Varkala

Varkala is a geological accident that became a travellers' institution. A 15m laterite cliff of compressed red sandstone rises directly from the sea — the only such cliff on Kerala's coastline. Natural mineral springs emerge from the cliff face, used for millennia for holy bathing (the beach is sacred to Lord Vishnu). The clifftop path stretches 1.5km above the sea, lined with open-air restaurants, hammocks, and Ayurveda massage parlours.

While Kovalam and Alappuzha host the package tourists, Varkala has retained a slower, more intentional character. The Janardhana Swami Temple at the cliff's north end is 2,000 years old and actively used. Below, the beach is accessed via steep steps cut into the cliff — which conveniently discourages mass tourism.

Varkala is one of the few places in Kerala where you can do a 10-day Panchakarma treatment, learn Kalari martial arts, and still reach your beach towel in 5 minutes. Many visitors arrive for a week and stay a month.