Quick Answer: What Are the Best Places to Visit in Varkala?

1. Varkala Cliff

Every destination has one location that eventually becomes its identity.

For Varkala, that place is undoubtedly Varkala Cliff. Unlike most beaches in India where cafés sit directly on the sand, Varkala’s restaurants and viewpoints stand dramatically above the Arabian Sea.

As sunset approaches, travellers gather along the cliff edge to watch the sky slowly change colors while waves crash below against the rocks.

The atmosphere changes again after dark. Cafés begin filling up, musicians perform live music in some locations, and travellers from different countries gather in one place.

Even if you stay in Varkala for four or five days, chances are you will find yourself returning to the cliff every single evening.

2. Varkala Beach

At first glance, Varkala Beach may seem like another beautiful beach in Kerala.

Spend an hour here and you begin noticing the difference.

The beach sits directly below the cliffs, creating one of the most unique coastal landscapes anywhere in India.

The waves attract swimmers and surfers while local fishermen continue traditions that have existed here for generations.

Locally, the beach is also known as Papanasam Beach because of the belief that bathing here washes away sins.

Whether you visit for spiritual reasons or simply to enjoy the scenery, Varkala Beach remains one of the most important places to visit in Varkala.

3. Kappil Beach

Very few places in India offer scenery quite like Kappil Beach.

On one side lies the vast Arabian Sea stretching towards the horizon.

On the other side lies a peaceful backwater lagoon surrounded by coconut trees and traditional fishing villages.

Between these two worlds runs a narrow road that has become one of Kerala’s most photographed locations and a favourite stop for travellers exploring Varkala.

Many visitors later describe Kappil Beach as the highlight of their Varkala trip because of its peaceful atmosphere and spectacular scenery.

Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful here, and the calm surroundings feel completely different from the busier Varkala Cliff area.

4. Odayam Beach

One of the biggest advantages of Varkala is that travelling just a few kilometers away from the main tourist area changes the atmosphere entirely.

Odayam Beach is quieter, less commercial, and significantly less crowded than the popular cliff and beach areas.

You won’t find loud music, busy cafés, or large crowds here.

Instead, you’ll find fishing boats resting on the shore, long stretches of golden sand, and a peaceful environment that feels increasingly rare in popular tourist destinations.

Many long-term travellers, remote workers, and digital nomads prefer staying around Odayam because it offers the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility.

It is the kind of place where spending an hour doing absolutely nothing somehow feels productive.

5. Edava Beach

Located between Varkala and Kappil, Edava Beach remains one of the least explored attractions in the region.

The combination of fishing boats, peaceful backwaters, and endless coconut trees creates a scene that feels more like a postcard than a tourist destination.

Unlike the lively atmosphere of Varkala Cliff, Edava offers silence, open spaces, and a slower pace of travel that many visitors rarely experience in popular beach towns.

Photography enthusiasts particularly love visiting during sunrise when the early morning light reflects beautifully across the water and fishing boats begin returning to shore.

If you’re looking for places to visit in Varkala away from the crowds, Edava Beach deserves a place near the top of your itinerary.

6. Janardanaswamy Temple

Not every traveller visits Varkala for beaches.

Some come searching for history, spirituality, and a deeper connection with Kerala’s cultural heritage.

Janardanaswamy Temple is believed to be over two thousand years old and remains one of Kerala’s most important temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The peaceful surroundings, traditional Kerala architecture, and spiritual atmosphere make it worth visiting even for travellers who are not particularly religious.

Many visitors spend time simply sitting in the temple complex and enjoying the calm environment away from the busy beach roads and tourist cafés.

7. Sivagiri Mutt

Founded by renowned social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, Sivagiri Mutt remains one of Kerala’s most respected spiritual and cultural centers.

Unlike the lively atmosphere of Varkala’s beaches and cafés, the mutt offers visitors a peaceful environment designed for reflection and learning.

The hilltop location provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape while creating a sense of calm away from the busy beach roads below.

Visitors often spend time here learning about Kerala’s social history, the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru, and the important role he played in shaping modern Kerala society.

Even travellers who are not particularly religious often appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and quiet surroundings.

8. Anchuthengu Fort

Built by the British East India Company during the seventeenth century, Anchuthengu Fort offers something completely different from Varkala’s beaches and cliffs.

The fort stands as an important reminder of Kerala’s colonial history and the region’s role in maritime trade during earlier centuries.

Visitors can explore the historic structure while enjoying beautiful views of the Arabian Sea stretching into the distance.

Unlike some of Kerala’s more famous historical sites, Anchuthengu Fort remains relatively uncrowded, making the experience feel more authentic and relaxed.

History enthusiasts often consider this one of the most underrated places to visit in Varkala and a worthwhile addition to any itinerary.

9. Ponnumthuruthu Island

Accessible only by boat, Ponnumthuruthu Island, often called the Golden Island, feels completely disconnected from the busy tourist areas of Varkala.

The journey itself becomes part of the experience as boats move slowly through peaceful backwaters lined with coconut trees and traditional Kerala villages.

Unlike the lively atmosphere of Varkala Cliff, the island offers silence, greenery, and a pace of life that feels refreshingly slow.

The island is home to an ancient temple and attracts both pilgrims and travellers looking for a peaceful escape away from crowds and commercial activity.

For visitors seeking authentic Kerala backwater experiences without travelling to Alleppey, Ponnumthuruthu Island offers an excellent alternative.

10. Mangrove Kayaking

While beaches receive most of the attention, kayaking through Kerala’s mangroves often becomes the most memorable part of a Varkala trip.

Unlike crowded water sports activities, kayaking allows travellers to explore narrow waterways surrounded by dense greenery, birds, and complete silence.

The experience feels less like an adventure activity and more like entering a hidden world that many tourists never discover.

Early morning sessions are particularly beautiful because of cooler temperatures, calmer waters, and better opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Many travellers who try mangrove kayaking later describe it as the unexpected highlight of their time in Varkala.

11. Darjeeling Café

No Varkala trip feels complete without spending at least one evening at Darjeeling Café.

Located directly on the famous Varkala Cliff, the café offers one of the most spectacular sunset views anywhere in Kerala.

As the evening approaches, travellers slowly begin filling the tables while the Arabian Sea stretches endlessly in front of them.

Watching the sun disappear below the horizon while enjoying fresh seafood, coffee, or local Kerala dishes has become almost a ritual for visitors arriving in Varkala.

Many travellers return here multiple evenings during their stay because no two sunsets ever feel exactly the same.

12. Black Sand Beach

Most visitors never discover Black Sand Beach because they spend their entire trip around the main cliff and beach areas.

Those who do find it often end up returning again before leaving Varkala.

The quieter surroundings and lack of crowds create a completely different atmosphere compared to the more popular beaches nearby.

Instead of beach cafés and busy walkways, you’ll find open views, peaceful waves, and the rare feeling of having an entire stretch of coastline almost to yourself.

For travellers looking to escape the crowds and experience a quieter side of Varkala, Black Sand Beach remains one of the destination’s best-kept secrets.

13. Varkala Aquarium

Families travelling with children often include the Varkala Aquarium in their itinerary, especially during longer stays in the town.

Although relatively small compared to some of India’s larger aquariums, it offers a pleasant indoor activity during hotter afternoons when spending long hours on the beach becomes less comfortable.

Visitors can explore different species of fish and marine life while enjoying a slower pace away from the busy cliff area.

For families travelling with younger children, the aquarium provides a welcome change from beaches, cafés, and sightseeing.

It may not be Varkala’s biggest attraction, but it serves as a convenient and relaxing stop during a full day of exploration.

14. Cliff Walk at Sunset

Interestingly, one of the best things to do in Varkala isn’t a monument, beach, or famous attraction.

It is simply walking along Varkala Cliff during sunset.

As the evening arrives, the sky slowly changes color, the Arabian Sea reflects shades of orange and pink, and cafés begin filling with travellers from around the world.

Street musicians start performing, conversations become quieter, and the entire atmosphere seems to slow down for a few hours.

Many visitors later describe this simple walk as the highlight of their trip because it captures everything that makes Varkala special—beautiful views, relaxed energy, and a feeling that time is moving a little slower than usual.

Varkala is one of the few places in India that encourages exactly that.

Best Time to Visit Places to Visit in Varkala

Travellers planning monsoon trips can also explore our list of Best Places to Visit in Monsoon in India for more seasonal travel ideas.

Visitors can check seasonal updates, festivals, and travel information through the official Kerala Tourism website.

What Is the Cost of Exploring Places to Visit in Varkala?

Where to Stay While Exploring Places to Visit in Varkala

Most first-time visitors prefer staying near Varkala Cliff because of easy access to beaches, cafés, and transportation.

How to Reach the Best Places to Visit in Varkala

Varkala is well connected by road, rail, and air.

Train schedules and railway information can be checked through Indian Railways IRCTC before planning your journey.