Varkala Town, India skyline: the 13 most iconic buildings and best views in Varkala Town

Varkala Beach is quite overrated and usually very crowded. Most of the time, access to the beach was restricted, so we could only watch the sunset. However, the sunset view itself is truly mesmerizing. The beach is easily accessible, with plenty of buses running on this route from the railway station. There are also several nearby beaches that are less crowded and have fresher water.

Certainly one of the best beach, having a great cliff connecting through another beach and having all restaurants/cafés and shops over the cliff. Must recommend the morning walk through the cliff and have a great sight during sunrise. For party ppl Evening time is great fun.

One of the best beaches in Kerala..easily accessible from Trivandrum and Kollam.. it’s best to visit here on evening to enjoy the beautiful sunset..weekends will be very crowded

Loved the place. Very special beach not like other beaches. Beautiful cliff beach with long sand shore to walk and good for street shopping

One of the best beaches in India period! Its not just about walking on the sand or playing in the ocean, it’s the overall uniqueness of the beach, the Varkala cliff is majestic. You can walk around a km along the cliff from South to North. Absolutely fabulous. The beach is fairly clean. The cliff paths are very clean. But the cliff sides have a lot of discarded plastic, I wish the authorities clean that up. Overall, the only beach in Kerala that can match Goan beaches in terms of beauty.

We visited Varkala Beach on 17 September, 2025. Unfortunately, I couldn’t explore the beach completely due to rain, but whatever I experienced was really peaceful and refreshing. The beach is clean and calm, and you can get some beautiful pictures here and spend a relaxing time. I heard that paragliding and a few other rides are available here, but since it rained on the day of our visit, I couldn’t find any. The day before visiting the beach, we explored the Varkala Cliff around 1 AM, and it was a completely different vibe — with restaurants, bars, and shops open and the whole scenario looking really nice. Overall, a good experience!

The Varkala Beach does not allow people to bathe in the water. The beach is always crowded but it very closely to the stays. The beach is in walking distance of 3 to 5 KM only. It is the most unique Beaches in Southern part of India. The views from cliff is Stunning. It is well known for its lively atmosphere with many cafes and restaurants along the cliff, catering to visitors. After sunset, it's possible to witness bioluminescence, an aquamarine glow in the water, making for a magical experience. Swimming is not always not safe due to strong currents, so visitors are advised to be cautious and not allowed during season time. It's Good place to relax and unwind. But the food is costly and I don't highly recommend.

"Sivagiri Mutt is a serene and spiritually uplifting place, perfect for reflection and peace. The hilltop setting offers a calm ambiance, and the Samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru adds a profound sense of history and reverence. The Sharada Temple is unique and beautifully maintained, reflecting the Guru’s vision of knowledge and equality. The staff and sanyasins are welcoming, and the overall cleanliness is impressive. It’s a bit of a climb to reach the top, so be prepared, but the experience is worth it. A must-visit for those seeking tranquility and inspiration!"

This place was pretty much empty when v visited. There was not much directions available on how to reach but it was walkable through steps from the bottom to the top. Parking space is available. Evening is the best time to visit and the place is very silent as well.

One of the must visit spot! The memories of Sree narayana Guru🙌 Free of cost, easy to access!

The Samadhi Sthalam (final resting place/tomb) of Sree Narayana Guru. Here, there is a spiritually dense atmosphere. Sivagiri is a place where one can come peacefully, sit for a while, and understand and learn many things.

Was fortunate to visit Mutt. Three year long global observance honouring the life, teaching and enduring legacy of great philosopher and social reformer who reshaped Kerala’s spiritual and social landscape. Embodiment of all virtues and values Sree Narayana Guru's preaching of one caste,one religion and one God for humanity has great relevance today. Devotees are chanting mantras enriching the teachings of Guru. Centenary observance of Guru Maha Samathi being jointly organised by Mutt, Government of India and Government of Kerala inagurated by President of India.

Peaceful and spiritually uplifting place 🙏. Sivagiri Mutt carries deep historical and cultural significance as the resting place of Sree Narayana Guru. The surroundings are calm and beautifully maintained, with greenery and serene vibes that make it perfect for reflection and prayer 🌿🕊️. The view from the hilltop is breathtaking, especially during early morning or sunset. The atmosphere here reminds you of Guru’s message — “One caste, one religion, one God for humankind.” A truly inspiring and soul-soothing destination 💛✨.

Father of Kerala Renaissance Sree Naryana Gurudevan's tomb(Samathi) situated here..peaceful atmosphere and spirituality connected this place

I recently visited this temple and had a wonderful experience. The atmosphere here is truly special there’s a peaceful, spiritual vibe that makes you feel instantly calm and welcome. The temple is impressively neat and clean, with well maintained surroundings that add to the sense of serenity. The staff and volunteers are very friendly and always ready to help or guide visitors, which made my visit even more pleasant. The temple’s architecture and overall ambiance beautifully reflect its ancient heritage, giving you a sense of connection to history and tradition. Overall, it’s a fantastic place for anyone seeking tranquility and a touch of spiritual energy. Highly recommended for both devotees and tourists alike!

One of the divine and nearest temple in varkala. Also 2000years old. At the temple entrance, small pond is available. The water is refreshing, & even spotted a little turtle. The temple was neat, clean, and maintained with care. While it looked like many other traditional temples as well. It was quite hot during my visit, For Gents - The shirts and inner baniyan to be removed due to temple customs. The god looked unique from others. It was an pleasant moment but it stayed out for more than half an hour because of prasadham offering for the god.

A peaceful and spiritual place with centuries of history. The architecture is traditional and well-maintained. The temple is located on a hilltop, offering a serene atmosphere and beautiful views. It’s very calm inside, and devotees come here to seek blessings from Lord Vishnu.

Incredible ❤️😍. So different from other temples and so beautiful. A must visit of Varkala. Some of highlights - - Vishnu Ji Murti is so beautiful and different - the number of diyas lit in the evening are just amazing - and to top it up there is Gajraj ji (elephant) in the temple complex 😍. Few tips - Try to go in night around 6:30 as diyas are lit that time , you can also help in that - In Mandir main compex you have to remove the shirt /tshirt

We recently visited this temple and had a very peaceful experience. There’s also a pond near the temple, which adds to the calm and serene atmosphere. One important thing to note is that boys need to remove their shirts during darshan, as it’s a mandatory tradition here.

Before entering the temple, I spent a few quiet moments at the temple pond right in front of the entrance. The water felt refreshing, and I even spotted a little turtle,it was such a calming start to the visit. The temple itself was neat, clean, and maintained with care. While it looked like many other traditional temples, there was a special peaceful vibe that I really felt. It was quite hot during my visit, and I was wearing a hat. A lady told me to remove it,possibly due to temple customs.

We visited in the morning, and it was a wonderful and blessed experience. The temple atmosphere is very calm and peaceful, perfect for starting the day with a clear mind. There is a dress code here - men must wear a dhoti to enter the temple premises. Overall, it's a very spiritual and serene place. Definitely worth visiting

Nice scenic surf spot! Had a lovely time there one morning. Can't wait to go back! Surfing and fishing, well worth a visit in Kerala to see both surfing and traditional fishing.

Great place to watch Sunset and chill with you loved ones. It is a cliff view,which have a small portion of beach at the end

Extremely beautiful and scenic beach in Varkala. Perfect place to watch the Sunset. It is so peaceful and surreal. Gives you the perfect environment for a relax stay. Lot of stay options are available near the Beach.

Its so good to watch evening sea, sun settling down,warmth of the sun along with cool touch of sea breeze,its so soothing. Shore was calm, not so busy. it was worth the ride.view of the sea from cliff is so satisfying.

Edava Beach is a tranquil and less crowded alternative to Varkala’s main beaches. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. The beach offers a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful sunsets. Facilities are limited, so it's best for those looking for a quiet escape.

Good beach with nice cafes, but it way too crowded.

View from the cliff is breathtaking!! Though the beach area itself is quite small. A narrow way of 100-200mtr leads to the beach. There is a cafe right on the seaside - Bait and Hook - felt the pricing on a higher side. since it’s the only cafe there. The water is clean and the area is not crowded at all. There are 3 resorts that I could see on the seaside - B’Canti, Ashokam, Sukriti home stay. All of them appeared nice from outside.

If you are going from this direction towards the beach then this will be the first attraction. The pond has its own beauty which you can see in the pictures. There are small shops near the temple close to the pond, where buy towels starting from Rs.40.

ABOUT 2000 YEAR OLD VARKALA JANARDAN SWAMY TEMPLE POND IS CALLED AS CHAKRA TEERTHA. AT THE DOWN HILL OF THE TEMPLE THERE IS A SPRING WATER GUSHING WHICH IS SAID TO BE MEDICINAL.THIS STREAM IS GUIDED THROUGH KALPPATHY ( STONE PIPES) AND DRAINED TO THE TEMPLE POND WHICH IS 10 METER BELOW... NOW THE SPRING WATER AREA IS ENCLOSED IN A TANK ON THE LEFT SIDE OF TEMPLE STAIRCASE. FOUR SIDES OF THE POND HAVE GRANITE WALLS AND STEPS FOR BATHING PURPOSE. IN 2016 - 17 RENOVATION DONE AT A COST OF 80 LAKHS.

Beautiful temple pond and its very big also. Greeny color water.

Very cold water... Nice place to take a bath

It's a very very beautiful place, the real God's on country.

Varkala Temple Pond This beautiful temple pond is located in the heart of Varkala town in Kerala, India. It is near the famous Janardhana Temple in Varkala. It is also known as Chakra Theertha A stream from hill where the Janardhana Temple is located feeds the pond perennially. This stream is lead into the pond by way of solid granite stone drain with carvings called as Kalpathy. The water falls into the pond from a height of about 10 meters. This stream spout is now enclosed in an enclosure to preserve it from damage. The water is supposed to be having medicinal values and healing property. The entire perimeter of the pond was renovated with granite stone retaining walls to preserve the pond in good condition. Steps and banks were made for people to have bath in the pond. The renovation is said to have costed about 80 lakhs of Indian rupees. Water is clean. There are a number of fishes in the pond and people do fishing as well as feed the fish. It is a very peaceful place to sit and enjoy the serenity of the water body. It is a soothing sight to the eyes. Photos by Viswas Menon ©Viswas Menon

Groundwater from the nearby small pond is constantly falling into this pond. Bathing under the stone fountain before the water fell into the pool is a special feeling .You will not find such an experience anywhere else. Quality of the water is very good because of the continuous flow of ground water. For those who don't know swimming, it's best not to go away from the steps. Very dangerous.There are plenty of fish in this pond. Feeding the fish is an important ritual. This pond situated in a very vast area. Just below the famous Varkala Janardana Swamy Temple. Superb.

It's nice to see, there are all kinds of bathing facilities.No matter who comes, there is a place to relax.

Varkala bore: An important milestone in Kerala's water transport history Varkala tunnel is a tunnel located in Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. It is a part of Parvati Puthanaar Canal. Constructed in the late 19th century during the reign of Maharaja Ayilyam Tirunal of the Travancore royal family, the bore is an important milestone in the history of water transport in Kerala.But temporarily, there is no public transport system here for several years Government revival activities are underway

It's a Great place. t was named after Rani Parvathi Bai, who was the reigning queen of Travancore during the time it was created.

This place might have a historic importance besides, the way this place is being treated is pathetic. Wished this place should have existed some where else in the globe leaving behind the scope to be a heritage place. This site is venue for garbage disposal and hub for anti socials courtesy Varkala Municipality . I never recommend people to climb down to have a look at this place as it is being used as a place for public lavatories by the locals.

Place of historical importance. The Tunnel was used for long distance goods transportation since 18th-19th century. But now this place is abandoned and government not giving any protection to this cultural monument.

This is one of the historic spot in Sivagiri Hills. The tunnel was constructed in 19th century It was a major water transportation from Trivandrum to Malabar region. It is a tourist highlight in the vicinity. Varkala tunnel was constructed on the mid of 1860s. It is built under a huge rock. The tunnel comprises two passages, namely, Sivagiri passage and Chilakkoor passage. The first one is 722 meter long and the other is 350 m. It was a part of Travancore State Canal, a major inland waterway of the early 20th centuries. Now it is the part of the larger Kovalam-Kollam-Kottappuram-Kasaragod inland waterway project. The canal was used to transport of men and material from Thiruvananthapuram to Kollam. Of late, the tunnel came to disrepair and it got blocked due to falling debris and earth. Now renovation of the tunnel is going on.

One of the prime architectures that should have maintain properly..you wouldn't believe how it's constructed.The other opening of this tunnel been placed beneath a stream.

One of the best tourist attractions of south india and the one which you get never bored of. Excellent views. Lots of food spots in the cliff and watchout for the prices though. Highly recommended especially during monsoon.

Varkala Cliff has such a calming vibe 🌊✨ The moody weather, cool winds, and light rain made the place feel even more magical. Sitting by the cliff, watching the waves crash and the clouds move — it’s pure peace. A perfect spot to slow down and just breathe.

One of the most beautiful coastal spots in Kerala and truly a must-visit place for anyone who loves the sea. The view from the cliff is absolutely stunning — endless blue waters, golden sunsets, and the sound of waves crashing below. The cliffside path is lined with cozy cafés, restaurants, and small shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts, which make it a lively and relaxing place to spend your day. Evenings are especially magical here — the entire place lights up with a calm, breezy vibe. You can sit at a café, enjoy a cup of coffee or seafood meal, and just watch the sun slowly dip into the Arabian Sea. It’s peaceful yet full of life. However, during high tides, parts of the beach below get washed away, and access can be limited. The lifeguards are always alert and guide tourists well, ensuring safety for everyone. The cliff area is also well-maintained and has several homestays and resorts with sea-view rooms. It’s an ideal place for solo travelers, couples, and photographers.

Varkala is truly a hidden gem on the coast of Kerala — a perfect blend of natural beauty, peace, and good vibes. The beach, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, is framed by the stunning red cliffs that make the place absolutely unique. Watching the sunset from the cliff is an experience you’ll never forget — the sky turns into shades of orange, pink, and purple that look straight out of a painting. What makes Varkala even more special are its people. Everyone I met — from the local shop owners to the café staff and even the fishermen — was warm, welcoming, and full of smiles. They genuinely make you feel at home and add so much heart to the whole experience. The cliffside cafés and small shops create a relaxed, bohemian vibe — perfect for travelers, backpackers, and anyone looking to slow down and reconnect with nature. Whether you want yoga, fresh seafood, Ayurvedic massages, or just a quiet moment by the sea, Varkala offers it all. Varkala is not just a place — it’s a feeling. The cliffs, the waves, and the people together make it one of the most soulful destinations in India. Highly recommended for anyone looking for peace, beauty, and kindness.

It's a great experience when you walk on a cliff. It's mini goa but reality is better than goa beaches. There are many places to take photographs and videos. If you are an adrent beach lover you will enjoy a lot along with cliffs. You can find many stores and shops where you find food including international cousins, tattoos, beach wear, antique items, but all things a little bit costly including food. Night beach walk is ultimate and you may enjoy food with cocktails. It's suitable for all. If you are a couple or friends gang this is the best place for vibing.

LOVE THE PLACE. I love visiting this place every now and then—the whole place issa vibe. Everything you need is on the cliff, from food to clothes to antiques, you name it. I bought a bunch of antique stuff on my last visit. There are honestly so many shops selling antiques, jewellery, clothes, and all kinds of random things. But here’s a tip: don’t jump at the first price they tell you. You can usually bargain and get things for a much better deal. Also, the same item might be in a bunch of different shops, so take a walk around before buying anything. There are so many—literally so many—cafés and restaurants up there. But don’t just go with the Instagram hype. Do a bit of research or explore on your own, because there are a lot of great spots apart from the usual “Instagram-approved” places. A coffee while taking in a glimpse of the beach, or sipping a cocktail with the sea view, is a must if you ask me. The views from the cliff are just stunning, especially during sunset when the sky goes crazy with colours. It does get crowded in the eve. People chilling, music playing from cafés, and the sea breeze it all feels perfect. If you’re in Varkala, the cliff is definitely a must-visit.

Hmmm place was clean not littered like other places the beach was bit dirty due to religious offerings (balitharpanm) otherwise its superb and exhotic view and serene beauty of the Ocean....

A real treat! I highly recommend attending the one hour performance. Beautiful makeup and dress (which you can watch for the hour before the show starts). Very enjoyable performance, especially the demoness who did an amazing job and was quite frightening. Strong abhinaya expressing love, desire, hatred etc. The music is recorded but it's ridiculous to expect live music for the modest ticket price. Go! Enjoy! Support local artists!

The costumes and make up are really great but they absolutely need to put live drummers because now they use a very low quality speaker connected to a phone and it's quite ridiculous and annoying...also the show is quite boring a part from the guy acting the demon he's great, a bit more energy would be good. High price for what you get to see and location.

Very small intimate theatre. Tickets are rs400. We were there at 5pm to see then put on their makeup. Fascinating to watch. Costumes are crazy. Very good show.

Great show, tiny place but the performers were very skilled. Cheap price for a great performance.

I was here 15 years and the show had more energy. This time was little boring.

Closed no longer operating

(Translated by Google) The place is modest and hidden, but it is a must-visit to attend the famous kathakali. I went and because I arrived a little late they offered me to come back for free the next day and see what I had missed. Very nice staff, from the "capturers" to the actors themselves. (Original) El lugar es modesto y está escondido, pero es de visita obligada para asistir al famoso kathakali. Fui y por haber llegado un poco tarde me ofrecieron volver gratis al día siguiente y ver lo que me había perdido. Personal muy majo, desde los "captadores" hasta los propios actores.

Varkala Bali Mandapam Hindus offer “bali” (a ritual or offering for deceased relatives) after the death of a near one. Usually the sons offer the “bali” for their parents. If sons are not there, any close relative can perform this on their behalf. “Bali” is usually performed on all days after death till the 16th day, on the 41st day after death and on all death anniversaries. Since it is not easy to do such rituals at home, people go to places like Varkala or Thiruvallom Parasurama Temple in Trivandrum. Varkala has a special “Bali Mandapom” or platform to perform bali. This mandapom is open on all days of the year. Rituals can be performed from 6.00 AM to 11.00 AM. Priests are available to guide the devotees. All the required items like cooked rice, flowers etc., would be supplied there on payment of the required fee.

Ok ok place. The main negative I felt here was there is no waste basket here. For a place like this waste disposal is essential for this place to become fine.

This a famous place for doing after death rituals. There is a temple situated near to rama. The bali karama is held daily

One of the most important places in Kerala where rituals are performed for the eternal peace of the souls of the dead according to hindu religion. The place is known as Papanasham on the Varkala seashore (main beach) and the Bali Mandapam is built for the above by the Kerala Devaswom board authorities. Ihe place is open for devotees from 06:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 05:00 PM to 06:00 PM. The temple staff and priests are here to help people for the rituals.

The place is situated near to the sea and the devotees can perform the last rites of the deceased soul in strict adherence to the hindu traditions .The parking fees for four wheelers as on 24/9/21 is Rs.50 for 2 hours. Devasom board employed priests are there to guide the devouts in performing the last rites .For Bali tharppanam the receipt fees is Rs.75. Such a well maintained place .

PAPANASAM BEACH BELI MANDAPOM IS A BUILDING USED TO PERFORM BELI THARPPANAM (OFFERING TO THE DEAD OR ANCESTORS FOR THEIR GOOD WILL OF SOUL)AND IMMERSING ONES ASHES IN SEA TO LIBERATE THE SPIRIT. . THIS RITUAL USUALLY TAKE HALF AN HOUR TIME BY PRIESTS PRESENT HERE. DAKSHINA OR MONEY GIVEN HERE IS REASONABLE THAN THE LOCAL PRIESTS SEEN ON THE BEACH. PEOPLE COMING FROM VILLAGES HAVE THEIR OWN PRIESTS AND RITUALS ARE DONE ONLY AT SEASHORE AND NOT ON ENCLOSED BUILDING. IF YOU WANT TO IMMERSE THE BURNT ASHES ,THEN YOU HAVE TO BRING OIL,INCENSE STICK,THREE SMALL BANANA,ONE BETEL LEAF,AND COINS . AND FOR BELI TARPPANAM ON 16TH DAY , WE HAVE TO PAY 75 RS IN THE COUNTER .AFTER THAT REMOVE YOUR UPPER FOR MALE AND WEAR A TOWEL AROUND WAIST. PICK A KINDI AND FILL IT WITH WATER AND REST AROUND THE INNNER MANDAPA. SOME RITUAL ITEMS WILL BE KEPT IN FRONT OF YOU. ACCORDING TO THE POOJARIS WORDS YOU HAVE TO DO THE RITUALS FOR 15 - 20 MINUTES. FINALLY OFFERINGS ARE GIVEN TO BIRDS AND SEA...... THIS TRADITIONAL STYLED BUILDING IS CONSTRUCTED BY HABITAT ON CONSULTATION OF VASTU GURU - KANIPAYYOOR KRISHNAN NAMBOODIRI AND MAINTAINED BY DEVASOM BOARD OF TRAVANCORE, KERALA GOVT. THE DRAWBACKS ARE UPPER FLOOR IS JUST ORNAMENTAL AND UNUSED, ENCLOSED STYLE AND SO MANY PILLARS INSIDE THE ROOM. 1.43 CRORE PROJECT ......................

Beautiful beach... Not very crowded. & amazing sights especially during sunset.

The location for this temple as shown is wrong. After walking around 7 miles to find this temple we discovered there is nothing there. I have reported it to Google maps and hopefully they will remove it soon. There is another location shown in Varkala on google maps for this same temple which I have now visited and so can confirm this other location as shown is correct.

It was a nice experience. We got there exactly at the time of Aarti and it was a whole new experience for us being from nothing India. People were so welcoming and we enjoyed alot. This temple is huge and spreads positive vibes.

Most serene place to visit, peaceful yet powerful temple in Varkala, Temple is pretty big and architecture is too good. If you are planning to Varkala please visit this place and take blessings of lord janardhana.🙏🏻❤️

Shri Janardhana Swamy Temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. This temple holds immense spiritual significance and is celebrated for its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for prayer and reflection. The temple walls are adorned with numerous sculptures and intricate carvings, depicting mythological scenes and deities. Its architecture beautifully blends traditional Kerala style with Dravidian influences. As one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in the Thiruvananthapuram district, the temple is renowned for both its spiritual allure and architectural grandeur.

The temple in Varkala is an immensely serene and powerful place to visit, boasting a large size and stunning architecture. If you're considering a trip to Varkala, make sure to explore this temple and seek blessings from Lord Janardhana.

Loved it.

Nice Temple present in Varkala must visit

Good temple 🙏

❤️🙏

Good temple

Super temple

🕉️🕉️🕉️🕉️

Good

Good shop to get fancy items

Shopping

Nothing visible

Nice place