Varkala: Cliffside Beauty by the Arabian Sea
Varkala is the land that’s painted blue by the vast waves and crystal-clear skies. In the past few years, Varkala has flourished and is climbing the popularity ladder with incredible speed. The relaxed town is located about 40 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, the state of Kerala’s capital. The small village of Varkala is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and relaxing vacations that a traveler should experience at least once in his or her lifetime, away from the busy city life. Once you’ve been to Varkala, you would want to come here again.
HISTORY OF VARKALA
Varkala was formerly known as Udaya Marthandapuram, after the Travancore monarch Udaya Marthanda Varma, who made significant contributions to the growth of this small coastal town, in the 16th century. Varkala, often known as the Southern Varanasi, has numerous fascinating myths surrounding its early history. As directed by Lord Brahma, King Pandyan constructed the well-known Janardhan Swami temple here, dating back 2000 years, as atonement for his misdeeds. Another tale describes a group of pilgrims who enlisted Lord Narada’s assistance in atoning for their transgressions.The Lord flung his loincloth or valkalam, which landed on the shore, thus giving the town its name. The pilgrims had to offer prayers here, because of which the custom of papanasam or the atonement of sins through a bath in the sea’s holy water was born.
ATTRACTIONS IN VARKALA
Varkala is well-known for its hippie scene, cliffside shacks that serve delicious seafood and play international music, and the samadhi of the saint Sree Narayana Guru from Kerala. It is also known for Jardana Swami Temple, popularly known as Dakshin Kashi.
Varkala is a small slice of paradise with some of the most pristine beaches, hills, lakes, forts, lighthouses, natural fisheries, and springs. Additionally, there are numerous stores selling cotton harem pants, oxidized silver jewelry, and yoga mats with Hebrew-language signboards. It is a must-visit city in Kerala because of its ayurvedic treatments, inexpensive resorts, hostels, and clean beaches.
Beaches in Varkala
Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a gorgeous stretch of sand noted for its serenity. It is located in a lovely environment about 10 miles from the serene and tranquil hamlet of Varkala in Kerala. The beach itself is divided into two halves, with the southern area of the beach located at the end of the road leading from the sacred Hindu temple of Janardhana Swamy. However, if you are a tourist, the north part of the beach which is at the base of the cliff and popular for having a natural mineral spring is worth a watch.
It is said that the water of Varkala Beach has healing and curing qualities. A dip in the holy water is said to purify the body of impurities and all sins and thus the name Papanasam Beach meaning ‘Destroyer of Sins’.
Sunsets at the Varkala Beach are extremely beautiful and call for a lovely walk along the shore. Also, if you enjoy seafood, this location is a treat for you. Some of India’s most mouthwatering and reasonably priced food may be found at the neighboring eateries.
Varkala Beach offers a variety of water sports, including parasailing and paragliding. Along the beaches, there are numerous water sport operators, allowing visitors to readily participate in a variety of enjoyable water activities.
Odayam beach is another calm beach located south of the cliff which is en route to Kappil where the coast is much more vibrant because of the many colorful boats that line the coastline. Head south to the Black Beach, which gets its name from the glossy black soil that lines its shore. This beach is quieter and less crowded, making it ideal for relaxing if you want to get away from the bustle a little more.
Varkala Cliff
The North Cliff of Varkala positioned right next to the Arabian Sea shore, offers the most breathtaking natural backdrop from night to sunrise. The cliff is a well-known coastline made up of a huge collection of ancient rock formations. It has some enormous rock formations, hillsides, warm beaches, undiscovered ruins, forts, isolated lighthouses, and serene lakes. The distinctive feature of Varkala cliff is that it appears as a dramatic horizon that is blending with the Arabian Sea. The cliffs are also named as the Varkala Formation by the Geological Survey of India. Travelers and pilgrims from all over the world are drawn to this unique creation in Kerala’s flattish coastal plains.
Varkala Cuisines and Seafood
Local fishermen catch seafood, which is then displayed in front of several restaurants. You can choose your own food from the source, have it prepared in the tandoor, and take in one of the freshest dishes the state may have to offer as the sun sets. There are many locations where vegetarian food is offered.
THINGS TO DO IN VARKALA
You can simply relax on the beach, take in some sun, go swimming, or grab your favorite drink while sitting on the cliff, and take in Varkala’s breathtaking splendor. You can visit the various beaches at Varkala and take a chill pill.
If you want to learn something new, there are many locations that offer cooking and surfing courses. You can go parasailing and fly from the cliff if the weather allows it! There’s a lot in store for all you adrenaline junkies out there.
In Varkala, there are several ayurvedic spas and treatment facilities where you can receive some soothing therapies. You can also participate in some yoga classes while you are here.
Anjengo Fort and Lighthouse, Kappil, Janardhanaswamy temple, Shivagiri Mutt, Ponnumthuruthu Island temple are few other local sightseeing places in Varkala where you can spend your time.
Varkala promises to be the ideal choice for taking in Kerala’s laid-back tranquilly, tanning, and sunshine. It is a perfect place for you to take a break from your busy life and give yourself time to relax and chill. It’s likely to be your first or last stop in Kerala depending on your flight paths, and it is sure you will extend your stay for a night or two to enjoy this beautiful and happening place.
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