Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Varkala – Beaches & Travel Guide

Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Varkala: Best Beaches, Attractions & Complete Travel Guide

Varkala, located along the beautiful coastline of Kerala, is one of India's most charming beach destinations. Famous for its stunning cliffs, golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking Arabian Sea views, Varkala offers a perfect escape for travellers looking to enjoy nature, relaxation, and coastal adventures.

Unlike many other beach destinations, Varkala is known for its unique cliffside landscape, where visitors can enjoy spectacular ocean views, explore vibrant cafes, experience Ayurvedic wellness, and watch unforgettable sunsets. Whether you are planning a romantic holiday, a family vacation, or a relaxing solo trip, Varkala has something special for everyone.

If you are exploring Kerala's coastal beauty, Varkala deserves a place on your travel list. In this guide, discover the top 10 tourist places to visit in Varkala, the best things to do, famous beaches, local food, and the best time to plan your trip.

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Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Varkala

1. Varkala Cliff

Varkala Cliff is the most iconic attraction in the destination and one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in Kerala. Rising above the Arabian Sea, this dramatic cliff offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.

The cliffside walkway is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, boutique shops, and small stores selling handicrafts and souvenirs. It is an ideal place to enjoy a leisurely walk, experience the local atmosphere, and watch the beautiful sunset.

Highlights: Cliffside cafes, ocean views, shopping, sunset photography, and scenic walks.

Enjoy more travel inspiration and discover beautiful holiday experiences through this YouTube travel video.

2. Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach)

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is one of the most famous beaches in Kerala. Surrounded by beautiful cliffs and golden sand, the beach offers a peaceful setting for relaxation and enjoying the Arabian Sea.

The beach is also traditionally associated with spiritual significance, and many visitors come here for religious rituals. Travellers can enjoy the coastal scenery, take photographs, and relax by the shore.

Highlights: Golden sand, sea views, beach walks, sunset views, and spiritual significance.

For more holiday inspiration and travel updates, explore this Facebook travel video.

3. Black Sand Beach

Black Sand Beach is a quieter coastal stretch near Varkala Beach, known for its distinctive darker sand and peaceful surroundings.

It is a lovely place for travellers who want to enjoy a less crowded beach atmosphere, admire the coastline, and spend some relaxing time away from the busier tourist areas.

Highlights: Unique black sand, peaceful atmosphere, coastal photography, and relaxing walks.

4. Kappil Beach

Kappil Beach is a beautiful coastal destination located a short drive from Varkala. It is famous for the scenic meeting of the Arabian Sea and the Kappil Lake backwaters.

The surrounding coconut trees, calm waterways, and open coastal landscapes make it a wonderful place for photography and peaceful sightseeing.

Highlights: Scenic coastal views, backwaters, coconut groves, and photography.

Discover more travel experiences and destination inspiration through this Instagram reel.

5. Kappil Lake

Kappil Lake is a picturesque backwater destination near Varkala, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery and coconut plantations.

Visitors can enjoy the calm atmosphere, admire the natural beauty, and explore the scenic surroundings. The nearby coastal roads also offer beautiful views of the lake and sea.

Highlights: Backwater scenery, peaceful surroundings, nature photography, and scenic drives.

If you enjoy exploring beautiful destinations, take a look at this Facebook travel post for more travel inspiration.

6. Janardanaswamy Temple

Janardanaswamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located near Varkala Beach. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is an important spiritual attraction and is known for its traditional Kerala architecture and religious significance.

Visitors interested in history, architecture, and local culture can explore the temple surroundings while respecting its religious customs and dress guidelines.

Highlights: Ancient architecture, spiritual atmosphere, cultural heritage, and traditional rituals.

7. Sivagiri Mutt

Sivagiri Mutt is an important spiritual and cultural destination in Varkala, associated with the great social reformer and spiritual leader Sree Narayana Guru.

Situated on a peaceful hill, the ashram attracts visitors interested in spirituality, history, and the teachings of social equality and universal brotherhood.

Highlights: Spiritual heritage, peaceful surroundings, historical importance, and cultural learning.

Explore more travel updates and holiday inspiration through this Facebook post.

8. Anjengo Fort (Anchuthengu Fort)

Anjengo Fort, also known as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historic coastal landmark located near Varkala. Built by the British East India Company, the fort reflects an important chapter in Kerala's colonial history.

The surrounding area offers beautiful coastal scenery and a glimpse into the region's historical significance.

Highlights: Colonial history, heritage exploration, coastal views, and photography.

9. Ponnumthuruthu Island (Golden Island)

Ponnumthuruthu Island, popularly known as Golden Island, is a beautiful green island located in the Anjengo backwaters near Varkala.

The island is known for its peaceful natural surroundings and the ancient Shiva-Parvati temple. Visitors can reach the island by boat, depending on local services and weather conditions.

Highlights: Boat rides, backwater scenery, lush greenery, and spiritual attractions.

For more travel inspiration, explore this Instagram travel reel.

10. Edava Beach

Edava Beach is a scenic and relatively peaceful beach destination near Varkala. Known for its beautiful coastline and natural surroundings, it offers a relaxing atmosphere for visitors who want to explore quieter coastal areas.

The nearby Edava-Nadayara Lake region adds to the area's natural charm, making it an interesting destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Highlights: Peaceful beaches, coastal landscapes, lake views, and nature photography.

Best Things to Do in Varkala

Varkala is more than just a beach destination. It offers a wonderful combination of relaxation, adventure, wellness, and cultural experiences.

• Enjoy a Beach Walk: Take a relaxing walk along Varkala Beach and admire the beautiful Arabian Sea.

• Watch the Sunset at Varkala Cliff: Enjoy breathtaking sunset views from the famous cliffside walkway.

• Explore Cliffside Cafes: Experience local and international cuisines at the charming cafes overlooking the ocean.

• Try Water Activities: Depending on sea conditions and operator availability, enjoy activities such as surfing and other permitted water sports.

• Experience Ayurvedic Wellness: Relax with traditional Ayurvedic therapies and wellness treatments at reputable centres.

• Explore Backwaters: Discover the peaceful beauty of Kappil Lake and nearby backwater landscapes.

• Enjoy Local Shopping: Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, beachwear, and locally made products.

• Explore Local Culture: Visit temples, heritage attractions, and spiritual destinations around Varkala.

Make your holiday planning more exciting with additional travel inspiration from this YouTube Short.

Best Time to Visit Varkala

Varkala is a beautiful destination throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferred travel experience.

Winter Season (October to February)

Winter is generally the best time to visit Varkala. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for beach sightseeing, cliff walks, outdoor activities, and exploring nearby attractions.

Summer Season (March to May)

Summer can be hot and humid, but travellers can still enjoy beach views, coastal cafes, and relaxing stays. Early mornings and evenings are more comfortable for sightseeing.

Monsoon Season (June to September)

During the monsoon, Varkala becomes greener and more refreshing. However, heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions may affect beach access, swimming, surfing, and other water activities. Always follow local safety instructions.

For more holiday ideas and travel updates, explore this Facebook post.

Famous Food to Try in Varkala

Varkala offers a wonderful food experience, with a combination of traditional Kerala flavours and international cuisine. Some popular dishes and food experiences to try include:

• Kerala Fish Curry

• Appam with Stew

• Puttu and Kadala Curry

• Kerala Sadya

• Malabar Parotta

• Prawn Roast

• Karimeen Pollichathu

• Fresh Coconut Water

• Banana Chips

• Traditional Payasam

You can also explore the cafes around Varkala Cliff, which offer a variety of Indian, continental, and seafood dishes.

Discover more travel inspiration through this Facebook travel update.

How to Reach Varkala

By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, approximately 40–45 km from Varkala, depending on the route. Taxis and private transfers are available from the airport.

By Train: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is well connected to several major cities in Kerala and other parts of India. It is one of the most convenient ways to reach the destination.

By Road: Varkala is connected by road to Trivandrum, Kollam, Alleppey, and other major destinations in Kerala. Private cabs and buses are available for travellers.

Travel Tips for Visiting Varkala

• Carry comfortable beachwear, light cotton clothes, and sunscreen.

• Wear comfortable footwear for walking along the cliff and coastal areas.

• Check sea conditions before swimming or participating in water activities.

• Follow lifeguard instructions and avoid entering restricted swimming zones.

• Carry a light rain jacket if travelling during the monsoon.

• Book accommodation in advance during the peak winter season.

• Respect local customs when visiting temples and religious places.

• Keep beaches clean and avoid littering.

You can also explore more travel content through this Instagram post and this additional travel update.

Explore Varkala with Tourist Point

Experience the beautiful coastal charm of Kerala with a memorable holiday in Varkala. From the breathtaking views of Varkala Cliff and peaceful beach walks to scenic backwaters, spiritual landmarks, and relaxing Ayurvedic experiences, this destination offers the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration.

With Tourist Point, you can plan a customised Kerala holiday that matches your travel preferences, budget, and schedule. Combine Varkala with popular destinations like Munnar, Thekkady, Kochi, and Alleppey to discover the diverse beauty of God's Own Country.

Explore our Kerala Tour Packages and plan a memorable journey with comfortable stays, convenient transfers, and personalised travel experiences.

For more destination ideas, travel updates, and holiday inspiration, visit Tourist Point.

Discover Kerala's coastal beauty with Tourist Point and make your next holiday truly unforgettable!