Varkala is a town which is located in the Indian state of Kerala. It is well known for The Pearl of the Arabian Sea and Varkala beach covered by palm red cliffs. People believe that the beach contains holy waters.
It is residents for 3% of the total urban population. It covers a distance of 36 km from the north of Trivandrum, the largest metropolitan city of Kerala.
Here is a list of the 10 Best Places to Visit in Varkala are:
1. Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach is also known as the Papanasham beach. It is situated in the coastal town of Varkala. The beach edge around the Arabian sea, which is part of the Indian ocean.
Other beaches are located in Varkala black beach, Odayam beach, Kappil beach, and Aliyirakkam cliff beach.
- Must-Do: Enjoy a stroll along the cliffs, take a dip in the calm waters, or simply unwind while enjoying the sunset. Try some yoga at nearby wellness centers.
- Ideal Time: October to March.
- How to Reach: Just 2 km from Varkala Railway Station and 51 km from Trivandrum International Airport, easily accessible by road.
Read More Articles for more Information:
- Tali Shiva Temple, Kerala
- Famous Temples in Kovalam
- Tourist Attractions in Kannur
- Temples of Kozhikode
- Places to Visit Near Coonoor
- Lakes to Visit in India
- Nightlife in Cochin
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Kerala
- Weekend Getaways from Coimbatore
2. Janardhana Swami Temple
The temple is 2000-year-old and is situated in the municipality of Varkala. People also called it Varkala Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is very popular in Kerala.
The temple is situated near the Varkala beach, and it is also believed that water contains medicinal properties because nearby medicinal plants wash the seas.
Distance from Varkala: 3 km
Travel time by car: 10 minutes
Address: PARAVILA PUTHEN VEEDU, 1/531, Varkala, Kerala 695141
Open Time: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Must-Do: Attend a prayer session, walk around the temple’s sacred grounds, and visit during the annual Arattu festival for a cultural experience.
- Ideal Time: Throughout the year.
- How to Reach: Located 3 km from Varkala Beach, accessible by a short drive or walk.
Read also:
3. Sivagiri
Sivagiri is a temple in Varkala where the samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru is established. This town is where Guru builds the Sarada temple, which is dedicated to Sarada Dev, the goddess of knowledge.
His statue attracts thousands of worshipers every year at the time of Sivagiri Pilgrimage days.
Distance from Varkala: 3.5 km
Travel time by car: 15 minutes
Address: Sivagiri, Varkala, Kerala, India
Open Time: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Must-Do: Explore the Sivagiri Mutt, participate in meditation or yoga, and learn about Guru’s teachings.
- Ideal Time: December is best for the annual Sivagiri pilgrimage.
- How to Reach: Just 3 km from Varkala, accessible by local transport or cab.
4. Kappil Beach
Kappil is a lovely beach which is located in Varkala. It is a fantastic beach backwater destination and is a trendy tourist spot.
When people visit there, they see a beautiful scenic view, and the blue Arabian sea flanks the road from one side and the water of Edava lake from another side. The ride in the backwater is very interesting for people.
Distance from Varkala: 7.8 km
Travel time by car: 20 minutes
Address: Kappil Beach, Varkala, Kerala, India
Open Time: Always open
- Must-Do: Take a boat ride through the backwaters or enjoy a quiet beach walk with scenic views of the sea and coconut groves.
- Ideal Time: October to March.
- How to Reach: Located 7 km from Varkala, easily reachable by a short drive.
5. Asparagus
It is a shopping place in Varkala Kerala. It is different from all other shops that are located in Varkala. The quality of fabrics and natural colors of clothes are lovely.
The aromatic spices and handicraft items are also found here. The market is mainly famous for its unique style. Garments are found here which carry unique styles.
Distance from Varkala: 3 km
Travel time by car: 10 minutes
Address: Shop No. 319 A, Rose Garden Building, Papanasam, Beach Road, Trivandrum District, Varkala, Kerala 695141
Open Time: 9 am–9 pm
- Must-Do: Indulge in Kerala-style seafood, try their international dishes, or enjoy a leisurely coffee with a view.
- Ideal Time: Open year-round for meals and snacks.
- How to Reach: Located close to Varkala Beach.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit Kerala in March 2023
6. Ponnumthuruthu Island
It is a gorgeous island which contains Anjengo backwaters which are perfect for this island, and it makes it one of the most beautiful islands in God’s own country.
It covers a distance of 20 km from Varkala, and a unique jetty is available from Nedunganda village.
Distance from Varkala: 12 km
Travel time by car: 30 minutes
Address: Ponnumthuruthu Island, Varkala, Kerala, India
Open Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Must-Do: Take a boat ride, explore the peaceful island, and visit the ancient Shiva-Parvati temple.
- Ideal Time: November to March.
- How to Reach: Located 12 km from Varkala, accessible by boat from Nedunganda.
- Kerala Travel in January for Famous Destinations
- February Visit in Kerala for Popular Places
- Kerala Tourist Destinations Visit in March
- Visit Kerala in April for Best Places
- In May Tourist Places to See in Kerala
- Kerala Tour in June for Popular Attractions
- August in Kerala Visit Famous Places
- Places to See Kerala in September
- Destinations Visit Kerala in October
- Kerala Holiday Places Visit in December
- Places Visit Kerala in July
7. Varkala Light House
The height of the Varkala lighthouse is 130 ft. tall. People believe that this lighthouse is guided by the ships which are coming from Britain.
The factory set up by the British East India company in the earliest had ruins and people can see that from this lighthouse.
Distance from Varkala: 3 km
Travel time by car: 10 minutes
Address: Anchuthengu Light House, Anchuthengu, Kerala 695309
Open Time: 3–5 pm
- Must-Do: Climb to the top for breathtaking views, especially during sunset, and explore the nearby beach area.
- Ideal Time: October to March.
- How to Reach: Located 10 km from Varkala, a short drive away.
8. Edava Beach
Edava beach is mainly known because it is still untouched and unspoiled by tourists who come to visit here. Here people can see a beautiful view of the sea and backwaters running parallel to each other. Also Read: List of Popular Beaches in Kerala
Distance from Varkala: 10 km
Travel time by car: 25 minutes
Address: QM6P+4WC, Thiruvananthapuram, Edava, Kerala 695311
Open Time: Always open
- Must-Do: Relax by the shoreline, explore the nearby backwaters, and enjoy the untouched beauty of the area.
- Ideal Time: October to March.
- How to Reach: Located 5 km from Varkala, accessible by road.
9. Varkala Cliff
It is a significant site in the area of Varkala. The cliff is made up of laterite, and it covers the Varkala beach. The Geological Survey of India declares it as a Geological monument.
- Address: Varkala Cliff, Varkala, Kerala, India
- Must-Do: Walk along the cliffside, grab a meal at a cliff-top cafe, and enjoy the panoramic views of the beach.
- Ideal Time: October to March.
- How to Reach: Located right by Varkala Beach, easily accessible on foot.
10. Kaduvayil Jama Masjid
The Masjid is wholly dedicated to Muslim Saint namely. Saint Kaduvayil Thangal. It is a very famous destination for Sunni worshipers, and its beautiful architecture attracts many visitors.
The structure of the Masjid is very well maintained, which gives peace to the pilgrimage soul.
Distance from Varkala: 2 km
Travel time by car: 10 minutes
Address: PRW2+925, Kaduvayil, Karavaram, Kerala 695611
- Must-Do: Offer prayers, learn about the local religious traditions, and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
- Ideal Time: Throughout the year.
- How to Reach: Located 15 km from Varkala, accessible by road.
Conclusion
Varkala is a charming place and full of joy. Ranges of places are available here from temple to Masjid to beaches. People can spend their time with family and have fun. Water Sports are also available in town.
Check More About the Kerala:
- North Kerala Most Popular Destinations to Visit
- 10 Places to See in Idukki, Kerala
- Kerala 10 Famous Honeymoon Resorts
- List of the Kerala Wildlife National Park
- Famous Ayurveda Spas & Wellness Centres in Kerala
- Kerala’s Most Beautiful Honeymoon Places
- Most Popular 5-Star Luxury Hotels in Kerala
- Top 10 Kerala Places for October
- Places to See in Kerala in November
- Kerala Travel in December for Best Places
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best places to visit in Varkala?
Popular places in Varkala include Varkala Beach, Varkala Cliff, Janardhana Swami Temple, Kappil Lake, and Odayam Beach.
2. What is the best time to visit Varkala?
The best time to visit Varkala is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities.
3. Which is the nearest airport to Varkala?
The nearest airport to Varkala is Trivandrum International Airport, located around 45 km away.
4. What is special about Varkala Cliff?
Varkala Cliff is unique for its red laterite formations that overlook the Arabian Sea, providing stunning views and a range of beachside cafes.
5. What can I do at Odayam Beach in Varkala?
At Odayam Beach, you can relax in a quieter atmosphere, enjoy the scenic beauty, and take peaceful walks along the shore.
6. What is the distance from Trivandrum to Varkala?
The distance between Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) and Varkala is approximately 45 km, which can be covered in around 1-1.5 hours by road.
7. What are the top tourist attractions in Varkala?
Top tourist attractions include Varkala Beach, Varkala Cliff, Sivagiri Mutt, and Janardhana Swami Temple.
8. How can I spend 2 days in Varkala?
In 2 days, you can visit Varkala Beach, explore the Varkala Cliff, visit Sivagiri Mutt, and enjoy a peaceful time at Kappil Lake or Odayam Beach.
9. What is the history of Varkala Beach?
Varkala Beach is also known as Papanasam Beach, believed to have sacred waters that wash away sins, making it a significant pilgrimage site.
10. Where is Varkala Cliff located?
Varkala Cliff is located in Varkala Town, which is part of the Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala, India.
11. Can I visit Varkala in December?
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Varkala as the weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing and beach activities.
12. What are the places to visit near Varkala?
Some places near Varkala include Kappil Lake, Anjengo Fort, and Ponnumthuruthu Island.
13. What is Varkala best known for?
Varkala is best known for its picturesque beach, cliffside views, and its significance as a pilgrimage site with the Janardhana Swami Temple.
14. Which is the nearest railway station to Varkala?
The nearest railway station is Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities.
15. What are the famous temples in Varkala?
The most famous temple in Varkala is the Janardhana Swami Temple, a 2,000-year-old shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
