(Dec,2021)
We had been planning for a year end trip for a long time now and were unable to narrow down to a place which would replicate the New year party mood of Goa minus the crowd! After days of research , we finally decided on Varkala! Varkala with its beautiful beaches, long line of cafes and laid back vibes seemed to be the perfect pick and yes it didn’t disappoint us at all!
Varkala is located in the southern part of Kerala at a distance of 51 Kms from Trivandrum. It humours almost every kind of traveller, no matter whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a foodie or a fitness fanatic who love their daily yoga! However, it has to be pointed out well in advance that you cannot expect huge resorts or hotels like Goa in Varkala. What you will find here are cute little airbnbs, hostels or mid range lodges/hotels. We would recommend ditching the hotels or lodges and going for airbnbs if you are in a group or with your partner and hostels if you are a backpacker or a solo traveller.
Before we go into the detailed itinerary, here are a few things which will help you plan your travel:
- Best time to travel: November to Feb
- Ideal number of days: 2-4 days
- Major Attraction: North Cliff, beaches, ayurvedic and yoga retreats
Day 1:
We reached Varkala via air and landed at Trivandrum airport. From there we hired a cab and reached the beach town, at a distance of about 51 Km. It took us close to an hour and a half to reach our hotel which was located on the North Cliff. There are also buses and trains from Trivandrum to Varkala. This was the best location for us because all the cafes and shopping spots are located right on the North cliff. However, if you are staying a bit further, you will have to hire a bike which is easily available anywhere in Varkala to reach the North Cliff. We were staying at Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort but we wouldnot recommend the stay as the rooms and food was quite average.
You can look at the below options for your stay:
1. Clafouti Beach Resort- Right on the Varkala North cliff. Good rooms and great food
2. Cliff Stories- Perfect for backpackers and solo travellers. Located on the south cliff. You may have to hire a scooter to reach the North cliff
3. Trip is life – This is an exclusive stay for people seeking for luxury. This is a sea facing villa with a plunge pool in it. Approximate cost – Rs. 25,0000 to 30,000 per night
The weather was quite sunny and we were extremely hungry. Hence, after completing the checkin formalities, we quickly changed into something more comfortable before heading out to the North Cliff cafes for lunch.
Here are a few recommendations for great cafes on the North Cliff:
1.Darjeeling Cafe– Vibrant cafe with a menu of mixed cuisine & a bar, offering views over the ocean. Famous for its momos and chinese
2.Abba Restaurant and Everest German Bakery- Great for bakery items, sea food and their beer along with the open air venue
3.Cafe Del Mar – Excellent view with a combination of strong beer. Their steaks and pasta are too good!
5.Cafe Italiano – Just like the name suggests, famous for italian food
6.Soul Food Cafe-Filling English breakfast, stunning views and great service
7.Jairam Cafe – Amazing chinese and north indian food!
After lunch, we headed over to The beach below the cliff which is most popular with travellers. This beach is suitable to sunbath, swim and also surf in a bikini . But be aware, the current here is really strong. You can also enjoy shopping here while walking back to the hotel.
After spending some quality time on the beach, we headed over to the hotel for finally taking some rest. The rest of the evening was spent relaxing in the hotel.
Day 2:
The next morning we headed over to the Coffee temple. We hired a local auto to reach there. This is the perfect place to be if you are looking for great coffee and coversation! The host here named Leslie prepares the coffee all by himself and may even cook up a special treat for you on request.
We spent the rest of the day enjoying some water sports at the Kovalam beach. The best way to reach Kovalam is by taking a cab or auto from your residence or from the central town square. You can also take the local bus to the nearby bus stand.
You should also enjoy watching the sunset against the beautiful Kovalam lighthouse.
Day 3:
After having some quick breakfast, we headed over to the Kappil beach. Take a dip in the glittering water, take a soothing walk, or have some fun picnic time. It has white sands and a hill close by, from where you can enjoy the spectacular views.
You may also visit the Temples of Varkala . Janardhana Swami temple is a must visit for the religious souls
Day 4: This was our final day at Varkala. We decided to just walk on the North Cliff road and soak in all the beauty. However,you can either plan Kayaking through the mangroves in Nedungolam, Paravur, in the district of Kollam. This is located at a distance of 18kms from Varkala and is perfect for a half-day trip, one can go on 4km kayaking during morning or evening.
You may also plan a relaxing massage on the beach/the ayurvedic massage centres on the cliff.
This was our second trip to Varkala in the same year. We would advise not to take our word for this, just come down and experience the magic that is Varkala and we are certain you will want to come back. The beaches, authentic food and traditional massage but most importantly the vibe, is sure to find a very special place in your heart.
The Benjabi recommendation:
- Ditch the hotels/resorts and stay at an Airbnb/hostel
- Café hopping in Varkala North Cliff
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-By The Benjabi Affair
A Bengali girl and a Punjabi boy having found their common love for travel and tea
The Benjabi Affair 