Varkala Market
Varkala Market: A vibrant cliffside bazaar offering unique crafts, boho fashion, and stunning Arabian Sea views, especially at sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & stunning sunsets
Varkala Market
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & stunning sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Varkala Market: A vibrant cliffside bazaar offering unique crafts, boho fashion, and stunning Arabian Sea views, especially at sunset.
"It's an ideal spot to unwind and refresh your senses with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere."
🌅 Evening Cliff Stroll
Explore the North Cliff Market in the evening for the best vibe and sunset views. :sunset:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the cliff paths, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
North Cliff Market
Varkala Cliff
Bustling market with handicrafts, boho outfits, and local souvenirs. Perfect for evening strolls.
Sunset Views
Varkala Cliff
Mesmerizing sunsets over the Arabian Sea from the cliffside cafes and viewpoints.
South Cliff Serenity
South Cliff
A quieter, more peaceful area ideal for yoga, meditation, and enjoying tropical flora.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cliffside Charm
Getting Around Varkala
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Evening Cliff Stroll
Explore the North Cliff Market in the evening for the best vibe and sunset views. :sunset:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the cliff paths, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🛵 Scooter Rental
Consider renting a scooter for easier access to different parts of Varkala. :scooter:
🧘♀️ South Cliff Peace
For a tranquil experience, head to South Cliff for yoga and meditation. :lotus_position:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Evening Cliff Stroll
Explore the North Cliff Market in the evening for the best vibe and sunset views. :sunset:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the cliff paths, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🛵 Scooter Rental
Consider renting a scooter for easier access to different parts of Varkala. :scooter:
🧘♀️ South Cliff Peace
For a tranquil experience, head to South Cliff for yoga and meditation. :lotus_position:
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
North Cliff Market is great for unique handicrafts and boho clothing. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Varkala Market is praised for its stunning cliffside location, vibrant atmosphere, and beautiful sunset views. Visitors love the unique shopping experience for handicrafts and boho fashion, as well as the diverse culinary offerings at the cafes. However, some find transportation challenging and note that certain areas can be less developed or have limited amenities.
"It was an absolute beauty. Love the beach and the south cliff Varkala town. So quiet and pleasant, also the sunset is mesmerising!"
Nick Kay
"One of the best places to relax in Kerala is its beautiful beaches. With stunning views, soft sands, and a peaceful atmosphere, they offer a perfect escape. You can shop, get a tattoo, try various cuisines, and chill with friends while enjoying the simple yet breathtaking scenery. It's an ideal spot to unwind and refresh your senses.."
monika feb
"Very calm beach.
No transportation available if you do not have your own vehicle avoid this place very hard to find any auto or cab Ola/uber doesn’t work there.
You have to walk more than 2 km if you want to get to a busier road.
Resorts are available at 1 km distance but you will be bored as there is nothing to do.
Just 3-4 cafés nearby."
farha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Varkala Market is primarily located along the North and South Cliffs. You can reach Varkala by train to Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station or by bus. From the station, autos and taxis are available to take you to the cliff areas. Be aware that OLA/Uber might not be consistently available in Varkala.
Finding autos and cabs can be challenging, especially if you're not near the main roads. Many visitors find renting a scooter or motorcycle to be the most convenient way to explore Varkala and its market areas.
The Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is about 4-5 km from the cliff areas. An auto-rickshaw or taxi ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entry tickets required to visit Varkala Market. It's an open area along the cliffs where shops and cafes are located.
The shops and cafes along the North Cliff Market generally stay open until around 10 PM, with many starting to get busy in the late afternoon. The South Cliff area is more about natural beauty and cafes.
Sunsets are a natural phenomenon, so there are no specific timings. However, the best time to catch the sunset is typically between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM, depending on the season. The market buzzes around this time.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You can find a variety of items including handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing (boho outfits are popular), jewelry, spices, and local art. 
Varkala is known for its fresh seafood, Kerala-style dosas, and thalis. Many cliffside cafes offer diverse cuisines with stunning sea views.
Yes, Varkala's cliffs are lined with numerous cafes offering a range of food and drinks, many with spectacular ocean views.
Yes, some shops in Varkala offer tattoo services, particularly along the cliff areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire North Cliff offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunset. The black sand beach and the Janardanaswamy Temple also provide unique backdrops.
While drone usage regulations can vary, the open cliffside views offer potential for aerial shots. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific 'kid attractions' in the market itself, the novelty of the cliffside setting and the variety of shops can be engaging for older children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for some walking. The cafes offer a good spot to rest and refuel.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers
For those seeking tranquility, the South Cliff is perfect for yoga and meditation. The beach is also a good place to unwind. If you're interested in learning a new skill, Varkala is also known for its surfing schools, offering a fantastic way to connect with others and challenge yourself.
🛍️ Budget Travelers
Eating at local eateries and smaller cafes away from the prime cliff views can also save money. Look for places offering thalis or local snacks. Walking or renting a scooter are more economical transport options than relying solely on taxis.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Varkala Cliffs
+1In contrast, the South Cliff offers a more serene and peaceful environment. It's ideal for those seeking quiet contemplation, yoga, or meditation. The natural beauty, with its tropical flora and calm beach, makes it a perfect escape from the crowds.
Navigating the cliffs involves walking along pathways that wind above the beach. Comfortable footwear is essential, and many visitors enjoy the experience of discovering hidden cafes and viewpoints along the way.
Shopping and Souvenirs
+1Beyond clothing and crafts, the market offers local spices, jewelry, and other trinkets. Bargaining is common, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices politely. Many visitors enjoy the experience of browsing through the stalls, interacting with local vendors, and finding that perfect souvenir.
For those interested in body art, several shops offer tattoo services. The overall shopping experience is enhanced by the backdrop of the Arabian Sea, making it a pleasant way to spend an afternoon or evening.
Culinary Delights by the Sea
Beyond seafood, you can savor authentic Kerala cuisine, including flavorful curries, rice dishes, and the popular Kerala-style dosa. The cafes cater to various tastes, with many offering international dishes and vegetarian options as well. It's common to find places serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it easy to dine with a view at any time of day.
The experience of dining at a cliffside cafe is about more than just the food; it's about the ambiance. Enjoying a meal or a cup of coffee while watching the waves crash below and the sun set over the horizon is a quintessential Varkala experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit