Madurai, Tamil Nadu to Varkala, Kerala from $2: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• On the Madurai to Varkala route, you can enjoy catering services provided by Indian Railways, which may include meal options depending on the train class and schedule. Generally, popular trains like the Jan Shatabdi or Kerala Express offer packed meals along with special catering for passengers in higher classes. You can pre-order food through the IRCTC website or mobile app for a hassle-free experience.

• The available seating options on most trains operating on this route include Sleeper Class, 2AC (two-tier air-conditioned), 3AC (three-tier air-conditioned), and sometimes First Class. If you're looking for more comfort with perks like extra space and complimentary meals, consider booking 2AC. Sleeper Class is the most economical and popular option if you're looking to travel on a budget.

• The main operators on the Madurai to Varkala route include Southern Railway, primarily through the Kerala Express and the Jan Shatabdi Express. You can visit their official websites for schedules and bookings: Southern Railway (sr.indianrailways.gov.in) and IRCTC (irctc.co.in). For local transport information in Varkala, you can check Varkala Municipality's page for bus schedules.

• When booking your bus from Madurai to Varkala, consider using reputable operators like SRS Travels (srsbooking.com), KPN Travels (kpntravels.in), or Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (keralartc.com) for a reliable and comfortable experience.

• During your journey, make sure to carry some snacks and water, as the bus may not make frequent stops, and it's a good idea to stay hydrated and have something to eat during the approximately 6 hour 46 minute trip.

• Upon arriving at Varkala Bus Station, you'll find it helpful to know that auto-rickshaws are available just outside the station, making it easy to reach popular spots like Varkala Beach; don’t hesitate to negotiate your fare before getting in.