5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Varkala, India Itinerary

Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Janardanaswamy Temple, one of the oldest temples in Kerala. Participate in the morning rituals and feel the spiritual energy. For breakfast, enjoy the serene setting of The Juice Shack, known for its fresh and healthy offerings.

After the temple, continue your cultural exploration at the Sivagiri Mutt, a pilgrimage center founded by the philosopher and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. Learn about his teachings and the impact of his movement. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Oottupura Vegetarian Restaurant, serving authentic Kerala vegetarian cuisine.

As the day winds down, head back to the Varkala Cliff for a different perspective. Enjoy a drink at Rock N Roll Cafe while watching the colors of the sky change. For dinner, experience the bohemian vibe of Soul & Surf Cafe, where the food is as soulful as the name suggests. Live music or a cultural performance might add to the evening's charm.

Take a day trip to the nearby city of Kollam, known as the gateway to the backwaters. Explore the historic Kollam Beach and the bustling Fishing Market. Enjoy a traditional Kollam breakfast at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of the coastal town.

After Kollam, embark on a serene backwater cruise through the Ashtamudi Lake. Witness the unique ecosystem and the daily life along the banks. For lunch, the boat can arrange a fresh seafood meal or you can choose to dine at a lakeside restaurant. Return to Varkala in the late afternoon.

Back in Varkala, unwind with a drink at Sunset Cafe, aptly named for its panoramic views of the sunset. For dinner, try the European-inspired dishes at Clafouti Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in the cliffside. The evening can be extended with a moonlit walk on the beach or a bonfire gathering at a beach resort.

Begin with a visit to the Anjengo Fort, a historic site with a blend of British and Dutch architecture. Explore the fort and enjoy the serene surroundings. For breakfast, head to Dolphin Bay Resort Restaurant, where you might spot dolphins while enjoying your meal.

Post-fort exploration, continue to the Kappil Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand where the backwaters meet the sea. Relax under the swaying palms and have a beach picnic with a packed lunch from a local deli or bakery, perhaps from Orchid Restaurant and Bakery.

As the day transitions to evening, take a leisurely walk at the Edava Beach, known for its tranquil and less crowded atmosphere. For dinner, indulge in the fusion cuisine at Darjeeling Cafe, where the flavors of the hills meet the coastal vibes. Enjoy the evening with some live music or a cultural performance if available.

On your final day, start with a visit to the Varkala Aquarium, especially if you're traveling with family or have an interest in marine life. Explore the diverse aquatic displays and learn about the local marine ecosystems. For breakfast, enjoy the continental offerings at Cafe Italiano, a perfect spot to reminisce about your trip.

Spend your last afternoon in Varkala with a relaxed beach day at Black Beach, also known as the Thiruvambadi Beach. The darker sands and the relatively quieter ambiance make it a peaceful spot to soak in the sun. For lunch, opt for the beachside convenience of Cafe Del Mar, where the sea and sand are your companions.

As the sun sets on your Varkala journey, head to Abba Restaurant & Bar for a farewell dinner. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with the eclectic menu, provides a fitting end to your culinary exploration. After dinner, take a nostalgic walk along the cliff and exchange stories with fellow travelers, cherishing the memories you've made.