Varkala beach
Escape to the serene Varkala Beach, nestled in the quaint resort village of the same name, located a mere 40 km from Thiruvananthapuram on the northern coast of Kerala. The ideal season for a sun-kissed beach holiday in Varkala spans from October to March, a time characterized by warm, dry weather, occasionally graced by brief nocturnal showers. Accessing Varkala is a breeze, with convenient options such as buses, trains, taxis, or even a rented car from major hubs like Delhi or Thiruvananthapuram.
Photos
Beach description
Varkala Beach, stretching over 2 km with its fine sand, is a picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of leisure and culture. The beach is naturally divided into two distinct areas by a pristine stream. The northern section boasts an array of hotels, restaurants, cafes, entertainment venues, Ayurvedic clinics, and shops. Access to the beach is provided by a steep staircase descending from the cliff. In contrast, the southern end, known for its gentle ambiance, is home to a quaint fishing village and a selection of hotels.
Visitors to Varkala Beach can enjoy the luxury of space, as the beaches are seldom overcrowded. This serene setting is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat to engage in contemplation and relaxation. The clientele is a mix of hotel guests and locals, with yoga sessions and spiritual practices frequently taking place along the shore. The coastline is well-maintained, offering paid sunbeds and umbrellas, making it an ideal spot for families with children.
The youthful crowd is sparse here, as Varkala's tranquil and intimate atmosphere doesn't cater to the party scene. Entertainment options are limited, with most venues closing by midnight, and both locals and tourists prefer the absence of loud parties.
Varkala's unique underwater topography presents a shallow incline into the sea for about 10-15 meters, followed by a sudden two-meter drop-off. Lifeguards remain vigilant, ensuring swimmers do not venture beyond 10 meters from the shore. The sea near the coast is typically calm, with a sandy bottom, and the water is clean and transparent. Beyond the cliff, surfers can find high waves to ride, and there are several surfboard rental options available on the beach.
Optimal Time for a Visit
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The best time to visit Kerala for a beach vacation is during the winter months, from December to February. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm and perfect for enjoying the sun-kissed beaches.
- December to February: This is the peak tourist season in Kerala when the climate is dry and cool, making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in various beach activities. The water is also at a comfortable temperature for swimming.
- March to May: These months constitute the hot season, with higher humidity levels and temperatures. While still possible to enjoy the beaches, the heat can be intense for some travelers.
- June to November: This is the monsoon season in Kerala. While the landscape is lush and beautiful, frequent rains and strong waves may limit beach activities. However, it's a great time for those who prefer a quiet, off-season experience.
Overall, for the quintessential beach vacation with clear skies and calm seas, winter is the recommended time to visit Kerala's beautiful coastline.
Video: Beach Varkala
Infrastructure
Where to Stay
Varkala boasts a variety of accommodation options. While there are no five-star resorts, the 3-4 star hotels provide excellent living conditions and quality service. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with all the essentials for relaxation, as well as amenities such as excursion bureaus, parking lots, gardens, terraces, restaurants, pools, and Ayurvedic salons.
Where to Dine
In Varkala, a plethora of restaurants await to satisfy your culinary desires. From establishments with diverse menus to fast food joints, there's something for every palate. Near some dining spots, you'll find counters brimming with an array of sea catches, ranging from oysters and shrimps to stingrays and small sharks.
Fresh produce is readily available at local markets or supermarkets. A bustling fish market operates daily, offering an extensive selection of fish and seafood.
Things to Do
Varkala is renowned for its numerous Ayurvedic clinics and salons, attracting people from around the globe seeking to alleviate various ailments, rejuvenate, and restore vitality. While some establishments are conveniently located on the beach, it's important to be vigilant as there are instances of fraud. Always thoroughly review the list of services and read customer testimonials before making a decision.
The town is also home to several ancient Hindu temples, with the Janardhana Swamy Temple being the most revered. Erected over 2,000 years ago atop Temple Junction hill, the temple's beauty is magnified in the evenings when thousands of lamps illuminate its outer walls.
Also worth visiting are the Shivagiri and Amma ashrams, the Maharaja's palace - which houses a piece by Svyatoslav Roerich - and the enthralling excursions to the jungle, elephant nursery, and crocodile farm.