Visit Janardanaswamy Temple
Varkala Town 1.5 hrs
Explore this ancient Vishnu temple, a significant pilgrimage site known as 'Dakshin Kashi'.
Where to stay
Hotels in Varkala
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At a glance
Climate
Tropical monsoon
Languages
Malayalam and English and Hindi
Local currency
INR
(INR)
Local time
(GMT+5)
Ideal trip length
3–7 days
Cost level
2 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
North Cliff
Tap water
Bottled water recommended
Tipping
Not mandatory but appreciated for good service
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
60 · Moderate
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Kerala Fish Curry
Appam
Puttu and Kadala Curry
Sadya
When to visit Varkala
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: December
Busiest: Oct-Mar
-
Jan90
Dry, sunny, pleasant
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Feb85
Warm, dry, sunny
-
Mar70
Hot, humid, sunny
-
Apr60
Very hot, humid
-
May50
Pre-monsoon showers
-
Jun30
Heavy monsoon rains
-
Jul25
Heavy monsoon rains
-
Aug35
Monsoon subsiding
-
Sept60
Post-monsoon, green
-
Oct80
Pleasant, less humid
-
Nov90
Ideal, clear skies
-
Dec95
Peak season, cool
Things to do in Varkala
8 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 8 of 8 places ·
Best in the morning
3 places
Take a Surfing Lesson
Papanasam Beach 2 hrs
Learn to ride the waves with professional instructors at Varkala's beginner-friendly surf spots.
Join a Yoga or Meditation Session
North Cliff 1.5 hrs
Participate in a class overlooking the ocean, embracing Varkala's spiritual atmosphere.
Best in the afternoon
3 places
Explore Edava Beach & Kappil Lake
Edava 3 hrs
Discover serene backwaters meeting the sea, perfect for boat rides and tranquil walks.
Visit Anjengo Fort and Lighthouse
Anjengo 2.5 hrs
Explore the ruins of a historic British fort and climb the lighthouse for panoramic views.
Attend a Local Cooking Class
North Cliff 3 hrs
Learn to prepare authentic Kerala dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
Any time of day
2 places
Relax at Varkala Cliff & Beach
North Cliff 3 hrs
Enjoy the iconic red cliff views, golden sands, and vibrant cafes along the Arabian Sea.
Experience Ayurvedic Treatments
North Cliff 2 hrs
Indulge in traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies for rejuvenation and healing.
Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Varkala
Straight-line distance from the centre of Varkala.
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