Top Tourist Places To Visit in Varkala

Varkala is a coastal town in Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala. The cliffs in Varkala, adjacent to the Arabian Sea are a rare geological feature in the mostly plain coastline of Kerala. The Geological Survey of India has termed them as Varkala Formation, a geological monument. The town is often referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Banaras of South) for the ancient Janardana Swami Temple located here. The Papanasam Beach is believed to have holy waters that wash away one’s sins. The word Papanasam means ‘redemption from sins’. There are several Ayurvedic treatment centres around this beach.

The pleasant weather, beautiful and unperturbed beauty of this town attracts many tourists. Another major attraction of this town is the fact that tourists do not have to shed too much from their pockets. The town of Varkala is not very crowded and offers a peaceful escape from daily life. Some nearby places like Paravur can also be visited for enjoying at beaches and backwaters.

Climate & Geography

Varkala is situated at an evelation of 190 m. The exact coordinates of this place are 8.73°N 76.71°E. It is a coastal town situated on the shores of Arabian Sea. In south Kerala, this town is the only place where cliffs are touching the sea. The climate classification of Varkala is tropical wet and dry. The summers are hot and humid, while the monsoon brings in heavy showers from June till December. Winters are pleasant and not so chilly. The rains till December leave the place in a refreshing look.

Transportation

Varkala can be easily accessed via all means of travel. It is 50km away from Trivandrum.

Air: The Trivandrum International Airport is 50km away and is the nearest one. Taxis or buses can be taken from there to reach Varkala.

Rail: Varkala Railway Station is a stoppage for many express and passenger trains of southern railways. Trains mainly for Cochin and Thiruvananthapuram pass by from here.

Roadways: This town is well-connected through National Highway 47 which is 11km away links it to other major cities of Kerala.

Local Transport: Auto rickshaws and taxis are available for travelling around the town. Most tourist spots are just a walk away from each other.