Eat here: Try the sea-facing restaurants along the North Cliff. Savour the seafood delicacies like calamari fry, lobster curry and other fish preparations. The leaf- wrapped and grilled meen pollchathu is a must-try.

We recommend: Set out on a stroll on the footpath that runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels and guest houses. Or watch the fishermen haul in their catch, attend Yoga classes, meditation sessions and try out the rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages.    

Where: Located 46 km north of Thiruvananthapuram

How to get there:

Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram (52km). From there take a cab to Varkala.

Nearest railhead: Varkala Railway Station is connected to all major rail lines.

Road: It is 11 km off NH 47. It takes one hour by road from Thiruvananthapuram.

Weather: The weather is humid with temperatures ranging from 30 to 35 degrees. Avoid the monsoon when the sea can get turbulent.

Best time to visit: October to February end