Papanasham Beach

Varkala


Ringed by rust-red cliffs, Varkala's main beach is a holy spot for Hindus, who for centuries have made offerings for passed loves ones and washed away worldly sins (assisted by priests) near the junction with Beach Rd. Swimmers and sunbathers congregate towards its northern end.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Varkala attractions

1. Helipad

0.15 MILES

Towards the southern end of North Cliff.

2. Durga Temple

0.3 MILES

A colourful Hindu temple just inland from Varkala's North Cliff.

3. Janardhana Temple

0.58 MILES

Varkala is a temple town and the Janardhana Temple, dedicated to Vishnu, is the main event – with its roots dating back to the 13th century, this…

4. Black Beach

0.66 MILES

A sandy little blonde-and-black beach just north of Varkala's North Cliff.

5. Varkala Aquarium

0.71 MILES

Between Black Beach and Odayam Beach, Varkala's aquarium displays large tanks of exotic species – scorpionfish, angelfish, koi, the local karimeen – along…

6. Odayam Beach

1.22 MILES

This gold-hued stretch of sand, around 1km north of the North Cliff, makes a peaceful alternative to Varkala's main beach.

7. Sivagiri Mutt

1.99 MILES

Just east of central Varkala, Sivagiri Mutt is the headquarters of the Shri Narayana Dharma Sanghom Trust, devoted to Shri Narayana Guru (1855–1928),…

8. Kappil Beach

2.95 MILES

About 8km north of Varkala, this long, beautiful and (so far) undeveloped stretch of golden sand is also the beginning of a mini network of backwaters. A…