Travel Guide - Varkala

Varkala

Located in the Thiruvanathapuram district, in the coastal regions of Kerala is the town of Varkala. With many natural fishers and springs, the town is one of the favored tourist destinations. The untouched and clean beaches of Varkala such as Papanasam Beach and Varkala Beach are the major attractions of the place. Aside from this, there are also other popular sites including Kapil Lake, Anjengo Fort, Varkala Tunnel and the Lighthouse, where tourists can always pay a visit.

Getting There

Varkala is well connected by road to all parts of the State of Kerala and also Tamil Nadu. There are many travel options such as buses, trains, flights and taxis that one can choose from.

When To Go

Varkala shares the same climatic conditions like other parts of coastal Kerala, which is generally hot and humid. During summers (March to May), the weather is hot with a temperature reaching up to a maximum of 35°C, also accompanied by high humidity. In monsoon season (June to September), the place experiences heavy rainfall due to South West Monsoon. Few showers can be expected during October and November. During winters (December to February), the temperature range from a minimum of 22°C and can rise up to around 28°C. Best season to visit Varkala is during winters.

Attractions

Janardhanaswamy Temple

    popular Located in Varkala, Janardhanaswamy Temple is 25 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the Arattu festival celebrated here every year is attended by thousands of devotees. Charges: Camera Fee - Rs 100 (Photography is prohibited in the inner sanctum)  

Sivagiri Mutt

    popular Located at Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala is the one of the popular ashrams of Shri Narayana Guru, Sivagiri Mutt. This ashram celebrates Guru Deva Jayanti (in August) and the Guru Deva Samadhi (in September) every year. Many devotees from Kerala and outside visit this ashram. Janardhana Swami Temple and Varkala Beach are some nearby attractions which one should never miss during their visit to Sivagiri Mutt. Timings: Open: 5.30 am to 12 am, 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm.  

Anjengo Fort

   Located at Anjengo, a coastal town in Varkala (12 km), this fort is one of the attractions of the region. Believed to be constructed in 17th century, the fort has its own historical importance. At present, the fort is under the protection of the National Heritage monuments.

Inside the fort, there is a cemetery which has mortal remains of the occupants of the fort. Autos or cabs can be taken to reach the fort. Muthalapuzhi Lake is a beautiful nearby spot that can be visited. Timings: 10 am to 5 pm  

Ponnumthuruthu (Golden Island)

   Ponnumthuruthu, also known as Golden Island is 20 km from Varkala and is known for its Shiva Parvathi temple. This 100 years old temple is situated amidst thick coconut groves, which has grown over the entire stretch. Boats are available from Nedunganda, taking through the backwaters for about 30 minutes to reach Ponnumthuruthu.

Rich in flora and fauna, this island is also a perfect gateway for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the hustle & bustle of the urban life. Charges: Boat - Rs 500/hour, Rs 50 to temple.  

Thiruvambadi Beach

   Located 1 km from Thiruvamdabi road, this beach is a stretch of black sand, just adjacent to the North cliff. Also known as Black Sand beach, it is an ideal spot for those seeking peace and solitude.

The beach is relatively empty with coconut trees providing plenty of shade. Once can easily accessed this beach by climbing down the cliff or driving down a kilometer.

Varkala Beach

   Varkala Beach, located 54 km away from the north of Thiruvananthapuram is one of the most isolated beaches of Kerala. An ideal place to relax from daily hectic life, the beach has many attractions which call in many visitors. The place is well known for mineral springs which are believed to have some medicinal properties, while the nearby Janardana Swamy Temple and Nature Centre are also popular sites. With its scenic surroundings, the view of the sunset here is magnificent that one should never miss. Best time to visit Varkala Beach is during November to March. Charges: Surfboard - Rs 100 per hour, Beach umbrella - Rs 100/day  

Vishnu Temple

   Located close to the Varkala Beach in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala is the beautiful Vishnu Temple. The temple is more than 2000 years old and the shrine of Lord Vishnu of Hindu religion is placed inside. Some places of tourist interests nearby include the beautiful Varkala Beach and the Sivagiri Mutt, which is just a little distance from the beach.

Itineraries

Distances from Varkala

Trivandrum 66 km 2h Kovalam 75 km 2h Sabarimala 103 km 1h, 50m Alleppey 140 km 4h Kumarakom 170 km 4h, 30m Kochi 176 km 4h, 30m Thekkady 200 km 6h Munnar 247 km 3h, 40m Kozhikode 341 km 6h, 30m Coimbatore 356 km 5h, 10m Mangalore 584 km 13h, 30m

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