Varkala

After Kovalam, Varkala is the most popular seaside resort in Kerala. It is also a major Hindu pilgrimage destination. A large number of foreign tourists come here every year. Varkala lies 50 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. The ancient temple of Lord Janardhana (Vishnu), believed to be 2000 years old, is the main attraction. The present structure of the temple is believed to date back to early 13th century. An inscription found here mentions the date of the reconstruction, and a bell presented by a Dutch sailor in the 17th century serves as the temple's main bell.

The small beach called Papanasham attracts the devout as well as tourists. People come here to take a dip in the water and consign the ashes of the dead. As the name suggests, it is believed immersion of the ashes here redeems the soul from sins.

Overlooking the beach is a headland that stretches several kilometres. Most hotels and shops along the headland face the sea. The business here is largely seasonal and the tourist season is from October to April. A walkway along the edge of the cliff goes up several kilometres. The headland provides a panoramic view of the beach and sea. The place preserves an atmosphere of quiet away from the bustle of the town. Varkala rose to prominence after Sree Narayana Guru, a sage and social reformer, founded his ashram, Shivagiri Mutt, near Varkala.
The laterite cliff walling the beach oozes water that is believed to be salubrious. For this reason the place serves as a spa as well.

Accommodation options are available here to suit all ranges. Most hotels cluster on the headland facing the sea. Attractions in the neighbouring areas include Shivagiri Mutt, Kappil lake (also referred to as a backwater) and estuary, Ponnumthuruthu island and Anjengo Fort (Anchuthengu).