Places To Visit In Varkala

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Places To Visit In Varkala

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1. Varkala Cliff

Varkala Cliff

1 km
from city center
1 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Highlights: Darjeeling Cafe, Varkala, Evening Markets

Perched majestically above the Arabian Sea, Varkala Cliff stands as an iconic landmark along Kerala's picturesque coastline. This natural wonder, also known as "The Great Ezhara Beach," offers visitors a captivating blend of breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and serene ambiance. 

2. Water Sports in Varkala

Water Sports in Varkala
Top Attraction 4.0 /5

1 km
from city center
2 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Highlights: Jet Skiing in Varkala, Parasailing in Varkala (Read More), Banana Boat ride, Mangrove Forest Kayaking, Varkala

Water sports in Varkala offer an exciting array of activities for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts amidst the picturesque coastal beauty of Kerala. With its stunning cliffs, golden beaches, and azure waters of the Arabian Sea, Varkala provides the perfect backdrop for aquatic adventures.

3. Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach
Top Attraction 4.4 /5

2 km
from city center
3 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Highlights: Water Sports in Varkala, Varkala

Set amid a beautiful setting about 10 km away from the calm and quiet hamlet of Varkala in Kerala, Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a beautiful stretch of sand renowned for its solitude unlike other commercial beaches of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The backdrop Arabian Sea against the cliffs of Kerala is a unique one since these sedimentary formation peaks are not found anywhere in the otherwise flat coastline of Kerala.

4. Edava Beach

Edava Beach
3.2 /5

5 km
from city center
4 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Edava Beach, nestled along the Arabian Sea coast near Varkala, stands as a pristine gem among Kerala's secluded beaches. Located just 2 km from Kappil Beach and 5 km from Varkala Railway Station, this serene stretch of sand offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist activities. Encircled by towering palm trees, Edava Beach exudes an enchanting ambiance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Kerala.

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5. Mangrove Forest Kayaking

Mangrove Forest Kayaking

13 km
from city center
5 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

The mangrove forest in Nedungolam, Paravur, in the district of Kollam, is located at a distance of 18 km from Varkala. Perfect for a half-day trip, one can go on a 4km kayaking during the morning or evening. Sailing through these canals of Nedungolam, especially the mangrove forest, is a must-try experience. Mangrove Village Adventures is a leading tour operator for this experience.

6. Thiruvambadi Beach

Thiruvambadi Beach
3.2 /5

2 km
from city center
6 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Nestled 1km off Thiruvamdabi road, Thiruvambady Beach stands as a cherished retreat for residents of Thiruvananthapuram seeking solace from urban chaos. Also known as the Black Sand Beach, it lies adjacent to the North Cliff, offering a serene ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, tranquility reigns supreme, with gentle tides and welcoming locals providing a rejuvenating experience for all who visit.

7. Anjengo Fort

Anjengo Fort
3.2 /5

9 km
from city center
7 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Anjengo Fort, also known as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historic marvel nestled in Varkala, Kerala. Situated approximately 12 kilometers from Varkala town, this fort holds significant historical importance as one of the earliest British East India Company outposts in India. Constructed in the 17th century, Anjengo Fort served as a strategic trading post for the British, primarily engaged in spice trade with the local rulers.

8. Sivagiri Mutt

Sivagiri Mutt
3.3 /5

2 km
from city center
8 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Located at Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala is the one of the popular ashrams of Shri Narayana Guru, Sivagiri Mutt. This ashram celebrates Guru Deva Jayanti (in August) and the Guru Deva Samadhi (in September) every year. Janardhana Swami Temple and Varkala Beach are some nearby attractions which one should never miss during their visit to Sivagiri Mutt. Sree Narayana Guru (1855-1928), a saint, social reformer, philosopher and a leader of Ezhava community, made Varkala his headquarters.

9. Ponnumthuruthu

Ponnumthuruthu
3.2 /5

5 km
from city center
9 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Ponnumthuruthu, also known as Golden Island is located 20 km from Varkala. It is popular for its 100 year old Shiva Parvathi temple situated amidst thick coconut groves stretched over the sandy beaches. Situated amidst the tranquil backwaters of the Kallada River, Ponnumthuruthu is renowned for its natural beauty, lush greenery, and sacred temples. Accessible only by boat, this island offers visitors a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

10. Janardhanaswamy Temple

Janardhanaswamy Temple
3.2 /5

1 km
from city center
10 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Highlights: Arattu Festival in Janardhanaswamy Temple, Va (Read More)rkala

Located in Varkala, Janardhanaswamy Temple is 25 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the Arattu festival celebrated here every year is attended by thousands of devotees. It is an ancient temple dating back to 2000 years. Varkala has been a Hindu pilgrimage site since the 12th Century. The Janardhana Temple was built during this period and many Hindus still visit the place till day, for this very reason.

11. Vishnu Temple

Vishnu Temple
3.2 /5

8 km
from city center
11 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Vishnu Temple is an ancient temple dating back to around 2000 years. It is located very close to the Varkala Beach in Thiruvananthapuram. The temple dedicated to Janardan Swami who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu._The traditional Kerala Temple architecture with a dome made of copper sheets, beautifully carved Navagrahas on the wood and the copper plated roof is a treat to the eyes.

12. Kaduvayil Juma Masjid

Kaduvayil Juma Masjid

9 km
from city center
12 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Kaduvayil Juma Masjid is dedicated to a Muslim Saint, Saint Kaduvayil Thangal who is believed to have magical powers. It is one of the important Sunni Pilgrimage Centres in the region but its beautiful architecture also attracts tourists. The well maintained structure possesses a divine vibe that can put a troubled soul at peace in an instant.

13. Varkala Lighthouse

Varkala Lighthouse

1 km
from city center
13 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Varkala Lighthouse was built in 1684 by the British to assist the navigation of ships coming from Britain. It stands 130 feet tall on the Varkala Beach and attracts tourists for a mesmeric bird's eye view it provides of the Arabian sea and the backwaters. It, therefore, is a perfect attraction for photographers, beach lovers and picnickers._

14. Kappil Lake

Kappil Lake

6 km
from city center
14 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Kappil Lake is a mesmerising estuary famous for being a tranquil picnic spot surrounded by dense coconut trees. It further becomes a part of the Arabian sea and offers a breath-taking view that can be witnessed clearly from the bridge over the lake. The lake is also famous for pedal boating. The boats can be hired from the boat club located near the water body._

15. Asparagus

Asparagus

1 km
from city center
15 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Asparagus is a store in Varkala where one can find ecological handicrafts and textiles that are dyed with natural dyes. Tourists can purchase artefacts and fabrics that are unique to the region. The friendly salesmen ensure the customers get the best products they have. They also have an in-house tailor who can sew garments according to specific requirements from the fabrics purchased.

16. Kappil Beach

Kappil Beach

6 km
from city center
16 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Kappil beach is a dazzling beach located about 15 kilometres from Kasaragod, in God's own country, the South Indian State of Kerala. This bewitching beach is one of the few in India which is still unexplored. It has a long sandy stretch which is apt for taking strolls across the coastline. It is just about 5 kilometres from the Bekal Fort.

17. Varkala Aquarium

Varkala Aquarium

2 km
from city center
17 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Varkala Aquarium has a decent collection of fishes in a number of large sized that can be viewed from a walkway that spirals upwards. One can find a number of species including Karimeen, Pirahnas, Eels etc. The aquarium also has a 3D theatre where information about more species of fishes is given using the 3D technology. The aquarium is a perfect attraction to see over a day-long picnic.

18. Varkala Tunnel

Varkala Tunnel

2 km
from city center
18 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Varkala Tunnel is an old tunnel built in 1867 by Sir T. Madhava Rao who was also the Dewan of Travancore during that time. This took about 14 years to build the tunnel that runs a little over 900 feet and allowed traders to halt before proceeding with their journey towards Thiruvananthapuram. This historic inland waterway is a great example of the Colonial era architecture in the region.

19. Saint Sebastian's Pilgrim Church Moongode

Saint Sebastian's Pilgrim Church Moongode

6 km
from city center
19 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Located on the banks of the backwaters of Varkala, Saint Sebastians Pilgrim Church Moongodu is an important pilgrim centre for the Christians. It was built by the Portuguese Missionaries and is famous for Feast procession of Saint Sebastian which is held every year in the month of February when the beautiful church is transformed into a colourful and bustling attraction especially for the followers.

20. Sarkara Devi Temple

Sarkara Devi Temple

12 km
from city center
20 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Sarkara Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. It is famous for the Kaliyoot festival which is celebrated every year in March (the Malayalam month of Kumbh) and Meenabharani Festival which is held during Attavishesham. Kaliyoot is a presentation of the legendary figures Bhadrakali and Darika who represent good and evil respectively. A procession is held during the 10-day Meenabharani festival wherein the Goddess is taken on five elephants to the Bhagavathy Palace.

21. Chilakoor Beach

Chilakoor Beach

1 km
from city center
21 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Chilakoor Beach is located at a distance of about 15 kms from the town of Varkala in Kerala. Lined with gorgeous casuarina groves, the drive to the beach takes you through traditional coastal villages which lets you have a glimpse of the rural Kerala life. The beach is also popular for its serene environment and beautiful sunset views.

22. Arattu Festival in Janardhanaswamy Temple

Arattu Festival in Janardhanaswamy Temple

22 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

One of the most significant festivals in Kerala, the ten-day Arattu festival is celebrated in the Janardhan Swamy temple with elephant processions, ornamental silk umbrellas and all night kathakali dances. The Arattu is more of a ritual than a temple festival. A grand procession, a ceremonial bath and serving of a sweet dish - Palpayasam; marks the festivities of the Arattu. It is celebrated twice a year in Kerala; March - April and October - November.

23. Darjeeling Cafe

Darjeeling Cafe

2 km
from city center
23 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Darjeeling Cafe is one of the most popular cafes in Varkala, offering amazing food with an amazing view of the seaside. With a simple yet elegant decor, the place stands out from the rest. The meals are served in authentic South Indian style and have similar flavours. You should definitely check out this place if you are in town.

24. InDa Cafe

InDa Cafe

2 km
from city center
24 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

InDa Cafe is one of the top places to chill and have amazing food, in Varkala. The USP of the cafe is to produce food which is not just tempting to the tongue but also the eyes. The chef's combine the Indian flavours with the Western style of cooking to create visually gorgeous, mouth watering food. The most recommended dish to try at the place is the Buddha Bowl.

25. Cafes in Varkala

Cafes in Varkala

25 out of 25
Places To Visit in Varkala

Nestled along the picturesque cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, Varkala in Kerala, India, boasts a vibrant café culture that adds charm to its laid-back beach vibes. From cozy beachfront shacks to chic cliff-top establishments, Varkala's cafes offer a diverse range of culinary delights and mesmerizing views. Whether savoring freshly brewed coffee while watching the sunset or indulging in delectable seafood dishes infused with local flavors, visitors to Varkala's cafes are treated to a delightful culinary journey.

FAQs on Varkala

How can I commute within Varkala?

A diminutive town, it can be accessed by using auto rickshaws or even by walking.
Read More

What are the top hotels in Varkala?

There are 232 Hotels in Varkala which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Varkala are Blue Waves Beach Residency, MakeMyDream, CEMARI RESORT, Thathamma homestay, Ganga Yamuna Retreat, The Veda Village. You can see all the hotels in Varkala here

What are the top sightseeing places in Varkala?

The top sightseeing places in Varkala are Water Sports in Varkala, Varkala Beach, Edava Beach, Thiruvambadi Beach, Anjengo Fort, Sivagiri Mutt.

How much does a package cost for Varkala?

The packages for Varkala start at INR 9000 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

Can you suggest an itinerary for Varkala?

Day 1: Reach Varkala preferably by noon and take some rest. In the evening, you can go to the main market for a stroll, especially where you can buy precious curios and souvenirs, which you can take home for your families.  

Day 2: The 2nd day should be the ideal time for starting your trip through Varkala. You should begin ideally with Varkala beach, an astounding creation of nature, famous for its solitude, unlike the commercial beaches in Goa. Thereon, you can proceed to Sivagiri Mutt, another favourite tourist hotspot in Varkala.

Day 3: This day can be reserved for a visit to one of the famous temples of Varkala, i.e. Janardhanswamy Temple. Thereon, you can go towards the historical Anjengo Fort.

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