The best time to visit Varkala depends on the type of trip you are looking for. A small town in Kerala, Varkala is a peaceful place with pristine beaches, serene backwaters, delicious food, and a quaint lifestyle.
While winter is the best time to visit the region, Varkala is beautiful throughout the year and offers something unique in every season. Read on to find out the best time to visit Varkala.
Winter season in Varkala (October to February)
Winter is the best time to visit Varkala. From October to February, the climate turns pleasant, and the skies are a clear blue. December to February is the peak season for tourism in Varkala. The temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, perfect to explore the city or laze around by the sunny beaches. Visit the temples, go trekking and shopping, relax and sunbathe at the beach, and enjoy water sports and other adventure activities.
Visit the beaches of Thiruvambad, Edava, and Chilakoor. You can also go on a religious tour by visiting sites like Vishnu Temple, Janardhanaswamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Kaduvayil Juma Masjid, and Saint Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church.
There is a lot to do in Varkala, and the cool and pleasant weather is ideal for it. Many festivals also take place during this season, such as Vishu, Navratri, Thrikarthika, Christmas, New Year, and the Annual Festival.
However, since this is the peak tourist season, prices for accommodations and flights are pretty high. Plus, everything gets booked early, so make sure to book in advance.
Summer season in Varkala (March to May)
Temperatures rise up in summer in Varkala, ranging from 35 to 40 degrees Celsius. It can get quite hot, so it is not a very pleasant time to visit the region. While it is uncomfortable to venture outdoors during the day, the evenings are slightly cooler.
Water sports such as parasailing or surfing are available throughout the summer season, so if you are an adventure enthusiast, this is a good time to indulge in such fun activities. Because of the heat, summer usually sees less tourists in Varkala.
You will get discounts on accommodations and bookings. Plus, fewer crowds mean you have more places to yourself. The festivals of Arattu, Kaliyoot, and the Surfing Festival take place in summer.
If you visit Varkala in summer, make sure to wear loose, breathable clothes. Apply plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Monsoon season in Varkala (June to September)
Monsoon in Varkala is beautiful. The rain washes away the heat and dust of the summer, leaving behind lush greenery and mesmerizing landscapes. Temperatures range from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius, and it rains intensely here, especially in August.
This is not a good time to visit the region, as heavy rains pose a risk of flooding. Plus, the humidity is quite high. However, if you love rain and nature, there may not be a better time to visit. The dramatic grey skies and magnificent beaches offer beautiful views throughout the day.
It is also a great time for Ayurvedic therapies in Varkala. You can enjoy an amazing staycation in Varkala at discounted prices for the season. The festival of Onam takes place in August or September.
If you do visit in the monsoon season, be prepared for delays and cancellations in plans due to heavy rains. You may also not be able to visit the beaches when it is raining heavily. Carry an umbrella or raincoat with you at all times and wear appropriate footwear.
Events and festivals in Varkala
Arattu Festival: The 10-day festival of Arattu takes place in March or April in Varkala at the Janardhan Swamy Temple. The festival is celebrated with elephant processions, traditional Kathakali dances, and silk umbrellas. Arattu is celebrated twice a year in Kerala – in March/April and October/November, but it takes place in Varkala in March.
Kaliyoot: The Kaliyoot festival is a nine-day celebration that takes place in Varkala. Celebrated in February or March at the Sarkara Devi Temple. The festival offers the first harvest of the season to the Hindu Goddess Bhadrakali. There are many rituals and ceremonies that accompany this tradition, along with a presentation of the origins of Goddess Kali.
Onam: The festival of Onam is celebrated in August or September every year in Kerala. It celebrates the harvest season. The ten-day festival witnesses the rich culture of Kerala, with boat races, floral arrangements called pookkalam, and huge feasts, known as Onam Sadhya.
Surfing Festival: The Varkala International Surfing Festival is held at the Varkala Beach. The three-day festival happens in March and is organized by the Kerala Tourism Department. There are surfing competitions and cultural events that take place during the festival.
So, when will you be visiting Varkala? Let us know! At India Someday, we plan curated itineraries to India based on your needs and requirements. Contact us and together we can plan the perfect trip to India for you!
