Things to Do in Varkala

About 5 km away from Varkala beach is a unique red stone cliff that is popular amongst Varkala tourist places. The Cliff is filled with excellent restaurants to cherish wholesome cuisine from across the world. It is especially famous for freshly caught fish preparations. This busy location has a local flea market with souvenir shops. With a paranoiac view of the beach and the coastline, the hues of the fantastic sunrise and sunset can be enjoyed over a cup of coffee. 

The Kilimanoor palace hosts paintings and artwork created by one of the most famous artists that took birth in Kerala, Raja Ravi Varma. Spread over 15 hectares, the palace houses the studio where Raja Ravi Varma spent time creating his magnificent art pieces. The palace is a hub for art history enthusiasts and cultural buffs, because of its connection to the famous painter. besides that, the architectural design of the palace is marvelous and a sight to behold.

About 12 km south of Varkala is the lush, secluded island of Ponnumthuruthu perfect for a secluded trip. The gateway to the island is a 30-minute tour through the backwaters from Nedunganda. At Nedunganda, the starting point is peculiar — the jetty and the walkway to the ferry are made up of coconut husk, mud and the waste of choir.

Built by the Portuguese Missionaries, Saint Sebastian's Pilgrim Church Mongode is one of the religious places to visit in Varkala. Found on the banks of the backwaters of Varkala, with the dreamy ambience and serene location, this pilgrim centre for Christians is known for the procession of Saint Sebastian.

Varkala Aquarium, located near the Black Beach in Varkala, Kerala, is a three-story attraction perfect for families and marine life enthusiasts. The aquarium houses a variety of freshwater and marine species, including angelfish, arowanas, clownfish, and piranhas, displayed in well-maintained tanks.

One of its highlights is the unique spiral staircase, which offers visitors different angles to admire the aquatic life as they explore each level. The experience is made even more exciting with an in-house 3D theater that showcases the wonders of the underwater world.

Nestled in southern Kerala, Chilakoor Beach is a hidden treasure close to Varkala. Its peaceful environment, fine golden sand, and serene coconut groves, which accentuate rustic appeal, are well-known. Chilakoor Beach provides a crowd-free setting where you can savour early morning walks, gradual sunsets, and the soothing sound of waves. Your Varkala tour package has to include the beach since its peace and tranquilly are irresistible.

Locals often gather here in the evenings, but it is still a quiet and peaceful place. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking peace or on a family getaway, this beach delivers the perfect environment. It’s one of those lesser-known coastal spots that truly surprise you.

If you are looking to explore the traditional culture of Kerala and want to understand authentic art forms of the state, you must pay a visit to the Varkala Culture Center near the north cliff. The spectacularly designed building hosts a cultural evening every evening during the tourist season which consists of dance performances in the authentic Kathakali style by artists well-trained in the art form.

One of the most notable structures in the district is the lighthouse which was built in the 18th century by the British rulers. Visiting the lighthouse is one of the most fun-filled activities in Varkala – the pinnacle of the structure offers a bird’s eye view of the spectacular vistas around, the azure waters of the Arabian Sea and the pristine shores of the nearby beaches.

The Odayam Beach lies a few km ahead of Thiruvambadi beach and Cliff Beach. About 2kms away from the Varkala beach is this small oasis of splendour.

Thiruvambady Beach is a quiet black sand beach that is located in Varkala, Kerala. Known for its peaceful vibe and stunning natural surroundings, it's an offbeat location for travelers seeking less crowded, scenic shores. Being surrounded by coconut trees and rocky cliffs, the beach is ideal for early morning walks, watching the sunrise, or simply unwinding in nature’s lap, and a mist-include in your Kerala tour package. 

This beach is also a great spot for casual dolphin sightings. Though just a short walk from Varkala’s famous areas, Thiruvambady feels like a peaceful spot far from the busy tourist spots. Visitors can just sit here for hours and can also explore the local food items available from nearby shops.

Located on the Varkala Beach is the beautiful site of Balimandapam, one of the popular pilgrim locations amongst Varkala tourist places. Balimandapam facilitates pilgrims to perform Vavubali ritual at Papanasam.  Vavubali rituals are performed by individuals on the vavubali day to appease the spirit of their ancestors. The centre is popular during the Karkitakam(July-August) when hundreds of devotees visit the shrine.

Kappil Beach is a picturesque beach near Varkala, Kerala, where the backwaters meet the Arabian Sea. It’s one of those hidden gems that has fewer crowds, clean surroundings, and a calm, scenic environment. There is a narrow road between the sea and the backwaters that makes the view extra special. 

Visitors can walk along the road and spend some time beholding the beauty, spot ethereal sunset views, this beach provides it all. The nearby Kappil Lake adds more charm, offering a chance to spot birds or enjoy a boat ride. If you’re planning a relaxing time away from the usual tourist buzz, the Kappil Beach is a calm and refreshing choice.

Edava Beach, located in Varkala, Kerala, is a peaceful coastal retreat surrounded by lush palm trees and clear waters. The beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with activities like swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. Local surf schools provide lessons and equipment rentals, making it a great spot for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.

The beach is also renowned for its stunning sunsets, where the sky is painted with vibrant hues. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of the ocean and palm-lined shores. The breathtaking sunsets also offer a perfect setting, making it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Anjengo Fort, also known as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historic 17th-century fort located near Varkala in Kerala. Built by the British East India Company in 1695, it served as their first trading post and played a crucial role in the spice trade and military strategy. 

The fort witnessed the Attingal Rebellion, Kerala’s first uprising against British rule. Surrounded by scenic beauty, the well-preserved fort features laterite walls, bastions, and colonial structures. Nearby attractions include the Anjengo Lighthouse, St. Sebastian's Pilgrim Church and a Dutch cemetery, offering visitors both historical charm and stunning coastal views.

Varkala Beach is a sublime landscape with natural spring water. It is a beautiful stretch of sand renowned for its solitude. At the backdrop of crystal blue waters is the unique cliffs with sedimentary formation peaks. Sunsets at the Varkala Beach are pristine and excellent for a peaceful walk or a game of football along the beach. 

This beach is one of the adventures places to visit in Varkala with access to water sports like paragliding and surfing amongst others.The beach is also called as 'Papanasham' which means to wash away sins and the sacred water at Varkala is said to have medicinal and curative properties. 

It is therefore believed that a dip in the beach cleanses the body of impurities and the soul of all sins. Apart from the cliff, the beach also hosts the Balimandapam. The landscape can be enjoyed by the resorts found all across the location.

Location: Varkala Beach Rd, Varkala, Kerala.

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset.

About 2000 years old, the Janardhana Swami Temple is located on a steep hill at the entrance of the beach road. Facing the Papanasam beach, the temples’ proximity to the sacred water adds to the spiritual context.The temple reeks of architectural splendour and aesthetic appeal. The sanctum sanctorum is spectacular - it is circular, surmounted by copper sheets in a conical dome shape and wooden carvings of the nine planets on the ceiling.