Varkala North Cliff Varkala India
Varkala North Cliff: A vibrant cliffside paradise in Kerala, India, offering stunning Arabian Sea views, lively cafes, and breathtaking sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Varkala North Cliff Varkala India
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Varkala North Cliff: A vibrant cliffside paradise in Kerala, India, offering stunning Arabian Sea views, lively cafes, and breathtaking sunsets.
"Experience the magic of Varkala's North Cliff, where stunning ocean vistas meet a bohemian vibe and unforgettable sunsets."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Find a good spot on the North Cliff for breathtaking sunset views. Many cafes offer prime seating .
🛍️ Shop for Souvenirs
Explore the numerous shops on the North Cliff for clothing, jewelry, and local handicrafts .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Varkala North Cliff Promenade
North Cliff
A lively strip of cafes, shops, and guesthouses offering breathtaking Arabian Sea views and vibrant sunsets.
Papanasam Beach
Below North Cliff
A sacred beach known for its purifying waters and dramatic cliff backdrop, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Sunset Views
Various viewpoints along the cliff
Witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky in fiery hues over the Arabian Sea – a daily spectacle.
Cafes and Shops
North Cliff
Indulge in diverse cuisines and browse unique souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts at the cliffside eateries and boutiques.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cliffside Vibe
Navigating Varkala's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Find a good spot on the North Cliff for breathtaking sunset views. Many cafes offer prime seating.
🛍️ Shop for Souvenirs
Explore the numerous shops on the North Cliff for clothing, jewelry, and local handicrafts.
☕ Cafe Hopping
Enjoy diverse cuisines and ocean views at the many cafes lining the cliff.
🚶♀️ Explore South Cliff
For a calmer vibe and local feel, head to South Cliff for peaceful beaches and cafes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Find a good spot on the North Cliff for breathtaking sunset views. Many cafes offer prime seating.
🛍️ Shop for Souvenirs
Explore the numerous shops on the North Cliff for clothing, jewelry, and local handicrafts.
☕ Cafe Hopping
Enjoy diverse cuisines and ocean views at the many cafes lining the cliff.
🚶♀️ Explore South Cliff
For a calmer vibe and local feel, head to South Cliff for peaceful beaches and cafes.
🌊 Dip in Papanasam Beach
Take a refreshing swim at Papanasam Beach, believed to have purifying waters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Varkala North Cliff is celebrated for its stunning cliffside views, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food options. Visitors rave about the breathtaking sunsets and the lively promenade filled with shops and cafes. While the energy is a major draw, some find the crowds, especially in the evenings, a bit overwhelming.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Varkala North Cliff from Trivandrum by taking a train to Varkala Sivagiri station, followed by a short auto-rickshaw ride. Alternatively, buses and taxis are readily available for a direct journey.
Yes, auto-rickshaws and taxis are usually waiting outside Varkala Sivagiri station and can take you directly to the North Cliff for a reasonable fare.
Scooter and bike rentals are common along the North Cliff and in the surrounding areas, offering a convenient way to explore Varkala and its surroundings.
Walking is ideal for exploring the North Cliff itself. For longer distances or to reach South Cliff, auto-rickshaws and rented scooters are popular choices.
While buses go to Varkala town, you'll likely need to take a short auto-rickshaw ride from the bus stand to reach the North Cliff area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entry fee to access the Varkala North Cliff promenade or Papanasam Beach. You only pay for what you consume at cafes or purchase from shops.
Most shops and cafes on the North Cliff are open from morning until late evening, typically from around 9 AM to 10 PM, with some staying open later.
It's highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and get the best rates.
Papanasam Beach is accessible throughout the day, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, the Jatayu Earth Center is about an hour away and can be visited by bus or private vehicle from Varkala.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Must-do activities include strolling along the cliff, enjoying sunset views, dining at the numerous cafes, shopping for souvenirs, and visiting Papanasam Beach.
Papanasam Beach, located below the North Cliff, is suitable for swimming, but always be mindful of the currents and local advice.
You'll find a variety of shops selling clothing, beachwear, handicrafts, jewelry, books, and local souvenirs.
Yes, many guesthouses and some standalone centers offer yoga classes and wellness treatments, catering to a relaxed vibe.
North Cliff is livelier with more shops and cafes, while South Cliff offers a calmer, more local atmosphere with quieter beaches.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular spots include Cafe Italiano for Italian food,
and many others offering Indian, seafood, and continental dishes with ocean views.Expect a mix of fresh seafood, traditional Kerala cuisine, Indian favorites, and international dishes like Italian and continental options.
Most cafes and restaurants on the North Cliff offer a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes to cater to diverse dietary needs.
Dining prices can vary, but generally, you can expect mid-range prices for meals, with some cafes being more budget-friendly than others.
Yes, South Cliff is recommended for peaceful breakfast and brunch spots with a more local ambiance.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire North Cliff offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Papanasam Beach and the cliff edges provide dramatic backdrops.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Various points along the cliff promenade offer panoramic views. Look for spots with unobstructed sea views for the best shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.
Popular shots include sunset views, beach scenes, cliffside cafes, and vibrant market scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Varkala's Vibe
Beyond the bustling North Cliff, the quieter South Cliff offers a more laid-back experience, with serene beaches and a local feel. This contrast allows visitors to tailor their Varkala experience, whether they seek lively evenings or tranquil mornings. The proximity to Papanasam Beach, considered sacred, adds another layer to Varkala's appeal, inviting moments of reflection and rejuvenation.
Adventures Beyond the Cliff
For a taste of the region's natural beauty, exploring the backwaters near Varkala is highly recommended. Boat rides and kayaking offer a peaceful way to experience the lush landscapes and local life along the waterways. These excursions provide a broader perspective of Kerala's diverse offerings, complementing the cliffside experience with natural exploration and cultural immersion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit