Varkala Mangrove Kayaking
Experience Details: Varkala Mangrove Kayaking offers an immersive journey into the heart of Kerala’s unique estuarine ecosystem. The activity takes place on the calm waters of Paravur Lake, where a dense network of mangroves creates natural tunnels over the water. As you paddle through these narro w channels, the temperature drops and the sounds of the bustling town are replaced by the chirping of kingfishers and the rustle of leaves. The mangroves here are vital for biodiversity, serving as nurseries for various fish species and protective barriers against coastal erosion. Most tours are guided by local experts who explain the ecological significance of the different types of mangrove roots, such as the stilt roots and pneumatophores (breathing roots). This activity is beginner-friendly, as the waters are generally still and shallow. It provides a rare opportunity to see the "backstage" of Kerala’s water bodies, away from the motorized houseboats. The experience usually lasts for a few hours, covering roughly 4 to 10 KMS depending on the chosen route. It is a sustainable tourism initiative that supports local livelihoods while promoting environmental conservation.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 HoursPlace Type:
Adventure / NatureEntry Fees:
Tour Pricing: A single kayak session typically costs between 800 to 1200 Rupees.
Double Kayaks: These are priced around 1500 to 2000 Rupees for two people.
Guided Fees: Professional guides are usually includ...Tour Pricing: A single kayak session typically costs between 800 to 1200 Rupees.
Double Kayaks: These are priced around 1500 to 2000 Rupees for two people.
Guided Fees: Professional guides are usually included in the package price.Timing:
Standard Hours: Operations run from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: The 6:30 AM slot is best for bird activity and calm, cool weather. ...Standard Hours: Operations run from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: The 6:30 AM slot is best for bird activity and calm, cool weather.Special Events:
World Wetlands Day: Local groups organize clean-up drives and awareness paddles on February 2nd.
Photography Contests: Annual events are held to capture the best shots of the mangrove ecosystem. ...World Wetlands Day: Local groups organize clean-up drives and awareness paddles on February 2nd.
Photography Contests: Annual events are held to capture the best shots of the mangrove ecosystem.Best Photo Spots:
The Green Tunnel Entrance: The point where the wide lake narrows into the leafy tunnel is iconic.
Reflection Shots: On a windless day, the mirror-like water provides perfect symmetrical shots of the trees.
Actio...The Green Tunnel Entrance: The point where the wide lake narrows into the leafy tunnel is iconic.
Reflection Shots: On a windless day, the mirror-like water provides perfect symmetrical shots of the trees.
Action GoPro Shots: Mounting a camera on the kayak provides a dynamic first-person perspective of the roots.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Water Activities:
Paddling: Navigate through the labyrinth of roots and low-hanging branches.
Birdwatching: Keep your binoculars ready for herons, egrets, and migratory ducks.
Photography: The play of light through the leaves creates a mystical green glow perfect for photos.
Eco-Tours: Learn about the blue carbon sequestration property of mangroves from the guides.
Meditation: Many find the silent, rhythmic paddling a form of moving meditation.
Sunset Kayaking: Paddle out to the open lake at dusk to see the orange sky reflected in the water.
Picnic on Kayak: Some tours provide local snacks to be enjoyed while floating in the shade...
Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous:
Longest Mangrove Tunnel: It is famous for housing one of the longest natural mangrove tunnels in Kerala.
Biodiversity Hotspot: Known for spotting rare birds like the Blue-eared Kingfisher and vari...Why Famous:
Longest Mangrove Tunnel: It is famous for housing one of the longest natural mangrove tunnels in Kerala.
Biodiversity Hotspot: Known for spotting rare birds like the Blue-eared Kingfisher and various species of crabs and mollusks.
Eco-Friendly Adventure: It is the most popular non-motorized water activity in the Varkala region. -
Architecture:
Natural Architecture:
Mangrove Canals: The "architecture" here is entirely natural, featuring twisted roots of Rhizophora trees that create vaulted ceilings over the water.
Dimensions: The longest mangrove tu...Natural Architecture:
Mangrove Canals: The "architecture" here is entirely natural, featuring twisted roots of Rhizophora trees that create vaulted ceilings over the water.
Dimensions: The longest mangrove tunnel stretches for nearly 500 Meters, with a width barely enough for two kayaks to pass.
Waterways: The depth of the lake in the mangrove sections varies from 1 to 3 Meters, making it safe for exploration.
Island Formations: Small silt islands within the lake provide natural resting spots for kayakers. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Trivandrum and take a taxi to Paravur (1 hour).
By Train: Paravur Railway Station is just 3 KMS from the kayaking points.
By Road: Drive from Varkala toward Kollam via the scenic coastal road.... -
Near Tourist Places:
Paravur Lake (0 KMS), Kappil Beach (5 KMS), Varkala Cliff (14 KMS), Priyadarshini Beach (6 KMS), Polayathodu (12 KMS), Kollam Beach (18 KMS), Munroe Island (35 KMS), Jatayu Earth Center (28 KMS), Odayam Beach (12 KMS), Edava Beach (8 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Always wear the provided life jacket; don't touch the mangrove roots as they can be sharp.
Packing: Bring a waterproof bag for phones, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Cash: Most operat...
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