Kerala Yoga & Nature Wellness Escape in Varkala

For 11 days and 10 nights, you'll stay at Villa Lemon, a small guesthouse run by your host Monkutty, who has spent over 15 years guiding travelers around Varkala. He started as a local guide and now coordinates retreats, so he knows the town's best corners and how to make guests feel at home. The vibe is more about getting to know the real Kerala than staying in a generic resort. You're in a peaceful neighborhood called Manglavu Mukku, about a short walk from the cliff and the beach, where you can watch the sunset, eat at a seaside café, or browse the shops that line the cliff path.

Your days follow a steady rhythm: an early yoga session, breakfast, some free time or an excursion, lunch, more free time, and then an evening yoga class before dinner. This structure means you get a substantial practice without feeling overscheduled. The excursions are a chance to see a wider slice of Kerala—floating along the backwaters, meeting elephants, standing on a cliff that, according to legend, is where the mythical bird Jatayu fell, and even trying on traditional dress and learning a Bollywood dance one night.

Because the group is small (often around 10 people), the retreat has a personal feel. Monkutty is usually around to answer questions, help you plan a solo trip into town, or arrange extras like airport pickups, ayurvedic massages, or an extra night's stay. The yoga itself is led by experienced teachers who keep classes accessible, offering modifications when needed, so you can really settle into your practice without worrying about keeping up.

Varkala is a place many travelers return to because it's both beautiful and easy to live in. The cliff is lined with restaurants and guesthouses, and the beach below is great for swimming or just watching the waves. Outside the retreat's scheduled activities, you can rent a bicycle, go kayaking, or book a surf lesson—though for many people, the biggest draw is simply having permission to slow down and enjoy the tropics.

What's included

- 10 nights accommodation at Villa Lemon (shared or private room) - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks) - Water, tea, and coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink on arrival - Daily two yoga classes (Hatha, Vinyasa, etc.) - Daily meditation classes - Excursions to Golden Island, Kaveri Elephant Park, Jatayu Earth's Center, Kappil Beach, and cultural evening - Professional event photos - Pre and post-retreat support from the team - Transportation during the retreat for excursions - Luggage storage - Parking - Free WiFi - Airport pickup - Free cancellation up to 1 day before arrival

What's not included

- Flight costs - Visa fees - Travel insurance - Extra food and beverages - Ayurvedic consultations and treatments (available at additional cost) - Optional airport transfer if not on the BookRetreats package (€42 return) - Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks, additional activities like kayaking or surfing) - Any costs not explicitly listed as included