Varkala is located in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. One of the major attractions of Varkala is Janardhan Swamy Temple which is 2000 years old. According to one myth, it is believed that this was built by Pandyan King when Lord Brahma instructed him to construct a temple to wipe off his sins. Worth buying in Varkala is Artifacts made up of Coconut shell. Most famous festival is Arattu festival. This festival celebrates for 10days during March – April.
What to see in Varkala:
Varkala Beach: This beach is the best place for swimming and sunbathing. Other name of this beach is Papanasam Beach. This beach consists of golden sand and it is surrounded with lush green areas.
Janardanaswami Temple: This is 2000 years old Temple. At the temple large bell is situated. It is believed that Lord Brahma came into the dream of Pandya King and asked to construct the temple to wipe off the sins. Idol of the temple submerged in the sea. With the help of fisherman it was taken out and temple was constructed.
Sivagiri Mutt: This was constructed in 1904 by Sree Narayana Guru who was the Social Reformer and famous Philosopher. This was the residence place of Guru till 1928. Tomb of Narayana Guru can also be seen here.
Vakarla Tunnel: It is one of the historic sites built by Britishers to established inland waterways. Construction of this way started in 1860; it has taken 14years to complete this project.
Vakarla Lighthouse: British rulers constructed this in 18th century. This is the best example for colonial style of architecture.
What to see around Varkala:
Sarkara Devi Temple: It is located at Chirayinkeezhu village which is 14kms away from Varkala. Most famous festival celebrates in this temple is Kaliyoot. As per the Malayalam Month this celebrates during the month of March.
Ponnumthuruthu Island: Water Boat rides are most famous at this place. It is located 10kms away from Vakarla. This island was constructed before 100 years by Lord Shiva and Parvati. Jetty rides and boats are used to reach to this place.
Kappil Lake: It is located 8kms away from Vakarla. It is one of the nearby attractions of Vakarla. In this place backwaters of kerala merges into Arabian Sea. Bridge was constructed over the lake. With the help of this bridge one can see this lake and nearby places very clearly. Coconut groves are another attraction in this place.
Kaduvayil Thangal Dargah: This is dedicated to kaduvayil Thangal Saint. It is located between kallambalam and Attingal which is 14kms away from Varkala.
Anjengo Fort: It is located 11kms away from Vakarla. This fort was built between 17th to 18th centuries.
Kaduvayil Juma Masjid: This is dedicated to Kaduvayil Thangal who was the Muslim Saint. Other name is Kaduvayi Palli.
Getting to Varkala: This place is well connected with road ways. From Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi plenty of buses reach to this place. Varkala is having the railway station which is located between Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam. However all the trains do not stop at this place. So it is better to reach Thirvananthapuram Junction. Plenty of taxis are available to reach this place from Thiruvananthapuram. Nearest airport is located at Thiruvananthapuram.
Getting around Varkala: Taxis, Autos are available to visit the surrounding places of Varkala. Scooters and bikes will be given on rent to visit nearby places of Varkala.
Best time to visit Varkala: Best time to visit Varkala is between October to March.
Where to stay in Varkala: Plenty of accommodations are available starting from Budget hotels to luxury hotels to stay in Varkala. Home stays are also available at reasonable costs. Cost of home stays and budget hotels are below Rs.1000.
Where to eat in Varkala: Plenty of restaurants are available to eat in Varkala. For the non vegetarian lovers this is the best place. Tibetan, Italian, Mexican, Continental cuisines are also available.