Top Tourist Places in Varkala - A Complete Guide

Located in the southern state of Kerala, Varkala is a beautiful coastal town, captivating the hearts of countless visitors with its mesmerising charm. Earlier a significant port, Varkala today is a popular destination among nature and history lovers and tourists seeking peace and tranquillity. This gorgeous town is home to magnificent hillocks, unspoiled beaches, and the Varkala Cliff, the exquisite Cliff Beach. Nestled on the shorelines of the glorious Arabian Sea, the seaside town has many attractions for tourists to explore on their vacation. While nature lovers can enjoy the lush greenery and sights of pure white-water waves, spiritually inclined travellers can visit ancient Shiva Parvathi and Janardanaswamy (Lord Vishnu) temples. It is a place to unwind with family and friends while soaking in the best of nature. To help you make the most out of your trip, here is a list of top tourist places in Varkala that you should not miss.

• Golden Island
• Varkala Beach
• Janardhana Swamy Temple
• Odayam Beach
• Anjengo Fort
• Chilakkoor Beach
• Kappil Lake
• Edava Beach
• Sivagiri Mutt

Golden Island

Famous as Ponnumthuruthu Island, Golden Island, is encircled by the Arabian Sea and Anjengo backwaters. Located around 12 Km south of Varkala, this beautiful island is a paradise for nature and serenity lovers. Accessing this island is an adventure in itself as tourists have to take a 30-minute boat ride from Nedunganda Village through the Anjengo backwaters, navigating through the picturesque waterways, dense coconut groves, and tranquil environment. The name Golden Island is said to have derived from a tale of a Travancore Royal Family who used to hide their gold on this island to keep them safe. Being one of the most beautiful places to visit in Varkala, Kerala, for its enchanting atmosphere, you would not want to miss out on this spot!

Varkala Beach

Known as the only cliff beach in Kerala, this captivating natural wonder is one of the must-visit places in Varkala. The 80-foot-high red cliff overlooking the shoreline is also called the Varkala Cliff. Dating back to the Mio-Pliocene age, this striking and exceptional geological formation features small fossils and sedimentary structures, offering a glimpse into ancient geological variations. With dramatic settings and a mesmerising view of the cliffs, Varkala Beach makes an ideal escape for you. If you want a divine beach where you can unwind, relax, and enjoy recreational activities amidst the scenic and serene beauty, then Varkala Beach is a perfect tourist place for you.

Janardhana Swamy Temple

One of the oldest temples in Kerala, Janardhana Swamy Temple attracts many devotees seeking a spiritual experience. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this beautiful temple is situated at the northern end of the Varkala beach. The architecture and sculptures of the Janardhana Swamy Temple are a stunning reflection of traditional Kerala-style design. The temple dates back to the 12th century and is renowned for its healing powers, thus hundreds of visitors come here to offer prayers and seek blessings of Lord Vishnu. Various paintings and sculptures in the temple illustrate the diverse postures of Lord Hanuman. One of the best places to visit in Varkala, Janardhana Swamy Temple, must be in your tour plan.

Odayam Beach

Another stunning beach in Varkala, Odayam Beach, is one of the hidden or less visited beaches in Varkala. Located a few km ahead of Cliff and Thiruvambadi Beach, Odayam Beach is an ideal spot for those who want solitude away from the typical touristy beaches filled with crowds and noise. The secluded beach offers tourists opportunities to enjoy numerous activities like surfing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, etc. The picture-perfect tropical setting with coconut and palm trees enhances the appeal and atmosphere of this beach. While there are fewer shacks and commercialization, the place is perfect for relaxing under the sun, walking along the coastline, and capturing some amazing photographs with colourful boats around.

Anjengo Fort

One of the top tourist attractions in Varkala, Anjengo Fort, is the place to get a glimpse of the rich history and ancient culture of the city of Varkala. Also known as the Anjuthengu Fort, this striking castle is home to a small chapel reflecting the European architectural style. Located a few km from Varkala, the fort was built in the 17th century by the British East India Company to make its first trade settlement in Kerala. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, this majestic fort provides tourists with an opportunity to see the ancient ruins, and bastions and learn about the history with spectacular Portuguese and Dutch architecture. Stuck between the Arabian Sea and Kerala backwaters, Anjengo Fort is flocked by signature coconut trees, making it a lot more attractive. As you visit this striking heritage site, do not forget to capture the nooks and corners of the history of Varkala.

Chilakkoor Beach

Located 15 km from Varkala, Chilakkoor Beach is one of the most attractive beaches, with rare flora and fauna. Surrounded by casuarina trees, coconut palms, shacks, and resorts, this stunning beach is a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing getaway away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The spectacular view of the stunning sunset and glittering sands of the beach leaves you spellbound. When you plan a trip to Varkala, do visit this beach to explore nearby coastal villages, absorb the beauty of nature, and enjoy a day in one of the beautiful Varkala resorts nearby.

Kappil Lake

A major tourist attraction in Kerala, Kappil Lake is an ideal place to witness the mesmerising sight of Kerala backwaters. Located about 7 km north of Varkala, this beautiful and serene lake is dotted with green trees and coconut groves. Nestled between the Edava-Nadayara Lake and the Arabian Sea, this striking retreat offers a unique blend of beach and lake experiences. The vacant shoreline and tranquil ambience without any noise make it a private beach location. The amalgamation of old-style Kettuvallam houseboats, relaxed boat cruises, and a gorgeous stretch of clear coastline make it an enticing spot for relaxation and leisure. So, when you plan to visit Varkala, make sure to add Kappil Lake to your tour package.

Edava Beach

Next on the list of top places to see in Varkala, Edava Beach is amongst the most remote beaches in Kerala. Located just 2 km from Kappil Beach, Edava Beach is a perfect tourist spot in Varkala for those seeking the untouched beauty of nature and a place unspoiled by tourist activities. A slow and relaxed walk along its shorelines is an invigorating experience for the mind and soul. This striking beach offers tourists a perfect opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with the beauty of nature. Do include Edava Beach in your Varkala itinerary to find an ideal escape from the ordinary.

Sivagiri Mutt

Founded in 1904, Sivagiri Mutt is one of the most popular pilgrim places to visit in Varkala, Kerala. Nestled on the top of Sivagiri hill, the Mutt is visited by thousands of devotees every day. Spread over a lush green area of 200 acres, Sivagiri Mutt attracts tourists with its unique architecture of multi-tiered white terraces and religious significance. This is the place where the sage Shree Narayana Guru breathed his last in 1928. With a tranquil environment and the backdrop of lush greenery, the Mutt makes an ideal retreat for spiritual seekers. The Mutt complex houses a Sharda temple, octagonal in shape, dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, enhancing the spiritual aura of the place. Visitors can participate in daily rituals, explore the well-maintained gardens, and learn about the teachings and philosophies of the Guru.

Varkala is a paradise for tourists, offering many interesting tourist spots in the vicinity. When you look for a Varkala tour package, plan a longer vacation here to explore a plethora of tourist spots in and around Varkala.