Kerala, India
Kollam: Approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Varkala, a journey of about 1 hour by road or train. Frequent local trains and buses connect Varkala to Kollam. Auto-rickshaws or taxis move passengers. Kollam the gateway to Kerala's southern backwaters. Experience backwater cruises on Ashtamudi Lake, the historic Thangassery Lighthouse, and Mahatma Gandhi Beach. Kollam is easy to explore independently by train or bus. For backwater cruises, book an organized boat trip upon arrival in Kollam or through a Varkala-based tour operator. Find Day Trips to Kollam on GetYourGuide.
Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum): Approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) south of Varkala. The drive or train journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Frequent trains and buses connect Varkala to Trivandrum. Taxis move passengers for a full day. As Kerala's capital city, Trivandrum has urban attractions and cultural sites. Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple (strict dress code applies, only Hindus enter inner sanctum), the Napier Museum, Sri Chitra Art Gallery, Kowdiar Palace, and Shanghumukham Beach. Poovar Island, with its estuary and golden sand beach, is a short drive from Trivandrum. Trivandrum is easy to explore independently by train. For convenience, especially to visit multiple sites, hire a taxi for a full day.
Beyond Varkala's main cliff and beach, other natural spots offer tranquility and different coastal views.
Located just north of Varkala, this area is ideal for a quiet escape. It is famous for its unique estuary where Kappil Lake meets the Arabian Sea, separated by a narrow road. It is perfect for photography, leisurely walks, and experiencing a peaceful coastal environment.
A small, tranquil island surrounded by backwaters, accessible by a short boat ride from Nedunganda (a small village near Varkala). The island hosts a 100-year-old Hindu temple. It is a serene and spiritual retreat amidst nature. It a peaceful spot for contemplation and enjoying the calm backwaters.
Deepen your knowledge of Kerala's heritage by visiting historical and cultural sites near Varkala.
This historic British fort and lighthouse are a short drive south of Varkala. It glimpses Kerala's colonial past and scenic views of the coastline from the lighthouse.
Located just a few kilometers from Varkala Cliff, this important spiritual and pilgrimage center dedicates itself to Sri Narayana Guru, a prominent social reformer. It a serene environment and cultural significance, especially during its annual pilgrimage.
Explore Varkala's surrounding villages by bicycle or auto-rickshaw. This view into rural Kerala life, traditional houses, paddy fields, and coconut groves, away from tourist areas.
The fort dates back to the 17th century, built by the British East India Company.
Sivagiri Mutt is the headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP), an organization promoting the teachings of Sri Narayana Guru. His philosophy focused on equality and social reform.
For those with more time, combine Varkala with other iconic Kerala destinations for a comprehensive experience.
These towns are the heart of Kerala's famous backwaters, offering serene houseboat cruises and traditional village life. Direct trains connect Varkala to Alleppey. Buses also operate regularly. The journey takes a few hours.
Direct trains connect Varkala to Kochi (Ernakulam Junction or Ernakulam Town). Buses also operate regularly. The train journey takes around 3-4 hours.
A refreshing escape to the Western Ghats, Munnar known for its sprawling tea plantations, cool climate, and misty mountains. No direct train to Munnar. Take a train or bus to Aluva or Ernakulam (Kochi), then hire a taxi or take a local bus to Munnar. The journey from Kochi to Munnar takes approximately 4-5 hours by road.
The southernmost tip of mainland India, where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge. It is culturally distinct from Kerala. Direct trains connect Varkala to Kanyakumari.
Each destination offers an unique facet of South Indian culture and nature. Pre-booking accommodation and major train tickets is always advisable, especially during peak travel seasons.
Popular destinations book up quickly.
Comfortable and scenic for longer distances.
A local guide enriches the experience at historical sites.
