Kerala is known as “Gods own country” because of its beautiful beaches and backwaters. Varkala is one of the beautiful beach situated 54 Km away from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Varkala Beach is an ideal location for those looking for a relaxed and quieter holidays. There are two main cliffs which are steep and rugged and are made of red brown stone. Sunset at Varkala Beach is a prime attraction which is truly breathtaking when the sun dips slowly down the horizon and the sky filled with red and orange hues. The beach also offers Ayurvedic treatments, Yoga and meditation courses with variety of beach activities including volleyball, Parasailing, Scuba diving, wind surfing etc. Varkala Beach also called Papanasam Beach. This place is also known for its 2000 years old The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and nature cure center.

Attractions Around Varkala Beach

Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple - One of the important pilgrim centres for Hindus built on a hill top that has become a sobriquet for the region. Non-Hindus are not permitted entrance in the inner sanctum but they can hang around in the temple.


Sivagiri Mutt - This Mutt was founded by Sree Narayana Guru, a philosopher and social reformer of modern Kerala. Between 30th December and 1st January that 'Sivagiri Pilgrimage' is conducted every year.

Anjengo Fort - Anjengo Fort is situated very close to Varkala town. This fort still remembers everyone the powerful position the East India Company in the state.

Varkala Tunnel - Construction of Varkala tunnel started in 1867 and completed 1880. This tunnel was extensively used for ferrying of goods.

Nature Cure Center - This cure centre is situated near the Varkala beach. This is an excellent destination for relaxation and rejuvenation of the body.

Kappil Lake - Kappil Lake is situated 6 kms away from Varkala Beach. This lake is really beautiful and the scenic beauty of the estuaries is mesmerizing.

Mineral Springs - The mineral springs are believed to have medicinal properties in Varkala Beach and number of people visits this place every year to drink and bathe.

Best Time To Visit

The maximum temperature of this place varies 25°C to 35°C. The best time to visit this beach is considered between September to May.

How To Reach

Air : The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport about 56 km away from Varkala.

Rail : The nearest railway station is at Varkala town, only 3 kms away from the beach.

Road : Varkala is 52 km away from Thiruvananthapuram and 36 km away from Kollam. Regular buses services are available between Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam.

Where to Stay

No need to take any type of tension about accommodation in Varkala. It is very easy to find best places to stay. Several well developed beach resorts and hotels are available here. Pick any one according to your budget ranging from luxury to economy class.

Beach Resorts/Hotels at Varkala Beach

Taj Garden Retreat (Four Star)
Taj Kerala Hotel & Resorts Ltd
Oriental Hotel Ltd
Taj Kerala Hotels (resorts) Ltd
Preeth Beach Resorts
Akshay Beach Resort
Anandan Tourist Home
Raja Park Beach Resort