Kerala, India

Varkala Beach

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India

8.5/10

Best time: October-March

24 hours

Varkala Beach, a Kerala gem! This beautiful beach, once known as Janardhanam, offers stunning sunsets and a unique cliffside setting. Legend says a king destroyed demons here, making it a holy place. Come explore the golden sands, relax by the Arabian Sea, and experience the magic of South India's coastal paradise!

Beach

Nature

Paragliding

Spiritual

Sun-Bathing

Swimming

Interactive Map

View location

Key Activities

Must do things

Additional Places

In Jaipur

Reviews

Traveller's Ratings and Reviews

Map View

Top Activities in Varkala Beach

1
Enjoy Fresh Seafood At The Shacks
2
Explore The Clifftop Shops
3
Paraglide Over The Coastline
4
Relax On The Sandy Beach
5
Swim In The Arabian Sea
6
Take A Dip In The Natural Spring
7
Visit The Janardanaswamy Temple
8
Watch The Sunset From The Cliffs

Detailed Information

Best Time to Visit

October-March

When to visit place on the day

All-Day

Approximate expense

₹5,000 per person

History

Varkala's history is intertwined with mythology and spirituality. The Papanasam Beach is believed to have been created by Lord Brahma to absolve a sage of his sins, hence the name 'Papanasam' which translates to 'destruction of sins'. The Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an ancient structure dating back centuries and is an important pilgrimage site. Varkala also played a significant role in the spice trade, with its natural harbor attracting traders from across the globe. Over time, it evolved into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and relaxed ambiance.

Other Places to Explore in Thiruvananthapuram

7.5/10

Aazhimala Siva Temple

Aazhimala Siva Temple, located near the Kovalam beach in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's unique location atop a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea offers breathtaking views, making it a popular spot for both devotees and tourists. The temple's serene atmosphere, coupled with the rhythmic crashing of waves against the rocks below, creates a truly spiritual experience. Visitors can witness traditional rituals and ceremonies performed at the temple, and explore the surrounding area, known for its natural beauty and tranquility.

1 hour

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Enjoy the scenic coastal views

Explore the nearby Kovalam beach

8.5/10

Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve

The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Western Ghats, known for its rich biodiversity. It's home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endemic and endangered species. The landscape is dominated by rolling hills, tropical rainforests, and grasslands, offering breathtaking views. Trekking is a popular activity, but requires permits and adherence to strict conservation guidelines. The reserve plays a vital role in watershed protection and is a crucial habitat for numerous medicinal plants and animals.

24 hours

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₹5,000

Birdwatching in the forests

Capture scenic landscapes

8.5/10

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kannaki (Parvati), located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It is famous for the Attukal Pongala festival, a massive annual gathering of women devotees who prepare a sweet dish called 'pongala' as an offering to the goddess. This festival, held in February/March, attracts millions of women, making it the largest single gathering of women in the world. The temple complex is vast and houses several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities. The temple architecture is typical of Kerala style with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. The serene atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike.

2 hours

Morning

₹500

Admire the temple architecture

Explore the temple complex

7/10

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple

The Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple is a unique monolithic rock-cut shrine dedicated to Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi (Shiva as the supreme teacher). Located near Kovalam beach in Thiruvananthapuram, this 8th-century marvel showcases intricate carvings and a partially unfinished sculpture, adding to its mystique. The cave temple offers a serene atmosphere with the constant sound of crashing waves nearby. Visitors can admire the impressive rock-cut architecture and the detailed sculptures within the sanctum. The temple's proximity to the beach makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the Kovalam area.

1 hour

Morning

₹200

Admire the intricate carvings

Explore the rock-cut cave temple

7.5/10

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, also known as Trivandrum Zoo or Napier Museum Gardens, is one of the oldest zoos in India. Spread across 55 acres of lush greenery, it houses a diverse collection of animals, including indigenous species like the Indian rhinoceros, Asiatic lion, and Royal Bengal tiger, as well as exotic animals from around the world. The zoo also features a natural history museum and an art gallery within its premises. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through shaded pathways, observing animals in near-naturalistic enclosures. The zoo offers a combination of educational and recreational experiences, making it a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

3 hours

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₹200

Enjoy a family picnic

Explore diverse animal exhibits