Here is a practical 2 Day Travel Itinerary for Varkala along with a popularity-based places table. I’ve focused on the main visitor attractions in and around Varkala so it stays useful and realistic for trip planning.
Day 1: Cliffs, Beach, Temple, and Sunset
Early Morning
Start your trip at Janardhana Swamy Temple, one of the most famous spiritual places in Varkala. It is an old temple with a peaceful atmosphere and is a good place to begin the day quietly.
Morning
After that, go to Papanasam Beach / Varkala Beach, which is the most popular attraction in Varkala. You can enjoy the sea breeze, walk on the sand, sit near the water, and relax while enjoying the coastal view.
Late Morning to Lunch
Next, walk along Varkala Cliff, especially the North Cliff area. This is one of the best parts of Varkala and is known for its sea-facing walkway, cafés, small shops, and photo spots. It is perfect for slow travel and sightseeing.
Afternoon
Visit Thiruvambady Beach, also known as the Black Sand Beach area. It is quieter than the main Varkala Beach and is a nice choice if you want a more peaceful beach experience.
Evening
Return to Varkala Cliff for sunset. Sunset from the cliff is one of the most memorable experiences in Varkala. End your day with dinner at a cliffside café and enjoy the relaxed beach-town atmosphere.
Day 2: Spiritual Places, Backwaters, and Heritage
Early Morning
Begin the second day with a visit to Sivagiri Mutt, one of the most important cultural and spiritual places near Varkala. The environment is calm, and morning is the best time to visit.
Mid-Morning
Then go to Kappil Beach and Backwaters, located a short drive from Varkala. This place is very scenic because you can enjoy both beach and backwater views in one area. It is one of the most beautiful side trips from Varkala.
Lunch / Early Afternoon
Spend some time around Kappil Lake and the backwater viewpoint. This area is great for photography, peaceful walks, and relaxing away from the crowds.
Afternoon
Visit Anchuthengu Fort, also called Anjengo Fort. This is a historic place near Varkala and is a good stop for travellers interested in history, heritage, and architecture.
Late Afternoon
If you still have time, make a short stop at Varkala Tunnel. It is a small but interesting historic site and can be visited quickly.
Evening
Finish your trip with one last beach walk at Varkala Beach or enjoy a quieter sunset at Kappil Beach before ending the journey.
Table of Main Places to Visit in Varkala
| Popularity Rank | Place | Why Visit | Average Time Spent | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Varkala Beach / Papanasam Beach | Main beach, sea views, relaxing, swimming | 2 to 3 hours | Free |
| 2 | Varkala Cliff | Cliff walk, cafés, shopping, sunset views | 1.5 to 3 hours | Free |
| 3 | Janardhana Swamy Temple | Ancient temple and spiritual visit | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours | Usually free, donation optional |
| 4 | Thiruvambady Beach | Quieter beach experience | 1 to 2 hours | Free |
| 5 | Sivagiri Mutt | Spiritual and cultural landmark | 1 to 2 hours | Usually free, donation optional |
| 6 | Kappil Beach | Scenic and peaceful beach | 1 to 2 hours | Free |
| 7 | Kappil Backwaters / Lake Viewpoint | Backwater views and photography | 1 to 2 hours | Viewpoint free, boating charges may vary |
| 8 | Anchuthengu / Anjengo Fort | Historic fort and heritage site | 1 to 1.5 hours | May vary locally |
| 9 | Varkala Tunnel | Historic site for a short stop | 20 to 40 minutes | Usually free |
| 10 | Edava Beach | Quiet beach and scenic coastal views | 1 to 2 hours | Free |
| 11 | Odayam Beach area | Less crowded beach stretch | 1 to 2 hours | Free |
| 12 | Chilakoor Beach | Peaceful and less explored beach | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours | Free |
Best Way to Use These 2 Days
For a first trip, keep Day 1 mainly for the beach, cliff, and temple, because these are the main highlights of Varkala. Use Day 2 for Sivagiri, Kappil, and Anchuthengu Fort, which gives you a mix of spirituality, nature, and history.
Helpful Notes
Most places in Varkala such as beaches, cliff areas, and temples are either free or donation-based. Some heritage places may have charges that can change locally, so it is always good to confirm at the entrance before visiting.
About the Author
I’m a travel blogger and slow-travel explorer passionate about nature, culture, and real-life journeys. Through KeralaOrbit, I share authentic travel stories from Kerala—covering backwaters, hills, beaches, local food, and everyday experiences that reflect the true rhythm of life in God’s Own Country.
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