-do things in Varkala since it is highly educational as well as fun. The aquarium is a three-story building with a spiral staircase, and marine species are exhibited along the walkway. The aquarium hosts different species of marine creatures like scorpion fish, jellyfish, angel fish, koi fish, turtles, and the local karimeen. 

There is also a 3D theater in the aquarium where kids can learn more information about other species of aquatic animals. As you come out of the building, you will be greeted by a cool sea breeze and lovely views of the Varkala Cliff and Arabian sea.

Location: Odayam Hatchery, Thiruvambadi Beach, Thiruvananthapuram, Varkala.

Timings: 10 AM to 6:30 PM

Entry Fee: INR 30 per person

The 300-year-old Kilimanoor Palace is a heritage building that hosts paintings and artworks created by Raja Ravi Varma. Spread over 15 acres of land, the palace is now a museum and houses the studio where Ravi Varma spent time creating his magnificent art pieces. 

The architectural design of the palace features several traditional residential styles of Kerala, like Nalukettu structure, ponds, wells, and sacred groves, which you can conveniently explore with a Kerala tour package. After a tour around the palace, you can spend some time in the peaceful ambiance of the lush green courtyards and beautiful gardens outside.

Location: MC/SH 1 Road, Thiruvananthapuram, Kilimanoor, Kerala.

Timings: 11:30 AM to 5 PM

Varkala is the only destination in South India where you can witness the confluence of hills with the sea. Towering cliffs edging out towards the calm waters of the Arabian sea makes it the perfect place to engage in some of the most exciting water sports. 

Jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, and banana boat rides are some of the fun and thrilling water sports in Kerala, especially in Varkala, for adventure seekers who love adrenaline rushes. The water sports in Varkala are guided by experienced instructors who will assist you and make sure the safety measures are in place to provide seamless fun and excitement. You can book a Varkala tour package to enjoy these adventurous activities along with a relaxing beach holiday.

Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM

Varkala Cliff is a unique laterite formation against the Arabian Sea that has been recognized as a geological monument. Varkala Cliff has rough terrain and is dotted with palm trees and lush greenery, making it a favorite spot for leisurely strolls and sunset views. 

Apart from the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Varkala Beach, the cliff also features a bustling atmosphere with a plethora of cafes and markets. You can either climb down the cliff and take a quick dip in the Varkala Beach, eat a delectable snack at Darjeeling Cafe, shop for souvenirs at the evening markets in North Cliff, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings at South Cliff.

If you visit Varkala and don’t eat at Café Del Mar, your holiday in the town will forever remain incomplete. Famous among locals and tourists alike, the cafe is a hotspot around the area for its excellent food and professional services. Apart from the scrumptious dishes, the cafe also features candlelit tables and is therefore the perfect place to spend a romantic evening with your loved one.

God’s Own Country Kitchen is another popular restaurant in Varkala where you can relish the most delicious seafood in a vibrant ambiance. You can dine under the open sky at the upper deck and take in the stunning views of the sea, while the live band performances truly elevate your dining experience.

In case you are looking for offbeat things to do in Varkala, you could enrol in a yoga session. There are several studios and ashrams on the Varkala Cliff that let tourists take a two-hour yoga class and learn from professionals. There could be nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating than a peaceful yoga session and meditation on the top of a hillock surrounded by the sea and palm groves. 

Certified instructors offer personalised guidance with modifications in yoga poses to accommodate all body types. Varkala also hosts Ayurvedic centres and spas where you can indulge in therapeutic massages, learn about herbal remedies for ailments and receive dietary recommendations for holistic wellness, making these some of the most enriching things to do in Kerala.

Visiting Ponnumthuruthu Island is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Varkala because it is an uninhabited island on Anjengo Lake, which can be reached by kayaking through the backwaters. Spread over 5 hectares and located 12 km from Varkala, the island offers a stunning backdrop adorned with dense coconut groves and a tranquil atmosphere. 

The island is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts since it is home to numerous migratory birds and exotic species of aquatic life. Religious devotees can also pay a visit to the 100-year-old Shiva Parvathi Temple, located on the island, and spend some time meditating in the holy aura of the place. 

Location: Ponnumthuruthu Island, Onnampalam Rd, Nedungada, Vettoor-cherunniyoor, Kerala.

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM