Is Varkala Overrated? 🇮🇳 First Time Exploring Kerala’s Cliff Beach

I thought I knew what to expect from Varkala… but my first time here still surprised me. Cliffs above the ocean. Endless cafés overlooking the Arabian Sea. Small streets filled with travelers, shops, and the colorful Tibetan market. This place feels completely different from anywhere else in Kerala. Most people visiting Kerala think about houseboats in Alleppey or the hills of Munnar — but Varkala has its own unique energy. A beach town built along dramatic cliffs, where every sunset turns the coastline into something unforgettable. Walking along the famous Varkala Cliff, I explored both the lively North Cliff and the quieter South Cliff. The North Cliff is full of cafés, yoga spots, restaurants, and travelers from all over the world. Music playing, people watching the sunset, and a relaxed backpacker atmosphere that makes it easy to stay longer than planned. The South Cliff, on the other hand, feels calmer and more peaceful — with beautiful ocean views and fewer crowds. Along the way, I also wandered through the colorful Varkala Tibetan Market, where rows of small stalls sell handmade jewelry, clothes, souvenirs, and crafts. It’s one of those places where you can easily spend hours just exploring. But the real magic of Varkala happens in the evening. As the sun slowly disappears into the Arabian Sea, the cliffs turn golden, cafés fill up, and everyone stops for a moment to watch the view. For me, this wasn’t just another beach town. It felt like one of the most unique places in Kerala — a mix of nature, culture, travel, and slow coastal life. If you’re traveling in Kerala and looking for somewhere special, Varkala is a place you shouldn’t miss. Welcome to Emilia in Kerala. 📍 Location: Varkala 🌊 Famous spot: Varkala Cliff 🛍 Market: Varkala Tibetan Market Perspective: foreigner visiting Kerala, India Subscribe for more travel experiences across Kerala, India, and beyond.