Varkala

Varkala is a coastal town known for its serene and spectacular beaches. This second most popular beach in Kerala after Kovalam is located in Thiruvananthapuram district. Aside its stunning seaside charm, another striking attraction of this tourist destination is its 2000-year old Lord Janardhana Swamy temple. Both the beach and the sacred temple make it among the most sought after tourist destinations in the state. This ancient temple is believed to build in the 13^th century. There is a bell in the temple which was presented in 17^th century by a Dutch sailor.

Varkala is almost 50 kilometres away from Thiruvananthapuram. The main attraction of this destination is the clean stretch of Papanasam Beach. A lot of visit this beach to take a dip in the holy waters as it is a belief that one can redeem his or her sins by taking dip in the waters of this beach. Besides, many religious people visit here to immerse the ashes of the departed souls.

Varkala is a very enchanting tourist destination where you can see cliffs adjacent to the panoramic Arabian Sea. There is a land on top of the headland that stretches a few kilometres. You can find many shops and hotels in this land which facing the sea. October to April is the tourist season in Varkala. Travellers love to watch the lovely cliff during their visit to this mesmerizing beach destination. Simply go through the walkway along the edge of the cliff to enjoy the spectacular views of the beautiful area.

Like Lord Janardhana Swamy temple, Sivagiri Mutt is also a popular attraction of Varkala which has been founded by Sree Narayana Guru, a great saint, philosopher and social reformer in Kerala. In fact, the destination rose to fame after this great sage. A lot of followers visit this Mutt every year.

The cliff located on the edge of Varkala beach is made up of laterite. It is believed that the water in this area is good for health because of the mineral elements in it. This destination is also popular for several mineral water springs and Natural treatments.

One of the great advantages of Varkala is that you can find accommodation suitable for all budgets.  Besides, the hotels in this destination are sea facing providing panoramic views. Some of the must-visit places in Varkala include Sivagiri mutt, Ponnumthuruthu Island, the Anjengo fort and the Kappil Lake and estuary.

Varkala Beach

Located nearly 40 km north of Thiruvananthapuram, Varkala is a favourite destination of many beach lovers. The main attractions of the destination are the Papanasam Beach and Sivagiri, the Samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru, a great saint and social reformer of Kerala. It is a famous pilgrim centre in the state.

A striking feature of Varkala is that it is the only destination in the southern part of the state where cliffs can be seen adjacent to the Arabian Sea. These cliffs, which are the tertiary sedimentary formation is a unique geological feature.   The Geological survey of India declared this area as a geological monument. You can find several spas and water spouts on the sides of the cliffs of Varkala.

Known for the lovely beaches, the water in Varkala is shallow and clear. A lot of people visit this area to face the mesmerizing sea-facing cliffs which provide breathtaking views. This feature makes Varkala beach unique from other beaches in Kerala.

Varkala Janardhana Temple

The 2000-year-old Lord Janardhana Swami temple is certainly a must-visit attraction in Varkala. One of the ancient temples in Kerala, the Janardhana temple is a major pilgrim spot in Varkala. This ancient temple, referred as the Dakshin Kashi is an important shrine for the Vaishnavaite which lies near the Papanasam Beach. People who visit the temple visit the beach also to take dip in its holy waters to wash away their sins. This destination is also famous for its prominent Ayurvedic centres. There is a bell in this temple which was donated by the captain of a Dutch Vessel as the vessel sank in this area without any losses.

Sivagiri Mutt

Sree Narayana Guru was a saint and social reformer in Kerala and the Sivagiri Mutt is the final resting place of him. This ashram in Varkala has been established by Guru himself and today it has become a popular pilgrim centre in Kerala. The hilltop mausoleum of Sree Narayana Guru in this region is a popular monument in the state. The adjacent hills of it are Sree Narayana Gurukulam and the East-West University of Brahmavidya.

Varkala Tunnel

Varkala tunnel is definitely another great attraction in this beach destination. Although this century-old tunnel has been in a dilapidated situation, it was a prominent waterway during pre-independence times.

Varkala – a calm and serene destination

Varkala can be a good recommendation for people who come to the state for spiritual salvation. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of this beach destination is truly fascinating. A lot of tourists visit every year to explore the secluded beauty of this seaside picnic spot. The relaxed and serene ambience makes it an ideal destination for people who love beaches and the lapping of the waves. Even if you are on a budget, you can enjoy wonderful time as Varkala is an inexpensive holiday hideaway.

Season

The main season in Varkala starts from Dec 1^st to Mar 31^st. However, you can see biggest rush in the destination during the months of December and early January.

Climate:

Varkala is a blessed beach destination with a moderate climate. Temperature rises up to 35⁰C during summer which starts during March-May.  Mid June to Sept is the Monsoon time in Varkala and winter starts from Sept and continues till February. Average rainfall in the destination is 310 cm.

Getting There

By Air : Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest airport to Varkala which is about 50 km away.

By Rail : Varkala is a well connected beach destination by Rail Network. Varkala Railway station is the nearest railway station.

By Road : This tourist destination is well connected by both state and National highways.

It will not be a problem for the travellers to find regular buses to/from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam that go through Varkala.

What to Do in Varkala?
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• Enjoy Swim in the beach
• Watch the spectacular sunset
• Take a shower at Papanasam in the mineral water gushing from the hill, which is believed to have healing properties.
• Enjoy Shopping
• Relax and enjoy Ayurvedic Massage
• Enjoy varieties of cuisines including spicy fish and seafood preparations. You find dishes of almost every country in the restaurants and eateries in Varkala.

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