Kerala Varkala beach is a pristine beach resort, a pilgrimage town, a geological wonder and a famous tourist destination. Located around 50 kms from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram, Varkala beach is the only place across the Kerala coast where cliffs are found along the Arabian Sea. This beach is ranked as one of the top ten seasonal beaches of India by Discovery channel.
The Papanasam Beach and the 2000 year old Sree Janardhana Swamy temple located near Varkala beach make this town a place of religious importance. Thousands of pilgrims visit this place during the Malayalam month of “Karkidakam” to perform “Vavu Bali”, a ritual believed to provide salvation to the souls of ancestors.
The Sivagiri Mutt, built by Narayana Guru, a social worker is located atop the hill, which is also one of the famous destinations with the tourists. Anjengo Fort is also a famous tourist spot with historical importance amidst a scenic natural setting. Varkala tunnel and Varkala lighthouse are the other most visited tourist destinations during a visit to Varkala beach Kerala. A short trip by a cruise boat takes you to Ponnumthurut Island, which is again a breathtaking excursion spot around Varkala.
Trivandrum is the closest airport (55 kms) while Varkala beach Kerala is well-connected by road with other important cities and towns in Kerala. The nearest railhead is Varkala railway station (3 kms). Kochi, Thekkady, Kanyakumari, Ponmudi, Sabarimala and Kanyakumari are the other tourist places located within a 200 km range from Kerala Varkala beach.
Varkala Beach is the best destination for people looking for sun-bathing and swimming. This is also one of the most visited Ayurveda centers in Kerala. The mineral springs near the beach has proven medicinal properties and locals as well as visitors throng this place to have a dip in these springs. Kappil Lake, located at a distance of 4 kms, is known for its scenic beauty meandering through the dense coconut groves before flowing into the Arabian Sea.
The lush green landscapes that surround the beach and the rocky cliff ends with the virgin sandy stretches make Varkala beach an enticing destination for a short holiday. The three different aspects of geography – the sea, the sand and cliffs, create a stark contrast and add a mystic feel to this place.
The cliffs are formed out of red brown stone and have an amazing rugged look. These stone blocks are natural protectors of the land against erosion. Any person with a love for natural beauty cannot forget the breathtaking view of the sun sinking into the sky looking like a ball of molten gold.
Kerala Varkala beach is also gaining grounds as a preferred destination for water sports such as scuba-diving, parasailing and wind surfing.