Must doKathakali evening in Fort Kochi
Watch the performers put on their make-up, then see Kerala's classical dance-drama up close.
WhereVarkala, Thiruvananthapuram district
From ThiruvananthapuramAbout 50 km, 1 to 1.5 hours
Best monthsOctober to March
TimeOne or two nights
SeaSwim only between flags
ParentsEasy along the cliff top
Check before you go: Timings, fees and access can change with the season, festivals and weather. Check the latest timings before you go; on our trips we confirm them for you.
Varkala Cliff rises above Papanasam beach in Varkala, on the Kerala coast about 50 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. A path along the cliff top is lined with cafés and views over the sea. Go between October and March, and give it one or two slow nights.
Varkala beach and the red cliffs
Varkala is the only place on Kerala's coast where cliffs rise straight from the beach. The red laterite rock runs for a few kilometres, with steps down to Papanasam beach and smaller coves.
The ancient Janardhana Swamy temple stands close to the beach, and many pilgrims come to Papanasam to perform rites for their ancestors.
Is it okay for parents?
EasyStepsSteps down to the beach
WalkingFlat along the cliff top
Things to do on the North Cliff
- Cliff-top walk: an easy, flat path with cafés, best at sunset.
- Black sand beach: a quieter beach a short walk north.
- Ayurveda: many small centres offer massages and treatments.
- Sea safety: currents are strong; swim only where lifeguards and flags are.
Veg and Jain food
Plenty of cafés with vegetarian options.
Experiences nearby
Do more with locals
Must do
Nature & slowTea estate morning in Munnar
Walk the tea slopes in the cool morning, see how the leaf is processed, then taste it fresh.
AdventureCycling through the tea estates
Ride quiet estate roads through the tea hills, with stops for the views.
Food & peopleSpice plantation walk in Thekkady
See pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves growing, with a farmer who knows every plant.
AdventureJungle walk in Periyar
A guided walk in the Periyar forest, looking for birds, giant squirrels and signs of elephants.
Nature & slowVillage canoe ride on the backwaters
Slip into the narrow canals a houseboat cannot reach, past homes, paddy and toddy shops.
Food & peopleHome-cooked sadya lunch
A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, with a family in a backwater village.
FAQ
Varkala Beach: your questions
Is it safe to swim at Papanasam beach?
Only where lifeguards and flags are, and in calm sea. Currents are strong, especially in the monsoon.
Is Varkala good for families with parents?
Yes. The cliff-top path is flat, and cliff-top stays avoid the steps down to the beach.
How many days are enough in Varkala?
One or two nights is ideal for sunsets, the beach and a slow morning.
Is Varkala beach busy?
The North Cliff gets busy in season. Mornings and the quieter beaches north and south are calmer.
When is the best time to visit Varkala?
October to March, when the sea is calmer and the weather is dry.
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