đź“Ť Where is Varkala Beach Located?
Varkala Beach is located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, about 50 km north of the capital city. It’s easily accessible by road, rail, and air — making it a popular getaway for both domestic and international travelers.
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (approx. 1 hour drive)
Nearest Railway Station: Varkala Sivagiri Station (just 5 minutes from the beach)
What Makes Varkala Beach Unique?
Unlike most beaches in India, Varkala features towering laterite cliffs that frame the shoreline, offering spectacular views of the sea from above. These cliffs are part of the Varkala Formation, a rare geological feature found only in this part of Kerala. Natural springs emerge from the cliffside, believed to have healing properties. These sacred waters are why the beach is known as Papanasam — meaning “washing away sins” in Malayalam.
Visitors come not just for the views and relaxation, but for ritual dips, yoga retreats, Ayurvedic therapies, and spiritual calm.
✨ Top Things to Do at Varkala Beach
1. Sunset Walks on the Cliff
1. Beach Swimming & Sunbathing : The beach has lifeguards and designated swimming zones. It’s one of the few beaches in Kerala that blends spiritual significance with tourist-friendly amenities.
2. Sunset walks on the clif :The Varkala cliff walkway is lined with cafés, handicraft shops, and local food stalls. Walking along the edge with the sea crashing below is a must-do experience — especially during sunset.
3. Surfing & Water Sports : Varkala has become a hub for beginner surfers. A few local surf schools offer board rentals and lessons. If you need you do do surfing with help of Mangrove village adventure park
4. Rituals at Papanasam Beach : Locals and pilgrims visit to perform last rites and ancestral rituals, believing that the holy waters wash away sins and bring peace to the departed souls.
5. Ayurvedic Massages & Wellness Centers : Several authentic Ayurveda centers near the beach offer treatments, massages, and detox programs based on centuries-old practices.
🛏️ Where to Stay Near Varkala Beach
There are accommodations for every budget:
- Beachside guesthouses and homestays for backpackers
- Eco-resorts and yoga retreats for wellness seekers
- Luxury cliffside hotels for those seeking comfort with a view
If you’re looking for a more offbeat experience in nature, you can also stay nearby at Mangrove Village Adventure Park — where you can enjoy kayaking, camping, and more in a serene mangrove forest, just a short drive from the beach.
🗺️ How to Plan Your Visit
- Best time to visit: October to March (cool, dry, and pleasant)
- Avoid monsoon: June to August, due to heavy rains
- Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days for beach, cliff, and nearby sightseeing
Combine your trip with nearby attractions like:
- Sivagiri Mutt
- Janardanaswamy Temple
- Jatayu Earth’s Center
- Backwater canoe rides
- Mangrove Village kayaking & camping
Whether you’re looking to swim, meditate, surf, hike, or simply sit in silence with the sea in front of you and a breeze behind you, Varkala offers a little bit of everything. Its cliff-framed coast, healing waters, and holistic lifestyle make it a one-of-a-kind beach in India.
So pack your curiosity and your flip-flops. And when you’re done soaking in the beach vibes, don’t forget to explore the mangroves and adventures waiting just beyond — at Mangrove Village Adventure Park.