The unusual 15-meter-tall “Northern Cliff” that sits next to the Arabian Sea is the main attraction of Varkala, a seaside town in Kerala’s southern region. Varkala, the capital of Kerala, is about 50 kilometers north of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), and it provides the ideal fusion of spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural appeal. It is well-known for its hippy culture, the samadhi of Kerala’s saint Sree Narayana Guru, and the cliffside shacks that serve delicious seafood and play international music. Dakshin Kashi, also known as Janardana Swami Temple, is another notable landmark in Varkala.
Varkala is well known for its beautiful cliffside views that provide an amazing setting for exploration and leisure with a view of the Arabian Sea. The Varkala Cliff, the town’s most famous feature, is a geological wonder that draws tourists from all over the world. It is the perfect place for strolls and sunset viewing because it is perched above the cliffs and has a lot of cafes, shops, and guesthouses with expansive views of the sea.
Varkala is a small paradise with some of the best-unspoiled beaches, hills, lakes, lighthouses, forts, natural fisheries, and springs. Additionally, there are numerous stores offering cotton harem pants, oxidized silver jewelry, and yoga mats with Hebrew signage.
Varkala offers several noteworthy sites and attractions for individuals who are interested in learning about different cultures. Founded by the renowned social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, the Sivagiri Mutt is a pilgrimage place that provides insights into the socio-religious history and customs of Kerala. Lord Vishnu’s historic Janardanaswamy Temple is a tribute to the town’s rich spiritual tradition and architectural magnificence.
Places To Visit In Varkala
1. Varkala Cliff
Kerala’s stunning coastline is home to the famous Varkala Cliff, which is perched majestically above the Arabian Sea. This natural wonder, sometimes referred to as “The Great Ezhara Beach,” captivates tourists with an alluring fusion of stunning scenery, lively culture, and tranquil atmosphere.
Varkala Cliff is a significant geological location in the area. The cliff faces the Varkala seashore and was formed by laterite. Although the Geological Survey of India has designated it as a Geological monument, beach lovers and photographers should not miss the breathtaking vista of the golden beach and the fun waves that it provides.
Varkala Cliff has great spiritual and cultural value in addition to its natural beauty. The historic Janardhana Swamy Temple, devoted to Lord Vishnu, is perched atop the cliff and draws pilgrims and followers from all over the world. A nearby beacon of calm and enlightenment is the Sivagiri Mutt, a well-known spiritual center established by the philosopher and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
2. Water Sports in Varkala
Water sports in Varkala offer a wide range of exciting activities for thrill seekers and entertainment enthusiasts amidst the stunning beauty of Kerala. Varkala With its majestic mountains, sea of gold, and deep blue waters of the Arabian Sea, Varkala offers the perfect definition of marine life.
Guests can participate in a variety of water sports, including kayaking, sailing, sailing, and canoeing, each offering a unique way to experience the beauty of the region. Whether racing over the waves on a jet ski, gliding over the ocean with parasailing, or racing across the water on a banana boat, participants will experience fun and unforgettable memories. With safety precautions and an experienced guide, water sports at Varkala promise excitement, fun, and natural beauty to adventurers of all ages.
3. Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is located approximately 10 km from the serene and peaceful Varkala village of Kerala. It is a beautiful stretch of sand known for its solitude, unlike other commercial beaches of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. The Arabian Sea behind the hills of Kerala is unique as this peak of rugged nature is found nowhere else on the various coastlines of Kerala.
The beach itself is divided into two parts; The southern part of the beach is at the end of the road from the Janardhana Swamy Temple, which is considered sacred by Hindus. However, if you are a tourist, the northern part of the beach at the foot of the mountain is worth seeing with its natural resources.
Varkala Beach has particularly beautiful sunsets, which make for a peaceful stroll down the shore. Additionally, the location is a fish lover’s delight. The local restaurants serve some of the most mouthwatering and reasonably priced meals in all of India.
4. Edava Beach
Located near Varkala, on the Arabian Sea coast, Edava Island is a jewel in the remote coastline of Kerala. This peaceful beach is 2 km from Kappil Beach and 5 km from Varkala Railway Station. This tranquil beach offers a peaceful escape from busy tourist activity. Surrounded by tall palm trees, Edava Beach exudes a pleasant atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for travelers visiting Kerala.
What makes Beach different is its unique surface where sea and inland waters meet, separated only by a small strip of land. This magnificent view of the blue lagoon connected to the Arabian Sea is really interesting, especially if you see it during the rainy season when the water of the lake flows into the sea.
In addition to its natural beauty, Edava Beach, which offers an adrenaline-pumping experience in a tranquil environment, also appeals to adventurous people with its privileged location. Adding to the attraction is a historical museum that dates back to the British colonial period in the 17th century and reflects the rich heritage of the area.
5. Mangrove Forest Kayaking
The distance between Varkala and the mangrove forest in Nedungolam, Paravur, in the Kollam district, is 18 kilometers. It’s ideal for a half-day excursion; you can kayak 4 km in the morning or evening. It’s a must-try experience to sail through these canals in Nedungolam, particularly the mangrove forest. For this encounter, Mangrove Village Adventures is a top tour operator.
6. Thiruvambadi Beach
Tucked just 1km off Thiruvamdabi Road, Thiruvambady Beach is a beloved getaway for Thiruvananthapuram locals looking for relief from the bustle of the city. It is next to the North Cliff and is also called the Black Sand Beach. It provides a calm atmosphere away from the bustle of the city. This place is a haven of peace, with friendly residents and soft waves that make every visitor feel refreshed.
7. Anjengo Fort
Nestled in Varkala, Kerala, Anjengo Fort, also called Anchuthengu Fort, is a historical treasure. Located about 12 kilometers from Varkala town, this fort is historically notable as one of the first outposts of the British East India Company in India. Anjengo Fort was built in the 17th century and functioned as a vital trading post for the British, who traded spices with the local kings.
As a well-preserved example of colonial architecture, the fort gives visitors a window into Kerala’s illustrious history. Anjengo Fort, which is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and has a view of the Arabian Sea, offers tourists and history buffs alike a charming environment. The strong ramparts, barracks, and cannons of the fort, which formerly protected the shoreline from assaults, are open for exploration by guests.
Anjengo Fort offers visitors the chance to experience both the tranquil atmosphere of its coastal environs and Kerala’s colonial past. Anjengo Fort, which combines natural beauty with historical charm, is a must-see location for tourists visiting Varkala and its environs.
8. Sivagiri Mutt
Located at Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, it is one of the famous ashrams of Lord Narayana Guru Sivagiri Mutt. Janardhana Swami Temple and Varkala Beach are some of the nearby attractions that you should never miss during your visit to Sivagiri Mutt.
Sree Narayana Guru (1855-1928), a saint, social reformer, philosopher, and leader of the Ezhava family, made Varkala his headquarters. Founded by Sree Narayana Guru, Sivagiri Mutt is another important pilgrimage site here. The ‘Sivagiri Pilgrimage‘ is usually performed between 30 December and 1 January every year. Even after decades, the Guru breathed his last here in 1928; His samadhi (resting place) is still busy with thousands of pilgrims.
Sivagiri Mutt is also the headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Sangham, a religious society founded by the Guru to propagate the slogan ‘One Race, One Religion, One God’.
Well-liked Varkala Packages
| Packages | Price | Days | Inclusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varkala, Kovalam | ₹ 18,200* | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Hotels, Car, Sightseeing | |
| Mararikulam, Kollam, Varkala | ₹ 30,200* | 6 Nights / 7 Days | Hotels, Car, Sightseeing, Meals | |
| Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey, Varkala, Trivandrum | ₹ 26,400* | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Hotels, Car, Sightseeing, Meals | |
| Kochi, Alleppey, Varkala, Kollam | ₹ 32,300* | 7 Nights / 8 Days | Hotels, Car, Sightseeing | |
| Varkala, Kovalam, Kanyakumari | ₹ 15,000* | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Hotels, Car, Meals |
Best Time To Visit Varkala
The best time to visit Varkala is from October to February. It is highly recommended to explore the beaches, mountains, and natural beauties of the city during Varkala’s hot and dry season when the temperature is between 22°C and 32°C. The rainy season brings cool weather and a pleasant atmosphere, which enhances the beauty of this coastal town. However, it is important to remember that house prices are higher and more people are seen during the winter months.is not suitable for tourism, as the temperature rises to 40°C in the summer months. Rain may fit the bill, but peak months should be avoided due to heavy rainfall delaying tourism until winter.
