11 Best Places to visit in Varkala explore the coastal area of Kerala
Varkala is a beautiful coastal area in Kerala and the place is very popular among nature enthusiasts. This is famous for its beautiful beaches and ancient temples. You must visit Varkala to explore untouched islands and beautiful beaches for better holidays. Not just places you can also be a part of some adventure activities like boating and water sports. There is everything that a traveler seeks for while traveling to a destination. Do not miss the taste of the authentic food of Kerala. Here, I have made a list of famous tourist places to visit in Varkala for a mesmerizing holiday.
Famous Places at Varkala for a mesmerizing holiday
- Anchuthengo and Anjengo fort
- Kapil Lake
- Janardana Swami temple
- Varkala Cliff
- Saint Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church Moongode
- Beautiful beaches of Varkala
- Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
- Sarkara Devi Temple
- Varkala aquarium
- Ponnumthuruthu Island
- Sivagiri Mutt
1. Anchuthengo & Anjengo Fort
Anjengo fort is one of the oldest forts in Kerala, it was built in the 17th century. The fort was built during British rule, but they were not able to pronounce the name of Anchuthengo fort, so they named it Anjengo fort. You must visit the fort once to experience the past of Varkala, Kerala.
Visiting hours: 9:00AM – 6:00PM
Entry fee: Free
Trip Duration: Around 2 hours
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2. Kapil Lake
This is one of the most visited places in Varkala, the place is famous for its untouched beauty. Kapil lake attracts many tourists every year as the place gives splendid views of landscapes. To make the visit memorable for tourists the department has provided a boating service in Kapil lake. The boat ride will take you to a tour of the surrounding the lake and the lake is surrounded with coconut trees. You should carry a camera with you to capture the beautiful memories of Kapil lake.
Visiting hours: 10:00AM – 5:00PM
Entry fee: Charges vary with boating packages you choose.
Trip Duration: Around 1-2 Hour
3. Janardana Swami temple
Janardhana Swami temple is one of the oldest temples in India, it is believed that the temple is around 2000 years old. In the temple, you can see the idols of Lord Vishnu. Thousands of people come to this ancient temple to worship Lord Shiva and to celebrate the Arattu festival. It is believed that Non-Hindus are not allowed in the temple. The Arattu festival is celebrated every year in the months of March and April.
Visiting hours: 8:00AM to 6:00PM
Entry fee: Free
Trip Duration: Around 1 hour
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4. Varkala Cliff
This is one of the most visited places in Varkala. Varkala cliff is a major attraction among tourists as the place is a geological site. You must visit this place when on a trip to Varkala as the views from the cliff are mesmerizing and in the evening the place becomes a paradise for photography lovers.
Visit timings: 6:00AM – 6:00PM
Charges: Free
Ideal Duration: Less than 1 hour
5. Saint Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church Moongode
The church is situated on the bank of the Varkala river. The place is very popular among Christians and in the month of February Feast procession of Saint Sebastian takes place. You must visit this beautiful church because the church has been renovated for the followers.
Visiting Timings: 6:00AM – 7:00PM
Entry fee: Free
Trip Duration: Around 1-2 Hours
6. Beautiful Beaches of Varkala
There are many beaches in Varkala where you can go for sunset views and enjoy water sports. One of the most visited beaches in Varkala Beach is also known as “Destroyer of sins”. It is believed that whoever takes a dip in the water, the water washes away the ailments. You must try the Water adventure activities that are organized here every day and if you’re lucky enough you might spot dolphin flocking around. You can even stay near the resort of Varkala beach which allows you to have the best views of nature.
Visiting hours: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Entry Fee: Free
Trip Duration: Around 1-2 Hours
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7. Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
Masjid is dedicated to Saint Kaduvayil Thangal, it is believed that the saint was having magical powers. The masjid is very popular among Muslims and visited by many people every-day. Tourists visit the masjid to seek peace and to admire the architectural beauty.
Visiting hours: 8:00AM – 7:00PM
Trip Duration: Around 1 Hour
Charges: Free
8. Sarkara Devi Temple
This is a famous temple among locals and tourists, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. If you are visiting the temple you must visit it in March month to enjoy the Kaliyoot festival and Meenabharani festival. Meenabhrani festival is a must-see because in this festival the Goddess Bhadrakali is taken to Bhagavathy palace on elephants.
Visiting hours: 5:00AM – 6:00PM
Trip Duration: Around 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
9. Varkala Aquarium
This Aquarium is located near Odayam beach and this place is also one of the most visited places in Varkala. If you are a nature-enthusiasts, you must visit the place to see the species of fishes and marine life. For tourists, a 3D show is organized where you will be given information about marine species. The place is a perfect spot for a picnic.
Visiting hours: 9:00AM – 6:00PM
Trip Duration: Around 1 hour
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10. Ponnumthuruthu Island
The beauty of the island is untouched by humans and is surrounded by Varkala lake. The island is covered with lush green forest and coconut trees. One of the best things you can do here is boating and bird watching. Various species of migratory birds halt here that make the place paradise for photography and nature lovers. The Island is a perfect spot for a picnic and can be reached by boat. On the Island, you can visit the ancient temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Visiting hours: 10:00AM – 4:00PM
Trip Duration: Around 1 hour
Entry Fee: INR10
11. Sivagiri Mutt
This is an ashram of Shri Narayan Guru, located on the Sivagiri hills. Any person can visit the place as the concept of the ashram is “One caste, One religion, One God”. Every year from 30th December to 1st January Sivagiri pilgrimage is conducted. The rituals are performed during pilgrimage and devotees who come here are required to purify themselves.
Visiting hours: 5:00AM – 9:00PM
Entry fee: Free
Trip Duration: Around 2-3 hours
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Frequently Asked Question?
By Air – There is no direct flight to the Varkala You need to hire a taxi from Trivandrum International Airport that is the only nearest Airport.
By Rail – Varkala has its own railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is connected to all major states of India.
By Road – There are regular bus and taxis services all around the city.
The cuisines of Varkala are the same as other parts of Kerala but in most of the restaurants, you will see only seafood. Vegetarian food is also available that will satisfy your hunger and taste buds. You can even enjoy the nightlife in bars.
Famous Restaurants – Sreepadam, Oottupura, vegetarian restaurant, hunger eye kitchen, Trattorias restaurant, Café del mar
Winter season is the best time to visit Varkala. You will be able to enjoy your tour and activities comfortably in between October and February.
