Varkala: A Coastal Serenity Beside The Arabian Sea

Kerala bestows India with incomparable places of interest that befit all styles of vacations and adventures. With the imposing backwaters, surreal beaches, ravishing tea plantations, and excellent ayurvedic health offerings, it passes several admirations to visitors from everywhere. Its unique culture and traditions have also been baffling vacationers who encounter this beautiful region. Saying so, Varkala, a beautiful turf surrounded by scarlet laterite cliffs and sublime beaches is no exception to explore. Offering a quiet and respite environment, this spot is a lesser-known side of the state. Know more about Varkala, a coastal delight in the region of God’s Own Country. 

About Varkala

Perched fittingly along the edge of a gorgeous crimson-red laterite cliff, Varkala is a stunning coastal municipality in Trivandrum, Kerala. Formerly known as Udaya Marthandapuram, It has a fascinating account of king Udaya Marthanda Varma making a huge contribution to developing this distinctive coastal town around the 16th century.

The place is also associated with a few other popular myths and has a rich history linked with its existence. The Janardhan Temple that exists today definitely stood as an event that happened 2000 years ago. The event followed as King Pandyan, by an instruction from Lord Brahma, built the temple as a sign of atonement and redemption for his sins. Another popular myth tells of Lord Narada who tossed his valkalam (loincloth) that landed near the seaside after hearing the plea of a group of pilgrims atoning their sins. Henceforth, the town got its moniker. 

Varkala is also one of the oldest municipalities in Kerala and is sometimes referred to as Southern Varanasi. People flock to see the lesser-known paradise not only for its sublime coastal landscape, and the beach but also for its geological significance. 

Dangers and Things To Watch Out For!

Varkala is quite a typical location where locals dwell quaintly without many urban activities at night. It is a little obscure place most ideal to explore during the day and enjoy the geological wonders. Hence, visitors cannot expect tourists’ activities in full measure but to stay at the location cautiously. Here are some tips to help your stay at Varkala more profoundly. 

• When walking on the cliff path at night, it is important to exercise caution as some parts may not have a fence and the path can be slippery.
• Given the frequency of power cuts and the lack of lighting on the beach after sunset, it is advisable to carry a flashlight.
• It is advisable to wear a sarong over your bikini and avoid interaction with intoxicated strangers, beggars, and vendors. Additionally, Varkala experiences strong currents that even experienced swimmers should be wary of while in the water.
• In consideration of local sensitivities, it is recommended to dress conservatively while on the beach.
• Due to the abundance of insects, particularly mosquitoes, on the beach, it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent cream with you.

Places To Visit In Varkala

Varkala is expediently blushed with nature’s bounty and the settlement of chic cafes and street bazaars filled with exotic items fringing the region makes it more auspicious. The small territory is a treasure trove allowing adventurers, backpackers and nature enthusiasts to enjoy the most out of it. It is surely a place to simply watch the days turn to weeks and explore the near. 

Varkala Beach 

Varkala Beach is the prime attraction in Varkala owing to its unique geological feature that intrigues nature enthusiasts profusely. The turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea gently ebbing beneath the flaring red cliff adds more charm to the place. For people preferring a quieter and cleaner beach environment, there is no other suitable place than Varkala Beach. 

Anjengo Fort 

Anjengo Fort is one of the key attractions in Varkala, settling in close proximity to Varkala Beach at about 12 km. The fort is an ancient structure built around the 17th century by the British East India Company for trade purposes. Today, it is one of the architectural wonders offering splendid views of the beach on one side and the backwaters on the other. Relish the stunning view dotted by the coconut grove and observe the fishermen doing about their day job which are truly fascinating. 

Ponnumthuruthu Island 

About 10 km south of Varkala will get you to the most mesmerizing haven of Ponnumthuruthu Island. It flaunts the ravishing backwaters of Anjengo caressing the island and the huge numbers of migratory birds flocking on it leave no exceptions to marvel visitors. A homely temple concealed within the island adds more charm to the place which sends a surge of rustic vibe to anyone who sets foot on it. Nedunganda Village is the sole provider of offering access to the island and one can get a special jetty that comes with a range of prices from here. 

Thiruvambadi Beach

Unusual black sands, swaying palm trees dotting the pristine shores, the exotic seascape and friendly folks sum up Thiruvambadi Beach. Anyone who wishes for a quieter side of the world, away from the chaos of urban life can have a quick escape here. As you enjoy the stunning milieu of the beach, you can feel a rush of joy coming alive in all your being that defines the best part of your encounter. 

Kappil Beach and Lake

Just separated by a metal road, Kappil Beach and Kappil Lake are astounding creations of the great Arabian Sea offering a scenic view for the eyes. The lake stands out as a place ideal for respite, boating and sightseeing while the beach is a tiny haven offering a dreamy landscape. Shutterfreaks can find this place as the most picture-perfect backdrop for their camera. A little stroll around these two splendid spots will leave you speechless and to trigger you more, a bird’s eye view will encapsulate your entire senses. 

Janardhana Swamy Temple

Associated with a legend as old as two millenniums, Janardhana Swamy Temple, a temple dedicated to Vishnu is a major highlight in Varkala. It is one of the most popular religious sites for the Hindu communities in Kerala and pilgrims flock here to seek blessings. Although non-Hindus are exempted from entering the shrine, they can marvel at the temple facade and surrounding holy grounds. You can find a huge banyan tree adorned with idols of gods and other religious items. 

Odayam Beach

Odayam Beach is a few distances from Varkala tucked between the charming Thiruvambadi Beach and Varkala Cliff Beach. It is a bliss-out location dotted with palm trees, golden sand, water so turquoise and the sky so azure. This breathtaking beach is one of the popular beaches in Kerala full of life and activities. 

Things To do In Varkala

Give a try to local everything in Varkala. From sun up to sun down, this place offers amusing myriads of activities for you. The place is best enjoyed mostly during the day 

 it may lure you to take more days to stay. 

Local Cuisines – Give no time to drool seeing the local delicacies spread out on the menu in the restaurants and cafes. Try these scrumptious cuisines brought straight out from the hands of local chef experts in Varkala. 

Coffee Breaks in Chic Cafes – You can also chillax at some random cafes but never forget to hit Cafe Del Mar for an exquisite cafe experience. Besides, the settings and the aura will surely give you a chilling vibe. And adding to it is the view of the sea and its wave gently ebbing on the shore under the sublime cliff. 

Yoga and Meditation Classes – Kerala at large is a yoga and meditation hub and Varkala is no exception in offering these activities. Indulge in these enriching sessions to bring your health and soul back to where it belongs. 

Visit Varkala Aquarium – A collection of colourful fishes and various aquatic animals in its vivid habitat at the Varkala Aquarium will truly leave you amazed. Take a tour of the aquarium and experience the activities of the assorted exotic aqua animals. 

More Things To Do

Varkala Cultural Centre – If you are more of a highbrow person, Varkala Cultural Centre should sound like a call to you. With an intense show and performances of the Keralites’ rich traditions, the experience at this centre is indeed one of a kind. The event is held every day at the north cliff of Varkala where beautifully designed buildings host most of the performances and art forms. One will need to enter the event by paying an entry fee of INR 250. 

Indulge in Aqua Activities and Adventures – Care to feel the adrenaline rush all over you on your trip to Varkala? Try some aquatic junkies like jet skiing, parasailing, boating and other adventure activities. 

Beach Experience – Liberate your worries by just exploring the extent of Varkala beach and its nearby places like the ones we mentioned above. The tranquillity near the cliff beach is utterly wonderful and the charm, especially the footpath paving along the cliff adds immense beauty to the place.  

Shopping

The local market in Varkala will find you well with exotic items to the fashionable and exciting stuff. The market will draw your attention and lure you to take home some souvenirs. 

Best Time To Visit Varkala

Like the rest of the coastal region in India, Varkala experiences the most enjoyable weather in winter. Thus, the season starts from October to February. The relaxed weather during this time helps visitors explore the region expediently. However, summers are unfortunately not the very best time to visit as the region faces unbearable heat with temperatures up to 400C. 

Unlike the sweltering summers, the monsoon paves a unique experience for this place as one can see the entire landscape regenerated into a whole new level of charm. However, one should withdraw from visiting this place during the peak season to avoid uncertain calamities. 

How To Reach Varkala

Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala is the nearest mega city to Varkala and most travel modes feature here. Saying so, here is how you can reach Varkala through different modes of travel without stressing much. 

By Air

Trivandrum International Airport, Trivandrum is the nearest airport to Varkala. The airport serves both international and domestic flights. 

By Rail

Varkala Railway Station serves as the nearest railway station to Varkala with a distance of 3 km. The railway connects major cities such as Trivandrum, Kochi, Coimbatore, Mangalore and Bangalore via Kanyakumari Express, Trivandrum Express and Trivandrum Mail. 

By Road

One can commence a road trip from Trivandrum to Varkala after landing on the flight. A road trip to this temple town is also accessible from nearby cities such as Kollam, Trivandrum, Kulathupuzha, and Kochi. 

Also Read:- VISITING THE MAJESTIC KOCHI, QUEEN OF ARABIAN SEA

Places To Stay In Varkala

Visitors flock to Varkala with the hope to find serendipity amid the sea and the land, and without denying it, they acquire it. And there is no exception for the coastal town in providing myriads of stay options as per the guests’ requirements. From top-rated hotels and resorts to average stays and homestays, Varkala hardly runs out of sheltering visitors to fulfil their stay. 

Vishram Village, Arayavilla Heritage, Palan Beach Resort, Gateway Varkala, Sajjoys, Maadathil Cottages, B’Canti Boutique Beach Resort and Ideal-Ayurvedic-Beach-Resort are a few of the luxurious accommodations in Varkala.