Traveling from Kanyakumari to Varkala is one of the most scenic journeys you can experience in South India. These two coastal gems—Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu and Varkala in Kerala—are not just destinations but soulful experiences filled with history, culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple seeking romance, or a family planning a coastal holiday, this route promises a mix of spirituality, adventure, and leisure.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about traveling from Kanyakumari to Varkala—including distance, travel modes, sightseeing attractions, best time to visit, accommodation, food experiences, and travel tips.
Kanyakumari, also known as Cape Comorin, is the southernmost point of mainland India where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean converge. Famous for its sunrises and sunsets, the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, and Kanyakumari Temple, this town blends spirituality with scenic beauty.
Varkala, located in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district, is globally renowned for its cliffside beach, vibrant backpacker culture, Ayurveda wellness centers, and ancient temples like the Janardana Swamy Temple. Unlike the crowded beaches of Kerala, Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach) offers serenity, yoga retreats, and a lively coastal culture.
Traveling from Kanyakumari to Varkala allows you to transition from Tamil Nadu’s historic spirituality to Kerala’s laid-back coastal charm.
The distance between Kanyakumari and Varkala is approximately:
110 to 120 km by road (depending on the route)
2.5 to 3.5 hours by car or bus
3 to 4 hours by train
The route offers a scenic journey along the Western Ghats, coconut groves, coastal stretches, and traditional villages.
Traveling by road is the most flexible and enjoyable way to experience this route.
Car/Taxi: Hiring a cab or driving your own car gives you the freedom to stop at attractions en route. A taxi costs around ₹2500–₹3500.
Bus: Both government and private buses run between Kanyakumari and Varkala. KSRTC buses from Tamil Nadu and Kerala operate frequently.
Route Options:
Kanyakumari → Nagercoil → Thuckalay → Neyyattinkara → Varkala
Kanyakumari → Nagercoil → Parassala → Varkala
There are several direct trains between Kanyakumari and Varkala. Popular options include:
Kanyakumari Express
Anantapuri Express
Guruvayur Express
Travel time: 3–4 hours
Fare: Starts from ₹100 for sleeper to ₹700+ for AC classes.
There are no direct flights from Kanyakumari to Varkala. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), located about 45 km from Varkala. You can:
Travel from Kanyakumari to Trivandrum by train or cab (approx. 2 hours)
Then hire a taxi or take a train from Trivandrum to Varkala (about 1 hour).
Winter (October to February): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and beach activities.
Summer (March to May): Hot and humid but manageable if you prefer fewer crowds.
Monsoon (June to September): Heavy rains make travel difficult but the landscapes are lush and green.
The best time to travel is between November and February, when both Kanyakumari and Varkala offer comfortable weather for exploration.
Your journey doesn’t have to be just about reaching Varkala—there are plenty of places worth exploring en route.
Located in Thuckalay, this 16th-century wooden palace was once the seat of the Travancore kings. The architecture, murals, and antique furniture are a visual treat.
Dedicated to Lord Thanumalayan (a trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva), this temple is famous for its musical pillars and giant Hanuman statue.
Before reaching Varkala, you can stop at Poovar to enjoy backwater cruises surrounded by mangroves and golden beaches.
For nature lovers, Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary en route offer trekking, boating, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Once you arrive in Varkala, you’ll find endless activities and attractions.
The Varkala Cliff is lined with cafes, yoga centers, and shops. The cliffside view of the Arabian Sea is truly mesmerizing.
A 2000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it’s often called the “Vaishnavaite Shrine of the South.”
Varkala is a hub for Ayurvedic massages, detox programs, and yoga retreats, attracting wellness travelers worldwide.
A historical fort built by the British East India Company, located about 10 km from Varkala.
Surfing, parasailing, and beach volleyball are popular among adventure seekers.
Banana chips, tapioca dishes, and seafood curries.
South Indian vegetarian meals served on banana leaves.
Kerala-style fish curry, prawn fry, appam with stew.
International cuisines (Italian, Israeli, Continental) served at cliffside cafes.
Fresh tropical fruit juices and tender coconut water.
Budget stays: Guest houses and lodges near the beach.
Mid-range: Hotels like Hotel Seaview and Hotel Sangam.
Luxury: Sparsa Resort, Annai Resorts & Spa.
Backpacker hostels: Zostel, Cliff Stories.
Mid-range: Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort.
Luxury: The Gateway Hotel, B’Canti Boutique Beach Resort.
Kanyakumari symbolizes spirituality, meditation, and cultural heritage, with strong links to Swami Vivekananda and Hindu mythology.
Varkala represents wellness, Ayurveda, and a blend of spirituality with leisure.
Together, the journey reflects the harmony of traditional Tamil culture and laid-back Kerala coastal lifestyle.
Book train tickets early, especially during tourist seasons.
Carry light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and hats for the tropical climate.
Respect local culture—both towns have temples requiring modest dress.
Try local transport like auto-rickshaws for short distances.
For budget travel, choose government buses and hostels; for comfort, opt for taxis and boutique resorts.
Day 1: Arrive in Kanyakumari, visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kanyakumari Temple, sunset point.
Day 2: Explore Suchindram Temple and Padmanabhapuram Palace. Depart for Varkala.
Day 3: Relax at Varkala Beach and Cliff, enjoy seafood at cafes.
Day 4: Visit Janardana Swamy Temple and Anchuthengu Fort. Indulge in Ayurveda massage.
Day 5: Enjoy water sports or a backwater trip to Poovar before departing.
The journey from Kanyakumari to Varkala is not just about covering 120 kilometers but about experiencing the rich diversity of South India. From Tamil Nadu’s cultural landmarks to Kerala’s cliffside beaches, the route offers an unforgettable mix of heritage, spirituality, wellness, and natural beauty.
Whether you choose to travel by road, train, or a combination of both, this journey is perfect for those seeking peace, adventure, or cultural exploration. Next time you plan a South India trip, make sure the route Kanyakumari to Varkala is on your list—you’ll return with memories for a lifetime.
