Varkala is a unique coastal area in the south of Kerala where cliffs plunge directly to the sea below with just a handful of small crescents of golden sand which are understandably popular with swimmers and sunbathers.

The tertiary sedimentary formation cliffs are a unique geological feature in the otherwise flat Kerala coast, and are known among geologists as the Varkala Formation. A rapidly developing beach-scene here has not changed the inherently laidback character of the town, which is locally famous for its 900 year old Janardana Swami temple, an important Vaishnu shrine.

The temple is located close to Papanasam beach, whose waters are considered to have restorative powers in both a spiritual and physical sense.Another major landmark in Varkala is the Sivagiri Mutt, established by the great social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The hill-top mausoleum of Sree Narayana Guru is one of the most famous monuments in Kerala.

Way to Reach :

At a distance of 53 km Thiruvananthapuram city in Thiruvananthapuram district and 40 km from Kollam

Nearest Tourist places - Papanasam Beach,the Sivagiri Mutt,Janardhana Swami Temple, Anchengo Fort & Light House,mineral water springs and a 2000-year-old Vishnu Temple.

 By Rail - Varkala Junction, about 2.5 km away

 By Air - Trivandrum International Airport, about 60 km