Varkala

Varkala to the north, on the route to Kollam is very peaceful, secluded and picturesque. It is a major pilgrim centre for Keralites.

Access

Varkala in Kerala can be reached through road and by rail.

Accommodation:

Some of the boarding facilities available in Varkala include Taj Garden Retreat, Black Beach Resort, Deshadan Cliff and Beach Resort, La Mirban, Hotel Hill Top, Deuvill Resort.

Local Attractions

• Papanasam Beach with its silver sands is unique for the tall cliffs that back it, studded with laterite formations and hot springs. But the sea here is not as safe as in Kovalam. 
• Janardhana Swamy Temple in Varkala town is about two millenniums old and has Lord Krishna as idol. 
• Sri Narayana Guru Temple on a hilltop at Sivagiri is dedicated to the great saint and social reformer Sri Narayana Guru. The facilities of a beach resort are also available on a lower scale. 
• Varkala is popular for its spa treatments with mineral water from the nearby springs and authentic Ayurvedic Therapies.
• The aquarium  in Varkala is resplendent with remote and far flung sea species like sea snakes,  piranhas and even local fish. You can enjoy them while walking the spiralling walkway. 
• You can enjoy a punt powered boat journey to Ponnumthuruthu, an island where Golden Temple is situated. It is a Siva Parvathi temple and from its name the island got the name Golden Island. You can enjoy the nature and its splendour during the boat trip.
• At Kappil Beach there is a tiny backwater network that is as yet unexploited but offers a panoramic view.