Places to Visit in Varkala: Cliff, Beach, Temples, and Easy Day Trips

Quick answer: what is Varkala best for?

Varkala is best for travellers who want a beach stay with views, cafes, cliff walks, temple visits, and a relaxed coastal mood. It is easier to slow down here than in a busy sightseeing city.

Most people should plan Varkala as a two-night beach stop, not as a rushed half-day visit.

• Best for: cliff views, beach time, wellness stays, cafes, and sunsets
• Easy trip length: 2 nights for a relaxed stop
• Good route pair: Varkala with Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, or Alleppey

Best places to visit in Varkala

Varkala is simple to enjoy because the main places are close to the coast. Add one or two nearby stops only if you have enough time.

1. 

   1

   Varkala Cliff

   Best for sea views, cafes, and sunset walks

   The cliff is the main Varkala experience. Walk slowly, stop for views, use the cafes when the sun is strong, and keep sunset free if the weather is clear.

2. 

   2

   Papanasam Beach

   Best for the main beach below the cliff

   Papanasam Beach sits below the cliff and is the easiest beach to include in a Varkala stay. It has religious importance too, so keep the visit respectful and follow local sea warnings.

3. 

   3

   Janardanaswamy Temple

   Best for a cultural stop near the beach

   Janardanaswamy Temple is a well-known temple close to the beach side of Varkala. It is a good short stop when you want more than cafes and sea views.

4. 

   4

   Sivagiri Mutt

   Best for a quiet spiritual visit

   Sivagiri Mutt is linked with Sree Narayana Guru and has a calm atmosphere. Visit when you want a peaceful break from the beach area.

5. 

   5

   Kappil Beach and Backwater

   Best for a quieter side trip

   Kappil is where the lake and sea mood come close together. It is a good half-day add-on if you have already enjoyed the main cliff area.

6. 

   6

   Odayam and Edava Beaches

   Best when the main cliff feels busy

   Odayam and Edava are calmer beach options near Varkala. Choose them when you want less crowd, a slower walk, or a more relaxed coastal afternoon.

A simple Varkala plan

Keep your first evening for the cliff and sunset. Use the next morning for the beach or temple visit, then keep the afternoon slow.

• Day 1: Arrive, walk the cliff, watch sunset, and have dinner near the sea.
• Day 2: Visit Papanasam Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, or Sivagiri Mutt, then rest.
• Optional Day 3: Add Kappil Beach and backwater before moving to the next destination.

Who will enjoy Varkala?

Varkala suits couples, friends, solo travellers, and families who want simple beach time. It is also useful at the end of a Kerala route because the pace naturally becomes slower.