Varkala

Some major attractions of Varkala

Varkala Beach
Also known as the Papanasam beach, it is a tourist’s delight for sun-bathing, swimming and for the amazing sunset views. It houses numerous resorts, restaurants and small shops where visitors indulge in. It is the only beach in south Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea.

Varkala Tunnel
Built around 1860 by the British, Varkala Tunnel is one of the historic attractions of Varkala. It was established as an inland waterway to serve as a trade route.

Edava Beach
It is another exotic and serene beach which is not explored extensively by visitors. One can not only enjoy the waves, basking in the sun, but also find blue lagoons while moving further towards Kappil.

Paravur
Situated 13 km away from Varkala, it is also known as the land of backwaters, estuary and beaches. This place offers mesmerising views and pristine beauty and one can even catch a glimpse of it while travelling towards Pozhikkara, Thekkumbhagam and Kappil. It attracts several tourists who come to enjoy the tranquil surroundings of backwaters and lakes.

Kappil Lake
Located about 4 km from Varkala, it is a quaint estuary which moves through thick coconut groves before merging into the Arabian Sea.

Janardana Swami Temple
Around 2000 years old, it is a Vaishnavite shrine where thousands of pilgrims flock every year. Often regarded as Dakshin Kashi (Benares of the South), this temple lies adjacent to the Papanasam beach which has holy waters that can wash away mortal sins according to the belief. It is also an important Ayurveda treatment centre.

Other Attractions
Some of the other attractions are the Anjengo Fort, the Varkala Tunnel, Sivagiri Mutt, Sarkara Devi Temple, Sree Saraswathy Temple and the Kaduvayil Juma Masjid.

How to Reach
Varkala is well connected by air through the Trivandrum International airport and by rail via Varkala Sivagiri station plying to the Trivandrum Central station.