Varkala
 Varkala
is a small town with a population of little over 40,000. It is located
around 20 kms. south of Quilon (Kollam) and around 50 kms. Northwest of
Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). The town is situated on the seashore
with a neat beach, which is less crowded than other popular beaches like
Kovalam etc. It is almost like a private beach and it has a mineral
water spring and because of the peaceful atmosphere in the beach,
Varkala is recommended by many visitors. The name PAPA NASHINI
(destroyer of sin) came to be associated with the beach and hence many
people visit the beach to immerse the ashes of departed members of the
family and pray at the famous Janarthana Swamy Temple.
Accommodation at Varkala:
Taj Garden Retreat
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
The climate is mainly Tropical.
The best season to visit would be from September to March
Prime
Attractions at Varkala
Papanasam Beach
Papanasam beach is a perfect place to watch the sunset or relax gazing at the horizon. The area is covered with coconut palms and small restaurants that mushroom during the season. This beach is bordered by high cliffs. Right below this cliff is the 500 -metre stretch beach.
Janardhana Temple
Varkala has remained a Hindu pilgrimage centre since the 12th century.The 2000 years old temple which has a Vishnu shrine is at a distance of 45 km from Thiruvananthapuram city and 37 km from Kollam.
Sivagiri Mutt
Sivagiri is the headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust.This mutt is situated at an elavation, 3 km. east of the Janardhana temple. The ashram is devoted to Sree Narayana Guru (1855-1928), whose followers are the Ezhavas.
Anjengo Fort
Near to varkala is the site of the Dutch East India Company’s main garrison, Anjengo Fort. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the fort protected their powerful position in the state.
Kappil Lake
Kappil boat club is a recent venture in the back water tourism in the area. Kappil is 6kms north of varkala. The people travelling in trains and buses through the area can enjoy the scenic beauty of the estuary in between Edava and Kappil . It is fascinating. Vettekkada, near kappil and varkala is a spectacular beach.
Ponnumthuruth (Golden Island)
This beautiful Island can be reached by boat. The cruize to the the island is a memorable one. There is a temple dedicated to Sivan and Parvathy which is very famous.
Access to Varkala
Air:
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport. Many International Airlines are operating flights to and from
here. There are direct flights to New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and
Banglore.
Rail: Varkala has a railway station. From here trains are available to all major parts of
India.
Road:
Varkala is easily accessible from Trivandrum, Kottayam, Bangalore,
Chennai.
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