Located on the western coast of India, in Kerala, this is the only place in the country that has cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea.These tertiary sedimentary formation cliffs are a unique geological feature in the otherwise flat Kerala coast, and is known among geologists as Varkala Formation and a geological monument as declared by the Geological survey of India. There are numerous water spouts and spas on the sides of these cliffs. Varkala is full of scenic places and the nature looks at her best here. Magnificent cliff edges, a long coast line, lush greenery, peaceful locales, the beautiful view of the Sea from the West Coast and coconut trees make Varkala a popular tourist destination in Kerala.
Varkala has an immense religious significance. It has a 3,500 year old Janardanaswamy temple which was an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India and is referred to as Dakshina Kashi (The Banaras of the south). The temple is located close to the Papanasam beach which is considered to have holy waters which wash away sins. The place also has an important Ayurveda treatment centre.
Best For:
Clean Beaches
Temples
Varkala Formation
The weather is extremely pleasant all year long. In summer the temperature rises as high as 28 degrees C and winter witness a drop till 20 degrees C. The monsoon is a delight. You can visit this place any time of the year.
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the acceptable form of currency here. Money can be changed at the Bureau de Change at the Temple Junction. Some of the bigger hotels also offer money changing facilities to their guests. One can also find a State Bank of India ATM in town.
A tourist visa applicable for the entire country (India) is sufficient.
Embassies And Tourist Offices:
The nearest places for help in terms of embassy related issues and other tourist requirements can be found only at major cities like Thiruvanthapuram, and Cochin.
A flight to Thiruvanthapuram [51kms] and a northward drive through NH 47 is the easiest way to reach Varkala
Air
One can fly to Thiruvanthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, about 55 kms from Varkala and then drive to Varkala. The drive takes about 2 hours. Chartered flights operate from France and Britain during the season
Road
Varkala is linked by state and national highways to all the major cities in Kerala, Tamilnadu and Karnataka. A lot of buses are available from Thiruvanthapuram to Varkala as it is an important tourist destination.
Train
The railway network in Thiruvanthapuram is good and you can get direct trains from the capital city to Varkala.
Sivagiri Mutt is the place where Saint Sree N%u0101r%u0101yana Guru Swami’s tomb is located. The hill-top mausoleum of Sree Narayana Guru is one of the most famous monuments in Kerala.
The 3500 yr old Janardanaswamy temple is an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India and is referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Benares of the south).
Papanasam beach is one of the holiest places in Kerala. The name itself means that the holy waters can wash away the sins. It is also an important Ayurveda treatment centre.
The Kaduvayil Thangal Dargah is another popular local pilgrim site. People, irrespective of religion visit this place to get the blessings of Kaduvayil Thangal who was a renowned Muslim saint.
The District Ayurvedic Hospital is also located in Varkala.
Varkala Tunnel has the remains of the tunnel that was built in the pre independence era. Now it is a part of the TS tunnel.
Shopping:
There are many local shops and bazaars in Varkala, many of them located on the beach. One can buy anything from a scented candle to Ayurvedic cosmetics in Varkala.
These shops are full of little trinkets and souvenirs that you could take home with you.
There are a lot of local food joints, restaurants but most of them are seasonal. (beginning late Nov). Try the fresh fish or seafood from any number of the cliff-top restaurants. Seafood is caught by local fishermen and displayed in front of many restaurants. Select your delicacy and have it prepared in the tandoo. Make sure the sea food is fresh, and avoid it if you're not sure about the quality.
Since this is a popular beach in Kerala that is known as “God’s Own Country”, one can find a lot of beach resorts that compliment the place very well. There are good hotels and accommodations available here.
Thiruvanthapuram [50 kms]:Thiruvananthapuram literally means "City of Lord Anantha" in Malayalam. The name derives from the deity of the Hindu temple at the centre of the city. Referred to by Mahatma Gandhi as the "Evergreen city of India", the city is characterized by its undulating terrain of low coastal hills and busy commercial alleys.
Kovalam [70 kms approx]: This is yet another famous beach on the western coast of southern India. Along with Varkala, Kovalam is a beautiful idyllic beach complete with Ayurvedic salons which are very popular amongst the tourists.
Other places nearby are:
Attingal
Kadakkavur
Edava
Kallambalam
Kappil
Parippally
Kilimanoor.
The place promises to be a memorable experience. It is a great combination of natural beauty and religious importance.
