Beyond the Cliff 🌴 Things to Do in Varkala (Part 3)

After treating your tastebuds and finding your stay in Part 1 & 2, it’s time to explore what makes Varkala truly special — the way it makes you feel.

Because this town isn’t just about beaches and cafés. It’s about balance. A place where wellness meets wanderlust, and where you can spend your day chasing waves or inner peace — or both. :ocean::man_in_lotus_position:



:beach_with_umbrella: Beaches That Speak to Your Mood

Varkala’s coastline offers something for every kind of traveler:

:sunrise: Varkala Beach (Papanasam)

Lively yet spiritual, Sunrise yoga, sea swims, and long walks. A mix of tourists, pilgrims & locals sharing space and smiles

:black_heart: Black Sand Beach

Quieter, raw beauty, Dark volcanic sand and a peaceful shoreline. Great for journaling, meditation, or just watching waves roll in

:palm_tree: Odayam Beach

Calmer alternative to the main beach. Ideal for solitude, reading, or long barefoot walks

:ocean: Kappil Beach & Backwater Road

The place where the ocean hugs the backwaters. Scenic, photogenic, and peaceful — a must-see if you’re biking around


:woman_in_lotus_position: Yoga, Ayurveda & Wellness

Varkala is a sanctuary for the soul. Beyond its scenic cliff walks, it offers a peaceful rhythm for both body and mind.

  • Cliffside yoga sessions at sunrise are easy to find — many open-air studios and stays offer drop-ins or weekly passes.
  • Authentic Ayurvedic treatments, like Abhyangam and Shirodhara, are available at certified centres across the cliff.
  • Breathwork and sound healing classes help you slow down and reconnect in serene spaces.
  • For something active, try surfing lessons offered at the main beach — beginner-friendly and great fun with local instructors. :man_surfing:

:sparkles: Whether you’re looking to relax, reset, or ride the waves, Varkala blends wellness with nature effortlessly.



:basket: The Cliff Life — Slow, Scenic & Soulful

Wandering the cliff is a journey in itself:

  • Handmade jewellery & local crafts
  • Photo points and selfi spots
  • Organic cafes, spice stalls, and souvenir corners
  • Evening live musicians while you dine
  • Pop-up yoga mats, sunset sketchers, and barefoot dreamers everywhere

The cliff isn’t just a tourist zone — it’s a living canvas.




:fish: Mornings with the Fishermen, Evenings of Fresh Catch

Wake up early and stroll down the beach — you’ll find:

  • Fishermen pulling in nets, sorting fresh catch
  • Locals gathering to buy seafood for the day
  • Quiet energy, raw and real — the kind that grounds you

:motor_scooter: Rent a Bike, Ride Free

One of the best ways to explore Varkala? On two wheels.

  • Scooters and bikes are easily available for rent (daily/weekly)
  • Affordable rates and flexible pickup/drop-off
  • Perfect for exploring hidden beaches, peaceful roads, and backwater trails

:light_bulb: Tip: Most guesthouses or cafés can help you get one in minutes.


:light_bulb: Local Guide Travel Tips

:white_check_mark: Always carry a refillable water bottle and sunscreen
:white_check_mark: Choose eco-friendly places & avoid plastics — locals really appreciate it
:white_check_mark: Respect local customs, especially in beachside temples or traditional homes
:white_check_mark: Don’t rush — the best moments happen in between the plans
:white_check_mark: Join a yoga or breathwork session — even just once. You’ll thank yourself.


:sunrise_over_mountains: Final Words: Varkala, The Soul Reset

Varkala isn’t flashy. It’s not about high-speed fun or tourist checklists.
It’s where you go to slow down, breathe deeper, and feel more.

Whether you’re sipping tea after a massage, riding through palm-lined roads on a rented bike, or just standing still at the edge of a cliff, you’ll realize…

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Varkala doesn’t just give you memories — it gives you perspective.


:pushpin: Series Recap:
:round_pushpin: Cliffside Cravings :fork_and_knife_with_plate: A Foodie’s Journey Through Varkala (Part 1)
:round_pushpin: Sleep, Sea & Serenity house_with_gardenperson_in_bed Staying in Varkala (Part 2)
:round_pushpin: :white_check_mark: Part 3: The Full Varkala Experience (You’re here!)

:backhand_index_pointing_down: Share your Varkala moment — the one that stayed with you.
Let’s help more Local Guides experience this soulful slice of Kerala :palm_tree::orange_heart:

#VarkalaVibes #VarkalaExperience #HiddenKerala #LocalGuidesIndia #WellnessTravel #ExploreVarkala #TravelWithMathan

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Your tips go beyond the usual and really capture the vibe of the place.
Looking forward to more! @MathanVibranarayan

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The photos took me on a deep dive through the market and the vibes of the Varkala beach area.

Thanks @MathanVibranarayan for this virtual tour.

There is so much to explore in this apparent small place, that one may not realize until we stay back there for a day or two :+1:

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This is so amazing :raising_hands: Thanks for sharing @MathanVibranarayan

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@MathanVibranarayan تحياتي ل.ارجو لك النجاح والصحه.استمر عمل رائع ومعلومات ممتازه.نعم صحيح.البحر والخلوه غذاء للروح.نحتاجها للهروب من ضغط المدن

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@NareshDarji sir I’m so happy that whatever I experienced is of good use to the community

@TusharSuradkar you said it right sir 2 nights 3 days will be an apt plan for this beautiful small beach town

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@NituGogoi pleasure is mine :pray:t2:

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@Mohdmohdaljaman thank you so much sir :blush:

I have visited this place a long time ago and it is a very nice and beautiful, peaceful and calm place and I liked the place the most. I liked the place where Raja Ravi Rai of Taravancore used to sit and watch the rain during the rainy season.
Youcan see hereAchievement gratitude
Nice sharing @MathanVibranarayan
Enjoy :grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes:

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@ShailendraOjha sir I’m so happy that you have experienced Varkala already. And this view point is totally new for me. I will definitely visit during my next visit. :folded_hands:t2:

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