Why Varkala is Drawing Creatives
Varkala, with its iconic red laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, has long been a favourite on the backpacker trail. But recently, it has cultivated a new identity as a hub for digital nomads and remote professionals. Unlike the bustling tech
centres of Bengaluru or the crowded party scene of Goa, Varkala offers a slower, more deliberate pace of life. The town's unique blend of natural beauty, wellness culture—think morning yoga and Ayurvedic treatments—and affordability is proving to be a potent combination for writers, designers, developers, and artists looking to escape the city grind without sacrificing productivity.
The Co-Living and Working Scene
A growing number of hostels and guesthouses are catering specifically to this new wave of location-independent workers. Places like Zostel, Roameo, and Verve Stays are not just offering beds but are building ecosystems for productivity and connection. These spaces typically provide dedicated co-working areas, reliable high-speed Wi-Fi with power backup, and communal kitchens. The key selling point is the built-in community. Within days, newcomers can find themselves part of a group for skill-sharing sessions, sunset viewings at the cliff, or weekend surfing trips. The community is often a diverse mix of Indian and international professionals, fostering an environment of genuine connection over formal networking.
What It Costs to Live the Dream
The word 'cheap' in the headline holds up to scrutiny. Varkala is significantly more affordable than major Indian cities or other global nomad hotspots. A comfortable lifestyle can be managed on a monthly budget of ₹35,000 to ₹60,000. Monthly rates for a dorm bed in a co-living hostel can range from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000, while private rooms are available from ₹25,000 to ₹45,000. For longer stays, fully furnished one-bedroom home-stays can be found for around ₹25,000 per month. Food is also inexpensive, especially if you eat at local restaurants in Varkala town, just a short distance from the more tourist-centric cliffside cafes.
Connectivity and Other Considerations
The primary concern for any remote worker is internet stability. While not as flawless as in a major metro, the connectivity in Varkala is robust enough for most tasks, including video calls. Most co-living spaces have invested in reliable fibre connections and backups. However, the most recommended strategy is to have redundancy with two mobile SIM cards, typically Jio and Airtel, which have strong 4G and expanding 5G coverage in the area. Beyond work, the lifestyle is the main attraction. The workday can be punctuated with breaks for a swim, a surf lesson, or a walk along the cliff. The evenings are defined by stunning sunsets and a relaxed cafe culture.
Is the Varkala Nomad Life for You?
This lifestyle is ideal for creators and professionals whose work allows for some flexibility and who value work-life balance over the hustle of a major city. If your job demands flawless, ultra-high-speed internet 24/7, it might present challenges. But if you thrive in a community-oriented environment, are inspired by natural beauty, and want your money to go further, Varkala is a compelling choice. It's less about startup meetups and more about serene sunsets. The community is smaller and more intimate than in places like Goa, which can be a significant advantage for those looking to form deeper connections. It offers a unique opportunity to integrate wellness, creativity, and work in one of India’s most scenic coastal settings.
