Why Varkala Is the New Workation Hotspot
Forget the confines of a traditional office. The workation—a trip that blends work with leisure—has become a popular escape for those untethered from a physical workplace. While destinations like Goa have long been favorites, Varkala in Kerala is rapidly
emerging as the top choice for a new generation of digital nomads, writers, designers, and developers. The town's unique geography is its main draw: it is the only place in Kerala where dramatic red cliffs stand adjacent to the Arabian Sea. This provides a stunning, inspiring backdrop for a day's work, with cliffside cafes and stays offering unparalleled views. The vibe is relaxed, the pace is slower, and the focus is on a healthier work-life balance that combines productivity with wellness.
The Rise of Co-Living Communities
More than just a place to stay, Varkala's co-living spaces and hostels are designed specifically for the needs of remote professionals. These hubs provide essential amenities like reliable Wi-Fi, power backup, and dedicated workspaces, which are often a challenge in other scenic locations. Hostels like Verve Stays have even branded themselves as a "Digital Nomads & WFH Hub." But the appeal goes beyond logistics. These spaces foster a genuine sense of community. They attract a diverse mix of creators from India and around the world, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate on projects, and build a social circle. Weekly jam sessions, communal dinners, and skill-sharing workshops are common, transforming a solo work trip into a shared experience.
A Scenic Office on a Budget
One of the most compelling reasons for Varkala's popularity is its affordability. A workation here can be significantly cheaper than living and working in major metropolitan cities like Bengaluru or Mumbai. Monthly costs for a comfortable lifestyle, including accommodation in a private room, food, and other expenses, can range from ₹35,000 to ₹50,000. For those on a tighter budget, a bed in a hostel dorm can bring the total monthly expense down even further. Food is both delicious and inexpensive, with local cafes and beach shacks offering full meals for a few hundred rupees. Many find that negotiating longer stays of a month or more can reduce accommodation costs by as much as 30%, making it a financially sustainable choice for an extended period.
A Day in the Life of a Varkala Creator
A typical day in Varkala is structured around both productivity and well-being. Mornings might start with a yoga session on the cliff or a surf lesson at the beach. The core working hours, from around 9 AM to 5 PM, are spent at a cliffside cafe with an ocean view or in the quiet common area of a co-living space. The reliable internet in most key locations allows for video calls and seamless online work. Once the laptop closes, the evening is for exploring. A walk along the 1.5-kilometer promenade on the North Cliff reveals a vibrant mix of art galleries, handicraft shops, and Ayurvedic centers. As the sun sets over the ocean, the community gathers at cafes or on the beach, a perfect end to a productive day.
How to Plan Your Varkala Workation
Finding the right place in Varkala is relatively straightforward. Several hostels and guesthouses explicitly cater to digital nomads and can be found on booking platforms. For those seeking more privacy, apartment rentals with amenities like a kitchen, AC, and power backup are available on sites like Airbnb. It's wise to join social media groups like “Varkala Digital Nomads” to get real-time advice and connect with the community before you even arrive. When booking, confirm the availability of strong Wi-Fi and a backup power source, especially if you plan to visit during the monsoon season. With a little planning, you can easily trade your city desk for a cliffside view.
