VARKALA

A cliff overlooking a stunning beach is the setting for Kerala’s most popular beach destination. Little wonder that soaking up the sun reading a book and doing absolutely nothing rate as the best things to do in Varkala. What’s more is that the beach is bikini friendly, unlike a lot of other beaches around India, and has cafes atop the cliff serving a brilliant food from a variety of cuisines. Varkala is also a good place to meet and catch up with other fellow travellers, hanging around at the cafes. There are yoga courses on offer and boogie boards available for hire. Perfect beach holiday destination, we tell you. But then again, Varkala also has a little known cultural side to it. Visit the Shivagiri Mutt, which propagates the concept of ‘One Caste, One Religion, One God’, and dawdle with philosophy and spirituality. There is also a 2000 year old Janaradhana Swamy Temple, steeped in Indian mythological stories. During your time travelling around Kerala and India, we recommend you to spend a few days here and grab your breath before you travel again. A stunning location like this deserves your absolute attention doing absolutely nothing.

THINGS TO DO IN VARKALA

For the beach lovers and the spiritual ones there are plenty of things to do in Varkala.

  • Varkala is the beach destination where you head to relax and unwind, to do nothing. Laze around in one of the many cafes on the cliff, get a sun tan and treat yourself to some good food.
  • Sivagiri Mutt, based on the principle of 'One Caste, One Religion, One God', is located in Varkala. Sree Narayana Guru, a great saint advocated the phisolophy of no religion, in the early 19th century. Varkala was one of the places the saint used to frequent, and after his death a Samadhi (tomb stone where a body is laid to rest) was built here. Drop into get some peace and meditation going.
  • Varkala is often referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Southern Varanasi) due to the Janardhana Swamy Temple. This Shiva Temple is one of the ancient temples, having history that dates back 2000 years. Not just famous for its spiritual significance, this place is also known for its architectural splendour.

USEFUL INFORMATION

  • Varkala beach is located 40 Km from the capital city Trivandrum. Buses are available from Kochi and Trivandrum on a regular basis. It is also well connected by railways.
  • The best time to visit Varkala is between October and March. The beaches are bikini friendly and the right place to get a sun tan.
  • There are a lot of accommodation options available in Varkala. The hostel chain, Vendata Wakeup Hostel operates there and is a good place to meet fellow travelers. There are numerous cafes on the cliff, providing you all kind of cuisines. You can get your break from the Indian food here.

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