Varkala Beach
varkala beach in kerala
A visit to Varkala tourist places must start with Varkala Beach, one of the town’s most popular attractions. What sets it apart from other beaches is the striking cliffs that fringe one end. In fact, the town is the only place in this part of Kerala that has cliffs near the Arabian Sea. The striking formation is known as the Varkala Formation. Aside from the magnificent view from up top, there are spas and water spouts to explore that are believed to be sacred and healing.
There are other places to visit in Varkala Beach including the Janardana Swami Temple, a 2000-year-old religious institution dedicated to Vishnu and Sivagiri Mutt, an ashram built by Sri Narayana Guru more than 100 years ago.
One of the best places to see in Varkala in Kappil Beach where Kappil Lake meets the Arabian Sea. The lake is right across and is separated by a metaled road. The beach isn’t very large but rocks and palm trees create a little heaven and offer numerous opportunities for shutterbugs to get out their cameras.
For a better understanding of just how scenic Kappil Beach and Kappil Lake are, look for photos with a bird’s eye view. The calm lake on one side and the roiling sea on the other make for a stunning contrast. When you’ve visited both sides of the area, you can make your way to Vettekkada Beach, which is a short distance away. It’s charming and secluded – perfect for travelers looking for a little ‘me’ time.
Kappil Lake
kappil lake in varkala
Kappil Lake is one of the top places to visit in Varkala Kerala. It’s serene and extremely picturesque with coconut groves and placid waters creating an instant escape. It’s just about six kilometers from Varkala town so you can head here anytime you need to get away from the noise.
There are boats available for rent so you get to explore the beautiful waterway. Do carry a camera and take photos of the palm trees nearby. You should also walk the bridge that’s built across the lake. The views of the water stretching into the horizon are stunning and make it one of the best Varkala sightseeing spots.
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Ponnumthuruthu Island varkala
20 kilometers from Varkala is Ponnumthuruthu Island, an uninhabited green space that’s perfect for nature walks and bird-watching. It’s one of the most popular places to visit in and around Varkala. Migratory birds halt here and if you have an affinity for our winged friends, bring a pair of binoculars and enjoy seeing them go about their business. The island also has a century-old temple dedicated to Shiva and Parvati.
The only way to get here is to hire a boat from Nedunganda Village. You can plan a day trip and spend a few hours exploring the island and picnicking before heading back to Varkala town.
Anchuthengu and Anjengo Fort
Anjengo Fort in varkala
Old and full of history, Anjengo Fort was built in the late 17th century by the East India Company. It was gifted to the company by the Queen of Attingal. According to local legend, the British had a hard time pronouncing the town of Anchuthengu where the fort was built and called it Anjengo instead.
Today, Anchuthengu and Anjengo Fort are some of the most popular Varkala places to visit. The town features old structures including a century-old convent and tombs of soldiers. Walking through the streets, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into the past. The old world feel is very discernible!
Janardana Swami Temple
Janardana Swami Temple varkala
2,000 years old and still standing strong, Janardana Swami Temple is a place of worship for followers of Vishnu. Often referred to as the Varanasi of the South, it’s located on a hill at the road to Varkala Beach. You can visit it along the way. A banyan tree stands on the grounds of this Varkala temple and is adorned with idols beneath. Non-Hindus aren’t allowed inside the inner sanctum but you can explore the grounds and see the facade of the temple.
A 10-day festival known as Arattu is held each year from March to April and includes night-long traditional dances. Plan your holiday during this period if you want to see this and colorful processions.
Sivagiri Mutt
Sivagiri Mutt varkala
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The ashram and tomb of Sri Narayana Guru, Sivagiri Mutt, is located atop Sivagiri Hills and is a popular tourist attraction. It’s believed that this is where the social reformer became enlightened. You can expect to see a steady flow of devotees that swells to thousands during the Sivagiri Pilgrimage that takes place from December 30th-January 1st.
The rituals observed during the period are distinct from other religious pilgrimages. Devotees are required to purify themselves on the basis of Buddha’s principles of mind, body, food, word and deed.
Odayam Beach
Odayam Beach Varkala
Located at a distance of just few kilometers, Odayam Beach is a pure stretch of soft sands between the beautiful Thiruvambadi beach and the Cliff beach. Letting the travelers explore the peaceful side of this coastal town, Odayam Beach is one of the best places to visit in Varkala. And for those who’re looking forward to explore the hippiest side of Kerala, this is the perfect place to be.
Balimandapam
Balimandapam varkala
Considered to be a pilgrimage site wherein lakhs of travelers come annually to pay their respects to the departed souls, Balimandapam is one of the major and biggest projects of VIVID Corp. in Varkala. Dedicated to performing the rituals of Vavubali at the most sacred Papanasam River, Balimandapam is a must visit attractions in Varkala on your next trip. Don’t miss it!
Edava Vettakkada Beach
Edava Vettakkada Beach Varkala
Set amidst two gorgeous cities of Varkala in the south, and the city of Paravur in the north, Edava is a quaint little town in the district of Thiruvananthapuram that overlooks the mighty Arabian Sea. Home to serene backwaters, cliffs, canals, lakes, and extended beaches, it is one of the best places to visit in Varkala.