Varkala, India: A Complete Travel Guide to Kerala’s Best Beach Town

I had just spent a month in India, mostly focused on yoga, so Varkala came as an unexpected surprise. After spending a week in an ashram, this relaxed beach town felt like the perfect place to ease back into everyday life.

Located along the Arabian Sea in the southern state of Kerala, Varkala still holds onto its spiritual energy—through waters deemed holy, ancient temples, and a strong yoga presence—while modern cafés and small shops weave easily into the landscape.

While Goa tends to dominate the conversation around India’s coast, Varkala feels smaller and calmer. Here, you can spend the morning in a yoga class, walk past locals performing rituals by the ocean, and end the day watching the sun set from a cliffside café. It’s not the India most people picture, but that’s exactly why it’s worth experiencing.

At the center of it all are Varkala’s beaches, each with a slightly different feel, depending on how far you’re willing to wander.

Papanasam Beach is the main beach in Varkala. On calmer days, it’s perfect for a swim, though the waves can get a bit rough. It’s also considered sacred, so you’ll see locals performing rituals along the shore, mostly near the southern end (near the South Cliff). Ceremonies happen throughout the day—worth seeing, but not the best area for wearing a bikini.

Walk along the shore, and you’ll soon find the North Cliff & Black Sand Beaches. They’re a bit quieter, more laidback, and bikini-friendly. The real magic here is the contrast between the dramatic red cliffs and the ocean below. The shoreline feels slightly more local and less crowded than the main beach.

This was one of my favorite finds. You can walk here from the North Cliff in about 15 minutes. At a certain point, the path naturally slopes down into the beach. It’s especially peaceful in the early hours of the morning; you’ll likely have the beach to yourself, sharing it only with a few stray pups and fishermen playing cards on the sand.

About 15 to 20 minutes north by tuk-tuk, Edava is a wide stretch of sand offering a more untouched coastline.

Kappil Beach sits roughly 20 to 30 minutes from Varkala. What makes it special is the contrast between the Arabian Sea on one side and Kerala’s famous backwaters—calm, palm-lined lagoons—on the other. It’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset. Trust me on this one.

As with most places in India, Varkala is a multi-faceted city offering a wide range of experiences, from ancient temple visits to traditional Indian wellness treatments.

This is the heart of town. A narrow path lined with cafés, shops, and yoga studios, all overlooking the ocean. I found myself doing this walk multiple times a day. It’s where everything happens: morning coffee, shopping, and dinner plans.

The ancient Janardhana temple is estimated to be 2,000 years old and is one of the most important spiritual sites in Varkala. You’ll notice a steady flow of pilgrims coming here for prayers and rituals. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth passing through to feel the shift in energy.

Varkala is home to a thriving yoga and surf scene. You’ll find everything from drop-in yoga classes to full teacher training programs in the many studios spread about the North Cliff area. Surf is also growing in popularity, with a handful of surf schools and guesthouses catering to beginners.

The state of Kerala is a major center for Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. In Varkala, that translates into dozens of wellness centers offering traditional oil massages and multi-day detox programs, often tailored to your body and needs. It’s one of the easiest places in India to experience Ayurveda in a setting that feels both accessible and deeply rooted in local culture. Just be sure to do your research, as the wide variety of options can range in quality.

Varkala Cliff is lined with small shops selling everything from 100% cotton pieces to jewelry and handmade goods. I noticed many vendors from northern India, especially from Kashmir and Jaipur, bringing in block-printed fabrics, silver jewelry, and lightweight cotton clothing.

One thing I didn’t expect in Varkala: There are tailors everywhere. Small, open-air setups tucked between shops along the cliff, where you can pick a fabric and have something made in a day or two. Most pieces are simple, like flowy pants, dresses, and beachwear. It felt very spur-of-the-moment, like you see something you like and just decide to make your own version of it. I made some of my favorite souvenirs this way!

A reliable, casual spot with a mix of Indian and international dishes. Portions are generous, and it’s the kind of place you can come back to more than once without overthinking it. Try the pan-fried spinach and cheese momos.

One of the more modern-feeling spots along the cliff, with ocean views and a health-leaning menu. Expect plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, plus Western-style dishes that are a nice break if you’ve been eating curries for days.

Part café, part boutique stay, with a really beautiful setup. Great for breakfast, coffee, or a slower lunch. The menu is rooted in smoothies, fresh juices, and lighter, Western meals. It’s also a good place to sit for a while without feeling rushed.

A local recommendation: Come here for comforting, no-frills dishes like paneer and momos.

One of the more popular spots on the South Cliff, especially around sunset. People come for the views and stay for the desserts and coffee. If you want a table outside, it’s worth reserving ahead; otherwise, you can usually find a seat inside. It’s slightly pricier than other places nearby, but the setting makes it feel like a bit of an occasion.

Varkala’s coastline is split between the North Cliff and South Cliff, and where you stay will shape your experience. The North Cliff is the lively center, packed with cafés, shops, and restaurants, while the South Cliff is noticeably quieter. They’re only about 10 minutes apart, but the vibe feels different in each.

Best for views and convenience. Staying on the cliff means you can walk everywhere while still waking up to views of the Arabian Sea. I split my time between Gateway Varkala, which felt more like a traditional resort on the quieter South Cliff, and Hotel Green Palace on the North Cliff, a simpler boutique stay right in the middle of everything. Both offered wonderful yet completely different experiences, depending on what you’re looking for.

The most budget-friendly option, especially around the North Cliff area. These are often family-run, simple but comfortable, and within walking distance to both the beach and the main strip. You’ll find plenty of options just by walking around.

If you’re coming to Varkala for a reset, there are several stays that combine accommodation with yoga and Ayurvedic treatments. These tend to be quieter and more tucked away, making them ideal if you want to fully lean into Kerala’s wellness side.

The weather in Varkala is best from November to March, but it’s also the most crowded time to visit. For fewer crowds, go during the shoulder months of October or April. Just avoid the monsoon season from May to September.