Thiruvambady Beachvarkala
A Black Sand Beach

Overview
Nestled near the North cliff amidst swaying coconut palms, this peaceful and secluded beach is the perfect place to escape the city bustle.
What To Expect?
A tranquil retreat with a unique coastline featuring patches of black sand. Unlike the main Varkala beach, this spot is much quieter. You can expect to walk along a narrow path from the North Cliff to reach this secluded haven, surrounded by swaying coconut palms and the sound of gentle waves.
Tips
- The path to the beach from the cliff can be steep; wear comfortable walking shoes or flip-flops with good grip.
- Carry your own water and snacks as there are fewer shacks here compared to the main cliff area.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen on the exposed areas of your skin to protect from the tropical sun.
- Stay for the sunset, as the black sand creates a dramatic and beautiful foreground for photography.
- Be careful of high tides, as the sandy stretch is narrower here and can be quickly engulfed by waves.
Exploring Thiruvambady Beach
More About Thiruvambady Beach
Thiruvambady Beach, often locally referred to as Black Sand Beach, is located just beyond the North Cliff in Varkala. It is a hidden gem known for its distinct black-tinted sand, a result of the rich mineral content found in the volcanic cliffs of the region.
This beach is far less commercialized than the main Papanasam Beach, making it a favorite for those seeking solitude, digital detox, or a quiet spot for meditation. The lush coconut groves that border the sand provide ample natural shade, making it a comfortable spot even during the warmer parts of the day.
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.
Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips that aren’t just “local” tips for tourists, but sometimes, lessons for a lifetime too.
Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise.
Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally.
How to reach Thiruvambady Beach
The beach is reachable via a short walk down from the Varkala North Cliff area. It is approximately 4 km from Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station and can be reached by auto-rickshaw.
Tips for Visiting Thiruvambady Beach, varkala
- The path to the beach from the cliff can be steep; wear comfortable walking shoes or flip-flops with good grip.
- Carry your own water and snacks as there are fewer shacks here compared to the main cliff area.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen on the exposed areas of your skin to protect from the tropical sun.
- Stay for the sunset, as the black sand creates a dramatic and beautiful foreground for photography.
- Be careful of high tides, as the sandy stretch is narrower here and can be quickly engulfed by waves.



















































