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Varkala Beach

Varkala in the state of Kerala is a small village at a distance of 51 km north of Thiruvananthapuram city and 24 km south of Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram district, in the southern part of Kerala. Varkala is best for those who are looking for a quite holiday far from the busy schedule of the city. Varkala is best visited during the season, when the beach extends out all around the cliff face for 500 meters. Bordered by high cliffs, the Varkala beach is excellent throughout the year, but during the winters, the peak season (starting from December till January & February), it is heavily crowded. During the off season, the beach is quite with peaceful green surroundings and less crowd, when you can laze around, stroll by the sea water, swim or just relax to make your days absolutely wonderful, at most reasonable rates.

Also known as the ' Papanashini', Varkala is believed to purify the body and soul of the pilgrims, who come here to take a holy dip in the holy waters of the beach.

Key Attractions :

The Janardana Swamy Temple
This place is a fine blend of sea resort and an important Hindu centre of pilgrimage. Dating back to 12th century, the 2000 year old Janardana Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the three trinities of Hindu religion.

The Sivagiri Mutt
Planned and designed by Sree Narayana Guru (1856 - 1928), a spiritual leader and social reformer of Kerala, the Sivagiri Mutt is the samadhi (final resting place) of Sree Narayana Guru. The mutt was built in 1904, and is situated at the top of the Sivagiri hill near Varkala. The place is thronged by a large number of devotees coming from different parts of the country every year during the Sivagiri Pilgrimage days - 30th December to 1st January.

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» The Papanashini Beach : This beach is believed to purify the body and the soul of all the pilgrims who takes a dip in its holy water, hence called 'Papanashini' (destroyer of sins). In the new moon day of the Malayalam month of 'Karkidakam' at the break of dawn, thousands come to the beach to offer 'Vavu Bali', a ritual believed to help the souls of ancestors rest in peace.

» The Nature Cure Centre : This is one most visited place located near Varakala Beach. The centre here offers natural treatment to the visitors.

Climatic
Varkala has a moderate climate, with heavy rains during the monsoons (June-August). Winter starts from December and continues till February. Temperature range : 35°C and 25°C; Annual average rainfall is 310 cm. However the best time to visit is between the months of September & May.

Wheels to Varkala
» By Air : Thiruvananthapuram international airport at a distance of 57 km is the nearest airport from Varkala. During the peak season charter flights operate from France and Britain to Trivandrum.

» By Rail : Varkala owns a railway station, hence travelling by rail is not problem here.

» By Road : Travelling by road is easy in Varkala. It is easily accessible from all the parts of the Kerala state and the neighbouring states too.