Explore Varkala on a Budget - A Backpacker’s Surfing Paradise in Kerala

Backpacking in Varkala: Kerala’s Laid-Back Cliffside Escape

Varkala, the only cliff by the beach in Kerala, is a popular backpacking destination on the Arabian Sea coast of India for its dramatic red cliffs, serene beaches, and easygoing vibe. Varkala itinerary can be a perfect mix of spirituality, surf, yoga, and street-side cafés - all at an affordable price for solo travelers, digital nomads, or budget explorers. With a vibrant backpacker community, cozy cliffside hostels, and scenic sunset points, Varkala promises a soulful, an offbeat backpacking trip in Kerala. After the monsoons, I craved a quick escape to nature, and a backpacking trip to Varkala seemed like an ideal choice. This is when the “God’s own country” truly shines.

Varkala - Backpacking Destination in Kerala

​It’s a popular surfing destination in India. The best season for expert surfers is post-monsoon. The high-tide surfing is a treat to the eyes.

Surfing at Varkala, Kerala

​The vibrant promenade, stretching for 1.5 kilometers along the north cliff, offers a delightful blend of themed cafes, libraries, art galleries, ayurvedic massage and treatment centers, yoga centers, and flea shopping. This street, overlooking the mesmerizing blue Arabian Sea, provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors.

​The sunset by the cliff is a perfect setting for those soul-searching moments that I find myself seeking during my solo travels.

Sunset vibes at Varkala, Kerala

​A few kilometers from the cliff, I found myself on a breathtaking road that offered the most spectacular view of Kappil Beach on one side and the backwaters on the other.

Kappil beach and backwaters, Varkala, Kerala

​A few more kilometers of riding took me to the local fisherman villages nestled by the picturesque Edava lake.

Edava Lake, Varkala, Kerala

My favorite cafes on the Varkala Cliff

1. Bohemian - for fresh organic food
2. Trattorias - best home made pastas and Indian food
3. Coffee Temple - my fav breakfast place for delicious avocado & hummus baguettes
4. Cafe Italiano - for the roof-top view, gives a feeling of dining on a ship.
5. Darjeeling cafe - for oriental and Indian cuisine
6. ABBA - for excellent European food and baked cheese cake

Cafe Italiano, Varkala, Kerala

​Accommodation in Varkala

Varkala offers a variety of accommodation options, from hostels and guest houses to luxurious sea-facing resorts.

Varkala - Backpacking Destination in Kerala

​I spent some totally laidback, stress-buster days here. I got spoilt for choice.
I would wake up in the morning, get out of the room, and sleep a little more on these hammocks :)
I needed to walk just a few steps for excellent ginger lemon honey tea and organic brunch
and step down the cliff, straight into the sea to enjoy the swim and the sunbath.

I met some interesting people over coffee:
So, this European café owner refused to serve me before I danced a few steps with him, and he thanked me with a gooey homemade chocolate cake on the house.
​A decent guy from Nagaland, working at one of the cafés, was so happy to know that I've traveled to his state, and he ended up talking to me for hours about his state.

It was a pleasant feeling to enjoy the sunset and walk down for some sea-facing candle-lit dinners, sensing the cool breeze and sound of the waves.

Do I need to mention that I came back home with a completely rejuvenated soul??

​Best Time to visit Varkala

I personally recommend the off-season, which spans from mid-October to November or March, as it offers a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere.
​However, it’s important to note that the peak season, from December to January, can be crowded and expensive.

How to reach Varkala

Varkala is conveniently located, approximately 50 kilometers (1.5 hours) from Trivandrum and 160 kilometers (5 hours) from Cochin. From these cities, buses, trains, and taxis are readily available for your journey to Varkala.