Varkala Cliff Varkala
Dramatic red sandstone cliffs meet the Arabian Sea, offering a vibrant promenade with shops, cafes, and breathtaking sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Varkala Cliff Varkala
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic red sandstone cliffs meet the Arabian Sea, offering a vibrant promenade with shops, cafes, and breathtaking sunset views.
"Varkala Cliff is a stunning coastal spot with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. A must-visit!"
Bargain for Souvenirs
Don't accept the first price! Walk around, compare, and negotiate for better deals on clothes & antiques.
Explore Beyond the Hype
Many cafes offer great food and views. Look beyond 'Instagram-approved' spots for hidden gems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Varkala Cliff Walk
North Cliff
Stroll along the vibrant cliff, lined with shops and cafes, offering breathtaking Arabian Sea views. Perfect for sunset!
Papanasam Beach
Below Varkala Cliff
A popular beach accessible via steps from the cliff, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sea breeze.
Black Sand Beach
South Varkala
Discover the unique beauty of this striking black sand beach, best visited in the early morning.
Janardanaswamy Temple
Near Papanasam Beach
An ancient temple offering a glimpse into local spirituality, requiring modest dress.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cliffside Vibe
Budgeting for Varkala
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bargain for Souvenirs
Don't accept the first price! Walk around, compare, and negotiate for better deals on clothes & antiques.
Explore Beyond the Hype
Many cafes offer great food and views. Look beyond 'Instagram-approved' spots for hidden gems.
Sunset Spectacle
The cliff offers incredible sunset views. Arrive by 4:30 PM to secure a good spot.
Mind the Auto Fares
Auto rides can be costly. Expect around ₹30/km and confirm fares beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bargain for Souvenirs
Don't accept the first price! Walk around, compare, and negotiate for better deals on clothes & antiques.
Explore Beyond the Hype
Many cafes offer great food and views. Look beyond 'Instagram-approved' spots for hidden gems.
Sunset Spectacle
The cliff offers incredible sunset views. Arrive by 4:30 PM to secure a good spot.
Mind the Auto Fares
Auto rides can be costly. Expect around ₹30/km and confirm fares beforehand.
Dress Modestly for Temples
When visiting Janardanaswamy Temple, ensure shoulders and knees are covered.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Varkala Cliff is a highly recommended destination, praised for its stunning coastal views, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse dining and shopping options. Visitors love the lively cliffside promenade, the beautiful sunsets, and the overall 'vibe' of the place, making it ideal for relaxation and socializing. Some find it a bit pricey, and the evening crowds can be substantial.
"One of the best tourist attractions of south india and the one which you get never bored of. Excellent views. Lots of food spots in the cliff and watchout for the prices though. Highly recommended especially during monsoon."
Rajeev Rajan
"LOVE THE PLACE.
I love visiting this place every now and then the whole place issa vibe. Everything you need is on the cliff, from food to clothes to antiques, you name it.
I bought a bunch of antique stuff on my last visit. There are honestly so many shops selling antiques, jewellery, clothes, and all kinds of random things. But here’s a tip: don’t jump at the first price they tell you. You can usually bargain and get things for a much better deal. Also, the same item might be in a bunch of different shops, so take a walk around before buying anything.
There are so many,literally so manycafés and restaurants up there. But don’t just go with the Instagram hype. Do a bit of research or explore on your own, because there are a lot of great spots apart from the usual “Instagram-approved” places.
A coffee while taking in a glimpse of the beach, or sipping a cocktail with the sea view, is a must if you ask me. The views from the cliff are just stunning, especially during sunset when the sky goes crazy with colours.
It does get crowded in the eve. People chilling, music playing from cafés, and the sea breeze it all feels perfect.
If you’re in Varkala, the cliff is definitely a must-visit."
devapriya
"Varkala Cliff is a stunning coastal spot with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. It's perfect for relaxing, enjoying cafes, and watching sunsets. A must-visit for beach lovers and peace seekers!"
Salmanbinhider
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Varkala Cliff is accessible by auto-rickshaws and taxis from Varkala town and the railway station. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), about 40 km away.
Yes, the cliff is a pedestrian-friendly area with a paved walkway. Steps lead down to the beach.
Auto-rickshaws are common, but be aware of potential 'auto mafia' and negotiate fares. Renting a scooter can offer more freedom.
Varkala Cliff is about a 10-15 minute auto-rickshaw ride from the Varkala railway station.
Yes, there are local buses connecting Varkala to nearby towns and cities, though they might be less direct than trains.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to access Varkala Cliff or Papanasam Beach.
Varkala Cliff is accessible 24/7, but shops and cafes typically operate from morning until late evening.
There is no entry fee for the Janardanaswamy Temple, but donations are welcome. Remember to dress modestly.
Black Sand Beach is free to visit. It's best experienced in the early morning.
Yes, many resorts and guesthouses are located directly on Varkala Cliff, offering sea views.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cliff offers stunning backdrops, especially during sunset. Look for unique shopfronts and sea views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Early morning (7-9 AM) provides softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the unique black sand.
Yes, the temple's architecture and surroundings offer good photographic opportunities, but be respectful of worshippers.
Expect vibrant shots of the coastline, colorful shops, bustling cafes, and dramatic sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide variety of cuisines, including fresh seafood, international dishes, and local Kerala specialties.
Food and drinks can be a bit pricey, especially at popular spots. Bargaining isn't common for food, but exploring different cafes can help find value. +1
Fresh seafood, Kerala thalis, and local breakfast items like dosas are highly recommended. Don't miss trying a good coffee or cocktail with a view.
Yes, most cafes offer vegetarian dishes, including Indian curries, pasta, and salads.
Many cafes along the North Cliff offer excellent sunset views. It's worth exploring a few to find your favorite ambiance.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can shop for souvenirs, enjoy meals at cafes, watch the sunset, relax on the beach, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Absolutely! The romantic sunset views, beach walks, and cozy cafes make it a perfect spot for couples.
It becomes lively with music from cafes, people strolling, and a beautiful sea breeze, creating a perfect vibe.
Nearby activities include visiting Jatayu Earth Centre, deep sea diving, and mangrove kayaking.
Varkala Cliff is generally considered safe, but like any tourist area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cliff can get crowded in the evenings, mornings offer a more relaxed atmosphere. The variety of shops might appeal to older children looking for souvenirs. For a unique outing, the Jatayu Earth Centre, with its massive bird sculpture, is a worthwhile day trip from Varkala.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Be prepared for higher auto-rickshaw fares; consider walking or renting a scooter if you plan to explore extensively. While bargaining is possible for souvenirs, don't expect significant discounts on food. Focusing on the free activities like enjoying the sunsets and beach walks will maximize your budget.
💖 Couples
Consider booking a sea-facing room on the cliff for a truly memorable stay. The sound of the waves and the panoramic ocean vistas provide a serene and romantic ambiance. Exploring the quieter parts of the beach or enjoying a cocktail as the stars come out adds to the magical experience.
+2Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Varkala Cliff Experience
Navigating the cliff is a delightful experience. The North Cliff is known for its lively atmosphere, with music drifting from cafes and a constant buzz of activity. The South Cliff offers a slightly more laid-back feel and is home to the unique Black Sand Beach. Steps carved into the cliff provide access to Papanasam Beach below, a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. The combination of the dramatic coastline, the bustling marketplace, and the serene beach creates a multifaceted experience for every visitor.
+1Culinary Delights on the Cliff
While the Instagram hype might point to certain popular spots, exploring beyond these can lead to discovering hidden gems with equally delicious food and better value. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a cup of strong coffee or a refreshing cocktail while gazing at the sea, especially during sunset. Be mindful that prices on the cliff can be a bit higher than in other parts of Kerala, but the unique setting and quality of food often justify the cost.
Shopping and Souvenirs
As with many tourist markets, bargaining is an expected part of the shopping experience here. Travelers are advised to take their time, compare prices across different stores, and negotiate politely to secure the best deals. The same item might be available in multiple shops, so a little exploration can go a long way.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit