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Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a beautiful beach located in the Varkala Town of Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. The beach is famous for its natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and unique geological features.
At Varkala beach, the meeting point between the land and the sea creates a special atmosphere that can soothe the soul. The constant motion of the water contrasts with the solidity of the nearby cliffs, making it a place where visitors can forget their cares and appreciate the natural beauty around them.
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At a Glance
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
| Entry Fee/Charges | No entry fee or ticket |
| Parking | Ample free parking spaces available at the beach cliff |
| How to Reach | Easily accessible by train or road from Thiruvananthapuram or Kollam |
| Nearest Airport | Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, located 42 kilometers away |
| Nearest Railway Station | Varkala Railway Station, located 3.5 kilometers away. |
| Accommodations | Hotels, resorts, and homestays are available. It’s advisable to make advance reservations as they tend to book up quickly. |
Things to Do at Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach is a beautiful and peaceful alternative to the commercialized Kovalam beach in Kerala, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In addition to its picturesque setting, Varkala is also a holy temple town with an ancient Janardhana Swami Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is located near Papanasam Beach, which is considered sacred by Hindus and believed to cleanse sins.
Varkala Beach is also known for its cliff, which runs along the coast and offers breathtaking views of the sea and sunset. The cliff is composed of tertiary sedimentary rocks that are over 65 million years old and has natural springs with medicinal properties that attract visitors seeking to wash away their sins.
For adventure seekers, Varkala Beach offers a range of activities such as boat riding, parasailing, jet skiing, horse riding, surfing, and kayaking in the nearby Paravur Lake. Visitors can also explore the Jatayu Nature Park, which features a giant sculpture of Jatayu and various attractions such as a cable car ride, adventure zone, museum, and 6D theatre.
Foodies can indulge in various cuisines, including Indian, Italian, Chinese, Continental, and local delicacies such as Appam, Puttu, Fish curry, and Toddy. To learn more about Kerala’s culture and heritage, visit the Sivagiri Mutt, a spiritual center founded by Sri Narayana Guru that hosts numerous cultural programs and festivals throughout the year.
More Attractions Nearby
Apart from Varkala Beach, there are 10 other attractions nearby that you can visit during your trip:
| Place Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Varkala Aquarium | A popular tourist attraction in Varkala, Kerala, features a wide variety of marine life. |
| Anchuthengu Fort | A historical site located near Varkala was built in the 18th century by the British East India Company. |
| Ponnumthuruthu Island | A beautiful island located near Varkala, known for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. |
| Priyadarshini Boat Club | A recreational facility located near Varkala Beach, where visitors can enjoy boating and other water activities. |
| Kappil Beach | A picturesque beach located near Varkala, famous for its serene surroundings and clear blue waters. |
| Edava Nadayara Kayal | A scenic backwater destination located near Varkala, known for its picturesque views and boating facilities. |
| Sivagiri Mutt | A prominent pilgrimage center located near Varkala, dedicated to the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. |
| Thiruvambadi Beach | A secluded and serene beach located near Varkala, perfect for a peaceful getaway. |
| Odayam Beach | A pristine and serene beach located near Varkala, known for its clear blue waters and scenic beauty. |
What to know more places to visit nearby? Check out this page: Varkala.
Planning Your Trip to Varkala
Plan your trip to Varkala Beach today and experience the best of what Kerala has to offer. Here are some tips to plan your trip to Varkala Beach:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Varkala is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and dry.
Entry Fee/Charges: There is no entry fee or ticket to Varkala Beach and there are ample free parking spaces available at the beach cliff.
How to Reach: The beach is easily accessible by train or road from Thiruvananthapuram or Kollam, making it a perfect destination for nature, history, spirituality, and adventure enthusiasts. The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport located 42 kilometers away. The closest railway station is Varkala, located 3.5 kilometers away.
Booking Your Stay: Varkala Beach cliff and its environs boast a plethora of hotels, resorts, and homestays. Although walk-in bookings are accepted by most of them, it’s advisable to make advance reservations as the hotels located at the cliff and in proximity tend to get completely booked during weekends and holidays. To find accommodations that meet your specific needs, kindly click on the “Book Now” button provided on this page.
FAQs
Is Varkala better than Goa?
Both Goa and Varkala are popular tourist destinations in India, they offer different experiences to visitors. Goa’s lively beaches and nightlife appeal to those seeking a party atmosphere, while Varkala’s natural beauty and spiritual offerings provide a more serene escape.
How expensive is Varkala?
The cost of your trip to Varkala can vary depending on a number of factors, including the length of your stay, type of accommodations, food and drink choices, and transportation options. However, there are plenty of affordable options available in Varkala, including homestays, small hotels, resorts, and dormitories. On average, a 7-day trip for two people, including accommodations, food, and transportation, may cost around 17,000 rupees. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate and your actual expenses may vary depending on your individual preferences and choices.
Which month is best to visit Varkala beach?
The best time to visit is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and dry.
How to Reach Varkala Beach?
Varkala beach is just 10 kilometers away from Varkala town. One can reach here by road hiring a cab or Autorickshaw or by public bus transport. The nearest railway station is in Varkala and the closest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International airport which is 42 kilometers away from the beach.
Can Varkala be explored completely on a 2-day trip?
Yes, you can explore Varkala on a 2-day trip. You can visit the beach, take a walk through Varkala Cliff, visit the ancient Janardhana Swami Temple, indulge in an Ayurvedic massage, and visit popular attractions nearby such as Jatayu Earth’s center. However, if you want to explore the town more thoroughly and at a leisurely pace, you may want to consider extending your stay.
Is Varkala safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Varkala is generally considered a safe destination for solo female travelers. Many solo female travelers have visited Varkala and have had positive experiences. However, it’s always important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings when traveling alone.
Is there an Entry Fee for Varkala Beach?
There is no entry fee for Varkala Beach. Parking is also free at the beach cliff.
What are Some Things to Do at Varkala Beach?
There are many things to do in Varkala that will make your trip memorable. You can relax at Varkala’s Black beach, join yoga classes, indulge in an Ayurvedic massage, take a walk through Varkala Cliff, do some shopping, take surfing lessons, try Reiki healing or paragliding & water sports activities. You can also rent a two-wheeler and zip across the scenic roads to explore the small fishing villages with their red-tiled terracotta-roofed houses, ancient obscure temples, and stunning ocean views peeping through the coconut trees.
Is Varkala beach in Kollam or Thiruvananthapuram?
Varkala beach belongs to the Thiruvananthapuram district but Kollam city is closer to it than Thiruvananthapuram.
Which is better Munnar or Varkala?
When deciding between Munnar and Varkala, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and interests. Munnar is a picturesque town known for its lush tea plantations, hills, waterfalls, forests, and cultural shows, while Varkala is a popular beach destination renowned for its mineral springs, Ayurvedic centers, and beautiful coastal scenery. If you are seeking a tranquil hill station with breathtaking natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities, Munnar may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a rejuvenating beach holiday with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and wellness, Varkala may be more up your alley.
