Varla (2,593 m) is a peak in north-western Rila, in the Damga section of the mountain. It lies about 1.9 km from Damga (Vazov Vrah, 2,669 m) and about 2.4 km from Kalin peak. Otovishki Vrah (2,696 m) is about 3 km away.
The nearest starting point is Ivan Vazov hut (2,300 m), from which Damga and Otovitsa are about an hour away. The hut is reached from Seven Lakes hut via Razdela in about 2 hours 30 minutes. There is no well-known marked path to Varla, so the climb is for people who can navigate.
Above 2,300 m there is no forest, shade or water. The weather changes fast, and fog makes navigation hard. The season is July to September.
Sofia region
1.9 km away
Kyustendil region
2.4 km away
Sofia region
2.6 km away
Kyustendil region
2.9 km away
Varla is located in Kyustendil, Bulgaria.
Varla is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is best for Varla, when trails are clear of snow and weather is most stable. Higher peaks may hold snow into June and see fresh snow as early as October. Winter visits are for experienced mountaineers with proper gear.
Varla reaches an elevation of 2,593 metres above sea level.
Hiking boots, layered clothing, water (1.5–2 L per person), sun protection, and a windproof jacket — mountain weather changes quickly. For longer routes also bring a map (paper or offline), a head torch, and emergency rations. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time.
