Location: 41 Kms from
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala
Tourist Attractions: Janardana Swamy Temple, beach,
mineral water springs, the Sivagiri Mutt and a 2000 year old Vishnu temple.
Beach Activities: Sightseeing, Shopping, Water Sports.
About Varkala Beach
Located 54 Km north of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, is the
calm, sandy and serene Varkala Beach. Varkala Beach is the ultimate holiday
destination for those looking for relaxed and quiet holidays. Varkala beach
has a laid back atmosphere which attracts innumerable tourists. Along with
being a sea side resort, it is also an important Hindu center of pilgrimage.
Varkala Beach is also renowned for its landscape. A high rocky cliff ends
abruptly and a stretch of clear sand extends down to the sea. The blend of
the cliffs, sand and sea makes Varkala Beach an outstanding sight. The
sunset at Varakala Beach is absolutely astounding with the sun going down
the horizon like a ball of molten gold and providing the sky with crimson
and vermilion hues.
Varkala beach is also called ' Papanashini' since it is believed that a dip
in the holy waters of Varkala beach will purify your body and soul, washing
out all your sins.
Major Attractions at Varkala Beach
Sree Janardhana Swamy temple
This temple is believed to be between 800 - 2000 years old and is dedicated
to Ayyappa. On the auspicious
new
moon day in the month of 'Karkidakam', according to the Malayalam calendar
is considered sacred. Innumerable pilgrims come to Varakala Beach to pray
and offer 'Vavu Bali', so that the souls of their relatives who have
departed from this world, may rest in peace. There's also a nature cure
center located near Varakala Beach which is a another popular attraction
that one can visit in Kerala.
Mineral water springs
It is believed that the mineral springs near Varkala Beach have medicinal
properties. Many people come here to drink and bathe in the water from the
mineral springs.
The Vishnu temple
This beautiful beach also has a more than 2000 years old shrine of Lord
Vishnu.
Beach Activities
Water Sports
Apart from sunbathing, you can also get into some action and fun at
Varkala. Be a little adventurous and indulge in any of the exciting water
sports such as windsurfing, scuba diving, parasailing, beach volleyball or
go swimming in the clear blue sea.
Shopping
Go for shopping at any one of the frequently held beach bazaars. These
bazaars are always bustling with activity and the shops are full of little
trinkets and souvenirs that you could take home with you.
Getting There
Air : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is about 46 km from
Varkala and is the nearest airport.
Rail : The railway station is 3 kms from the beach.
Road : Varkala is 54 km away from Thiruvananthapuram and 37 km away
from Kollam. Varkala is about 90 minutes away by a bus journey and is a
perfect place to stay for a night or more or an afternoon when traveling
between Alappuzha or Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.
Accommodation
Accommodation is not a problem in Varkala. There are several hotels, beach
resorts, motels and inns that offer facilities for a comfortable stay in
Varkala. You may pick any one according to your budget ranging from luxury
to economy class.
