Mint Inside

Varkala


Chicly stripped-back rooms and cottages, sharp service and hanging chairs and hammocks greet you at this fresh and welcome arrival on Varkala's growing boutique-guesthouse scene. Expect tasteful grey-and-white styling, concrete bed frames, polished bathrooms, touches of bamboo and a roof terrace. The four sea-facing rooms have air-con and private terraces, and Odayam Beach is a few minutes' walk away.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Varkala attractions

1. Odayam Beach

0.14 MILES

This gold-hued stretch of sand, around 1km north of the North Cliff, makes a peaceful alternative to Varkala's main beach.

2. Varkala Aquarium

0.4 MILES

Between Black Beach and Odayam Beach, Varkala's aquarium displays large tanks of exotic species – scorpionfish, angelfish, koi, the local karimeen – along…

3. Black Beach

0.45 MILES

A sandy little blonde-and-black beach just north of Varkala's North Cliff.

4. Durga Temple

0.88 MILES

A colourful Hindu temple just inland from Varkala's North Cliff.

5. Papanasham Beach

1.11 MILES

Ringed by rust-red cliffs, Varkala's main beach is a holy spot for Hindus, who for centuries have made offerings for passed loves ones and washed away…

6. Helipad

1.22 MILES

Towards the southern end of North Cliff.

7. Janardhana Temple

1.63 MILES

Varkala is a temple town and the Janardhana Temple, dedicated to Vishnu, is the main event – with its roots dating back to the 13th century, this…

8. Kappil Beach

1.85 MILES

About 8km north of Varkala, this long, beautiful and (so far) undeveloped stretch of golden sand is also the beginning of a mini network of backwaters. A…