Varkala Beach: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

South India has been my go-to place whenever I lacked clarity about “What is Next?” After exploring the beaches in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, I wanted to continue my journey, and my destination was the Western Coast of India. 

The quiet Varkala Beach or Papanasam Beach with dramatic cliffs won me over. 

With golden sands, blue waters, and gentle waves, Varkala Beach is therapeutic. No wonder that it is such a popular place for outdoor Yoga practices. 

Furthermore, being a west-facing beach, it offers dramatic sunset views. 

Here is more about the 

  • Location of Varkala Beach
  • How to reach Varkala Beach
  • Best beaches in Varkala
  • Where to stay in Varkala Beach
  • When is the best time to visit Varkala Beach
  • Best things to do in Varkala Beach
  • Places to eat and drink
  • Is Varkala Beach worth it? 

About Varakala Beach

About Varakala Beach

Let me introduce the Varkala Beach to you with some quick answers. 

Where is Varkala Beach? Varka Beach is in Varkala. It is a coastal town on the southwestern coast of India.

In which state is Varkala Beach situated? Varkala Beach is situated in the southern state of Kerala in India. 

Varkala Beach, in which district? The Varkala Beach is in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. 

Varkala Beach distance: It is located at a distance of 40 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. 

Varkala Beach is the place where spirituality, wellness, religious fervor, and coastal recreation meet. It is also known as the Papanasam because people believe that taking a dip here washes away all your sins. 

In fact, the mineral-rich water of the Arabian Sea here has healing properties. 

Furthermore, the beach stretch is long, a little over 6 kms and it is the middle ground between the red cliffs and the blue waters. 

However, there are two things I did not like about the Varkala Beach. Firstly, all the eateries and shops lining the red cliffs obstruct the views. 

The more alarming thing is the amount of trash and plastic on the beach. There were food wraps and food wraps everywhere. Now, this shows a lack of maintenance and the absence of civic sense. 

Does The Varkala Beach Have A Shade?

No, the Varaka Beach does not have any designated or constructed shade. Also, naturally, there is rarely any shaded spot with very few trees around. 

Furthermore, there are some lizards in the sand here. They don’t bother anyone, but it was a big issue for me. 

Finally, I rented a shade and a chair from a clifftop cafe. 

However, be ready get heavily tanned as the Sun here is so strong that no amount of sunscreen can protect you. 

How Safe Is Varkala Beach? 

Varkala Beach is a safe place, and it is one of the best destinations for a solo trip in India. It has a laid-back vibe, typical of the coastal areas of South India. 

However, I could not find any lifeguards for the longer stretch of the beach. So, swimming here is something you need to do at your own risk. 

Also, the current here is very strong. So, if you have plans to swim with kids, you have to be very careful. 

How To Get To Varkala?

How To Get To Varkala

The Varkala Beach is closest to the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV). The distance is around 45 kilometers. Furthermore, the nearest railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, is a little over 4 km away. 

However, the Trivandrum Central (TVC) is at a distance of 1 hour, and the Kollam Junction (QLN) Railway Station is around 40 minutes away. Both these stations have frequent train options from different parts of India. 

1. How To Get To Varkala Beach From Trivandrum Airport

I booked an Uber to reach the Varkala Beach from the Trivandrum Airport, and the charge was INR 1160. This is the safest option if you are new to the place. 

Local cabs and other online car rentals are also available. However, if you cannot negotiate, they will charge you between INR 1500 and INR 1600. 

Furthermore, the cheapest option to travel from Trivandrum to Varkala is to take a bus run by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Buses are available every 15 minutes. 

However, the KSRTC bus stop is around 15 km away from the beach. So, from there, you will again have to take a local bus or taxi. 

2. How To Travel From The Varkala Railway Station To Varkala Beach? 

You can take a local taxi to reach the beach from the Varkala Railway Station. Local buses are also available.

What Are The Best Beaches In Varkala?

The Varkala Beach is the main attraction in the town of Varkala. However, it has many other beaches, such as the Black Sand Beach, Odayam Beach, Kappil Beach and Beach Park, Edava Beach, and Thiruvambadi Beach. 

1. Black Sand Beach

The Black Sand Cliff is close to the north cliff. If the Varkala Beach is overcrowded, you can consider this one as an alternative. 

2. Odayam Beach

Odayam Beach

Odayam Beach is perfect if you want to enjoy a long stroll along the waters early morning or late in the evening. 

It is located at the north of the main cliff. 

3. Kappil Beach And Beach Park

Kappil Beach And Beach Park

The Kappil Beach and Beach Park are further north of the Varkala town. It is the place where you will have a bit of the famous Kerala backwater experience. 

Also, it is the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Kappil River. 

4. Edava Beach

Edava Beach

The Edava Beach is cleaner. Also, this quaint beach offers a delightful cultural experience. Here, you can meet the fishermen. 

Though language was a barrier sometimes, a few of them knew English. Also, I must say, after the rich cultural experience in Jaffna, this was another culturally enriching moment for me. 

5. Thiruvambadi Beach

Thiruvambadi Beach

It is the most secluded beach in Varkala. It has black and dark sand. Also, it has a calm environment, allowing you to just relax and introspect. 

Where To Stay In Varkala?

You can visit the Kerala Tourism website to find out where to stay in Varkala. It has Varkala beach resort options such as the Coconut Cove Beach Resort, the Pulari Gardens Tourist Resorts, and the nearest Karthika Plaza Resort Pvt. Ltd. 

Furthermore, there are hotels near Varkala Beach, such as InDa Hotel, the Lost Hostels, and Maison Sangham. 

I stayed at the Bougainvillea Homestay, which is very close to the Varkala beach cliffs. 

When To Visit Varkala?

October to March, or the winter and spring seasons, are ideal for visiting Varkala.The rainfall is minimal in these months, and the temperature hovers around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. 

Furthermore, less rain and moderate weather conditions are ideal for watersports such as jet skiing and paragliding. 

However, during my visit in February, I found the water current to be quite strong for swimming. So, check with the locals and the fishermen around before getting into the water. 

What Are The Best Things To Do In Varkala Beach?

What Are The Best Things To Do In Varkala Beach

The Varkala Beach is a welcome relief if you are exploring South India. It is not a place if you are planning an action-packed holiday. 

However, try these watersports. 

Surfing At Varkala Beach

You will find places such as Soul and Surf here to camp and learn surfing. Furthermore, the ideal surfing condition for a visitor depends on their expertise level. 

  • For Beginners: November to February
  • For Sufers of Intermediate or Advanced Levels: October to March
  • Advanced Surfers: The Monsoon Season or June to August 

Paragliding Varkala

Paragliding is the most adventurous thing you can try at Varkala Beach. You can have a hawk-eye view of the water and the golden sand by flying from one end of the cliff to another. 

Also, paragliding feels magical during sunset.

Varkala Beach Nightlife 

The bars, restaurants, and rooftop cafes of the North Cliff are the epicenters of a happening nightlife in Varkala. 

These places are ideal for candlelit dinners and enjoying a lively vibe with DJs and live acoustic music performances.

What Are The Places To Visit Near The Varkala Beach?

Varkala is an ideal place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, many religious and spiritual travelers combine a Varkala beach trip with a visit to Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt. 

The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old Vishnu shrine. It is associated with the legends of Lord Brahma and Narada Muni. 

On the other hand, the Sivagiri Mutt is home to the saints and sanyasins of the order started by Sree Narayana Gurudev. His primary teaching was “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.” Established in 1904, this Mutt practices inclusiveness. 

What Are The Places For Eating And Drinking In Varkala?

There are many cafes and restaurants in Varkala. I chose a humble, local place for lunch and dinner. 

However, to experience the cafe culture here, I chose a few upscale places. 

1. Lunch At Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant

I ordered a veg Keralan thali at the Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant. The rice grains were thick, and they were filling.

Furthermore, they served the rice with five types of sides, pickle, and papad. It only cost me INR 90. 

2. Dinner At Chimney Restaurant

At the Chimney Restaurant, it was a continuation of my great seafood experience in Jaffna. The staff here suggested that I try a Kerala fish curry. 

The fish was fresh, and the curry was sharp and spicy (a little less than Jaffna). It was a perfect balance to the acidic element of rice. 

You must also try the village-style chicken curry here. It is a family-friendly restaurant. 

3. Cafés

I was at Cafe Trip is Life during sunset. The view was amazing, and I loved the grilled prawns and mojitos there. A bit pricey, but worth it!

Another café I loved here was Café Sarwaa. I was impressed with the Bohemian decor the moment I entered the place. I tried some samosas and banana pancakes there. 

However, you can eat here the whole day. Their paratha and Kerala beef curry are the most famous. 

Is Varkala Worth It? Should I Just Go To Goa?

The only similarity between Varkala and Goa beaches is the bohemian vibe. However, both beaches offer different experiences. 

Varkala is more nature-focused with the landscape of the Varkala Beach and a view of the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, it is more about relaxation and wellness thanks to the Yoga centers frequently found here. 

However, despite watersports and adventure facilities such as paragliding and surfing, Varkala is not as happening as Goa. Goa offers a wider range of watersports. 

Moreover, the nightlife of Goa is more vibrant. 

So, if you want a spiritual and wellness retreat and some quiet beach time, Varkala is the best. The 2000-year-old Vishnu temple is an added attraction here. 

For a vibe and a high-energy experience, choose Goa. 

Varkala Beach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Varkala Beach. 

1. Varkala Beach Or Kovalam Beach, Which Is Best?

I cannot pick a favorite between the Varkala Beach and the Kovalam Beach. The Varkala Beach, with a bohemian vibe, is more laid-back and nature-focused. 
On the other hand, the Kovalam Beach has the iconic crescent beaches, and it offers a diverse range of watersports and a vibrant nightlife.

2. Which Beach In Varkala Has Bioluminescence?

The Varkala Beach has bioluminescence. You can especially notice the bioluminescence near the cliff and along the northern stretch of the beach. 
Here, tiny marine organisms emit blue and green light due to a chemical reaction. When the wave is disturbed, these organisms get scattered, and it looks like the water is glowing. 
Furthermore, from September to November is the best time to see the bioluminescence of the beach. 

3. What Is The Varkala Beach From Bangalore Distance?

The distance between Varkala Beach and Bangalore is around 670 km. You can travel by road, which takes around 14 hours. 
So, the easiest way to travel is to take a train from Bangalore Cantonment to Varkala. The travel time is around 13-15 hours. 
Furthermore, if you want to take the fastest way to travel, you must take a flight from the Bangalore Airport to the Trivandrum Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Kovalam.

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Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

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BY  Arnab Apr 14, 2023

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However, only a few are perhaps as famous as the Tonga Room. Travelers have always loved the Fairmont San Francisco's tiki-style bar. This is despite its oddball setting in the Bay Area. Transport yourself to the tropics with a fruity cocktail as well as some bite-sized treats inspired by islands. Outdoor Music Festival Those who attend festivals frequently are probably familiar with Outside Lands, which is one of the world's highest-grossing music festivals. Every August, Golden Gate Park hosts a three-day festival. It draws hundreds of thousands of attendees and dozens of top-notch bands. The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, which ends the season with lovely folk music, and the Stern Grove Festival, which offers free outdoor concerts all summer long, are less well-known but still worthwhile visits. Walt Disney Family Museum Any Disney enthusiast visiting San Francisco should not miss the Walt Disney Family Museum. The museum provides plenty of insider knowledge along with interactive exhibits that highlight the personal side of the man behind the brand. Original storyboards, vintage movie posters, Disney memorabilia, and some of Walt Walton's personal belongings are among the items on exhibit. You will undoubtedly come away inspired. It will make you want to watch your beloved animated classic again. Lombard Street The location that most embodies the distinctively hilly and winding terrain of San Francisco is Lombard Street. It is also referred to as the "crookedest street in the world." It zigzags through eight steep turns on the hill between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. Although you can walk the street and see the houses along the way if you're prone to motion sickness, it's a fun little stretch for a leisurely drive. Davies Symphony Hall A performance at the Civic Center neighborhood's Davies Symphony Hall is a visual as well as auditory feast. Attend a traditional concert or the San Francisco Symphony's special screenings. Here, a big-screen blockbuster film is shown with a live soundtrack provided by the orchestra. Visit the symphony's website to view the schedule.   The Weed Dispensary Are you eager to experience something that is distinctly San Francisco? Visit one of the many dispensaries in the city. Despite your stance against marijuana use, it can still be interesting to observe this booming industry up close. Since the state legalized cannabis for adult use in 2016, the practice has developed into a full-service way of life. Consider it like visiting a winery. To get assistance, simply ask a helpful "budtender." Use Weedmaps to locate a place. Ghirardelli Square You probably have a sweet tooth if the name Ghirardelli Square sounds familiar to you. The renowned chocolate company of the same name once called the entertainment and retail complex between Fort Mason and Fisherman's Wharf home. Ghirardelli relocated its headquarters to the neighboring city of San Leandro in 1966. However, the Chocolate Experience, which includes a sundae station and a pick-and-mix bar, faithfully honors the site's past. Visit its nearby eateries as well as bars for a larger bite or stop in for a taste. Mission Murals Take a self-guided tour of the Mission Murals to see some amazing street art for nothing. Even though there are over a thousand murals lining the streets, the best way to see them is to stroll down Caledonia, Clarion, Balmy, and Horace Alleys. Alternatively, you can just explore the neighborhood and pick your own favorite mural. Palace Hotel Do you wish you were a little more regal? For afternoon tea, proceed to the Palace Hotel. The hotel's Garden Court dining room hosts a traditional ceremony every Saturday. There, stands of traditional English bites, such as finger sandwiches and scones, adorn the tables and provide a perfect pick-me-up for both locals and hungry tourists. Wrapping Up So, this was a list of enjoyable things to do in San Francisco over the weekend. We could probably make this guide ten times longer with all the things we could do in SF for weekend adventures. The options are as varied as the city itself. However, it is best to take things a little at a time. We hope this guide will help you choose a few things to do during your next trip to San Francisco. For every weekend visitor, the City by the Bay guarantees an amazing experience, ranging from culinary delights and historical excursions to outdoor adventures and cultural explorations. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Art, Architecture, And Azaleas: 24 Things To Do In Savannah The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts From Festivals To Spas: The Top Things To Do In Park City Utah

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Navigating The World Of International Movers: Understanding And Obtaining Quotes

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 29, 2023

Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but the logistics of an international move can be overwhelming. One of the crucial steps in this process is obtaining quotes from international movers. These quotes serve as a roadmap for understanding the costs and services involved in relocating your belongings across borders. In this article, we will explore the significance of international moving quotes, and the factors influencing them. So, sit back and check out this article that provides tips on how to navigate this complex terrain. The Importance Of International Movers' Quotes A crucial aspect of moving internationally is getting reliable and accurate moving quotes. Whether you are moving in for the first time or just a seasoned veteran, understanding the significance of internal movers’ quotes is important. So, keep reading to know more.  Cost Transparency: International movers' quotes offer a transparent breakdown of the costs associated with the relocation. This transparency is vital for individuals and families to plan their budgets effectively and avoid unexpected expenses during the move. Service Comparison: Each moving company may offer a unique set of services. Quotes allow you to compare these services, helping you choose a moving company that aligns with your specific needs. From packing and transportation to customs clearance, understanding what each quote includes is essential. Customized Solutions: International moves are not one-size-fits-all. Quotes enable moving companies to tailor their services to your specific requirements.  Whether you need special handling for fragile items or assistance with paperwork, a complete quote ensures that your needs are addressed. Factors Influencing International Movers' Quotes This is the time to finalize your moving date and look for perfect moving company quotes. It is crucial to hire the best company, and for doing so, you might need to consider a few factors.  Volume and Weight: The amount and weight of your belongings significantly impact the cost of the move. Movers will assess the volume or weight of your items and explore options such as Premier shipping containers AU to determine the size of the shipping container required and the associated moving globally expenses. Distance and Destination: The distance to your destination and the specific country's regulations can influence the cost. Longer distances and complex customs procedures may result in higher quotes. Some countries have stricter import regulations, affecting the paperwork and associated costs. Packing and Unpacking Services: If you opt for full packing and unpacking services, it will be present in the quote. Movers will consider the time and materials necessary to ensure your items are safely packed and unpacked at the destination. Insurance Coverage: Insurance is a crucial aspect of international moves. Movers may offer various insurance options to protect your belongings during transit. The type and extent of coverage will impact the overall cost, and it's essential to understand the insurance terms in each quote. Tips For Navigating International Movers' Quotes Moving internationally is itself a big deal. Don’t make things go all wrong by choosing an imperfect internal movers’ quotes. Here are a few tips that will help you to find an ideal quote and ensure a smooth journey.  Get Multiple Quotes: Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Request quotes from multiple international moving companies to compare costs and services. This process will help you make an informed decision as well as potentially negotiate a better deal. Understand Inclusions and Exclusions: Carefully review each quote to understand what is there in the list and what’s not. Be clear on what services you are getting and any additional fees that may apply. This will prevent surprises on moving day. Ask Questions: If anything in the quote is unclear, don't hesitate to ask questions. Seek clarification on specific services, timelines, and potential extra charges. A reliable moving company will be transparent and willing to address your concerns. Check Reviews and Credentials: Before finalizing a moving company, research its reputation and credentials. Read customer reviews, check their licensing and certifications, and ensure they have experience with international moves. Inclusions In An International Moving Quote Any reputed industry that provides door-to-door international moving quotes generally provides the following services:  Pre-Move Queries: It is the responsibility of the moving company to schedule an appointment, which helps them to assess the freight’s size and weight. Furthermore, it also determines any special requirements related to handling. Crating and Packing: Secondly, thinking about professional crating and packing services ensures the protection of your belongings. They use only high-quality materials for packaging and specialized crating for expensive items.  Transporting Goods: The moving industry must handle every transportation aspect carefully. This includes everything from arranging the proper transportation mode to coordinating other logistics.  Insurance: Rarely, moving companies provide insurance coverage for your goodies. But if they do so, you know the company is worth investing in. An international movers’ quotes consist of all risk coverage as well as third-party liability insurance. Difference Between A Quotation And An Estimate A quotation and an estimate are very different when it comes to offering a cost estimate for international moving. Estimate refers to a cost calculation based on your move’s requirement. The final cost varies depending on the items and services you use. These are usually covered under the fixed costs.  On the other hand, a quotation refers to a firm's offer to provide specific services. The price is usually fixed, and it includes everything from the items and services necessary for the move. Moreover, the final cost does not have a lot of difference from the quoted price.  They are much more desirable and offer a more precise cost estimate.  Conclusion Obtaining quotes from international movers is a crucial step in the relocation process. It provides the transparency necessary to make informed decisions and ensures that the moving partner understands your specific needs. Moreover, they also help you plan your move efficiently.  By understanding the factors influencing these quotes and following tips for navigation, you can embark on your international adventure with confidence, knowing that your belongings are in capable hands. Now that you know these tips make sure to save this article and use it for later needs.  Read Also: Moving To Paris – How To Start The Most Beautiful Places In The World Top 10 National Parks In Oregon That You Need To Explore In 2023!