Frequently asked questions
Our best tips for your travel and stay at Lumuma in India
Which airport should I fly to?
We recommend you to book your flight to the nearest international airport Thiruvananthapuram (TRV).
From here the car ride is only 1 hour until you reach Lumuma Resort in Varkala.
You can also fly to Delhi or Mumbai, and from there take a domestic flight to Thiruvananthapuram.
Trains depart from major cities as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Goa, Kolkata.
Can I be picked up in the airport?
We are happy to pick you up from the nearest international airport Thiruvananthapuram (TRV). Just let us know your arrival times and flight number, and we will arrange the transfer.
Do I need a visa?
All foreigners need a visa before arriving in India. Most countries are able to get an E-Visa, which you can apply for online. Check your local Indian embassy or apply for your visa through https://indianvisaonline.gov.in.
It's advised that people don't get a visa until one month before traveling. It's very important not to overstay your visa, so if you are staying longer than one month, please make sure to apply for the correct visa - this is your responsibility to make sure you're covered for the whole time you're with us.
Must I be Vaccinated?
Please check your local country's guidelines for vaccinations to India.
In most of India the risk of Malaria is currently so low that mosquito prophylaxis is sufficient.
Do I need travel insurance?
Have a travel insurance so you have the opportunity to get your expenses covered if you get into an emergency situation. It can be expensive to be admitted to hospital or get emergency transport home from abroad.
What should I pack?
It is very hot in Kerala, so light linen or cotton clothes are best for the weather. Sandals or slippers are most comfortable and you may also bring sneakers or walking shoes if you plan on exploring. Lumŭma has high-quality yoga mats, cotton mats and props; bolsters, blocks, belts, eye-masks and blankets -- but feel free to bring anything you wish that might make you more comfortable. Don't forget a bathing suit, toiletries, adapters, sunglasses, hats, movement clothes, bug deterrent, etc. There are opportunities to shop too if that's something you're interested in.
Should I bring Indian Rupees?
It's smart to exchange some cash into Indian Rupees before traveling. Many places, including Lumŭma, take credit card, but it's smart to have cash on hand, too. You can take our cash from ATM's at the airport and in Varkala main town. We recommend to use HDFC or SBI Bank, which is t's a 10 minutes tuk-tuk ride from Lumuma.
What medicine should I bring?
Mosquito Repellent or cream is recommended to use after dark, which provides prevention of mosquito bites.
Probiotic Tablets -- It's recommended to take probiotic tablets specific to travel beginning at least one week prior to travel. No one has gotten sick at Lumŭma, but it is very common for the body to take some time to adjust to the new bacterias in an area. It's such a different climate that often getting sick isn't a sign of uncleanliness, more so just your body adjusting to new microbes. Taking something before you travel can alleviate many of these symptoms and help your body adjust.
Water - Lumŭma provides clean, purified water to drink.
When is check in an check out?
Check in is 2 pm, Check out is 11 am. We can offer you an early check-in and late checkout on request. For us to guarantee you an early check-in, you will need to reserve the room from the previous night.
Is Varkala safe?
Yes Varkala is very safe. It is a tourist town and people are very friendly and used to tourists. You will be pleased to experience the warm welcoming hearts of the Keralan people - God's own country.
We're looking forward to welcoming you!
