Discover Varkala Cliff, Kerala’s iconic seaside paradise known for its dramatic red cliffs, golden beaches, natural springs, and peaceful vibes. Explore how to reach, top things to do, best time to visit, itinerary, stays, nearby attractions, and travel tips in this complete guide.
Introduction
Varkala Cliff is one of Kerala’s most stunning coastal destinations. Unlike any other beach in India, Varkala stands out for its tall laterite cliffs that drop straight into the blue Arabian Sea. These beautiful red cliffs create a magical backdrop, making it a favourite place for beach lovers, spiritual seekers, photographers, backpackers, and families.
The entire cliffside is lined with cozy cafés, yoga centers, shops, and homestays. Below the cliffs lies the famous Papanasam Beach — a calm and clean beach known for its healing and spiritual importance. Varkala offers a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, adventure, and culture, making it ideal for a slow holiday or a refreshing weekend escape.
How to Reach Varkala Cliff
From the Nearest Airport
Trivandrum International Airport (TVM) – approx. 45 km from Varkala Cliff
It is the closest and most convenient airport.
Travel Options from the Airport:
- Taxi/Cab: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Airport Bus to Trivandrum City + KSRTC Bus to Varkala
- Car Rentals available at the airport
From the Nearest Rail Station
Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station (VAK) –
Approx. 3 km from the Cliff
It is well-connected to major cities such as Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai.
From the railway station to the cliff:
- Auto-rickshaw: 5–10 minutes
- Taxi/Cab: 5 minutes
- Local buses also operate frequently towards the cliff area.
By Road from Nearby Major Locations
- Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram): 45 km / 1–1.5 hours
- Kollam: 35 km / 1 hour
- Kochi: 170 km / 4–4.5 hours
- Alappuzha: 110 km / 3 hours
- Kanyakumari: 120 km / 3 hours
Varkala is easily accessible via NH-66, and KSRTC buses, private buses, taxis, and rental scooters are available for smooth travel.
Top Things to Do at Varkala Cliff
1. Relax at Papanasam Beach
The golden sand, clean water, and peaceful vibe make it one of Kerala’s best beaches. Visitors also believe the water has spiritual cleansing properties.
2. Watch the Sunset from Varkala Cliff
Evenings are magical. The sky turns orange, pink, and purple while waves crash below — a breathtaking sight for photography lovers.
3. Café Hopping
The cliffside is filled with sea-view cafés serving continental, seafood, and Kerala cuisine. Popular ones include Darjeeling Café, Coffee Temple, and Clafouti.
4. Try Paragliding
For adventure lovers, paragliding over the cliffs gives a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the sea and coastline.
5. Yoga & Ayurveda
Varkala is known for its Ayurvedic wellness centers offering massages, detox therapies, and yoga sessions. It’s perfect for rejuvenation.
6. Explore the North Cliff & South Cliff
North Cliff is lively and full of cafés, while South Cliff is quieter and ideal for peaceful walks.
7. Visit the Natural Spring
The cliff has natural springs believed to have healing properties. Local people use this water for bathing and rituals.
8. Surfing & Watersports
Varkala has soft waves perfect for beginners. Surfing schools offer training and rentals.
Best Time to Visit
October to March (Peak Season)
Pleasant weather, calm sea, and ideal for all outdoor activities.
April to June (Summer)
Hot but manageable. Fewer crowds and cheaper stays.
July to September (Monsoon)
Cliffs and greenery look stunning. Not ideal for swimming due to rough seas, but perfect for peaceful stays and Ayurvedic treatments.
Ideal Trip Duration
2 to 4 days is perfect to explore Varkala Cliff, enjoy the beach, visit nearby places, and relax.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Cliff Walk
- Check into your cliffside stay
- Walk along Varkala Cliff
- Enjoy café hopping
- Sunset at Papanasam Beach
Day 2 – Beach Day & Activities
- Morning at Papanasam Beach
- Try surfing or paragliding
- Visit the natural spring
- Enjoy seafood dinner with sea view
Day 3 – Explore Nearby Places
- Visit Janardanaswamy Temple
- Explore Anchuthengu Fort
- Visit Kappil Beach & Backwaters
- Evening back at the cliff
Day 4 – Relaxation & Departure
- Morning yoga session
- Ayurvedic massage
- Explore shops for handicrafts
- Depart with refreshed mind
Best Types of Stays in Varkala
1. Cliff-View Resorts
Perfect for travellers who want stunning sea views, sunrise/sunset scenery, and direct access to cafés and shops.
2. Beachside Cottages
Ideal for those who want to stay close to the water with peaceful surroundings and easy beach access.
3. Boutique Hotels & Homestays
Cozy, personalised stays run by local families offering warm hospitality. Great for budget and mid-range travellers.
4. Ayurvedic Retreats & Wellness Centers
Recommended for people seeking relaxation, detox programs, yoga retreats, or Ayurvedic therapies.
5. Backpacker Hostels
Affordable and lively accommodation options with shared spaces. Best for solo travellers and budget explorers.
Nearby Stay Areas Where You Can Book Hotels, Resorts or Homestays
1. North Cliff (0 km – walking distance)
- Most popular stay area
- Best for cliff-view cafés, nightlife, shopping, and sea-facing stays
2. South Cliff (1–2 km)
- Quieter and less crowded
- Best for peaceful stays, wellness retreats, and meditation centers
3. Odayam Beach (2–3 km)
- Calm and scenic neighbourhood
- Surrounded by coconut groves and beachfront homestays
4. Kappil (6–7 km)
- Perfect for travellers seeking luxury resorts
- Backwater + Beach views make it ideal for romantic and family holidays
5. Edava (6–8 km)
- Serene village near the backwaters
- Great for boutique homestays and nature stays
6. Vettoor (3–4 km)
- A quiet local area
- Offers affordable hotels and homestays away from crowds
7. Thiruvambadi Beach Area (1–1.5 km)
- Small and peaceful beach zone
- Good for budget travellers, foreign tourists, and long-stay visitors
Top Places to Visit Nearby
1. Janardanaswamy Temple (2 km)
An ancient 2,000-year-old temple known as the “Benares of the South”.
2. Kappil Beach & Backwaters (7 km)
A beautiful stretch where the sea meets still backwaters.
3. Anjengo Fort (Anchuthengu Fort) – 12 km
Historic fort built by the British East India Company.
4. Edava Beach (7 km)
A quiet and clean beach great for peaceful walks.
5. Varkala Aquarium (2 km)
A fun place for families to explore marine life.
6. Sivagiri Mutt (4 km)
A spiritual center founded by the great reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
7. Ponmudi Hills (65 km)
If you want a break from beaches, visit these lush green hills.
Why Varkala Cliff Should Be in Your Travel List
- Unique landscape with dramatic cliffs meeting the sea
- Perfect balance of relaxation and adventure
- Great for solo travellers, couples, and families
- Beautiful sunsets and peaceful beaches
- Authentic Kerala culture, food, and wellness treatments
- Budget-friendly options for all kinds of travellers
- A slower, calmer alternative to Goa and other crowded beaches
Whether you want to unwind, explore, or enjoy nature, Varkala Cliff delivers a memorable experience.
Final Travel Tips
- Carry light cotton clothes, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- The cliff paths can be uneven — wear comfortable footwear.
- Avoid swimming during monsoon due to strong waves.
- Book stays in advance during peak season (December–January).
- Respect local customs, especially near temples and springs.
- Try Kerala dishes like appam, seafood, and puttu for authentic flavors.
- Keep the beach clean and avoid plastic usage.
Varkala Cliff is not just a beach destination — it is an experience filled with beauty, calmness, culture, and adventure. Whether you are planning a holiday to relax or explore, Varkala has everything you need for a refreshing and unforgettable trip.