Overview
Features: Red laterite cliffs facing Varkala beach
Opening Times: Dawn to dusk
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early March
Duration: Half a day
Travelled By: Foot
Cost: Free
Address: Varkala Beach, Varkala, Kerala, India
Type: Natural wonder
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Summary
Varkala is well known for its ruby red laterite cliffs that form a scenic backdrop to Varkala beach. The Varkala cliff tops are the only ones to be found in southern Kerala that are adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Declared as a geological monument, these Cenozoic sedimentary cliff formations are a unique geological feature on the otherwise flat Kerala coast.
Varkala Cliff
Besides its aesthetic beauty, the Varkala cliff tops serve another function. The numerous water spouts and spas on the sides of these cliffs have medicinal properties that are considered sacred thereby attracting many people to drink and bathe in its waters.
[singlepic id=974 w=720 h=560 float=center]Varkala Beach is divided into two – North Cliff and South Cliff. The South Cliff is a more popular hangout where games like volleyball are a common sight. Surfboard and beach umbrellas can be hired at the beach here. North Cliff, on the other hand, is lined with cafes that serve Israeli, Chinese, Continental and Italian food.
Whether it’s the North Cliff or South Cliff, the Varkala cliff tops are a popular attraction for tourists. Most resorts, restaurants and shops are located along these cliffs and for good reason too. Not only do the cliffs provide a fantastic view of the ocean and beach below, they also provide the shortest pathway between the beaches in the north and the south.
[singlepic id=983 w=720 h=560 float=center]It’s worth taking a walk along the Varkala cliff tops from Papanasam Beach to Kappil Beach if possible. The views are not only spectacular but you also get to see the locals go about their day-to-day activities. By late afternoon, the fishermen have returned with their catch of the day; some are tending their nets while others push their boats onto land. You can also see the local men collecting mussels a few metres off shore. Further north are shanty houses along the cliffs where the local families live.
Can you tell me a bit more detail about the Indian men’s behavior? Is it really that different from other places in the world?
They can be a bit more leering and certainly more likely to take photos of you in your swimsuit. Generally the lifeguards are more there to discourage the men from annoying the tourists, so you are generally left well alone.
I like this place Varkala. I think I will visit when I go to India soon.
Hi Jose,
Varkala is a really laid-back seaside town so you will definitely enjoy your time there.