Varkala

Varkala's beaches sit below dramatic laterite cliffs lined with cafés. It is an easy place to slow right down: morning swims, an ayurvedic massage, and fresh fish as the sun sets over the sea.

Places we love here

• Experiences

  Ayurvedic massage

  Many guesthouses offer massages. Choose places that are licensed and clearly explain the treatment.

• Experiences

  Golden Island backwaters

  A small temple island in the Anchuthengu backwaters reached by boat.

• Culture

  Janardhana Swamy Temple

  An old temple near the beach. Non-Hindus may have restricted access to the inner shrine.

• Nature

  Kappil beach & backwater

  Where the backwaters meet the sea a short drive north. Kayaking is sometimes available.

• Food

  Kerala fish curry meals

  Look for small local 'meals' places just off the cliff for fish curry and rice.

• Viewpoints

  North Cliff walk

  A clifftop path lined with cafés and views over the water.

• Lesser-known · lesser-known

  Odayam beach

  A quieter fishing-village beach between Varkala and Edava.

• Nature

  Papanasam beach

  The main beach below the cliffs, also a site for Hindu rituals.