Varkala Attractions
Varkala is located in a cliff-top setting with excellent beaches and a peaceful resort setting. Varkala's main beach, Papanasam is a long, golden beach with red laterite cliffs as a backdrop from which mineral water springs forth. Papanasam is a holy beach, which means 'destroyer of the sins' and the mineral water that flows is known for their medicinal qualities.
The forest of coconut trees house many kinds of wildlife, birdlife and butterflies.
The town of Varkala is also famous for Janardhana Temple, which was rebuilt in the 13th C. There are several smaller shrines that date from an earlier period located around the temple.
The forest of coconut trees house many kinds of wildlife, birdlife and butterflies.
The town of Varkala is also famous for Janardhana Temple, which was rebuilt in the 13th C. There are several smaller shrines that date from an earlier period located around the temple.
Sri Janardhana Temple
Sri Janardhana Temple is a granite structure, rebuilt in the architectural style of the Chola period during the 13th C. Surrounding the temple are Banyan trees and shrines that are said to be older than the Sri Janardhana Temple itself. Non-Hindus may be invited onto the grounds of the temple but may not enter the temple.
On the cliff near the Janardhana Temple is the old palace of the Travancore Princely State, which has been converted into a government guesthouse.
On the cliff near the Janardhana Temple is the old palace of the Travancore Princely State, which has been converted into a government guesthouse.
