Kerala, often called "God's Own Country," offers an unparalleled Kerala travel experience with its lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and stunning beaches. Recently, I embarked on a journey through three of its hidden gems—Varkala, Kovalam, and Poovar. If you're searching for the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, this Kerala travel experience is just what you need.
Starting the Journey: Varkala’s Cliffs and Waves in Your Kerala Travel Experience
After landing in Thiruvananthapuram, the journey to Varkala is just under two hours. What makes this drive special is that it takes you through narrow, winding roads instead of highways, giving you an intimate view of Kerala's traditional life.
As you travel, you’ll pass charming villages with red-roofed houses nestled among towering coconut trees. This scenic route gives you a glimpse of the authentic Kerala, far from the usual tourist traps.
When you finally reach Varkala, you'll be greeted by its breathtaking cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea. Varkala Beach, often called Papanasam Beach, is known for its natural springs and is considered a sacred spot by locals. Don’t miss the Janardanaswamy Temple, which is over 2,000 years old and holds great religious significance.
Relaxing at Varkala: Sundowners and Surfing
One of my favourite spots in Varkala was Cafe Trip is Life, a laid-back café perched on a cliff. It's a perfect spot to unwind with a coffee or a drink, and if you're lucky enough to be there around sunset, the views are absolutely stunning. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, while the waves crash against the shore is a moment you won’t forget.
If you’re feeling adventurous, September is a great time to visit Varkala for surfing. The Arabian Sea tends to be a bit rough, making it ideal for catching waves. If you're new to surfing, there are plenty of places offering lessons.
After a day on the water, head to one of the beach shacks for some freshly caught seafood—trust me, the grilled fish with coconut chutney is a must-try.
Bonito Cafe is another gem in Varkala that you shouldn’t miss. Known for its fresh seafood, this cozy spot serves up some of the best dishes, from grilled fish to prawns, all bursting with local flavors. The café’s relaxed vibe is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. If you’re a book lover, you’ll find a small collection of novels to enjoy while sipping on a cold coffee. The real highlight, however, is the view—Bonito offers one of the most breathtaking spots to sit back and watch the sun sink into the Arabian Sea.
Next Stop: Kovalam – Ayurvedic Bliss and More
From Varkala, Kovalam is just a short 25-minute drive. Known for its crescent-shaped beaches and clear waters, Kovalam is the ideal place to unwind. One of the highlights of my time here was indulging in an Ayurvedic massage. Kerala is world-renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments, and there’s nothing quite like an hour of therapeutic massage to melt away the stress of daily life.
Spend your day lounging on the beach or exploring the local markets. Kovalam is also famous for Hawa Beach, known for its unique black sand. While you're here, don’t miss a visit to the iconic Lighthouse. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular and offer a fresh perspective on the surrounding landscapes.
One hidden gem in Kovalam that you must visit is the Azhimala Shiva Temple. The 58 ft tall sculpture is known to be the tallest one in Kerela. It’s a serene spot perched on a cliff, and the highlight is a magnificent, towering statue of Lord Shiva with the endless ocean as its backdrop. The sheer size of the statue, combined with the sight of the ocean stretching out behind it, creates a mesmerising and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a spiritual experience you won’t want to miss. There is a INR 20 entry ticket and be mindful of the temple timings before going.
We stayed at Gokulam Grand Turtle Beach in Kovalam, and during my visit, we were lucky enough to witness the preparations for Onam.
The vibrant atmosphere was filled with prayer dances and the delicious spread of Sadya. The simplicity and generosity with which the locals included us in their celebrations were truly touching, making the experience even more memorable. It was a beautiful opportunity to immerse ourselves in Kerala’s rich cultural traditions.
Poovar Backwaters Cruise: A Water Safari Like No Other
The next morning, a 30-minute drive took us to Poovar from Kovalam. Poovar is famous for its serene backwaters and golden sand beach. What sets it apart from other beach towns is its network of backwaters that you can explore by boat.
A two-and-a-half-hour boat ride made for a perfect water safari. The journey through Poovar’s backwaters offers an unfiltered, raw beauty that’s hard to put into words. We were lucky enough to spot bald eagles, migratory birds, and even some snakes along the way. As you glide through the calm waters, you’ll pass through dense mangroves and see small fishing villages on the banks, a true glimpse to Kerala’s thriving coastal life.
One of the best part of the boat ride is the sight of Poovar's golden sand beach, where the backwaters meet the Arabian Sea. It’s a serene and secluded spot, perfect for unwinding after your boat safari.
Wrapping Up: Hawa Beach and the Lighthouse
After our time in Poovar, we headed back to Kovalam and decided to spend the evening at Hawa Beach, a lesser-known gem with black sand. The contrast between the black sand and the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea is truly mesmerizing. If you're a fan of quiet beaches, this one will be a pleasant surprise, especially the sunsets are a treat to watch.
Before leaving, we visited the famous Vizhinjam Lighthouse. Standing at the top, you get a panoramic view of Kovalam Beach and the endless Arabian Sea stretching out before you. The climb to the top is worth every step, as it offers one of the best viewpoints in the area.
Final Thoughts
Kerala is a destination that captures the essence of nature in its purest form. From the adventure-filled beaches of Varkala to the relaxing Ayurvedic treatments in Kovalam, and the unspoiled beauty of Poovar’s backwaters, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're surfing, enjoying fresh seafood, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, you’ll find that Kerala has a way of rejuvenating both your mind and soul.
Planning a trip? Make sure to take your time at each of these places—rushing through them won’t do justice to the serenity they offer. Kerala is not just a destination; it's an experience.
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