Why Varkala is Winning Hearts
For years, digital nomads in India gravitated towards the bustling beaches of Goa or the tech hubs of Bangalore. But a quieter, more soulful alternative has emerged: Varkala. This coastal town in Kerala is defined by its dramatic red laterite cliffs that
run alongside the sea, a unique geological feature on an otherwise flat coastline. This setting provides a stunning backdrop for a new generation of workers—writers, designers, developers, and artists—who are untethered from a physical office. They come for the view but stay for the vibe: a harmonious blend of productivity, wellness, and community that is hard to find elsewhere. Unlike crowded tourist traps, Varkala offers a slower pace of life, inviting professionals to balance deadlines with daily yoga sessions, surf lessons, and sunset gazing.
The Allure of Affordability
One of the biggest draws for remote creators is Varkala's budget-friendly nature. The cost of living is significantly lower than in India's major metropolitan cities. Many find they can live comfortably for a fraction of what it would cost in Mumbai or Delhi, with monthly expenses for a single person, including accommodation and food, often falling between ₹35,000 and ₹60,000. Accommodation options range from affordable guesthouse rooms and hostel dorms to private apartments with kitchens, many of which can be rented for a month or more at a reduced rate. The abundance of cafes and local eateries means that food is both delicious and inexpensive, allowing workationers to enjoy a variety of cuisines without straining their wallets. This financial freedom allows creators to invest more time and energy into their passion projects and personal well-being.
Co-Living and Community
Remote work can sometimes be isolating, but Varkala's emerging co-living culture directly addresses this challenge. Hostels and dedicated co-living spaces are becoming increasingly popular, offering more than just a place to sleep. Establishments like Zostel Varkala provide dedicated co-working areas with reliable internet, creating a ready-made community of like-minded individuals. These spaces foster a collaborative environment where a graphic designer from Europe might brainstorm with a writer from Bengaluru over morning coffee. This sense of community is a major draw, providing social connections, networking opportunities, and a support system that makes long-term stays more appealing. It's this fusion of independent work and communal living that sets the Varkala experience apart.
The Daily Grind, Reimagined
A typical workday in Varkala looks very different from the traditional 9-to-5. Many start their day with a surf lesson at sunrise or a yoga class overlooking the ocean. The 'office' is often a cliff-top cafe like Darjeeling Café or AUM Cafe, where a laptop, a power outlet, and a decent Wi-Fi connection are all that's needed to get work done against a backdrop of crashing waves. Lunch breaks might involve a quick swim or a walk along Papanasam Beach. After logging off, evenings are spent exploring the local Tibetan market, enjoying an Ayurvedic treatment, or simply joining fellow nomads to watch the spectacular sunset from the cliff's edge. This seamless integration of work, wellness, and leisure helps prevent burnout and fosters a more sustainable and fulfilling approach to professional life.
Navigating the Practicalities
While the lifestyle is idyllic, a successful workation in Varkala requires some planning. The primary concern for any remote professional is internet connectivity. While cafes and co-living spaces offer Wi-Fi, speeds can be inconsistent. Most seasoned nomads recommend having a backup mobile hotspot with two different SIM cards (like Jio and Airtel) to ensure a stable connection for video calls and uploads. Power cuts can also occur, especially during the monsoon season (June to August), so choosing accommodation with power backup is wise. However, for many, these minor inconveniences are a small price to pay for the immense benefits of working from a place that feels like a permanent vacation.
