Kerala, India
Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea are the major mobile network providers in India. They good coverage, including 4G and increasingly 5G services in most areas. Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at major international airports (Trivandrum or Cochin) or from local mobile shops in Varkala Town.
Most guesthouses, hotels, and cafes on the North Cliff offer free Wi-Fi for their guests. The quality and speed of Wi-Fi vary from place to place.
A post office is located in Varkala Town. Use it to send postcards to friends and family or for sending parcels if you purchase larger souvenirs.
Malayalam is Kerala's official language. English is widely understood and spoken by people in the tourism industry on the North Cliff (hotel staff, restaurant waiters, tour guides). Its prevalence decreases away from tourist areas. Hindi some people understand, especially those from other parts of India.
For consistent internet on the go, consider a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi.
Operating hours vary for businesses and services in Varkala.
Cliff shops: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (later in high season). Cliff restaurants/cafes: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM. Varkala Town shops: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Government Offices: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Mon-Fri.
Banks: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Mon-Sat. Closed Sundays & public holidays. ATMs: Several on North Cliff, more in Varkala Town. Generally accessible 24/7. Withdraw cash during daylight hours; carry smaller denominations.
India observes national and regional holidays. Services may be limited. National holidays: Republic Day (Jan 26), Independence Day (Aug 15), Gandhi Jayanti (Oct 2). Major Kerala festivals: Onam, Diwali, Christmas, Eid. Banks and government offices close. Tourist businesses may have altered hours. Public transport gets busy.
Some guesthouses and restaurants on the North Cliff, especially those run by non-locals, may close or operate with limited services during the peak monsoon season (June-August) when tourist numbers are lower. Confirm opening hours if traveling during this period.
It is wise to carry a mix of cash and cards. While ATMs are available, smaller shops and local eateries often prefer cash. Digital payment apps like UPI (Unified Payments Interface) are popular in India, but often require an Indian bank account.
Awareness of local business hours and holidays avoids inconvenience. Plan ATM visits, especially during festivals.
Interacting respectfully with Varkala's local culture creates a positive experience.
Namaste/Namaskaram: The traditional Indian greeting bows slightly with palms pressed together in front of the chest. It is a respectful way to greet people, especially elders or those you do not know well.
Modesty is important. Ensure shoulders and knees are covered, especially when visiting religious sites or moving away from the immediate tourist areas of the North Cliff. Refer to Section 3.1 for more on Climate-Appropriate Clothing.
If eating traditionally, use your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean for eating or handling food. Tipping is appreciated for good service but is not mandatory.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially women and children. A simple gesture or "photo?" often works. Photography may be restricted or prohibited inside certain religious sites or sensitive areas. Respect these rules.
Varkala's natural terrain, with cliffs and steps, is generally not wheelchair-friendly. Papanasam beach access has a paved ramp from the helipad but uneven surfaces. Most guesthouses lack lifts/ramps. Accessible attractions are limited, local transport not wheelchair friendly. Some newer hotels may have ramps; confirm directly.
Varkala presents challenges for travelers with mobility needs due to its natural terrain.
Varkala's landscape, characterized by the cliff and numerous steps leading down to the beach, is generally not wheelchair-friendly. Papanasam beach access, while it has a paved ramp from the helipad, still has uneven surfaces.
Accessible attractions are limited. Most local transport options, including auto-rickshaws, local buses, and trains, are not wheelchair accessible.
No specific services routinely available for tourists with visual or hearing impairments in Varkala. It is recommended for travelers with such needs to travel with a companion or arrange for local guides who assist them.
For specific advice on traveling in India with disabilities, consult specialized travel agencies or online forums dedicated to travelers with disabilities. They personal experiences and resources.
For a comfortable trip, thorough research and direct communication with accommodations regarding accessibility features are important.
