Mumbai, Maharashtra to Varkala, Kerala from $7: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• On your train journey from Mumbai to Varkala, you can enjoy catering services offered by the Indian Railways. Most long-distance trains on this route provide options for a variety of meals and snacks that can be purchased onboard. Some trains may also offer pre-order meal services through the IRCTC website, allowing you to choose from vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals that cater to different dietary preferences.

• The train services between Mumbai and Varkala typically include options such as Sleeper Class, AC 3 Tier, AC 2 Tier, and First Class. The AC classes provide more comfort with air conditioning and bedding, while Sleeper Class is a cost-effective option for budget travelers. Depending on your preference for comfort and budget, choosing AC 3 Tier is a balanced option for a pleasant journey.

• For your route from Mumbai to Varkala, the main train operators include Indian Railways (irctc.co.in), and a few private options may also be available. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Useful links for the route include the IRCTC website for bookings, Indian Railway Catering for meal pre-orders (irctc.co.in), and the Varkala station site for local transport information.

• Opt for early morning flights with Vistara or IndiGo, as these tend to have better on-time performance, allowing you to enjoy a full day in Varkala.

• Upon arriving at Trivandrum Airport, expect a quick passport control and baggage collection; it's a smaller airport, which means less waiting, but arrange your taxi in advance to avoid long lines and ensure a smooth trip to Varkala.

• For transportation from Trivandrum Airport to Varkala, budget approximately ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 for a taxi ride, and consider booking through trusted services like Uber or local prepaid taxi counters available in the terminal.