Varkala Retreat

About this trip

Slow down at Varkala's iconic red cliffs. Daily yoga, ayurveda sessions and lazy afternoons by the Arabian Sea.

Highlights

Cliff-edge stay
Sunrise yoga
Ayurveda spa
Backwater cruise

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival
Check-in, sunset at North Cliff.
Day 2
Yoga & Beach
Morning yoga, beach day, seafood dinner.
Day 3
Backwaters
Day trip to Poovar backwaters.
Day 4
Departure
Breakfast and farewell.

Inclusions

• Cliffside stay
• Breakfast
• Yoga sessions
• Backwater cruise

Exclusions

• Flights
• Lunch & dinner

Dos & Don'ts

Do

Attend the sunrise yoga session — the cliff views are spectacular
Book the Ayurveda session in advance at the resort front desk
Taste the grilled prawns and fish curry at the North Cliff shacks
Carry a light shawl for evenings — sea breeze can be cool
Visit the Janardhanaswamy temple (dress modestly)

Don't

Don't swim directly below the cliffs — waves are deceptively strong
Avoid the busy season (Dec 25–Jan 1) if you prefer quiet retreats
Don't bargain aggressively with local fishermen vendors
Avoid single-use plastic — Varkala has active beach-cleanup initiatives

What to Carry

Comfortable yoga wear and a personal yoga mat (optional)
Breathable cotton clothing for beach days
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat
Reusable water bottle
Light shawl or scarf for temple visits and breezy evenings
Waterproof sandals for the cliff-side steps
A good book for lazy beach afternoons