Coastal Bliss - A 4-Day Journey through Varkala, Poovar, and Thiruvananthapuram

Hey travel enthusiasts! 

We kicked off our journey with a day at a friend's place in Madurai. Excitement buzzed as we got ready for a spontaneous trip through Varkala, Poovar, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Day 1:

We arrived in Varkala at 7:00 AM from Madurai. Without a predetermined itinerary, we embraced the role of spontaneous trip agents. Book an auto, we navigated our way to the Varkala cliff.

Reaching the cliff's edge, we found accommodation in a beach-view hotel, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Breakfast unfolded as a feast for the senses, with Puttu, banana, and sugar, providing the perfect start to our day.

Going to the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple resonates with religious and architectural significance. Following divine blessings, we ascended the hills to the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual sanctuary with a breathtaking hilltop location.

Lunch became an adventure itself, with a perfect blend of flavors in the local fish meal and beef curry. The afternoon unfolded on the golden sands of Varkala Beach, culminating in a captivating sunset from the renowned Varkala Cliff. The evening brought cultural exchanges and laughter as we shared moments with fellow travelers, capturing memories in lively selfies.

Spend the afternoon basking in the golden sun on Varkala Beach. Swim in the turquoise waters, build sandcastles, or simply relax and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Strike up conversations with friendly foreigners, sharing stories and learning from each other's cultures. It's a chance to broaden your horizons and make new friends.

Dinner was a culinary delight featuring the renowned Kerala dish - Parotta with beef curry and fish 65. The night crescendoed into music and dance, creating indelible memories against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.

Day 2:

The sunlit hours of the second day saw us embarking on an adventure to Jatayu Earth's Center, a journey offering not only breathtaking views but also the choice between a challenging trek of 826 steps or a scenic rope car ride.

Captured breathtaking photos from the viewing platform at Jatayu Earth's Center.

Post-adventure, we savored a Chinese feast, guided by a local tea shop owner's recommendation.

Escape the crowds and discover the serene beauty of Kappil Beach. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the pristine sand, or explore the charming backwaters.

Embark on a scenic backwater cruise on a traditional boat. Glide through the tranquil waters, observe the vibrant birdlife, and soak in the lush greenery that surrounds you.

Dive into the Varkala Tunnel, also known as the Varkala Aquarium Tunnel. 

 

Shopping along the Varkala Cliff paved the way for a diverse dinner, featuring pizza, fish specialties, and beef.

Day 3:

The dawn of the third day signaled our departure to Thiruvananthapuram via train, a journey offering scenic views of the Kerala countryside. Upon arrival, we embarked on the search for comfortable lodgings before setting out for Poovar.

Poovar Island unfolded before us, a haven of untouched natural beauty. The highlight of our day was a boat outing, navigating through backwaters, and enjoying lunch in the heart of this aquatic sanctuary.

The evening sun witnessed our return to Kovalam Beach, renowned for its calm waters. 

Bathing in the sea, snacking on local delicacies, and engaging in conversations with fellow beachgoers became the perfect conclusion to our day. 

As night fell, we retreated to Thiruvananthapuram, carrying the tranquility of Poovar in our hearts.

Day 4:

The final day commenced with an early pilgrimage to Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an architectural marvel and a testament to spiritual richness. A sumptuous breakfast at a local Ayyankar hotel provided the fuel for a visit to the vast Thiruvananthapuram Zoo.

A small electric car guided us through the zoo's expansive grounds, offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. Lunch at the zoo became a delightful pause amid our explorations.

In the afternoon, we indulged in some retail therapy in Thiruvananthapuram's bustling markets, collecting souvenirs to immortalize our coastal journey. As the clock struck 7:00 PM, we bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes, returning home with hearts full of cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the beauty of Kerala's coastal treasures.

The total cost for this trip is Rs. 8,500 per person.

Tips for planning your own Varkala, Poovar, and Thiruvananthapuram trip:

• The best times to visit Varkala are October, November, December, January, February, and March which is the peak season, and July, August, and September which is the moderate season
• If you are planning to go on a bike trip, make sure your bikes are in good condition and that you have all the necessary safety gear.
• There are many accommodation options in Varkala and Varkala Cliff side, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. (Clafouti Beach Resort, Prasanthi Cliff Beach Resort, The Lost Hostels, Varkala - Helipad and etc...)
• There are plenty of restaurants in Varkala and Thiruvananthapuram serving both Indian and international cuisine. Please try Kerala traditional foods instead of normal idly, dosa and pongal.
• Be sure to bargain when shopping at the local markets.
• Inside Padmanabhaswamy temple, Women are required to wear sarees, Mundum Neriyathum (set-mundu), skirt and blouse, or half-saree. Young girls below the age of 12 may wear gowns. Men are similarly required to wear mundu or dhoti and bare their torso. Dhotis are easily available for rent at the entrance.
• There are many trains available from Chennai Central to Varkala.(16127 Guruvayur Express, 12695 Thiruvananthapuram Central SF Express, 12623 Thiruvananthapuram Central Mail and etc...)

Magic's POV: Make Friends, Plan Trips!!!

Thank you for reading💙💙