Varkala Beachvarkala
Stunning Cliff Beach
Overview
Also known as Papanasham Beach, it is popular for the natural spring, which is believed to have medicinal properties and can also wash away sins.
What To Expect?
A unique coastline where massive sediment cliffs overlook the Arabian Sea. Expect to find a natural water spring on the beach, a vibrant cliff-top market filled with cafes and shops, and a serene atmosphere perfect for sunset views and yoga sessions. The beach is a mix of spiritual significance and modern backpacker culture.
Tips
- The currents at Varkala Beach can be very strong; always follow the instructions of the lifeguards and stay within the designated swimming zones.
- Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to walk along the long stretch of the North Cliff.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen, as the reflection from the sand and cliffs can be quite intense.
- Visit the 2,000-year-old Janardhana Swami Temple located close to the beach for a spiritual experience.
- Bargain politely at the cliff shops for clothes and souvenirs.
Exploring Varkala Beach
More About Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasham Beach, is a stunning stretch of sand located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. It is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea. These tertiary sedimentary formation cliffs are a unique geological feature on the otherwise flat Kerala coast.
The name 'Papanasham' means 'redemption of sins.' It is believed that a dip in the holy waters of this beach washes away all the sins of a lifetime. The beach is also a significant site for 'Vavu Bali,' a ritual performed by Hindus for their ancestors. Beyond spirituality, the Varkala Cliff is a bustling tourist hotspot with world-class seafood cafes and shops selling Tibetan handicrafts.
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 Varkala Beach
The beach is located about 3 km from Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station. It is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, approximately 45 km away.
Tips for Visiting Varkala Beach, varkala
- The currents at Varkala Beach can be very strong; always follow the instructions of the lifeguards and stay within the designated swimming zones.
- Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to walk along the long stretch of the North Cliff.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen, as the reflection from the sand and cliffs can be quite intense.
- Visit the 2,000-year-old Janardhana Swami Temple located close to the beach for a spiritual experience.
- Bargain politely at the cliff shops for clothes and souvenirs.
