Varkala Cliff is one of the best and most beautiful cliffs in Kerala. It has been a significant tourist spot for international visitors because of its astonishing beauty. Varkala Cliff is made of red laterite rock. It is 24m in height and faces the Arabian sea.
One of the other reasons why Varkala is so famous is Sivagiri Mutt, which was built by the renowned social reformer and activist Sree Narayana Guru. The cliff is home to several natural mineral water springs and it is considered a sacred place by Hindus. You can witness several Hindu temples near it.
The beach below the cliff will blow your mind. Papanasam beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, meditation, and relaxation. In Kerala, Varkala is considered one of the best places to watch the sunset. It is a favorite place for photographers and amateur artists
Cliff has gained popularity among visitors and backpackers in recent years as a result of its laid-back vibe, lovely beaches, and closeness to other well-known tourist sites in Kerala, such as Trivandrum and Kovalam. On and around the cliff, there are a lot of affordable resorts and guesthouses, making it a convenient and cost-effective spot to stay.
Varkala Cliff is renowned for its vibrant nightlife in addition to its natural beauty and historic temples. Several clubs and restaurants located on the cliff offer live music and a variety of food and drinks.
Varkala Cliff is an overall lovely and distinctive location that has something to offer everyone, from the natural beauty and historic temples to the beaches and nightlife. For travellers, it is a must-visit location.
Exploring Varkala Cliff – Do’s and Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Do respect the Kerala culture and traditions. Remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes/slippers while visiting the temple/sacred places. Follow dress code | Don’t litter the environment and sacred places. Vrakala has a beautiful ecosystem, we need to preserve it |
| Do try local food. Kerala is famous for its Seafood, special snacks, dosa, vegetarian sadya, etc. | Don’t swim or sunbathe nude in public. In India, public nudity is illegal and against its culture |
| Do have a dip in the mineral water springs on the cliff. it is believed that this cliff has medicinal and healing properties which is one of the specialties of Varkala | Don’t overspend in shopping, it’s better to bargain if you are new to the city as some shoppers try to explore your innocence. Also, don’t buy things made from protected wildlife such as elephant ivory or turtle shells |
| Do explore Anjengo Fort and the Varkala Tunnel which is near Varkala to have a glimpse of the past | Don’t take photographs of local people without their permission as it can lead you to unwanted troubles |
3 Day Itenary for Varkala
This is a sample itinerary that I have prepared based on my experience you can alter based on your interests and feasibility.
Day 1:
- Arrive in Varkala by morning, then check into the hotel, guesthouse, or resort that you have reserved. (There are numerous homestays close to the cliff, so accommodation is not a problem)
- After refreshing, you can visit the Janardana Swamy Temple, a 2000-year-old temple
Have breakfast and take a walk along the cliff, enjoying the beautiful views of the sea and the beach below. You can sit and relax on the rocks - If you love shopping, then explore the local market and shops, where you can purchase souvenirs, clothes, and traditional Kerala handicrafts
- In the evening, start walking to Papanasam Beach to watch the mesmerizing sunset and enjoy a bonfire on the beach
Day 2:
- If you love yoga, start the day with yoga or meditation and rejuvenate yourself. Yoga and meditation classes are available near to cliff OR you can go to the beautiful Ponnumthuruthu island and explore the wildlife. You can see exotic migratory birds.
- Visit the famous pilgrimage center Sivagiri Mutt, it is the place where the samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru is situated.
- Have lunch, try a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant, and later watch a Kathakali dance performance at Varkala Cultural Center
- Evening, visit Kappil Beach, have fun picnic time
Day 3:
- Start the day by visiting Anjengo Fort and lighthouse, a 17th-century fort located near Varkala, which offers beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding greenery
- Visit the historic Varkala Tunnel which was used to transport goods in early days
- Head to Kilimanoor palace, and enjoy the arts and paintings by popular artist Raja Ravi Verma
- Before leaving Varkala have a walk to the cliff once again and have a walk through the beach, go for a swim, and fill your mind with some beautiful memories
- In the evening, pack your bags and prepare for your departure from Varkala.
Hope these details will help you to have a great stay and vacation. You can also check out my post about the 5 best hill stations in Kerala
Wish you a very Happy Vacation!