Where is Varkala?
The Varkala Beach is located in the state of Kerala in southern India. The
beach, lying at a distance of 54 km from Thiruvananthapuram, is a perfect
holiday getaway. It has gained popularity both as a seaside resort and as an
important Hindu pilgrimage centre.
How will you gain access?
Thiruvananthapuram (54 km) is the closest airport from Varkala. Varkala has
its own railhead at a distance of mere 3 km from the beach. There are
regular bus services available from Alappuzha and other nearby destinations.
What magnetises people?
» Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple
The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is a major attraction at Varkala. The
temple is believed to be 2000 years old. Touruists and travellers from all
around come to witness this ancient temple which is dedicated to Lord Ayyapa
and Hanuman. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessing from the gods.
Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the inner sanctorum.
» Nature Cure Centre
The Nature Cure Centre is yet another attraction for the vacationers and
holiday-makers. The cure centre is being more and more popular with each
passing day.
» Mineral Water Springs
The Mineral Water springs near Varkala are known far and wide for their
medicinal properties. People arrive here in great number to drink and bath
in the water from the springs. It is said that taking a bath in the springs
washes away one's sins.
» Views of the Sunset
Lovely sunset views over the Arabian Sea at Varkala are simply mesmerising.
It makes a splendid sight as the sun slowly dips down the horizon, with the
sky filled with red and orange hues.
What are the beach sports in store?
Varkala
beach provides its visitors with a number of beach sports options. There are
activities like Parasailing, Scuba diving, Wind surfing etc. One can also
indulge oneself in beach volleyball. Besides, swimming can also be fun here
but extra precaution should be taken as the waves are quite strong.
Which are the nearby hotels?
Taj Garden Retreat (51 km from Trivandrum airport) offers multi-cuisine
restaurant, swimming pool, gymnasium, library, table tennis, Activity Centre
etc. The hotel also arranges for sightseeing and Backwater cruises. Preeth
Beach Resort (51 km from Trivandrum airport) is another popular hotel with
facilities like room service, restaurant, swimming pool, Ayurveda Health
Centre, laundry, email etc.
What is the best time?
Varkala has a moderate climate with good amount of rains during the
months of June till August. Winter extends from December till February. The
best time to pay a visit to Varakala is between the months of September and
May.
