Your stay — Varkala Days
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Kollam.
The Property — Varkala Days
Varkala Days is a laid-back, no-frills hotel that captures the essence of India's tropical coast. Its simple, modern design blends seamlessly into the beachy surroundings, with a focus on comfort and convenience. This hotel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers and couples looking for a relaxed, seaside escape. As you step into the lobby, you're greeted by the warm scent of incense and the sound of the waves crashing outside, setting the tone for a peaceful retreat. The hotel's friendly staff and local tips make it an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Kollam.
Chronicles of Kollam
Kollam, a historic trading port on India's Malabar Coast, has a rich past dating back to the 9th century. The city's architectural evolution reflects its strategic importance, with influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial rule evident in its churches, mosques, and fortifications. Today, Kollam is a cultural melting pot, with a strong tradition of marine trade, festivals, and temple ceremonies. The city's name 'Quilon' is derived from the Tamil word for 'abundance', reflecting its history as a major commercial centre. As you explore the city's narrow streets and bustling markets, you'll discover a unique blend of Malayali, Tamil, and Islamic cultures.
Best Time to Visit
Full Kollam guide →Best months
The best months to visit Kollam are January and February, when the weather is mild and dry, with average highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 20°C (68°F). These months offer a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and beach activities.
Peak / festival surge
The peak tourist season in Kollam is during the Onam festival in August and September, when the city comes alive with vibrant processions, traditional dances, and festive food. Hotel prices surge during this time, and popular attractions can get crowded. The Onam festival is a major draw, attracting visitors from across the country to experience the city's rich cultural heritage.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season in Kollam is from March to May and October to November, when the weather remains pleasant, and prices are relatively lower. These months offer a great opportunity to explore the city's temples, beaches, and backwaters without the crowds and high costs associated with peak season.
Weather & packing
Kollam's climate is characterized by high humidity and temperatures that can drop significantly at night, even during the summer months. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that can be layered for cooler evenings, and don't forget to bring a light sweater or shawl for the cooler months.
Live City Briefing — Kollam
- The Kollam Bypass, a major highway connecting the city to Thiruvananthapuram and other nearby towns, has been upgraded to a six-lane road, reducing travel time and improving traffic flow.
- The new Kollam-Kayamkulam Expressway is under construction and expected to reduce travel time between Kollam and Kochi to just two hours.
- The Kollam Beach, a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, has been renovated with improved facilities, including a children's play area and food stalls.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Varkala Days, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on the 2nd or 3rd floor, as they are likely to be quieter, away from the ground floor and the possible street noise.
Rooms to avoid
Ground floor rooms may be noisier due to potential street traffic and foot traffic, while rooms near the lift may experience more noise from the elevator's operation.
Best views
Unfortunately, the address does not provide information on the hotel's orientation or view options.
Quietest floors
2nd-3rd floors
🔊 Noise notes
Street noise is a possibility due to the hotel's location in Kollam, but it's likely to be moderate. Additionally, being a 3-star hotel, Varkala Days may not have double-glazed windows, which could exacerbate street noise.
Insider tips
Consider requesting a room with a balcony if you want to enjoy some fresh air and a view of the surrounding area. Ask the hotel staff about their parking arrangements, as 3-star hotels in Kollam may not have a large parking lot, and spaces might be limited or subject to availability.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Varkala Days
Free Wi-Fi; 100 Mbps speeds; no login constraints
Serves all floors; stairs-only section in the heritage wing
Complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) through the hotel's app
24/7 check-in; early bag-drop available from 7:00 AM; late check-out until 1:00 PM (Rs. 500 fee)
Available at the front desk; Rs. 50 per day
Step-free access; wheelchair ramps at the main entrance; accessible rooms available
On-site parking available; Rs. 200 per night; nearest public car park: Varkala Bus Stand (Rs. 100 per day); EV charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: Rs. 50 per night (optional, refundable)
Deposit & card hold: Rs. 1000 advance deposit + card hold for incidental charges
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Hindu temple: Balimandapam (725 m · ~9 min walk)
- Hindu temple: Valiyaveetil Devi (962 m · ~12 min walk)
- Hindu temple: Hanuman Swamy Temple (984 m · ~12 min walk)
- Hindu temple: Sri Shastha Temple (1.0 km · ~13 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Varkala Children's Park — 1.7 km · ~21 min walk
Kurikani junction — 997 m · ~12 min walk
cultural center — 801 m · ~10 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Catholic Syrian Bank ATM — 1.1 km · ~14 min walk
Kairali Ayurveda Pharmacy — 269 m · ~3 min walk
chembakam supermarket — 88 m · ~1 min walk
Bus Terminal Varkala — 2.4 km · ~29 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Indian Rupee, INR
Travellers can exchange currency at local banks, such as State Bank of India, or use ATMs to withdraw INR. Be cautious of poor rates at airports and tourist bureaux.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Kollam, especially in larger establishments. Contactless payments and mobile wallets like Paytm are also widely accepted.
Tipping is not expected but can be given to exceptional service providers, typically ₹10-20 for restaurant staff and ₹20-50 for taxi drivers.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical cup of coffee costs around ₹20-30 from a local street vendor.
A meal at a local restaurant or street food stall costs around ₹100-150.
A main course at a budget restaurant costs around ₹150-250.
The Asramam and Kochupilamoodu areas are known for their affordable street food options.
Local supermarkets like Ram Mohan Iyer & Co. and Kollam Super Market are common in this area.
The local market at Asramam and the shopping streets near the Kollam Bus Stand offer affordable shopping options.
The cheapest way to get around is by using the local bus service, which costs ₹10-20 for a single ride. A day pass is available for ₹50.
Use local buses or walk to save money on transportation.Eat at local restaurants or street food stalls for affordable meals.Shop at local markets or supermarkets for groceries and clothing.
Good to know — Kollam
Type C/D/M · 230V
not safe — drink bottled
$1 ≈ ₹95.49 · INR
Emergency Contacts
Kollam+91 0474 279 1111 (Kollam District Collector's Office)
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Kollam, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Varkala Days
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Catholic Syrian Bank ATM — 1.1 km · ~14 min walk — pharmacy · Kairali Ayurveda Pharmacy — 269 m · ~3 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Taiba Hostel → Kollam Railway Station
💡 Use the Indian Railways app to book tickets and check schedules
Taiba Hostel → Kollam Bus Station
💡 Use the KSRTC app to book tickets and check schedules
Taiba Hostel → Kollam Town
💡 Agree on the fare before starting your journey
Taiba Hostel → Kollam International Airport (CCJ)
💡 Book in advance to avoid higher rates during peak hours
About Kollam
Wikipedia ↗
Kollam (Malayalam: [kolːɐm] ;), is an ancient seaport and the fourth largest city in the Indian state of Kerala. Located on the southern tip of the Malabar Coast of the Arabian Sea, the city is on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake and is 71 kilometres (44 mi) northwest of the Thiruvananthapuram. Kollam is...
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Varkala Days?
Request a room on the 2nd or 3rd floor, as they are likely to be quieter, away from the ground floor and the possible street noise.
Which rooms should I avoid at Varkala Days?
Ground floor rooms may be noisier due to potential street traffic and foot traffic, while rooms near the lift may experience more noise from the elevator's operation.
Is Varkala Days noisy?
Street noise is a possibility due to the hotel's location in Kollam, but it's likely to be moderate. Additionally, being a 3-star hotel, Varkala Days may not have double-glazed windows, which could exacerbate street noise.
Which rooms have the best views at Varkala Days?
Unfortunately, the address does not provide information on the hotel's orientation or view options.
What are insider tips for staying at Varkala Days?
Consider requesting a room with a balcony if you want to enjoy some fresh air and a view of the surrounding area. Ask the hotel staff about their parking arrangements, as 3-star hotels in Kollam may not have a large parking lot, and spaces might be limited or subject to availability.
What time is check-in at Varkala Days?
Check-in at Varkala Days is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Varkala Days have Wi-Fi?
Free Wi-Fi; 100 Mbps speeds; no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Varkala Days?
Rs. 50 per night (optional, refundable)
Where can I eat cheaply near Varkala Days?
A meal at a local restaurant or street food stall costs around ₹100-150.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Varkala Days?
The cheapest way to get around is by using the local bus service, which costs ₹10-20 for a single ride. A day pass is available for ₹50.
When is the best time to visit Kollam?
The best months to visit Kollam are January and February, when the weather is mild and dry, with average highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 20°C (68°F). These months offer a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and beach activities.
Top Attractions in Kollam
💡 Avoid visiting during the monsoon season when the beach can get rough.
💡 Be respectful of the temple's rules and dress modestly.
💡 Best viewed during sunrise or sunset for optimal photography.
💡 Best visited with a local guide for added context and insights.