How to Get from Ernakulam to Varkala

Leaving Ernakulam, Kochi's busy commercial hub, for Varkala takes you to red cliffs above the Arabian Sea. Varkala has the only red laterite cliffs next to the sea in southern Kerala, a stretch declared a national geological monument, and yoga, meditation and massage centres stand near the beach.^[1]

You can reach Varkala by train, bus, private car or a short flight to Thiruvananthapuram. You can compare these options and book through GoAsia.cc.

Ernakulam to Varkala by Train

Ernakulam has two main stations, Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North). The Vanchinad Express 16303 leaves Ernakulam Junction at 05:00 and runs to Thiruvananthapuram Central, arriving at 09:55.^[2] Before you book, check that your train stops at Varkala Sivagiri. The station is about 3.6 km from Varkala Beach.^[1]

Choosing Your Class

For daytime travel, AC Chair Class (CC) gives you a reserved seat in a climate-controlled carriage. On overnight or very early trains, the AC Sleeper classes (1A, 2A, 3A and 3E) offer bunks. 1A is the most private and most expensive, 3E (Economy) is more compact but still air-conditioned.

For a local experience on a small budget, Second Sitting (2S) and Sleeper Class (SL) are non-air-conditioned and warm in the afternoon, but the open windows give views of backwaters and coconut groves. Sleeper Class is often crowded, so book in advance.

Ernakulam to Varkala by Private Transfer

A private transfer is the most direct option and suits families and small groups with heavy luggage. The drive takes from about 2.5 hours, longer with traffic. On booking platforms, private transfers start at about $100 (November 2026). Sedans and hatchbacks seat up to four, an SUV up to six.^[3] Being able to stop for a coffee or a photo on the way is a luxury many travelers find worth the money.

Ernakulam to Varkala by Bus

On booking platforms, buses from Kochi to Varkala include AC sleeper and AC seater services, with early-morning departures. The journey takes from about 4 hours and can run past 6 hours. Bus tickets start at about $19 (November 2026).^[3]

Ernakulam to Varkala by Flight

Varkala has no airport of its own. IndiGo flies one nonstop flight from Kochi to Thiruvananthapuram. It leaves at 09:50, takes 55 minutes, and early-November fares start at INR 5,976.^[4] Thiruvananthapuram railway station is about 45 km from Varkala, so you still need a transfer after landing.^[1] The flight makes sense mainly if you are already at Kochi airport.

Tips for Traveling from Ernakulam to Varkala

• Book Trains Early: AC classes on express trains can sell out weeks ahead, especially in the winter tourist season.
• Station Names: Look for "Ernakulam Jn" or "Ernakulam Town" as your origin and "Varkala Sivagiri" as your destination.
• From the Station to the Cliff: The beach is about 3.6 km from Varkala Sivagiri station, a short ride by auto-rickshaw or taxi.^[1]
• Hydration: Kerala is humid all year. Carry plenty of water, especially on non-AC trains and buses.