Varkala
Travel :
Varkala has now emerged as a hot spot destination of Kerala. Being in
Varkala is very momentous for tourists who intend to spend time leisurely in
the beaches of Kerala. This beach destination is an absolute favorite for
tourists, as it is here that one can spend time doing absolutely nothing
while holidaying. Varkala is basically a small town perched at a distance of
55 kms in the north of Thiruvananthapuram. However, Varkala is so quaint
that there is no indication that this town can also be on many a tourist
itinerary.
The landscape of this amazing town is what makes the coastline of Varkala
exceptional. The beach has towering cliffs that stand like silent sentinels,
guarding the sparkling waters. The visitors of Varkala are simply astounded
by the unusual land formations, the sheerness of the cliffs and the view
that the rocky cliffs offer from its top. Besides, the shining white sands,
the sky touching the blue water of the sea, the red soil of the hilltop,
yellow green paddy fields and green coconut trees together make a composite
picture of the beautiful and awesome nature of Varkala. The pristine glory
of the beaches of Varkala remain so untouched that one literally has to
climb down the cliff or scramble over rocks in order to reach the secluded
parts of the beach.
Area - 1414 sq.km
Population - 157,342
Access :
Air - Nearest International Airport is Trivandrum (55
Kms).
Rail - Alleppy & Quilon is the nearest rail route to
Varkala.
Road - Varkala is 54 kms from Thiruvananthapuram and 37
km from Kollam.
Places to visit :
Papanasam Beach (Varkala Beach)
16 kms away this Internationally renowned Beach Resort has been a favourite
haunt of tourists since the 1930s. Kovalam consists of three adjacent
crescent beaches. The Southernmost, known as the Lighthouse beach, is the
most popular Kovalam offers accommodation options to suit all budgets.
Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple
Sree Janardhana Swamy temple is a pilgrim centre for Hindus who visit this
temple in huge numbers. This temple is built on a hill top that has become a
sobriquet for the region. Non-Hindus, however, are not permitted entrance in
the inner sanctum but can hang around in the temple.
Sivagiri Mutt
This Mutt is a religious site, founded by Sree Narayana Guru (1856 –
1952), the famous philosopher and social reformer of modern Kerala. This
Mutt is also the headquarters of a religious organization, the Sree Narayana
Dharma Paripalana Sangham, established by the Guru to propagate his idea of
' One Caste, One Religion, One God'. It is between 30th December and 1st
January that 'Sivagiri Pilgrimage' is conducted every year.
Anjengo Fort
Anjengo Fort is the main garrison of the Dutch East India Company and is
situated very close to Varkala town. This fort still reminisces the powerful
position the East India Company in the state.
Varkala Tunnel
Varkala also has long a tunnel, the construction of which began in 1867 and
completed 1880. Popularly known as 'Varkala Turuthu', this tunnel was built
under the supervision of Divan Sheshaya Sasthri and was extensively used for
ferrying of goods.
Nature Cure Center
Situated near the Varkala beach, this is an excellent destination for
relaxation and rejuvenation of the body.
Excursions
:
Kappil Lake (6 kms north of Varkala) : Situated at the
outskirts of Varkala town, the lake gives way to the pictorial world of the
Kerala backwaters. The scenic beauty of the estuaries of the lake is
mesmerizing.
Mineral Springs : Located near the Varkala beach, the
mineral springs are believed to have medicinal properties. A large number of
people throng this place every year to drink and bathe in the water of the
mineral springs.
