Varkala Beach-Kerala: The Kasi of the South
Varkala Beach is one of Kerala’s most unique beaches and is one of the few in God’s Own Country to have cliffs lining the sandy stretches. Varkala Beach is source for many rich mineral water springs that later dissect the coastline and meet the sea. The water of these streams are said to possess healing properties and are popular with devotees and pilgrims. Moppila Bay is one of the region’s most prominent beach vacation resorts and is also a major pilgrimage centre.
Varkala Beach- TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
- Perhaps the most important tourist site in Varkala Beach is the The 800-year old Janardhana temple, which is dedicated to Ayyappan and Hanuman. The historical temple sits atop a hill that is adjacent to the beach and is the reason why the Varkala Beach is often referred to as the Kasi (Benares) of the South. Note that though non-Hindus are permitted to only within premises of the temple, but are not allowed inside the temple.
- The nearby Nature Centre is also popular with tourists.
- Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala’s capital) which is just two hours away. Thiruvananthapuram is abundant with tourist attractions and temples.
- Ernakulam and Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin), two prominent tourist places, are also a few hours drive away.
- The Periyar Widlife sanctuary is located in nearby Thekaddy and is easily reachable.
Varkala Beach- TRAVEL TIPS
- Languages: Malayalam and English are widely spoken in the region surrounding the Varkala Beach, and as such communication should not be a problem. Hindi, however, is somewhat less prevalent.
- Cuisine: Due to the beach’s religious significance, one would largely be able to find only vegetarian cuisine.
Many tour operators cover the Varkala Beach as part of their Kerala tours.
BEST TIME to visit Varkala Beach
The Varkala Beach can be visited any time of the year. However, during the monsoons, that is, between the months of June and September, one may not be able to soak up a whole lot of sun. If, however, one does intend to visit Varkala Beach for its religious significance, the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (July–August in the Gregorian Calendar) is the most auspicious when thousands of devotees throng the beach to offer ‘Vavu Bali’, a ritual believed to help the souls of one’s ancestors rest in peace. Find Travel Agents suiting your travel on Tripraja.com
BEST WAY to reach Varkala Beach
- By Air: Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital, located 54 kms away, is the nearest airport. There are daily flights connecting Thiruvananthapuram to Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai and the Middle East.
- By Rail: The railway station of Varkala is 3 kms away from the beach.
- By Road: The Varkala Beach is well connected to all the important cities and other beach resorts in the region.
ACCOMMODATION
Hotels, inspection bungalows, private cottages, etc. are available to suit all budgets. The Varkala Beach abounds in family holiday resorts, vacation homes and beach houses. One can obtain excellent discounts on accommodation via package beach tours and family vacations.