Varkala – India’s Most Vibrant Surf Town
Varkala is one of those towns that completely surprises you. I didn’t expect much when I went there for surfing, but it turned out to be one of the most memorable travel experiences I’ve ever had. Maybe it was luck, or maybe Varkala really has that charm that makes you fall in love instantly.
I was there for the Varkala International Surfing Festival 2025, and trust me, it was everything a surf lover could dream of. But my time in Varkala went far beyond the surfing festival — it was a blend of adventure, spirituality, culture, and pure coastal calm.
International Surfing Festival, varakala 2025
The Varkala International Surfing Festival 2025, held from April 10th–13th at Edava Beach. Organized by Kerala Tourism and the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society, the festival brought together surfers from across India and around the world.
I was just mesmerized by dozens of surfers dancing on the waves – turning, carving, and balancing as if the ocean was their playground. For someone like me, still learning to surf, it was pure inspiration. You could feel the energy in the air — the blend of competition, community, and connection with nature.
Varkala Surfing
If you’re coming to Varkala to surf, you’re in for a ride — literally. The waves here are slightly rougher and more powerful than in Mulki or Goa, which makes Varkala one of the best training grounds for beginners who want to get confident fast.
I surfed here for about a week, and yes, I fell. A lot. But by the end, I could feel how much I had improved. The steeper learning curve means you’ll struggle in the beginning, but once you get it, you’ll be ready to surf anywhere in India.
Most surf schools operate near Kapil Beach, and you can book your surf lessons with us – Surfing lessons in Varkala
Other Adventure sports in Varkala
Scuba Diving
While scuba diving here can be hit-or-miss due to visibility, there are days when the sea opens up beautifully and you get a glimpse of Kerala’s marine life. Choose a dive school that knows the tides well.Kayaking at Paravur Lake
If you’re looking for calm waters, Paravur Lake is ideal. Morning and evening are the best times — the lake comes alive with birdsong and golden light reflecting off the mangroves.Paragliding & Paramotoring
Head to Varkala Cliff for paragliding — the view of the cliffs meeting the Arabian Sea from above is breathtaking. It’s one of those experiences that make you realize how small you are in front of nature — in the best way.
Shri Janardhana Swami Temple Festival
What made my trip truly special was timing — I happened to be in Varkala during the Shri Janardhana Swami Temple Festival, a 10-day cultural extravaganza that fills the entire town with lights, music, and devotion.
I attended the last few days of the festival, and it was nothing short of magical. Local kids performed Kalari, Kerala’s ancient martial art, with fiery precision.
And then came the Julus — the grand procession. Thousands of people gathered near the temple, music filled the air, elephants decorated with ornaments marched gracefully, and dancers dressed as deities moved through the streets. I couldn’t resist joining them — dancing half the way down the street with complete strangers who felt like friends.
The next morning, I visited the temple again, this time in silence. You have to remove your shirt before entering the main courtyard, and inside, there’s this profound stillness. The temple’s age and energy make you feel grounded — like time has slowed down just for you.
Cafes, Cliffs, and Calm
When you think of Varkala, you can’t skip its cliff-top cafes overlooking the Arabian Sea. Whether you’re here for a lazy brunch, sunset coffee, or just a quiet read — these cafes offer the perfect mix of vibe and view.
Best Cafes in Varkala (Veg & Non-Veg):
- ☕ Bindu’s Café – Great coffee and ocean views
- InDa Café – Cozy ambiance, ideal for breakfast
- Darjeeling Café – A traveler favorite
- Café del Mar – Perfect for sunset dinners
- ABBA Restaurant & Everest German Bakery – Fresh bakes and continental food
- Café Sarwaa – Laid-back and local
- God’s Own Country Kitchen – Authentic Kerala touch
Pure Vegetarian Options:
- Satvik
- Hotel Suprabhatham
- Hotel Aryas
(Pro tip: If you’re visiting during the off-season, many cafes are quieter — perfect for digital nomads or travelers who prefer peace over parties.)
Best Time to Visit Varkala
The best time to visit Varkala for surfing and outdoor activities is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and the waves are perfect for beginners.
April–May can get warm, but it’s also when festivals and temple fairs bring the town alive.
Check out our Varkala film for a visual experience.
At GoCareless, we’re on a mission to make adventure sports and unique travel experiences accessible for India’s new-age travelers. Whether it’s surfing in Varkala, skiing in Gulmarg, or scuba diving in the Andamans — our goal is to connect you with expert instructors, authentic local experiences.
Keep pushing your limits. Cheers!
Christopher Noland
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