Varkala, located in Kerala, India’s southernmost region, is a fabric of stunning beauty. This quaint village is surrounded by towering laterite cliffs, a natural wonder on Kerala’s flat coast.One of the most popular places to visit in Varkala is Varkala Beach, known for its golden sands and stunning views. Cafes and stores with sweeping views of Papanasam Beach’s beautiful sands appear above these cliffs. Below, the Arabian Sea’s rhythmic waves laze against the coast, beckoning leisure. Varkala skillfully combines a strong cultural past with its carefree seaside ambiance. The town’s spiritual significance is proven by historic temples such as the Sivagiri Mutt, a memorial to social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, and the Janardhana Swamy Temple, a Hindu worship site.

Top sightseeing places in Varkala

When you visit Varkala, there are several must-do activities and experiences that you should not miss:

1. Varkala Beach: Varkala Beach is a popular tourist destination located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is known for its beautiful sunsets, pristine waters, and soft sands. The beach is also home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including the Varkala Temple and the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at the beach, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is also a great place to relax and unwind, with several restaurants and cafes nearby offering delicious food and drinks.

2. Janardhana Swamy Temple: The Janardhana Swamy Temple is one of the ancient temples in Kerala. This temple has a history of  2000 years, located in located on a steep hill, at the entrance of the beach road. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands as a major pilgrimage site in the region. It is known for its architectural beauty and intricate carvings, and is a popular destination for tourists and devotees alike.

3. Sivagiri Mutt: Kerala’s most well-known pilgrimage site is Sivagiri Mutt. It is the main office of Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham and the organization founded by the renowned reformer Sree Narayana guru. This is where Sree Narayana Guru passed away in 1928; a hillock serves as the Guru’s ultimate resting place. The Sivagiri Mutt is well known for helping those who are marginalized sections. Every year in December or January, the Mutt organises a festival that draws both visitors and devotees.

4. Papanasam Beach: One of Varkala’s unique beaches is Papanasam. Near the Janardhana Swamy Temple. It is well-known not just for the beach but also as a significant location with spiritual and religious importance. The beach was named Papanasam beach because Hindus believe that taking a dip in the ocean here will wash away all of their sins. It’s the ideal spot for sunsets and the best spot for sunbathing.

5. Varkala Tunnel: In order to move products from the north to the south, the British authorities of the 19th century chose to build a tunnel at Varkala. It took 14 years to finish the work. At the time, the tunnel’s construction represented a significant advancement for both Kerala and Travancore. The first tunnel was finished in 1877, and the second one followed in 1880. Malabar to Travancore traffic is now possible because of the tunnel. Explore the Varkala Tunnel, a historic British-era tunnel that links Varkala Beach with the North Cliff. 

6. Black sand beach: There is a beach called Thiruvambadi beach, well known as the black sand beach. Black Sand Beach gets its name from the black sand that makes up the beach. The black part of the sand on Varkala Beach contains Thorium-oxide which is a radioactive substance. Thorium and Thorium-oxide and their isotopes are found all over Kerala and can be identified by its black colour.

You will surely feel serene and at ease if you visit the beach. For individuals looking to escape the noisy environment of city life, this is the ideal location. And the locals go to the serene beach for their weekend vacation. 

7. Odayam Beach: Odayam Beach is the place to go if you are too exhausted to tour crowded regions. This lesser-known gem is among Varkala’s best sites for sightseeing. The distance between the cliff home and Thiruvambadi beach is a few kilometres from Odayam beach. Travellers seeking peace and quiet will find a remote haven at Odayam Beach, which is hidden away just a few kilometres from the busy Varkala Beach. With none of the tourists, this little beach offers picturesque views of the Arabian Sea. Here, you may enjoy a tranquil getaway while sharing the golden (or occasionally black) sand with nearby fishermen.

8. Kappil Beach: Picture serene backwaters on one side and a beach that the Arabian Sea kisses on the other. The golden beach stretches beneath your feet as lush coconut palms sway in the light wind. This is Kappil Beach, a tranquil hidden gem. For those looking for a spiritual getaway, Kappil offers an opportunity to relax in the middle of spectacular nature, in contrast to the crowded coastline. 

9. Edava Beach: The beach at Edava, a well-known tourist spot in Thiruvananthapuram, is particularly lovely for those who want to unwind and find peace. The beach is popular with tourists because of its stunning scenery and serene backwaters. The tourism industry has recently directed its attention to Edava Beach. 

10. Anjuthengu Fort: Anjuthengu, sometimes referred to as Anjengo, is a lighthouse and a worthy destination. The British Government firm built the fort, which is known as Anjuthengu, which translates to “five coconut palms.” With its 130-foot height, the lighthouse offers a complete perspective of Varkala. When in Varkala, be sure not to pass over this great spot. Since the British colonial era, it has been one of Varkala’s most popular tourist destinations.  

11. Varkala Aquarium: Explore the world under the surface at Varkala Aquarium! This amazing three-story building is close to Black Beach and provides an amazing view of the underwater world. Amazing types of fish and other water animals can be found living in the large area. Discover a kaleidoscope of vibrant fish, such as the unusual angelfish and the local favourite, the Karimeen, as you make your way up the spiral staircase. There’s an open tank on the top floor, full of different species. With educational exhibits that educate guests of all ages, the aquarium is a fantastic place for families. This is also the place where you may see a variety of marine life forms.

Also Read: 7 Days Kerala Itinerary – Best Places to Visit to Kerala in 1 Week

Top Activities and Things to Do in Varkala

• Varkala Cliff: Take in the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline from the Varkala Cliff. The cliff is a perfect area to relax, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy delectable Kerala food because it is surrounded with stores, cafes, and restaurants. Varkala Cliff is well known for its preparations of freshly caught fish. Also, the beachfront draws tourists. Nowadays, Varkala Beach is a popular yet challenging hippy destination in India, similar to Goa and Gokama. 

• Visit Varkala Beach: This beautiful beach is well-known for its serene ambiance and breathtaking rocks. It’s a wonderful spot for relaxing, going swimming, and watching the sunset. For those seeking a tranquil getaway, Varkala Beach is the best place to stay in Kerala. 

• Experience the Janardhana Swamy Temple: An important religious and cultural landmark in Varkala, this old temple honours Lord Vishnu. Both its spiritual significance and architectural beauty are well-known. The origins and history of the temple are linked to a number of myths, legends, and traditions.The tale of Lord Brahma and Sage Narada is the most well-known of all. 

• Ayurvedic Treatments: Varkala is widely known for its wellness centres and Ayurvedic therapies. For renewal and relaxation, think about getting a traditional Ayurvedic massage or treatment. The ayurvedic wellness centre treats patients using age-old techniques. It is going to help you feel better physically, mentally, and overall.

• Backwater Tours: Visit a nearby backwater for the day. Take a captivating cruise through Varkala’s serene backwaters and drift through Kerala’s stunning scenery. Surrounded by lush greenery and customary communities, the tranquil voyage reveals the lives of the locals by the river’s shores. It’s a fully immersive experience that provides serene and beautiful moments that last long after the trip is over.travel to places like Kappil Lake and take a calm boat ride among the coconut orchards, mangroves, and tranquil backwaters.

• Try Local Cuisine: Enjoy the mouthwatering local food, which includes fresh seafood and traditional Kerala meals. Don’t miss this up. The city is well known for its fresh seafood, and tapioca, rice, coconut, and a variety of spices are the key ingredients in local cuisine. 

• Attend Cultural Performances: Varkala can give you the chance to see traditional dance, music, and cultural acts, depending on when you come. The most well-known art form in Kerala is Kathakali, one of the state’s many colourful art forms. The kathakali show is enjoyed by the tourists, particularly the foreign visitors. Varkala offers countless chances to see Kathakali. 

• Cliff Jumping and Paragliding: Varkala provides options for adventure seekers to parachute and leap down cliffs, providing a thrilling moment amid breathtaking sea vistas and rocks. For those seeking excitement, cliff jumping and paragliding excursions are exciting pursuits in Varkala. While thrill-seekers leap from the tall cliffs into the cool waters below, paragliders glide far above the breathtaking coastline, taking in breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. These adrenaline sports offer an amazing viewpoint of Varkala’s magnificent landscape.

• Witness Sunset: The Varkala Cliff and the beach offer breathtaking sunset views. Take the chance to witness the sun sinking over the Arabian Sea. Varkala’s sunsets bathe the Arabian Sea in colours of orange, pink, and gold, creating a breathtaking picture. Watching the sunset over the water’s edge and the shadows it cast on cliffside temples and coconut palms is a breathtaking sight every evening.

• Yoga and Meditation: Varkala is well-known for its centres for yoga and meditation. Take part in a yoga class or a meditation retreat to relax and revitalize.Those who practise yoga and meditation may find peace at Varkala. Practitioners enjoy guided sessions that help them realise inner tranquillity against the backdrop of crashing waves in peaceful ashrams or on pristine shores. The harmony of nature with conventional practices fosters general well-being and spiritual rejuvenation.

• Shop for Souvenirs: For distinctive apparel, handicrafts, and souvenirs, peruse the Varkala Cliff’s markets and stores. The area is also known for its braceware, wood carvings, and traditional sarees. The Janardana Swamy temple and Varkala North Cliff’s main retail area. 

• Floating bridge:  The first floating bridge in the state is located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Papanasam Beach and is a popular tourist site.With supports on both sides, the bridge measures three metres wide by one hundred metres in length. Visitors can enjoy the landscape far off the sea on a platform that is 11 metres long and seven metres wide at the end of the bridge. 

Which is the best time to visit Varkala?

October to March

The best time to visit Varkala is from October to March when the weather’s nice and the crowds aren’t too crazy. That’s also when you can do cool stuff like surfing and paragliding. In the summer, it gets super hot and sticky, so it’s not the best time for a beach trip. And skip the monsoon season from June to September because it pours like crazy and there’s flooding. Yeah, it’s best to avoid Varkala from March to June ’cause it can hit 40°C!

Also Read: Kerala Beaches: Traveler’s Guide to Kerala’s Beach Tourism

Best resorts close to Varkala Beach, Kerala?

Varkala is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, India, known for its beautiful beach tourism experience.  Varkala Beach is surrounded by many beautiful resorts. When booking a hotel in Varkala, there are several things you should consider to make the most of your stay. 

Some of the top-rated resorts near Varkala Beach are:

• The Gateway Hotel, Janardhanapuram: The Gateway Hotel features cosy accommodations, a beachfront restaurant, a swimming pool, and spa services, all just a short stroll from Varkala Beach. It’s well-known for its wonderful service and peaceful atmosphere. 

• Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa, Kovalam: This luxury resort is located near Kovalam, around an hour’s drive from Varkala, even though it isn’t directly in Varkala. The Taj Green Cove features a gorgeous infinity pool, a variety of dining options, well-appointed accommodations, and a beachfront setting. 

• The Oceano, Varkala: The Oceano, which is located on Varkala’s breathtaking North Cliff, features large, elegant suites as well as a rooftop restaurant and infinity pool with panoramic views. Beyond having convenient access to the beach, it is renowned for its kind hospitality.

• Hindustan Beach Retreat, Varkala: The Hindustan Beach Retreat, which is located near Papanasam Beach, offers cosy accommodations, an outdoor pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a spa. The resort is well-known for its beachside position and peaceful atmosphere.

• Palm Tree Heritage, Varkala: Cosy rooms and cottages are available at Palm Tree Heritage, which is set away among coconut trees and close to Varkala Beach. It offers personalized service, a rooftop restaurant with views of the ocean, and a tranquil setting. 

• Coco Beach Resort: The Varkala Cliff is home to the Coco Beach Resort, which is three minutes’ walk from the beach. The hotel welcomes visitors with a front desk open around the clock and room service. The distances between the property and Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple are around 29 miles, Napier Museum is 29 miles away, and Janardhana Swamy Temple is 16 minutes by foot. 

Tips to book hotels in Varkala

• Choose a hotel that is located near the beach or a scenic view. In this way, you can enjoy the beautiful views the fresh breeze coming from the seas and the lush greenery.
• Look for a hotel that offers activities such as boat rides, treehouse stays, or yoga classes. Such activities will make your stay more exciting and memorable.
• Check the rooms and amenities

For more insights and travel tips, be sure to check out VisitToKerala, your ultimate guide to exploring the wonders of Kerala.