1622193048 nature photographer 29ezcwtmtnm unsplash.jpg?w=60&h=60&dpr=1
Best Kerala Tour Packages
1638770094 shutterstock 545452072.jpg?w=60&h=60&dpr=1
Kerala Sightseeing Tour Packages

Activities to Do in Varkala

If you planning a trip to Kerala, you’ll be surprised to know there is an array of things to do in Varkala that will make your trip memorable. Whether you are traveling with family and want to spend some quality time celebrating picnic, or looking for some spiritual guidance, you will find everything you are looking for in Varkala. Enjoy beaches that are immaculately clean and witness the stunning vistas.

Visit historically important forts and buildings that tell the story of British rule in India. Experience a bird’s eye view of the blue waters of Arabian sea from the beautiful lighthouse.
Indulge in delightful cuisines at the trendy cafes and restaurants around. Visit islands that are uninhabited and untouched by modern lifestyle. Varkala truly offers the best of everything.

Whether you are here for just a day or are looking for an extended holiday in the beautiful town – you can find all the information you need here. Check out this list of interesting activities in Varkala and plan your vacation in the most efficient manner possible.

Here are some of the best things to do in Varkala:

Image description
Bigger Group? Get special offers upto 50% off!
We create unforgettable adventures, customised for your group.
Connect with a group tour expert
Full Name
Email
Phone number
Travel Date
Traveller Count
Message
Best Kerala Tour Packages Explore All (30)
Explore All (30)
Explore All (11)
01

Visit Varkala Beach

Image Credit : samayam.com

One of the most interesting activities in Varkala is to visit the beach just 10 km from the quaint hamlet and offering spectacular views of the pristine, azure waters of the sea. The beach is famously known for its natural spring that is considered to have medicinal properties.

The locals believe that taking a dip in the holy waters of the beach can cure the body of its ailments and the soul of its sins. Every year, hundreds of tourists visit the beach to enjoy the calm and serene surroundings as well as to purge themselves of their wrongdoings.

Location:
Varkala Beach Rd, Varkala, Kerala.

Timings:
 The beach is open 24 hours and 7 days of the week.

Price:
 No entry fee.

Planning a Kerala trip, Checkout: Kerala Trip Packages

02

Visit Janardhana Swami Temple

Image Credit : templepurohit.com

Visiting Janardhana Swami Temple is one of the most religious experiences and most important things to do in Varkala for cultural buffs and devotees of the Hindu religion. Besides, the marvelous architecture of the temple also attracts architects alike. The high arched entrance and tile roof make for an opulent and grandiose styled building.

The proximity of the temple to the beach also allows one to take a leisurely walk in the sun after spending some time at the temple. Visit the temple in March/April to enjoy the main festival Arattu where people pay homage to their ancestors.

Location:
Near Papanasam Beach, Varkala, Kerala 695141

Timings:
All days of the week, 5:30 AM - 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Price:
 No entry fee.

Planning a honeymoon trip, Checkout: Kerala Honeymoon Packages

03

Enjoy the Gorgeous Views of Arabian Sea at Kappil Beach

Image Credit : tanyadokter.com

Known as one of the best-kept secrets of Kerala, this beach is a gorgeous place to spend a day. Viewing the glittering waters of the Arabian Sea from the untouched sandy beaches of Kappil is one of the most calming and soothing things to do in Varkala. Relax on the beach with a cocktail and watch the days roll by.

Enjoy beautiful orange sunsets and dip your toes in the pristine waters of the sea. Go for a relaxing walk on the golden sand with your partner. Build sandcastles with your little ones. Enjoy your vacation to the fullest here.

Location: 
Near Paravoor, Kollam, Kerala

Timings:
All days of the week except Sunday, 12:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

Price:
 No entry fee.

Planning a trip to Kerala? Checkout our best-selling Kerala Family Packages

04

Visit Anjengo Fort and Light House

Image Credit : wre.com
Since Anjego Fort and Light House are located only a small distance from each other, visiting the them at Anchuthengu is one of the most interesting things to do in Varkala. The fort is remembered as one of the most important historical sites as it was the first British settlement in India.

The architectural design is admirable in itself and the picturesque settings make it an ideal spot for a picnic. The lighthouse is also known to have guided British ships to shore and from the vantage point, it offers awe-inspiring views of the sea. The European architecture is a tourist attraction too.

Location:
Anchuthengu, Kerala.

Timings:
8 AM to 5 PM, every day.

Price:
 No entry fee.

Planning a trip to Varkala, Checkout: 
Varkala Tour Packages
05

Attend Yoga Classes

Image Credit : production.yoga.in

Kerala is a hub for yoga and dabbling in some of these classes can be one of the most interesting activities in Varkala. There is a deluge of studios and ashramas offering yoga classes to noobs and experienced practitioners in Varkala. Whether you are a beginning and looking to learn the basics of the trade or want to deepen your skills, there is something for everyone here.

Experience meditation and soul searching at the next level with the help of some of the most authentic teachers and expert gurus. Most of the schools are surrounded by natural greenery, palm trees and offer classes in open, pollution free environs – thus adding to the serene experience.

Location:
Varkala

Timings:
 Varies according to different ashramas and schools.

Price:
 Variable according to the school.

Click here to book: Kerala Tour Package For Family

06

Visit Varkala Aquarium

Image Credit : punjabkesari.in

Sandwiched between Black Beach and Odayam Beach, Varkala’s aquarium offers the perfect place to spend a day with your loved ones far away from the tourist-thronged destinations in Varkala. Visiting the aquarium can be one of the most interesting things to do in Varkala for your kids.

Watch large tanks of water with exotic species of aquatic life displayed in them. The spiralling walk along the premises of the aquarium offers spectacular views of various fish, like scorpionfish, angelfish, koi, and the local karimeen, in their natural habitat. It is truly a delight for animal lovers and curious souls.

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

Timings:
10 AM to 6.30 PM, every day.

Price:
Adults - INR 30, Child - INR 15

Also Checkout: Kerala Group Tour Packages

07

Visit Varkala Lighthouse

Image Credit : wikimedia.org

One of the most notable structures in the district is the lighthouse which was built in the 18th century by the British rulers. Visiting the lighthouse is one of the most fun-filled activities in Varkalathe pinnacle of the structure offers a bird’s eye view of the spectacular vistas around, the azure waters of the Arabian Sea and the pristine shores of the nearby beaches.

The European-style architecture of the lighthouse also serves to act as a tourist hotbed. The eminent building with its provincial structure and eye-pleasing perspective of the nearby territories is a must-visit tourist destination in Varkala.

Location:
Anchuthengu, Kerala.

Timings:
8 AM to 5 PM, every day.

Price:
 No entry fee.

Checkout Best Deals On: Kerala Tour Packages From Mumbai

08

Explore the Local Culture at Varkala Culture Center

Image Credit : pinimg.com

If you are looking to explore the traditional culture of Kerala and want to understand authentic art forms of the state, you must pay a visit to the Varkala Culture Center near the north cliff. The spectacularly designed building hosts a cultural evening every evening during the tourist season which consists of dance performances in the authentic Kathakali style by artists well-trained in the art form.

The whole experience is one of its kind and transports you to an otherworldly dimension. You can also enjoy the martial prowess of Kalaripayattu masters here.

Location:
Near North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala.

Timings:
6.30 AM to 9 PM, every day.

Price:
INR 250 per person.

Also, Check: Kerala Tour Packages From Mumbai

09

Visit Kilimanoor Palace

Image Credit : keralatourism.org

The Kilimanoor palace hosts paintings and artwork created by one of the most famous artists that took birth in Kerala, Raja Ravi Varma. Spread over 15 hectares, the palace houses the studio where Raja Ravi Varma spent time creating his magnificent art pieces. The palace is a hub for art history enthusiasts and cultural buffs, because of its connection to the famous painter. besides that, the architectural design of the palace is marvelous and a sight to behold.

Constructed in the traditional residential style of Kerala’s many buildings, the palace is made of small and large buildings, ponds, wells and sacred groves that are fun to explore with your family and friends.

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

Timings:
11.30 AM to 5 PM

Price:
 No entry fee.

Recommended Read: Kerala Tour Packages From Ahemdabad

10

Visit Ponnumthuruth Island

Image Credit : hlimg.com

Visiting Ponnumthuruth Island is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Varkala because it is one of the most beautiful uninhabited islands of Kerala. Spread over 5 hectares and located just 20 from the Varkala, the island offers truly eye-pleasing vistas. The pristine turquoise waters of Akathumuri Lake surround the island and lend the whole island an extremely serene and tranquil feeling. 

Wildlife enthusiasts will find the place a perfect getaway because it is a hub for migratory birds and exotic species of water birds. Religious devotees and cultural buffs can also pay a visit to the 100-year-old Shiva-Parvathi Temple.

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

Timings:
6 AM to 6 PM, every day

Price:
 No entry fee.

Best Offers On: Kerala Tour Packages From Bangalore

11

Water Sports

Image Credit : petrapets.com

Varkala is the only place in South India where you can witness the confluence of hills with the sea. Towering, rocky cliffs edging out towards calm waters of the Arabian sea make for the perfect sight to engage in some of the most exciting water sports that you can engage in and one of the most fun things to do in Varkala.

Adventure seekers will find themselves completely at home enjoying jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush and some goosebumps-inducing experiences, this is the place to be for you.

Location:
Varkala, Kerala

Timings:
10 AM to 6 PM

Price:
Jet Skiing - Rs 450 onwards, Parasailing - Rs 1000, Banana Boat ride - Rs 300 onwards.

Must Check: Kerala Tour Packages From Chennai

12

Enjoy at Varkala Cliff

Image Credit : remotetraveler.com

Varkala beach and cliff are a ten-minute drive away from the town and provide a peaceful environment to soak in the natural beauty, dig your toes into the sand and experience relaxation like never before. The long, winding stretch of cliffs is lined by tall and beautiful coconut trees on both sides and a paved footpath runs along the entire length.

You can also enjoy various snacks on the cliff and buy a bunch of knick-knacks from handicraft shops. The immaculate Varkala beach can be reached by climbing down the steps from the top of the cliff.

Location: Varkala, Kerala.

Timings: No timing restrictions.

Price: No entry fee.

Must Check: Kerala Tour Packages From Delhi

13

Shopping

Image Credit : wikimedia.org

For the fashionistas and shopping lovers in you, there is nothing better than grabbing a friend and spend an afternoon in a shopping frenzy in the winding streets of Varkala. The lanes in the city are full of shops that sell everything from hippie clothing, Indian wear, and bamboo products, to Kerala-exclusive perfumes, incense sticks, soaps and oils, and funky jewellery. 

You can also hunt for an array of Tibetan handmade products like musical bowls, flutes, dorjees, prayer flags, and conches. Get some bargain deals and find beautiful and unique products at Varkala.

Location:
Varkala, Kerala.

Timings:
 No timing restrictions.

Price:
 No entry fee.

14

Eat at Cafe Del Mar

If you visit Varkala and don’t go to Café Del Mar – your holiday in the state will forever remain incomplete. Famous among locals and tourists alike, the café is a hotspot around the area for its excellent food and professional services. The café features candlelit tables and is therefore the perfect place to spend quality moments with your beloved and enjoy a romantic dinner date.

Coffee lovers will find it particularly delightful – the place is known around the area for serving the best filter coffee. Besides you can also enjoy various international cuisines, pasta, pizzas, stir-fries and fresh seafood here.

Location:
Near helipad, north cliff, Varkala, Kerala.

Timings:
7.30 AM to 10.30 PM, every day.

Price:
INR 190 - INR 400

15

Dine at God's Own Country Kitchen

If you are a food lover, one of the most fun activities in Varkala is to pay a visit to God’s Own Country Kitchen. Dig into the most delicious food you will ever eat in South India at this gorgeous restaurant. The Indian-international cuisines served will leave you licking your fingers and the spiced fish wrapped in banana leaf is known all over India for its exquisite deliciousness.

You can dine under the open sky at the upper deck and take in the stunning views of the city. Live band performances are organized sometimes to make the dine in experience truly memorable.

Location: Varkala, Kerala.

Timings: 8 AM to 10.30 PM, every day.

Price: INR 150 - INR 450
Newly Added Varkala Experience

Varkala Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Varkala

Varkala Travel Guides

More Things to do in Varkala

Popular Related Destinations

Places to Visit in India

Places to Visit in Delhi Places to Visit in Goa Places to Visit in Pune Places to Visit in Bangalore Places to Visit in Mumbai Places to Visit in Hyderabad Places to Visit in Jaipur Places to Visit in Chennai Places to Visit in Kolkata Places to Visit in Ladakh Places to Visit in Spiti Places to Visit in Andaman Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh Places to Visit in North East Places to Visit in Sikkim Places to Visit in Darjeeling Places to Visit in Meghalaya Places to Visit in Gangtok Places to Visit in Rajasthan Places to Visit in Uttarakhand Places to Visit in Kerala Places to Visit in Karnataka Places to Visit in Maharashtra Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh Places to Visit in Kashmir Places to Visit in Manali Places to Visit in Dharamshala Places to Visit in Shimla Places to Visit in Mcleodganj Places to Visit in Nainital Places to Visit in Mussoorie Places to Visit in Dehradun Places to Visit in Rishikesh Places To Visit In Jammu Places to Visit in Srinagar Places to Visit in Chikmagalur Places to Visit in Munnar Places to Visit in Kodaikanal Places to Visit in Ooty Places to Visit in Pondicherry Places to Visit in Wayanad Places to Visit in Coorg Places to Visit in Mysore Places to Visit in Lonavala Places to Visit in Alibaug Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar Places to Visit in Udaipur Places to Visit in Jodhpur Places to Visit in Jaisalmer Places to Visit in Mount Abu Places to Visit in Agra Places To Visit In South Goa Places To Visit In North Goa
Currency Picker
Commonly Used Currencies
INR -
Indian Rupee
USD - $
United States Dollar
EUR -
Euro
SGD - $
Singapore Dollar
AUD - $
Australian Dollar
GBP - £
British Pound
AED - د.إ
United Arab Emirates Dirham
All Other Currencies
ALL - L
Albanian Lek
AMD - դր.
Armenian Dram
ARS - $
Argentine Peso
AWG - ƒ
Aruban Florin
BBD - $
Barbadian Dollar
BDT -
Bangladeshi Taka
BMD - $
Bermudian Dollar
BND - $
Brunei Dollar
BOB - Bs.
Bolivian Boliviano
BSD - $
Bahamian Dollar
BWP - P
Botswana Pula
BZD - $
Belize Dollar
CAD - $
Canadian Dollar
CHF - CHF
Swiss Franc
CNY - ¥
Chinese Renminbi Yuan
COP - $
Colombian Peso
CRC -
Costa Rican Colón
CZK -
Czech Koruna
DKK - kr.
Danish Krone
DOP - $
Dominican Peso
DZD - د.ج
Algerian Dinar
EGP - ج.م
Egyptian Pound
ETB - Br
Ethiopian Birr
FJD - $
Fijian Dollar
GHS -
Ghanaian Cedi
GIP - £
Gibraltar Pound
GMD - D
Gambian Dalasi
GTQ - Q
Guatemalan Quetzal
GYD - $
Guyanese Dollar
HKD - $
Hong Kong Dollar
HNL - L
Honduran Lempira
HRK - kn
Croatian Kuna
HTG - G
Haitian Gourde
HUF - Ft
Hungarian Forint
IDR - Rp
Indonesian Rupiah
ILS -
Israeli New Sheqel
JMD - $
Jamaican Dollar
KES - KSh
Kenyan Shilling
KGS - som
Kyrgyzstani Som
KHR -
Cambodian Riel
KYD - $
Cayman Islands Dollar
KZT -
Kazakhstani Tenge
LAK -
Lao Kip
LBP - ل.ل
Lebanese Pound
LKR -
Sri Lankan Rupee
LRD - $
Liberian Dollar
LSL - L
Lesotho Loti
MAD - د.م.
Moroccan Dirham
MDL - L
Moldovan Leu
MKD - ден
Macedonian Denar
MMK - K
Myanmar Kyat
MNT -
Mongolian Tögrög
MOP - P
Macanese Pataca
MUR -
Mauritian Rupee
MVR - MVR
Maldivian Rufiyaa
MWK - MK
Malawian Kwacha
MXN - $
Mexican Peso
MYR - RM
Malaysian Ringgit
NAD - $
Namibian Dollar
NIO - C$
Nicaraguan Córdoba
NOK - kr
Norwegian Krone
NPR - Rs.
Nepalese Rupee
NZD - $
New Zealand Dollar
PEN - S/
Peruvian Sol
PGK - K
Papua New Guinean Kina
PHP -
Philippine Peso
PKR -
Pakistani Rupee
QAR - ر.ق
Qatari Riyal
RUB -
Russian Ruble
SAR - ر.س
Saudi Riyal
SCR -
Seychellois Rupee
SEK - kr
Swedish Krona
SLL - Le
Sierra Leonean Leone
SOS - Sh
Somali Shilling
SVC -
Salvadoran Colón
SZL - E
Swazi Lilangeni
THB - ฿
Thai Baht
TTD - $
Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
TZS - Sh
Tanzanian Shilling
UYU - $U
Uruguayan Peso
UZS - so'm
Uzbekistan Som
YER -
Yemeni Rial
ZAR - R
South African Rand
JPY - ¥
Japanese Yen
VND -
Vietnamese dong