Introduction

A serene coastal town fringing the Arabian Sea, Varkala is a municipality in Trivandrum about 51 kilometers (32 miles) to its north-west. The soaring cliffs lining the azure sea and jutting into it in places make the Varkala landscape exceptional and striking. Behold this breathtaking scenery of cliffs thick with swaying palms standing sentinel over the sea, and down below a pristine stretch of sand laid-out like a ribbon washed by small white waves. Geologists have coined the term ‘Varkala formation’ for these red sedimentary cliffs that are a unique geological feature in the otherwise flat Kerala coast. So much so the Geological Survey of India has declared it a geological monument. On either side the cliffs are speckled with mineral water sprouts and spas. These mineral springs are believed to have curative properties.

Don’t miss a view of the sea and crystalline coastline from the hilltop. Varkala is mostly visited from Trivandrum or Quilon (Kollam). Few years back there were not many tourists to Varkala owing to its comparative inaccessibility and fewer accommodation options. Just about every beach lover made a beeline for Kovalam, with the resultant spillover from the over-saturation of Kovalam subsequently heading to Varkala. The present influx of foreign tourists picked up only two years back; now in almost every season you can spot tourists soaking up the sun or enjoying a swim. This isolated sandy expanse is an ideal place for a quiet holiday – a great opportunity to commune with nature, click pictures, enjoy the tropical sun and go for a refreshing swim while being far away from the maddening rush of other busier beaches.

To get to a more secluded and pristine part of the beach, you would have to clamber over rocks during high tide or scramble down the cliff. While taking this route you will notice that a path has been etched into the hill face with constant use. The solitary aura of Varkala adds to the sunset-viewing experience. Watch the ball of molten gold fade and disappear into the sea leaving behind a tinge of scarlet and orange in the water and the sky.

Special Attributes

The towering red cliffs of Varkala merge into the Arabian Sea to exude a surreal aura.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Varkala is an hour's drive from Trivandrum. You can take a private taxi from Trivandrum to your hotel of stay in Varkala.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers, Honeymooners, Senior Citizens, especially nature lovers

Exposure

You will be under the open sky. In the morning and evening, the weather remains pleasant with a cool breeze blowing from the sea. But noon gets quite warm. You are advised to wear a lot of sunscreen lotion, carry along sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

You can also visit the greatly revered Janardhana Swamy Temple on the same day. There are many spas and eateries on the lower reaches of the cliff.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

After sunning on the beach, head to a cliff-top seafood restaurant to enjoy the catch of the day.

Type of site

Beach getaway, Sun and sand