Things to do in Varkala
Things to do in Varkala
Varkala, perched on dramatic red laterite cliffs above the Arabian Sea in Kerala, is unlike any other beach destination in India — a bohemian clifftop promenade of yoga centers, Ayurvedic treatment centers, seafood restaurants, and beach boutiques overlooking the strikingly beautiful Papanasam Beach below. According to Hindu belief, a dip in the Papanasam Beach's waters washes away sins, and the ancient Janardhanaswamy Temple overlooking the sea adds deep spiritual significance to this natural paradise. Varkala's unique clifftop character, the mesmerizing Arabian Sea sunsets, and the availability of traditional Kerala Ayurveda make it one of South India's most distinctive beach destinations.
- No photoLeisure / ScenicView full guide
1–2 hours
Varkala Cliff Walk
Walk the dramatic red laterite cliffs of Varkala with the Arabian Sea crashing against the rocks below and a string of colourful yoga cafes, spice shops, and art galleries lining the cliff-top promenade. This scenic stroll is the defining experience of any Varkala visit and looks incredible at every hour of the day.
- No photoSpiritual / BeachView full guide
1–2 hours
Papanasam Beach Ritual Swim
Papanasam Beach at the base of the cliffs is considered sacred in Hindu tradition — a dip here is believed to wash away sins, and it's a common destination for last rites and memorial rituals. The beach is also simply beautiful for swimming with strong waves and a dramatic cliff backdrop.
- No photoWellnessView full guide
1.5–3 hours per session
Ayurvedic Treatment Session
Varkala is one of the best places in Kerala to experience authentic Kerala Ayurvedic treatments at clinics run by certified vaidyas. Abhyanga (full-body oil massage), Shirodhara, and Njavara treatments here use locally sourced herbs and oils prepared fresh — a world apart from commercial spa imitations.
- No photoNature / AdventureView full guide
1.5–2 hours
Kappil Lake Backwater Canoe Tour
A short 5-kilometre drive north of Varkala lies the tranquil Kappil Lake, where canoe trips through narrow mangrove channels and quiet backwaters offer a peaceful counterpoint to the cliff scene. Watch traditional fishing boats, kingfishers, and egrets from your canoe as you drift through this quiet slice of Kerala.
- No photoSpiritual / HeritageView full guide
1 hour
Janardana Swami Temple Visit
At the northern end of Varkala beach stands the 2,000-year-old Janardana Swami Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and perched dramatically at the cliff edge. The temple's antiquity, colourful gopuram, and sea-facing location make it one of the most atmospheric Hindu temples in Kerala.