Stays in Varkala
Varkala is a coastal town in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, known for its red laterite cliffs that drop to the Arabian Sea. The cliff-top stretch, called North Cliff, runs along the edge and holds most of the town's guesthouses, restaurants, and shops. Below the cliff, Papanasam Beach is a…
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About Varkala
Varkala is not a large resort town; it is a place where beach life and Kerala's temple culture sit side by side. The cliff path is walkable, and the main beach is reached by steps or a ramp. Away from the cliff, Varkala has a market, a hospital, and a railway station on the Trivandrum–Kollam line. The Janardhana Swamy Temple, an ancient shrine, stands near the beach and is a local landmark. The town is also a centre for ayurveda and yoga, with several centres along the cliff.
Most visitors come for the cliff views, the beach, and the relaxed pace. The season runs from October to March, when the weather is dry and the sea is calm. During the monsoon, from June to August, many businesses close and swimming is unsafe. Varkala is about 50 km north of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) and can be reached by train, bus, or taxi from the city.
Where to stay in Varkala
North Cliff. The main tourist area, with guesthouses, restaurants, and shops lining the cliff edge above Papanasam Beach. Most hotels listed on our site are here.
South Cliff. A quieter section south of the main beach, with a smaller number of accommodations and a more local feel.
Varkala Town. The inland area around the railway station and Janardhana Swamy Temple, where you find local shops, the market, and budget lodges.
Odayam Beach. A village north of North Cliff with a few guesthouses and a quieter beach, about a 15-minute walk from the cliff.
Getting there and around
Varkala has its own railway station on the Trivandrum–Kollam line, with direct trains from Thiruvananthapuram (about 1 hour) and Kollam. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 55 km away; taxis and buses connect it to Varkala. Buses also run from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam to Varkala bus station. Once in town, auto-rickshaws are the main way to reach the cliff area from the station or bus stand. The cliff path itself is walkable, but be prepared for uneven ground and steps.
When to go
The best time to visit Varkala is from October to March, when the weather is dry and daytime temperatures are warm but not extreme. This is also the main tourist season, so the cliff is lively. December and January are the busiest. The monsoon, from June to August, brings heavy rain and rough seas; many businesses close and swimming is not safe. April and May are hot and humid.
Questions, answered
Is Varkala the same as Gurugram?
No. Varkala is a coastal town in Kerala, while Gurugram is a city in Haryana, near Delhi. They are separate places.
How do I get to Varkala from Trivandrum?
You can take a train from Trivandrum Central to Varkala, which takes about an hour, or a taxi or bus, which takes around 1.5 hours by road.
What is the main beach in Varkala?
Papanasam Beach, below the North Cliff, is the main beach. It is a pilgrimage site and also popular for watching the sunset.
Are there ATMs and shops on the cliff?
Yes, there are ATMs, small shops, and restaurants along the cliff path, though services can be limited during the monsoon.
Is Varkala suitable for swimming?
Swimming is possible at Papanasam Beach during the dry season, but currents can be strong. Always heed local warnings and lifeguard advice.
What is the closest airport to Varkala?
Trivandrum International Airport is the closest, about 55 km away. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Varkala.