Why choose a hostel in Varkala?
Varkala's clifftop setting above the Arabian Sea makes it one of the most distinctive beach destinations in southern India. The ancient Janardhana Swami Temple draws pilgrims and curious travellers alike, while Papanasam Beach below the cliffs is known for its clean shoreline and relatively uncrowded atmosphere. The town moves at a relaxed pace, with yoga studios and seafood cafes lining the cliff path. Hostels in Varkala fit naturally into that easy rhythm, placing you close to everything without the cost of a hotel or the isolation of a private rental.
Hostels here suit solo travellers and budget-conscious pairs especially well. Shared dorms keep costs low and make it easy to meet others heading the same direction. Private rooms give you more space while still costing less than most hotels. Unlike private rentals, hostels come with staff, common areas, and a built-in social scene.
How to find the best hostel deals in Varkala
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Book in advance
Book early if possible. Organising things sooner rather than later usually means better prices and a wider selection of hostels in Varkala, especially during peak seasons.
…or bag a last-minute Varkala hostel deal.
Things usually get more expensive as your travel dates get closer. But outside of popular periods, late deals can still pop up when hostels have rooms left to book.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
If you can be flexible with your dates, compare different months or seasons to discover the best deal. Weekdays are often a little more affordable than weekends, so even minor changes can make a real difference.
Where to base yourself in Varkala
The Cliff is where you'll find most hostels in Varkala, and it's easy to understand why travellers gravitate here. The clifftop path runs above Papanasam Beach, lined with casual restaurants serving fresh seafood and Kerala dishes at reasonable prices. Janardhana Swami Temple sits at the edge of the cliff, and the beach below draws both swimmers and those attending the early morning rituals. Evenings along the path stay easy and relaxed, with open-air cafes and small bars keeping things going after sunset. Down the hill, Varkala town has a quieter pace and sits closer to Varkala train station, which connects you to Thiruvananthapuram and points north along the coast. The town has a local market feel and fewer crowds. It suits you well if you want to spend your days on the cliff but prefer a calmer place to sleep.
Best hostels in Varkala
Hostel ratings on Skyscanner come from actual traveller reviews, covering areas like cleanliness and location to facilities and value. Whether you're exploring as cheaply as possible or want a little more from your stay, these scores make it easier to compare your options and find the right fit.
Best all-rounder hostels
The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road has attracted its fair share of positive reviews. From its cleanliness and location to its rooms, this stay delivers on what matters most.
Sky's Surf Hostel is well worth a mention too. It scores strong ratings for its cleanliness, location and rooms.
Highest-rated hostels for cleanliness
If a hostel that keeps things clean and tidy matters to you, The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road delivers. Guests give it high marks for cleanliness, with extras like a games room and tour services.
Sky's Surf Hostel sets the same high standard, with guests giving it excellent ratings for cleanliness. Here you'll have access to a barbecue, air conditioning and more.
Hostels with the best customer service
When it comes to customer service, The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road is one of the best-rated hostels in Varkala. This property comes with an airport shuttle and tour services.
Travellers also have good things to say about the customer service at Sky's Surf Hostel in their reviews. Tour services and air conditioning are some amenities on offer here.
Centrally located hostels
Location is where The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road really earns its reputation, according to the guests who've stayed there before. You'll have everything you need, including shuttle services and Wi-Fi.
Or check in to Sky's Surf Hostel. This well-located stay offers air conditioning and a nightclub.
Hostels near the best attractions in Varkala
Where to stay near Sunset point
Sunset Point is a clifftop lookout on the northern end of Varkala's famous laterite cliffs, positioned directly above the Arabian Sea. It's a designated spot where the cliff edge opens up to an unobstructed western horizon, making it one of the most recognised vantage points along this stretch of coastline. Travellers staying at hostels near Sunset Point have one of Varkala's most visited natural landmarks right on their doorstep.
Making your way to Sunset point is simple when you stay at Sky's Surf Hostel. A barbecue and a lounge are part of what guests can expect at this hostel in Varkala.
You can also stay close to this attraction at The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road. You'll find amenities such as luggage storage and Wi-Fi here.
Hostels close to Varkala Beachside Cliff
The cliff draws travellers who want beach life with a bit more character than a flat shoreline delivers. You'll find yoga sessions at sunrise, Ayurvedic treatments, and cafe terraces where you can spend an afternoon watching the Arabian Sea. The beach below has a sacred reputation, drawing pilgrims alongside sunbathers. Hostels near Varkala Beachside Cliff put you right in the middle of it all.
With Varkala Beachside Cliff on the itinerary, The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road makes a convenient base. This hostel in Varkala features luggage storage and a laundry.
Another solid option close to this attraction is Barefoot Hostels, Varkala. This hostel comes with amenities including a laundry and bicycle rentals.
Varkala Beach hostels
The cliff-top strip near hostels near Varkala Beach is lined with small cafes, rooftop restaurants, and independent shops selling handmade textiles and jewellery. You'll find yoga studios and Ayurvedic centres woven between the storefronts. The area draws a relaxed, international crowd, and it's easy to spend a morning at a laid-back cafe before wandering into a shop or booking a massage at one of the many wellness spots nearby.
From Wi-Fi to a lounge and more, The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road has plenty to offer. Book this hostel in Varkala and you'll be well placed to visit this attraction.
Barefoot Hostels, Varkala is also close by. Bicycle rentals and tour services are just a couple of the amenities here.
