Varkala Kerala

Varkala is a coastal town of Kerala, which has an extremely calm, magical and welcoming aura. It is the best place for spending time with oneself. The literal meaning of Varkala is cliff. And the Varkala cliff is a famous tourist attraction. There are several restaurants and shopping lanes in Varkala to spend an activity-filled holiday. Varkala is predominantly famous for its pretty beaches, followed by lakes, forts, hills and lighthouses.

How to Reach -

By Flight - Nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, 40.6 kms from Varkala
By Train - Nearest railway station is Varkala Railway Station connecting to the significant cities of Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram Central, 44.1 km from Varkala connects to all major cities of India.
By Road - Varkala is well-linked through roads by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) services and private bus and cab services.

Best Places to Visit

Periyar National Park - One of the highly famed national parks in South India, Periyar National Park is an admired jewel in Thekkady, adorned with rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Spotting elephants and tigers, jeep safari, elephant safari and boat cruises are the main attractions here.

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre - A renowned place for witnessing the traditional form of martial art Kalaripayattu. This martial art form exhibits several techniques for self defence, weaponry, as well as the healing process.

Varkala Beach - Also known as Papanasam Beach, Varkala beach is famous for the natural springs which are believed to possess medicinal powers. Bathing in the holy water of the beach cures the physical ailments and the soul gets rid of sins, as per the localities and history.

Varkala Cliff - The cliff is a popular beachfront and has been declared as a geo-heritage site in India due to its distinguished sediments and colossal rock formations.

Anjengo Fort -It is a splendid architectural marvel, also known as Anchuthengu Fort. Anjengo in Malayalam means a bunch of 5 coconut trees and the fort was established by the British East India Company in 1965 to build their first trade settlement in Kerala. Wandering through the fort gives a unique experience and nice views.

Ponnumthuruthu Island - The Island is encircled by Anjengo Backwaters and is a perfect spot for a secluded trip. The Shiva-Parvati temple, also known as ThuruthuKshethram, is the prime attraction in Ponnumthuruthu Island.

Kappil Beach -The best beach-backwater destination in Kerala, Kappil Beach is in the Kasargod District. An amazing place for viewing the sunset from the Kodi Cliff near the beach, Kappil beach also offers a stunning view of casuarina trees grove.

JanardhanaSwamy Temple - This ancient temple is located atop a small hillock near Varkala beach, dates back to 12th Century. Pilgrims gather here to offer prayer to Lord Janardhana, a form of Lord Vishnu.

Sivagiri Mutt - The Sivagiri Mutt is located on the high platform of Sivagiri Hills. The Mutt was built under the initiative of SreeNarayana Guru and the campus is spread over 200 acres offering the sprawling beauty of nature.

Varkala Aquarium - Placed in between the Black Beach and Odayam Beach, the aquarium is a fascinating destination in Kerala, hosting the exotic marine species such as angelfish, scorpionfish, koi, local karimeen, etc. This three-storeyed building with a spiral walkway is maintained by Kerala Fisheries Department.

Saint Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church - The Catholic Church was built by Portuguese Missionaries at Moongode and is located near the serene bank of Varkala backwater. Countless pilgrims visit the church during the Sebastian Feast, every year in the month of February.

Jatayu Earth’s Centre - World’s largest bird sculpture is a must visit place on a trip to Kerala, 27.8 kms from Varkala. The massive structure of the Jatayu bird was sculpted by Rajiv Anchal, the renowned sculptor, film maker and art director. Visitors get to experience cable car ride, walking trail and other adventure activities and is a genuine visual treat for everyone.

Best Things to do in Varkala

Get acquainted with local culture - To encounter the authentic form of Kerala pay a visit to Varkala Culture Centre near the north cliff. During the peak season of tourism cultural programs are hosted every evening to present authentic dance forms of kathakali by well-trained artists performing gracefully.

Indulge in water sports - Exploring the beaches is the predominant activity in Varkala and enjoying adventurous and thrilling water sport activities in the beaches should never be missed. Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, etc are among the popular water sports to participate in.

Visit Kilimanoor Palace - The palace exhibits famous artworks of the exceptionally talented artist Raja Ravi Verma. Kilimanoor Palace houses the studio where the artist created his masterpieces. Besides the fabulous artworks, the palace is famous for its magnificent architecture, worth admiration. Explore the sacred groves, ponds, wells, small and large buildings inside the palace with friends or family.

Create memories at varkala Cliff - Enjoy the Varkala beach view while relaxing on the Varkala cliff with long and beautiful coconut trees dotting either side of the paved road of the cliff. Soak in the scenic beauty while munching snacks in the cafes on the cliff serving lip-smacking delicacies.

Do shopping at Varkala streets - Shops in the Varkala lanes have a wide array of categories to sell to the tourists. Junk jewelleries, handicrafts, bamboo products, clothing, home decor, souvenirs, etc are available in abundance to carry them back home as reminiscence of Kerala tour.

Varkala Kerala

How to Reach -

Best Places to Visit

Best Things to do in Varkala

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