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Among the dense coconut meadows, the scenic effervesces, the vivacious high necked cliff and the coastal ambience of Kerala, there are many places to visit in Varkala.The serene calm beaches like Odayam Beach make for a splendid gateway. The adventure seekers can try Kayaking at Kappil Beach or paragliding at Varkala Beach.
Jatayu Earth Center, also known as Jatayu Nature Park or Jatayu Rock, is a park and tourism centre at Chadayamangalam in Kollam district of Kerala, India. It stands at an altitude of 350m (1200ft) above the mean sea level. Jatayu Nature Park holds the distinction of having the world’s largest bird sculpture, which is of Jatayu.it is a worthwhile tourist attraction. A must-visit location, the sculpture of Jatayu is massive & amazingly beautiful.
Varkala is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of thrilling activities to experience the beauty of the Arabian Sea. The beaches, especially Papanasam Beach, are ideal for surfing, with waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. Stand Up Paddling (SUP) provides a more serene way to enjoy the calm waters while taking in the breathtaking views of the cliffs and coastline.
Varkala is home to a unique Black Sand Beach, known for its striking dark-colored sand, which is a result of the high mineral content, particularly rich in iron, that is often found in volcanic regions. This beach offers a serene and visually captivating environment, setting it apart from the typical golden sandy beaches. The black sand, paired with the backdrop of the dramatic cliffs and the beautiful Arabian Sea, creates a breathtaking landscape.
Anchuthengu Fort, located near Varkala, is a historical site built by the Dutch in 1697. This fort played a significant role in protecting the region and controlling trade routes during the colonial era. Though now in ruins, the fort still retains its charm with remnants of Dutch architecture, including its well-preserved ramparts and an old church. The fort offers scenic views of the surrounding area, including the Arabian Sea and lush landscapes. It is an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and travelers looking for a quiet, picturesque place to explore, combining both history and natural beauty.
Odayam Beach is a serene and less crowded beach located near Varkala, known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. Unlike the more popular Papanasam Beach, Odayam offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand without the usual hustle and bustle. The beach features soft golden sands, clear blue waters, and picturesque views, making it ideal for relaxation, leisurely walks, and swimming. Odayam Beach is also great for water sports like surfing and kayaking, with several local vendors offering equipment and lessons.
Varkala offers a variety of charming cafes with great food and beautiful settings.Café del Mar provides a beachfront vibe and sunset views, while The Juice Shack offers fresh smoothies and juices. Trattoria serves authentic Italian dishes, and Varkala Marine Drive Café boasts sea views with a mix of Indian and continental fare. Anjappar Restaurant specializes in South Indian cuisine, and The Café at Palm Beach Resort offers a relaxing spot with a coastline view.
Mangrove forest kayaking in Varkala offers a unique and serene experience, allowing you to explore the lush, tranquil waterways of the mangrove forests that line the coastal region. Paddling through these protected wetlands, you’ll encounter a rich diversity of wildlife, including various species of birds, crabs, and fish. The calm, shallow waters and dense mangrove trees create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Darjeeling Café in Varkala is a cozy, charming spot known for its warm ambiance and great food. The café offers a variety of dishes, including local Kerala cuisine, Indian delicacies, and a selection of continental options. It's especially popular for its tea, inspired by the famous Darjeeling tea, and its cozy, homely vibe makes it a perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're enjoying a cup of tea, savoring a delicious meal, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Darjeeling Café is a delightful spot for both locals and tourists.
The Varkala Lighthouse is a prominent landmark located on the cliffs of Varkala, offering stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline. Built in 1801, this lighthouse stands tall at a height of 130 feet and is an important navigation point for ships. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of the sea, the lush landscape, and the nearby beaches. The lighthouse is a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Padmanabha Swami Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a revered spiritual destination and an architectural marvel. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is renowned for its intricate Dravidian-style architecture and the deity's majestic reclining posture on the serpent Anantha. Rich in history and legend, it is also one of the wealthiest temples in the world, holding immense cultural and spiritual significance. Visitors are mesmerized by the temple's sacred aura, elaborate carvings, and the opulent treasure troves associated with its legacy.
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, Aazhimala Shiva Kshethram is a tranquil and picturesque temple near Kovalam. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple features a towering and intricate statue of Shiva in his cosmic dancing form, which has become a visual highlight. The serene surroundings, coupled with the rhythmic sound of waves, create a meditative ambiance, making it a perfect spot for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. The temple is particularly enchanting during sunsets, offering breathtaking views of the horizon.
Poovar Island, located near Thiruvananthapuram, is a slice of paradise where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. Known for its pristine golden sand beaches, serene backwaters, and lush greenery, it offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy houseboat cruises, explore mangrove forests, and experience the unique confluence of river, sea, and lake. Poovar Island is not just a haven for relaxation but also a great spot for bird watching and enjoying Kerala’s natural beauty.
The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo and Museum complex is a fascinating destination for families and history enthusiasts. The zoo, one of the oldest in India, houses a diverse array of animals, including exotic and endangered species, in a lush, naturalistic environment. Adjacent to it, the Napier Museum and Natural History Museum offer a treasure trove of art, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Together, they provide an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Veli Lake, a serene backwater destination in Thiruvananthapuram, is a favorite among locals and tourists for its picturesque beauty and recreational activities. The lake connects to the Arabian Sea, forming a scenic lagoon, and is surrounded by landscaped gardens and walkways. Visitors can enjoy pedal boating, row boating, and even indulge in horse rides along the waterfront. The floating restaurant and sculptures by renowned artist Kanayi Kunhiraman add to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.
Aakkulam Lake, located a short drive from the city center, is a tranquil getaway known for its serene waters and family-friendly attractions. The lake is part of the Aakkulam Tourist Village, which offers boating facilities, a well-maintained children’s park, and an open-air theater. The peaceful ambiance, lush greenery, and picturesque surroundings make it a great spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and photography. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation amidst nature.
About 5 km away from Varkala beach is a unique red stone cliff that is popular amongst Varkala tourist places. The Cliff is filled with excellent restaurants to cherish wholesome cuisine from across the world. It is especially famous for freshly caught fish preparations. This busy location has a local flea market with souvenir shops. With a paranoiac view of the beach and the coastline, the hues of the fantastic sunrise and sunset can be enjoyed over a cup of coffee.
The Kilimanoor palace hosts paintings and artwork created by one of the most famous artists that took birth in Kerala, Raja Ravi Varma. Spread over 15 hectares, the palace houses the studio where Raja Ravi Varma spent time creating his magnificent art pieces. The palace is a hub for art history enthusiasts and cultural buffs, because of its connection to the famous painter. besides that, the architectural design of the palace is marvelous and a sight to behold.
About 12 km south of Varkala is the lush, secluded island of Ponnumthuruthu perfect for a secluded trip. The gateway to the island is a 30-minute tour through the backwaters from Nedunganda. At Nedunganda, the starting point is peculiar — the jetty and the walkway to the ferry are made up of coconut husk, mud and the waste of choir.The star attractions include a 100 years old Shiva Parvathi temple. The temple is situated amidst a thick coconut grove and gets decked up in lights.
Built by the Portuguese Missionaries, Saint Sebastian's Pilgrim Church Mongode is one of the religious places to visit in Varkala. Found on the banks of the backwaters of Varkala, with the dreamy ambience and serene location, this pilgrim centre for Christians is known for the procession of Saint Sebastian.
Located in-between the Black Beach and Odayam Beach in a three-story building with a spiral staircase is one of the fascinating Varkala tourist places - Varkala aquarium. The aquarium hosts big chunks of exotic species including scorpionfish, angelfish, koi and the local karimeen.
If you are looking to explore the traditional culture of Kerala and want to understand authentic art forms of the state, you must pay a visit to the Varkala Culture Center near the north cliff. The spectacularly designed building hosts a cultural evening every evening during the tourist season which consists of dance performances in the authentic Kathakali style by artists well-trained in the art form.
Navigating through the coastal villages of Kerala and at a distance of 15 km from Varkala is the Chilakoor Beach. The beach is dotted with some good resorts to make the stay more comfortable.The spectacular journey through villages is a precursor to the enchanting views that the casuarina groves engulfing the beach bring to the visitors.
One of the most notable structures in the district is the lighthouse which was built in the 18th century by the British rulers. Visiting the lighthouse is one of the most fun-filled activities in Varkala – the pinnacle of the structure offers a bird’s eye view of the spectacular vistas around, the azure waters of the Arabian Sea and the pristine shores of the nearby beaches.
About 2000 years old, the Janardhana Swami Temple is located on a steep hill at the entrance of the beach road. Facing the Papanasam beach, the temples’ proximity to the sacred water adds to the spiritual context.The temple reeks of architectural splendour and aesthetic appeal. The sanctum sanctorum is spectacular - it is circular, surmounted by copper sheets in a conical dome shape and wooden carvings of the nine planets on the ceiling.
Varkala Beach is a sublime landscape with natural spring water. It is a beautiful stretch of sand renowned for its solitude. At the backdrop of crystal blue waters is the unique cliffs with sedimentary formation peaks. Sunsets at the Varkala Beach are pristine and excellent for a peaceful walk or a game of football along the beach.
Spread over 200 acres of hilly terrain, the Sivagiri Mutt is placed on a high platform and is the only quaint holy places to visit in Varkala. It has provided spiritual sustenance to thousands of people over the years. The Sivagiri Hills, where the Sivagiri Mutt is located, was selected by Sree Narayana Guru to create the commune after he fell in love with the vast landscape and ambience of Varkala.
For perfect seclusion, Thiruvambadi Beach is one of the pleasant places to visit in Varkala.Thiruvambadi or the Black Sand Beach is located 1 km off Thiruvambadi Road, adjacent to the North Cliff. The serene ambience of the clam location makes it an ideal picnic spot and a weekend gateway to unwind and relax.
