Varkala in India is a popular sun-sand-beach destination with Indians and tourists. It’s also a famous backpacker hang out. When planning to visit Varkala I decided to choose a more sustainable option. I was staying in an eco-bungalow in Varkala named Satta Beach Residence. Not be confused with Satta Beach Deluxe. Same brand, same owner and only 100 meters apart but with a tad more luxury.
Satta Beach Residence
The small local resort is located 2km away from Varkala Cliff. It is perfect to go for morning walk and spend the day at Varkala beach and walk back via the scenic ocean trail in the afternoon or evening. The resort is located just 50 meters away from Varkala Odayam Beach. A small and almost private beach. Despite being a small resort they offer a 24-hour front desk. The bungalows are situated in a peaceful lush green garden. It is nice to relax in the garden and take a dip in the plunge pool.
Eco-bungalow
You have several room options but I choose to stay at the eco-bungalow at Satta Beach Residence. The bungalows are built from wood and run on solar energy. The rooms are about 18m² with balcony. From the balcony you have an amazing view of the garden and, if your lucky, with ocean view. You don’t see the beach because it’s a bit too far away for that.
The rooms have a twin bed, a fan (no AC), closet and a private bathroom. At the seating area outside is a table and two chairs. When sleeping at night you can hear the ocean and the crickets. In the morning you eat your breakfast in the garden. It’s an excellent way to meet your neighbours. You can choose out of several delicious breakfast options.
What’s around?
From Satta Beach Residence you can walk via the scenic ocean trail to Varkala Cliff and beach and say hi to the fisherman in the early morning. I have never seen a beach in India this clean and wide. The currents can be strong so watch out not to swim to far from the shore. At Varkala Cliff are many shops and restaurants. You can go for a massage, cooking class, rent a bicycle and ride around or go fishing. The Odayam Parambil Sree Bhadrakali Temple is 500 meters from Satta Beach. The famous and ancient temple of Varkala Janardhanaswamy is located 2.8km from the resort.
How to get there?
The Varkala Temple Junction Bus Station is 3.1km away. The Varkala Railway station is 5km from Satta Beach Residence. You can go to the resort by taxi or tuk-tuk. Or ask the staff to pick you up. The Trivandrum International Airport is 55km away. From here you can book an Uber or Ola taxi or ask to be picked up.
Why I write about Satta Beach Residence?
First of all I stayed here in November 2019 for four or five nights. I forget how many days I have stayed here. It’s an amazing quiet location and away from the hustle and bustle of Varkala Cliff and the city. Second, the property has a nice green garden and the bungalows are clean and well maintained. But most important, the staff was super friendly and helpful. Now, when the Covid-19 pandemic is decreasing, I would like to support Satta Beach Residence by writing this post. I can highly recommend staying here. I’m definitely going back if I ever visit Varkala again.
In The World’s Jungle – Archives
Planning to travel around in Kerala? Make sure to explore the colonial influences in Kochi. Or go through the picture gallery. When going to Kochi I can recommend staying at Niyati. It’s even possible to book a long term stay here. Contact me and I can negotiate a good price for you with the owner.
Another amazing place to visit in south India is Hampi. Be amazed by the boulder landscape and many ancient ruins, temples and palaces in the area. Check out the pictures to get inspired to visit Hampi. Try to explore the ruins of Mahabalipuram or see the historical monuments in Delhi.
In The World’s Jungle – Personal Travel Guide
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