Places To Visit In Varkala Sightseeing

Also known as the Varkala Temple, the temple is said to have been built around 2000 years ago and is dedicate to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s origin has been cited in the Vedas and has also been visited by lord Balaram during the events preceding the Mahabharatha war. The deity Lord Vishnu is praised as Janardhanaswamy and is best visited during the annual temple festival between march-April.

The Sivagiri Mutt was constructed in 1904, atop the Sivagiri hill and marks the tomb of the sage Narayana Guru. The mutt was a hermitage open for the people who followed the teachings of Narayana Guru and also contains a school for the illiterates and untouchables. The temple’s striking stupa shaped architecture makes it a popular attraction for the tourists who visit Varkala.

Papanasam Beach is located at the shores of the Arabian Sea and is a major pilgrim spot in Varkala. The beach is one of the few beaches with adjacent cliffs along the shoreline. This is considered to be a unique formation and has been declared as a geological monument.

Located in the Edava village, the beach is the perfect location for those who want to explore the unknown terrains surrounded with lush green vegetation and lagoons. Edava Beach is the best visited during the monsoon season when the water from the lagoon and its adjoining rivers gushes out to meet with the Arabian Sea. Do not forget to try the amazing seafood offered here.

Varkala Tunnel was built to facilitate water transport from the backwaters of Malabar to Trivandrum and is a great tourist attraction in Varkala. The Varkala Tunnel although not much used for transportation, is a well frequented tourist spot especially for people who set on a backwater cruise in Kerala.

Set amid a beautiful setting about 10 km away from the calm and quiet hamlet of Varkala, Varkala Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand renowned for its solitude unlike other commercial beaches of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Also known as the Papanasam Beach meaning 'Destroyer of Sins', is unlike any other beach in the area with impeccable beauty. The water of Varkala Beach is regarded to own medicinal and curative properties. Sunsets at the Varkala Beach are especially pristine and call for a serene walk along the beach. Also if you are a seafood lover, then the place is a paradise for you.

Lying 1 km off Thiruvamdabi road, this black sand beach adjacent to the North cliff is an ideal picnic spot amidst lush coconut groves to relax and unwind. he beach is near the North cliff and it is also called Black Sand Beach. Compared to Papanasham Thiruvambadi beach is a less-frequented one. It is perfect destination for those who are looking for that secluded spot where they could spend time in peace and silence. The unique feature of the beach is the black sand.

Anjengo Fort, situated 12 km off Varkala at Anjengo, is believed to have been built in 17th century. Presently the fort is protected by the National Heritage monuments. The cemetery in the fort shelters the deceased occupants of the fort. The popular Muthalapuzhi Lake is situated very close to the Fort. Autos or cabs can be taken to reach the fort. A place of historic importance as well as beautiful natural setting, Anjengo is an ideal destination for those who don't mind walking around and explore what is in store.

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. Boats from Nedunganda can be taken through a 30 minute backwater ride to Ponnumthuruthu which offers a perfect getaway from the bustle of city life. Ponnumthuruthu, the name literally means Golden Island. Legends say that the queens of Travancore Royal Family used to hide their cache of gold and ornaments on the island in order to keep it safe and hence it obtained the name, Ponnumthuruthu.

Vishnu Temple is an ancient temple dating back to around 2000 years. It is located very close to the Varkala Beach in Thiruvananthapuram. Vishnu temple is also famed as Janardana Swami Temple and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Beautifully located near the Arabian Sea shore, the shrine is regarded as Dakshin Kashi amongst devotees. A captain of Dutch vessel donated a bell to this temple which was removed from a shipwreck that sank near Varkala. You may still see this bell in the temple.

The Kappil Beach is situated 7 km away from Varkala. Located close to the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, people come here to enjoy the scenic backwaters and the various water sports options. One gets to view both the backwaters and a beach at the same exact location. It is a peaceful area with ample chances to simply relax or take a comforting boat ride. A drive along the coastal road is also a tranquil way to experience the view.