Varkala is a very popular beach destination on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala. This coastal town is mainly renowned for its exotic beach beautified by majestic cliffs and mineral-water springs.
Among the many beaches in Varkala the Papanasanam Beach is very famous. This place has an enchanting beauty because of the cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea. These cliffs, termed as Varkala Formation are declared as geological monuments by the Geological Survey of India. On the sides of these cliffs one can see several beautiful spouts and spas. This place has a unique blend of religious and modern beliefs and is an important tourist place for Indian & foreign tourist and a pilgrimage destination as well.
Papanasam beach (means redemption from sins) is an important pilgrimage centre for the Hindus. It is believed that a holy dip is believed to purify the body and soul from all impurities and sins. This beach is known for its white, silvery stretch of sand, mineral springs and rocky cliffs. It is a haven for sun-bath and swimming and also a perfect place to watch the sunset.
Top Places to visit in Varkala
Janardhana Swamy Temple
Another major attraction in Varkala is the Janardhana Swamy Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is more than 2000 years old. A large bell is displayed in the temple which was taken out of a shipwreck and donated by the captain of Dutch vessel which sank near Varkala without any casualties.
Sivagiri Mutt
Samadhi (the final resting place) of Shree Narayana Guru, the famed philosopher and social reformer who propagated the concept of One Caste, One Religion and One God is located here. Sivagiri Mutt is also the headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham. The place attracts thousands of devotees every year during the Sivagiri Pilgrimage days from 30th December to 1st January. An annual festival is also organised at the same time.
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Ponnumthuruthu, also known as Golden Island is 20 km from Varkala. It is a perfect gateway for nature lovers. The island is famous for an ancient shrine of Lord Shiva and Parvati which was constructed 100 years ago. One can reach the island by boats and jetty rides that are available from Varkala.
Varkala Tunnel
This tunnel known as ‘Varkala Turuthu’ represents the architectural excellence of the people of the region. The tunnel constructed by the British is 924 feet long and played a vital role in transferring ferry goods from Thiruvananthapuram to Kollam. Its construction began in 1867 under the supervision of Divan Sir. T Mahadeva Rao of Travancore and was completed in year 1880.
Anjengo Fort
The fort is located at Anjengo, a coastal town in Varkala. This is a place of historic importance and is known for its mesmerising natural beauty. There is also a cemetery inside the fort having the remains of the occupants of the fort. The Fort is now under the protection of National Heritage Monuments.
The healthcare industry also has flourished well in Varkala and this place is famous centre for Ayurvedic treatments. Many centres offering Ayurvedic massage, Natural therapies and spa treatments have come up here and has become a popular health resort.
Varkala is 51 km north of Thiruvananthapuram city and 37 km south of Kollam. Varkala is well connected by road to various cities. The nearest airport is located at Trivandrum, 55 km from the Varkala. Varkala has a railway station of its own with regular trains plying between Trivandrum and Varkala. Varkala is well connected by road to all parts of the State with buses plying regularly between Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam.
Hotels catering to the demands of various economic groups are available in Varkala ranging from Star hotels, Medium and Budget range hotels.