The Allure of the Clifftop Office
Varkala’s main draw is its stunning geography. A long, paved cliff path is lined with guesthouses, yoga shalas, shops, and cafes, all offering panoramic ocean views. This is the heart of the town’s social and professional life. Unlike the bustling beaches
of Goa, Varkala offers a more relaxed pace. Days are structured around work, wellness, and the tides. The atmosphere is a blend of international travelers, long-staying remote workers, and local businesses, creating a community that is both transient and welcoming. The scent of incense mixes with the salt spray, and the soundtrack is a mix of crashing waves and the low hum of activity from the clifftop eateries.
Making the Numbers Work on a Budget
One of Varkala's biggest advantages is its affordability. According to Nomad List, a single person can live comfortably for approximately $700-$1,100 a month. Long-term rentals in guesthouses or homestays away from the main cliff can be found for a fraction of the price of those in major cities. Monthly rates for apartments and villas are also available on platforms like Airbnb, often with discounts for extended stays. Daily expenses are minimal; a meal at a local restaurant can cost a few hundred rupees, while a coffee at a cliffside cafe is also reasonably priced. By eating at local spots and cooking some meals, nomads can stretch their budgets significantly, allowing for longer stays without financial strain.
The Remote Work Infrastructure
While Varkala is a haven for relaxation, it is also increasingly equipped for productivity. Many cafes along the North Cliff cater specifically to the laptop crowd, offering reliable Wi-Fi and power outlets. Places like AUM Cafe, InDa Cafe, and Darjeeling Cafe are popular for their work-friendly atmosphere and strong coffee. While dedicated coworking spaces are still emerging in Varkala itself, the broader trend in Kerala sees more facilities with high-speed internet and power backup appearing in smaller towns. For now, the town's cafes serve as the primary coworking hubs, providing not just internet but also a crucial sense of community and opportunities for networking with fellow nomads. Average internet speeds are functional for most tasks, though nomads requiring very high speeds for video calls might need to find specific spots known for better connectivity.
Answering the Call of the Waves
The other half of the Varkala equation is the surf. The town has earned a reputation as one of India's most accessible surfing destinations. The main surf season runs from September to May, avoiding the turbulent monsoon months. The waves at beaches like Varkala Beach and Edava Beach are generally gentle sand-bottom breaks, making them ideal for beginners. Numerous surf schools offer lessons for around ₹1,500 for a 90-minute session, which includes board rental and an instructor. For many, the daily routine involves waking up for an early morning surf session when the waves are clean and the beach is quiet, followed by a workday fueled by the energy of the ocean.
Beyond the Laptop and Surfboard
Life in Varkala extends far beyond work and surfing. The town is a major center for yoga and Ayurveda, with countless schools and clinics offering classes, workshops, and traditional treatments. The spiritual significance of the Papanasam Beach, where pilgrims come to perform rituals, adds another layer to the town's identity. On weekends, nomads can explore the surrounding area, from the serene Kappil Lake where the backwaters meet the sea, to the Anjengo Fort, a remnant of colonial history. This holistic lifestyle—balancing productivity with physical and spiritual wellness—is what truly defines the digital nomad experience in this scenic corner of Kerala.
