Varkala

About Varkala

Varkala is a beautiful coastal town in Kerala, known for its cliffside beaches and peaceful atmosphere. The Varkala Cliff offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, with small cafés and shops lining the pathway. Varkala Beach, also called Papanasam Beach, is believed to have holy waters that wash away sins. The town is also home to the Janardanaswamy Temple, an ancient shrine visited by devotees throughout the year. With its golden sands, relaxed vibe, and mix of spirituality and natural beauty, Varkala is a perfect place to unwind by the sea.

Top Places to Visit in Varkala

Popular attractions and places to visit in Varkala

Best Time to Visit Varkala

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct-FebBest Window

Why visit

Calm seas and low humidity make cliff walks, beach time, and Janardhanaswami temple visits very comfortable. Best window for swimming at Papanasam Beach.

Keep in mind

December and January bring more tourists to the cliff area. Rates go up and the beach gets busier.

Show other seasons
Mar-May

Why visit

Quieter than winter peak. Mornings on the cliff are still pleasant.

Keep in mind

Humidity climbs toward June. Sea conditions get rougher.

Jun-Sep

Why visit

Very quiet with fewer tourists. Cliff greenery is at its best.

Keep in mind

Rough southwest monsoon seas make swimming unsafe. Most water activities stop.

How to Reach Varkala

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Varkala Sivagiri railway station is on the Thiruvananthapuram-Ernakulam line. Trivandrum airport (~55 km) is the nearest. NH66 connects Thiruvananthapuram to Kollam via Varkala.

Getting Around Varkala

Local transport and practical tips

Getting Around

Autos from Varkala railway station to the cliff (~3 km). Walking along the cliff promenade. Scooter rentals available on the cliff for beach-hopping.

Quick Tip

Varkala cliff path has no guardrails in places - stay well back from the edge especially at night.

Best Areas to Stay in Varkala

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Alleppey – Kumarakom canal belts

Houseboat mornings

Pickup jetties stay predictable when resorts coordinate timings.

Town-centre homestays

Food explorers

Thali breakfasts before toddy-shop cycling afternoons.

Beach cliff pockets (where applicable)

Sunset walkers

Sea breezes break inland humidity spikes.