Embarking on a day trip from Trivandrum to Varkala is a captivating opportunity to take in the cultural and historical richness of this picturesque region. With a guided full-day tour, travelers can explore key attractions, discover the serene beauty of the Golden Island, and gain insights into the spiritual significance of the Sivagiri Mutt. Complemented by comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and refreshments, this tour promises a seamless blend of exploration and relaxation. What intrigues one most about this excursion, however, is the chance to uncover the unique stories and hidden gems that await discovery.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Full-Day Tours In Thiruvananthapuram.
Key Points
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This full-day guided tour from Trivandrum explores Varkala’s top attractions, including Anjuthengu Fort, Golden Island, Sivagiri Mutt, and the Varkala Cliff.
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The tour duration is 8 hours, with pickup and drop-off from Trivandrum, and is offered in English and Hindi.
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Guests can learn about the historical and cultural significance of the tour sites, such as the 2,000-year-old Sri Janardanaswamy Temple.
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The tour includes a comfortable AC car, water, and snacks, while additional food and entrance fees are at the traveler’s own expense.
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Visitors have the flexibility to begin the tour from their preferred pickup location within a 10 km radius of Trivandrum.
Tour Overview
According to the article, the "Day Trip to Varkala" is a guided full-day tour from Trivandrum, priced from ₹3,356 per group of up to 3 people.
The tour lasts 8 hours and is offered in English and Hindi. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Pickup is included from Trivandrum, with additional charges for locations outside 10 KM.
The tour provides a guided exploration of key attractions such as Anjuthengu Fort, Golden Island, Sivagiri Mutt, Sri Janardanaswamy Temple, Varkala Cliff, and Varkala Beach.
Refreshments and local insights are also included, making this a comprehensive and immersive day trip experience.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s itinerary highlights a carefully curated selection of Varkala’s most captivating attractions.
Visitors will be guided through the historic Anjuthengu Fort, learning about its British East India Company origins. They’ll then explore the serene Golden Island, home to a hidden Shiva-Parvati temple.
The iconic Sivagiri Mutt, one of Kerala’s holiest sites, offers insights into the state’s spiritual heritage.
The tour also includes visits to the picturesque Veli Lake, the centuries-old Sri Janardanaswamy Temple, and the stunning Varkala Cliff, renowned for its unique red sandstone formations and scenic beach access.
Key Attractions
Varkala’s key attractions captivate visitors with their natural beauty and historical significance.
The serene Veli Lake offers a scenic backdrop, perfect for relaxation.
The Sivagiri Mutt, one of Kerala’s holiest sites, provides insights into the state’s spiritual heritage.
The Anjuthengu Fort, established by the British East India Company, holds fascinating historical stories.
The Varkala Cliff‘s unique red sandstone formations and beach access create a breathtaking panorama.
The Golden Island conceals a revered Shiva-Parvati temple, known as the Golden Temple.
Lastly, the ancient Sri Janardanaswamy Temple, over 2000 years old, stands as a testament to Varkala’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.
Included Services
Highly trained, friendly storyteller/guides fluent in English and Hindi lead the day trip. They provide an AC car for comfortable travel during the tour, ensuring a seamless experience.
To keep guests refreshed, the tour includes a water bottle and snacks. Throughout the journey, the guides share local insights, offering valuable information on the religious significance and cultural aspects of the attractions.
This allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the destinations visited, from the historic Anjuthengu Fort to the sacred Sivagiri Mutt and the iconic Varkala Cliff.
The included services aim to create a memorable and enriching experience for all participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAdditional Information
Comfortable clothes are recommended for the day trip, as you will be exploring various outdoor sites.
The tour includes guided visits to historical attractions, temples, and scenic locales, but entrance fees to these sites aren’t included in the package price.
While refreshments like water and snacks are provided, any additional food or drinks during the tour must be purchased separately.
This full-day excursion offers the chance to immerse in the local culture, browse street markets, and enjoy a multi-cuisine lunch at the traveler’s own expense, creating lasting memories of the Varkala experience.
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Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup from two convenient locations in Trivandrum – 111C-Main Road Pttom and Veli Lake Tourist Village.
These pickup points are easily accessible, ensuring a hassle-free start to the day trip. Travelers can choose the location most suitable for them, whether it’s the centrally located 111C-Main Road Pttom or the scenic Veli Lake Tourist Village.
The tour provides a seamless door-to-door service, with the option to arrange pickup from other locations within a 10 km radius for an additional charge.
This flexibility allows guests to begin their Varkala adventure from a location that best suits their needs.
Guided Tours
During the tour, the guide leads visitors through a series of captivating destinations, with each stop offering a unique perspective on Varkala’s rich history and cultural significance.
Guests explore the Anjuthengu Fort, where they discover the historical narratives surrounding its hotel by the British East India Company.
The tour then ventures to the Golden Island, concealing a Shiva-Parvati temple known as the Golden Temple.
Visitors also visit the Sivagiri Mutt, one of the holiest sites in Kerala, and the Sri Janardanaswamy Temple, an ancient structure dating back over 2,000 years.
Drop-off Locations
At the tour’s conclusion, guests are dropped off at the same locations as their pickup points, allowing for a seamless start and end to the day’s excursion.
Travelers can choose to be dropped off at 111C-Main Road Pttom in Thiruvananthapuram or Veli Lake Tourist Village, depending on their original pickup location.
This convenient arrangement ensures that participants can easily return to their starting point without any additional hassle.
The tour’s coordinated drop-off service contributes to an effortless and well-organized experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the highlights of Varkala without having to worry about transportation logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit My Preferences?
The tour can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. The tour operator is flexible and willing to accommodate special requests, such as adjusting the itinerary or adding extra stops, within reason and availability.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Elderly Individuals?
The tour can accommodate children and elderly individuals, but their needs should be considered. It involves moderate walking, so visitors with mobility issues may need assistance. The tour operator can advise on suitability and make necessary arrangements.
What Safety Precautions Are Taken During the Tour?
The tour includes safety measures such as an experienced guide, air-conditioned transportation, and water/snacks provided. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and follow the guide’s instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can customize the itinerary and duration to suit their preferences, allowing them to explore more of the region at their own pace.
Can the Tour Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
The tour can accommodate special dietary requirements if informed in advance. The tour provider will make necessary arrangements to ensure all participants’ dietary needs are met during the day trip, providing a tailored and inclusive experience.
Recap
This guided day trip from Trivandrum to Varkala offers an enriching cultural and historical experience. Visitors can explore key attractions like Anjuthengu Fort, Golden Island, and Sivagiri Mutt, with comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and refreshments included. The tour provides a seamless blend of sightseeing, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s rich heritage and picturesque landscapes for an unforgettable adventure.
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