Varkala, Kerala
Varkala is unique on the Kerala coast โ a beach backed by dramatic 47-metre red laterite cliffs rather than the typical flat palm-lined shore. The Papanasam Beach at the cliff base is sacred (believed to wash away sins), while the clifftop is lined with ayurvedic spas and cafes. The interplay of the red-black cliffs, turquoise sea, and the cliff-edge promenade creates very different photography from typical beaches.
51 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Direct trains from Trivandrum (1 hr) and Kochi.
Open in Google MapsEntry Fee
Free
Best Time to Visit
November to March
Location
Varkala, Kerala
Category
Nature
Alappuzha ยท Kerala
Venice of the East โ a 1,500 km network of lagoons, canals, and lakes with traditional houseboats.
Kochi ยท Kerala
A colonial heritage quarter with Chinese fishing nets, Dutch streets, and spice warehouses.