Why Varkala?
Varkala, a calm coastal town in Kerala, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a relaxed pace of life. Unlike the crowded metros, its main attractions are the stunning red cliffs that flank the Arabian Sea, serene beaches like Papanasam and Odayam,
and a vibrant wellness culture rooted in yoga and Ayurveda. For a remote worker, this translates into a work environment where a lunch break can be a walk on the beach and the end of the workday is marked by a spectacular sunset over the ocean. It’s a location that promises not just a change of scenery, but a significant upgrade in work-life balance.
The Cost of Living Breakdown
The most compelling reason to consider Varkala is the dramatic reduction in living expenses. Compared to major Indian cities, the difference is stark. A single person's monthly expenses in Mumbai can be over ₹60,000, while in Bangalore it hovers around ₹56,000. In Varkala, a comfortable lifestyle is achievable for a fraction of that cost. Estimates suggest a single person can live well for approximately ₹35,000 to ₹60,000 per month. The biggest saving comes from rent. A one-bedroom apartment in central Mumbai could cost over ₹50,000, whereas in Varkala, long-term rentals can be found for as low as ₹10,000-₹20,000, depending on the location and amenities. Daily expenses like food and transport are also significantly cheaper, with a meal at a local restaurant costing a fraction of its big-city equivalent.
The Digital Nomad's Setup
The critical question for any remote professional is connectivity. While Varkala is a small town, its digital infrastructure is surprisingly robust and growing. Most guesthouses, hotels, and cafes along the cliff offer Wi-Fi, with speeds typically ranging from 10 to 50 Mbps. For more reliable, high-speed connections, several dedicated coworking spaces have emerged, such as Roameo and Zostel, which provide stable internet, power backup, and a community of fellow remote workers. It is highly recommended to have a backup mobile hotspot with a provider like Jio or Airtel, both of which have strong 4G coverage in the area. This dual-source approach ensures you can stay online for video calls and uploads without interruption.
Finding Your Home by the Sea
Securing accommodation in Varkala is relatively straightforward. For long-term stays (a month or more), you have several options. Online platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo list numerous furnished apartments and villas, often with monthly discounts. However, for the best deals, many seasoned nomads recommend arriving in Varkala and exploring on foot. Many guesthouses and homestays offer unlisted long-term rates that are significantly lower than daily tourist prices. Look for “To-Let” boards or simply ask around. You can find everything from a simple room in a guesthouse to a fully furnished house, with prices varying based on proximity to the cliff and the sea.
The Varkala Lifestyle
Life in Varkala extends far beyond the screen. The town's rhythm encourages a healthier, more active lifestyle. Mornings can start with yoga sessions at one of the many schools, followed by a walk or surf at the beach. The cliff is lined with cafes serving a mix of local Keralan food and international cuisine, making for perfect work-friendly spots or evening hangouts. The community is a melting pot of locals, international tourists, and a growing number of Indian remote workers and entrepreneurs. This creates a friendly and open social environment where it's easy to meet new people but also find solitude when you need it.
