Varkala is a popular beach for foreign tourists and a site of religious and historical importance for Indians. But of course one can combine both to plan a perfect holiday sprinkled with fun and frolic, enriched with spirituality and history.

Varkala is the only place in Kerala where one can find cliffs adjacent to sea. It has two main beaches, Papanasham Beach and Thiruvambadi Beach. Papanasham Beach has golden sand while Thiruvambadi Beach has black. There is a popular belief amongst the residents of the town that taking a holy dip in the sea from Papanasham Beach will relieve one of all the sins. The clean beach sits pretty amidst lush green coconut trees and latterite cliffs.

Regular bus service is available from Thiruvananthapuram. The distance is 40 km.

November to March

There are no Kerala Tourism hotels in Varkala.

Private Accommodation

Hilltop Beach Resort
Tel: (0470) 2601237

Hill View Beach Resort
Tel: (0470) 2607221

Golden Beach
Tel: (0470) 2609555

The beaches at Varkala have very strong currents. It is advised to be careful and swim between the flags or ask the lifeguards for the best place to swim.

Papanasham Beach is safe for swimming from October to February.