These 4 Awesome Places Near Varkala Are Great Retreats For Travelers On A Vacation

Varkala is one of the most beautiful beach towns in Kerala. It is known for its tall cliffs, peaceful beaches, cool cafés, and calm vibes. But Varkala is not only about beaches. There are many places near Varkala, and each one offers a different experience. Some places have lakes, some have waterfalls, some have temples, and some are perfect for adventure. So when you travel here, you will find many places to visit near Varkala that can make your trip exciting, peaceful, or fun, depending on what you like.

This guide is your full, simple, and helpful travel planner. It covers tourist places near Varkala, hidden gems, adventure spots, romantic places, family-friendly areas, and natural attractions. Whether you are a beginner traveller or a frequent traveller, you can use this as your easy travel partner. All the information is explained in simple language so that even a 10th-pass student can understand everything without any difficulty.

Use this guide as your complete plan for all nearby places in Varkala and enjoy a smooth and memorable holiday.

Table Of Content

Why Visit Places Near Varkala?

Many people visit Varkala only for the beach and cliff. But once you explore the places near Varkala, you will realise there is so much more to see. The areas around Varkala are filled with lakes, forts, backwaters, temples, hill stations, forests, and heritage spots. This means that you can enjoy a full travel experience without going too far.

There are tourist places near Varkala for every type of traveller. No matter what type of holiday you want, you will find many places near Varkala to visit that match your mood. 

Below is a quick look at who will enjoy exploring places to visit near Varkala:

• A solo backpacker: Peaceful beaches, local cafés, and nature walks make it perfect for solo travel. You can move around easily on scooters and explore many places near Varkala.
• A family with kids: Calm lakes, clean beaches, and easy sightseeing spots make it safe and enjoyable for children.
• A honeymoon couple: Romantic beaches, sunset views, backwater rides, and hill stations nearby make it ideal for couples.
• A senior traveller: Smooth roads, quiet locations, light walking, and peaceful lakes are good for seniors.
• A spiritual seeker: Temples, meditation beaches, and calm spaces offer a peaceful environment.
• A photographer: Cliffs, lighthouses, lakes, forts, and beaches give perfect photo backgrounds.
• A nature lover: Backwaters, hill stations, forests, and quiet beaches offer pure natural beauty.
• An adventure enthusiast: Trekking, ropeway rides, ziplining, and boating are easily available around Varkala.

This is why exploring Varkala near places adds more fun and meaning to your trip.

Top Places Near Varkala (Within 10–30 Km)

These are the closest and most popular places near Varkala to visit. They are perfect if you want short trips that don’t take much time. You can easily visit these locations by auto, scooter, or cab. Most of them are quiet, clean, and very photogenic.

Below, each place has a simple explanation so you can understand why it is worth visiting.

1. Alleppey

Alleppey is a beautiful land that pertains to the territory of Kerala. You should visit if you are fond of rivers, lagoons, and canals beaches. Alleppey is a beautiful land with backwaters of Kerala. lagoons, rivers, canals beaches. So if you like adventure, you can take a ride in the houseboat. In this place, you will have the opportunity to see the perfect combination between the backwaters and a house. Houseboats in Alleppey are a masterpiece.

Distance from Varkala: 11.3 km
Travel time by car: 45 minutes

Must Read: 21 Places To Visit In Varkala For A Perfect Coastal Vacation

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2. Edava

Edava is a village that is actually very near to Varkala (5 kilometers only). So if you are traveling to Varkala from the north, Edava is a must-visit. Mostly, it is a town-like city filled with parks and tourist sites that have a special natural touch. Of course, this is also a tourist spot to enjoy the beach. Kappil Beach is only 9 kilometers away from Varkala and is a beach of mid-high tides. Do you like surfing? Why not go to Kappil beach to surf?

Distance from Varkala: 12 kilometers
Travel time by car: 15 minutes

Suggested Read: Discover the Best Way To Observe New Year’s Celebrations in Kerala

3. Peermade

It is located 75 km to the east of Kottayam. This place is usually flocked by tourists all year around. You can enjoy trekking for adventure or romantic dinners.

Distance from Varkala: 148 km
Travel time by car: 4 hrs 13 minutes

Suggested Read: 37 Amazing Things To Do In Kerala For An Incredible Holiday

4. Devikulam

It is a delightful place for nature lovers and peace seekers. This place offers serene views for bird watching. You can also consider camping here to learn new skills.

Distance from Varkala: 257 km
Travel time by car: 7 hours 44 minutes

Hidden Gems & Offbeat Places Near Varkala

Many travellers look for lesser-known spots. These hidden places near Varkala are perfect if you do not like crowds and want more quiet areas. They are simple, peaceful, and full of natural charm. These places are very good for slow travel, photography, and meditation.

Odayam Beach

Odayam Beach is close to Varkala Cliff but far quieter. The waves here are soft, and the beach is great for long, peaceful walks. It is a favourite choice for foreigners staying long-term because of its calm environment.

Koyikkal Palace

Koyikkal Palace is a heritage building that now works as a folklore and coin museum. It is a good spot to learn about Kerala’s old lifestyle, tools, musical instruments, and coins. The palace is simple, well-maintained, and worth visiting.

Kilimanoor Palace

This palace is the birthplace of Raja Ravi Varma, one of India’s most famous artists. The palace has old Kerala architecture, open courtyards, and plenty of history. Art lovers and heritage lovers will enjoy exploring this calm property.

Places to Visit in Varkala Itself (Supplementary Intent)

Before exploring the nearby areas, many travellers also look for the top place to visit in Varkala itself. These spots are close to the cliff and can be covered in one day. They are simple, beautiful, and give a taste of Varkala’s local charm.

Here are the main places nearby Varkala within the town:

Varkala Cliff

The most famous attraction in Varkala. The cliff has cafés, shops, sea views, and walking paths. It is a great place to relax, eat, and watch the waves from above.

Papanasam Beach

This beach is very popular for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The sand is soft, and the water is clean. Many families and travellers visit this beach every evening.

Janardanaswamy Temple

This ancient temple is more than 2,000 years old. It is peaceful, beautifully designed, and very important for spirituality and culture.

Varkala Tunnel

An old tunnel built during the British era. It is long, historical, and interesting for travellers who love heritage walks.

Itinerary Recommendations Based on Traveller Type

This section will help you choose the perfect places near Varkala to visit based on who you are travelling with. Instead of guessing, you can follow these simple plans. These are easy, practical, and helpful for all travellers.

Here are the recommended itineraries:

For Couples

Couples usually look for calm, beautiful, and romantic places. These spots offer soft sunsets, peaceful beaches, and lovely views.

• Kappil Beach & Lake: A quiet place with a lake on one side and the sea on the other. Great for sunset walks and photos.
• Ponmudi Hill Station: Cool weather, misty hills, and scenic roads make it perfect for a romantic day trip.
• Odayam Beach sunset: A peaceful beach with a quiet environment for evening walks.

For Families

Families need places that are safe, open, and comfortable. These locations are perfect for kids, parents, and even grandparents.

• Paravur Backwaters: Calm boat rides, wide water views, and safe surroundings make it perfect for families.
• Kollam sightseeing: Lots of family-friendly attractions like beaches, lakes, and viewpoints.
• Jatayu Earth Center: Kids and adults love the ropeway ride and adventure activities.

For Adventure Travellers

If you love excitement, these places near Varkala offer safe but thrilling activities.

• Thenmala: Full of adventure options like ziplining, trekking, and rope activities.
• Ponmudi Trek: Light trekking along rivers and viewpoints.
• Jatayu ropeway: The ropeway and zipline add fun and thrill.

For Budget Travellers

These places are free or have very low entry fees. They are easy to reach and great for simple travel.

• Edava Beach: A peaceful and clean beach with no entry fee.
• Anchuthengu Fort: A historical place with free entry and plenty to explore.
• Paravur Lake: Natural beauty without high costs.

For Seniors

Seniors usually prefer easy walks, calm places, and safe surroundings. These places are perfect:

• Paravur Backwaters: Very relaxing and easy to move around.
• Kappil Lake: Peaceful place with smooth walking paths.
• Kollam leisure sightseeing: Comfortable, slow-paced, and enjoyable.

Best Time to Visit Places Near Varkala

Varkala is a place that you can visit in any season, but every season gives a different experience. The weather changes the look of the beaches, lakes, and hill stations. Knowing the right time will help you plan better and choose the best places near Varkala for your trip. Below is a simple explanation of what each season offers.

Winter (Oct–Feb) – Best Weather

Winter is the most comfortable season in Varkala. The climate is cool, the sky is clear, and the sea looks calm. This is the perfect time for long walks, sightseeing, and exploring many places to visit near Varkala. Most travellers prefer winter because it feels fresh and pleasant.

Summer (Mar–May) – Beaches + Sunsets

Summer can be warm, but it is still a good time for travellers who enjoy the beach. You can relax under beach umbrellas, enjoy juices, and watch long sunsets. If you choose the right timings, like early mornings and evenings, you can enjoy many varkala near places comfortably.

Monsoon (Jun–Sep) – Waterfalls + Greenery

Monsoon brings rain, but it also makes the region very green. Waterfalls near Ponmudi become active. The forests and hills look fresh. If you like nature, monsoon is a very peaceful season. Just avoid isolated beaches during high waves.

How to Reach the Places Near Varkala

Reaching the tourist places near Varkala is very easy because the roads are good and transportation is simple. Whether you want to travel on a budget or in comfort, you will find many options. Below is a clear guide on how to move around.

By Road

You can hire autos, take cabs, or rent scooters. Scooters are the most popular option for young travellers because they are affordable and give you full freedom to explore varkala near by places at your own pace.

By Public Transport

Local buses run frequently to places like Kollam, Paravur, Varkala Beach, and Anjengo Fort. Shared jeeps also operate on some routes. This is the cheapest and simplest way to explore nearby areas.

By Rail

The nearest railway stations are Varkala, Kollam, and Trivandrum. You can get down at any of these stations and take a cab or auto to reach your destination. Trains are very helpful if you plan to visit multiple places near Varkala in one trip.

Travel Tips for Visiting Places Near Varkala

These simple tips will help you enjoy a smooth, safe, and budget-friendly trip. They are easy to remember and useful for all travellers.

Clothing

Wear light cotton clothes during the day because it can get warm. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you are visiting Ponmudi or any hill station, wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket.

Safety

Avoid isolated beaches at night because there won’t be many people around. Be careful during monsoon season, as roads may get slippery. Always drink enough water and keep small snacks with you.

Budget Tips

Scooter rentals are much cheaper than cabs and allow you to move freely. You can also stay in homestays near the cliff for affordable prices. For food, cliff-side cafés offer good meals at reasonable rates.

Further Read: Winter In Kerala: 11 Best Places To Visit For A Blissful Vacation

As explained in the introduction, Varkala is a tourist place that is often eclipsed by surrounding lands, and there are many reasons to think so. If you are planning to take a trip to Varkala with TravelTriangle, consider the fact that there are lots of tourist hotspots that are worth a visit. We’ve seen that there are places that provide peace, relaxation, adventure and all. Likewise, there are places that are worth visiting for one day. Hindu temples are very common in the vicinity of Varkala. Varkala has a soothing atmosphere around it. You can take a break from the chaotic life struggles and visit it. The beaches would surely not disappoint you. There is absolutely no doubt that it is no less than a heaven for foodies. It offers tons of varieties of food. For the sight-seers, this place has heavenly beauties to display. You would find a variety of people here from all over the world. You can make new friends and endless memories to cherish all your life.

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FAQs About Places Near Varkala

What are the best places near Varkala for a day trip?

Kappil Lake, Jatayu Earth Center, Kollam, and Paravur Backwaters are great options for a one-day trip. They are close, easy to reach, and offer beautiful views.

Which tourist places near Varkala are best for couples?

Couples enjoy quiet and romantic places like Kappil Beach, Odayam Beach, Ponmudi hill station, and cliff-side sunset points.

Is Ponmudi worth visiting from Varkala?

Yes, Ponmudi is one of the best hill stations near Varkala. It has cool weather, green hills, and simple trekking paths.

Are there any waterfalls near Varkala?

Yes, Kallar Falls and Meenmutty Falls are near the Ponmudi hill station. They look beautiful during the monsoon season.

What are the nearest beaches to Varkala?

Edava Beach, Kappil Beach, and Odayam Beach are the closest beaches apart from Papanasam.

Which places near Varkala are good for adventure?

Thenmala, Ponmudi trekking points, and Jatayu Adventure Park have many activities for adventure lovers.

Are backwaters near Varkala worth visiting?

Yes, Paravur Backwaters and Kappil Lake offer peaceful boat rides and beautiful lake views.

How far is Kollam from Varkala?

Kollam is around 35 km from Varkala. It is perfect for half-day or full-day sightseeing.

What are the best offbeat places near Varkala?

Anchuthengu Fort, Odayam Beach, Kilimanoor Palace, and the Edava–Kappil lagoon area are peaceful offbeat spots.

Are these places suitable for family vacations?

Yes, most of the places near Varkala are very family-friendly and safe for children and elders.

Can I rent a bike to explore places near Varkala?

Yes, you can easily rent scooters or bikes from the Varkala Cliff area.

Which places near Varkala are best for seniors?

Paravur Backwaters, Kollam city, Kappil Bridge, and lighthouse views are comfortable and relaxing for seniors.

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