Varkala, Kerala

Located amidst a naturally picturesque setting, Varkala is yet another famous beach town of Kerala. In fact, Varkala is known as the most popular backpacker hangout of Kerala. The town is located along the edge of cliffs with a golden beach adding in to the panorama of the town. Plenty of restaurant and makeshift shopping stalls line up the beach side. Music oozing out from the joints and colourful t-shirts and clothing decorate the shore.

Despite its backpacker popularity, Varkala is still majorly a temple town, and the Papanasham beach, which is the main beach here, is a holy beach often used by Hindus assisted by priests who come here to make offerings to their deceased dead ones, a ritual known as shraadh in India. It is fascinating ritual to watch if you would like but maintain respect.

Laze around at the beach watching rituals being performed, local fishermen at their daily jobs, tourists and visitors playing volleyball and football, and the waves at their playful games.

Apart from these, Janardhana Temple is the main temple attraction in the town of Varkala. Located above Beach Road, the temple is a technicolor edifice. Unfortunately, entry to the temple is closed for non-Hindus, however, you may be invited inside the complex where you can see a huge banyan tree and a few shrines dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, Lord Hanuman (Indian Monkey god) and other Hindu deities.

Yoga is offered at many guesthouses and hotels. Each session costs around INR 200-300. You can also hire boogie boards for INR 100 but be aware of the strong currents. Many of the resorts and hotels offer ayurvedic massages and treatments. Haridas Yoga (Hotel Green Palace) offers an hour and a half of hatha yoga classes conducted by professional teachers. Classes start at INR 250 onwards.