Destination Varkala

Destination Varkala, India

Varkala is a coastal town in the southern part of Kerala, India. Known for its stunning cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea, Varkala offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. It is a prominent tourist destination, attracting visitors with its pristine beaches, religious sites, and vibrant local culture.

Varkala

Historical Sites and Attractions

  1. Varkala Beach: Also known as Papanasam Beach, it is famous for its natural springs and scenic views. The beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.
  2. Janardanaswamy Temple: A 2000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.
  3. Sivagiri Mutt: The final resting place of the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The Sivagiri pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees annually.

Varkala

Surrounding Cities

  1. Thiruvananthapuram (50 km): The capital city of Kerala, known for its historic temples, museums, and the Kovalam beach.
  2. Kollam (35 km): A coastal city known for its backwaters, cashew industry, and historic significance.
  3. Alleppey (115 km): Famous for its houseboat cruises on the Kerala backwaters.

Top Hotels in Varkala

  1. The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram Varkala: A luxurious hotel offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
  2. Hindustan Beach Retreat: Located near Varkala Beach, it offers comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities.
  3. Palm Tree Heritage: Known for its eco-friendly approach and serene environment, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Nearest College

Sree Narayana College, Varkala: A reputed institution offering various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Shopping Areas

  1. Varkala Cliff Market: A vibrant market along the cliff, offering souvenirs, jewelry, clothes, and local handicrafts.
  2. Janardhanapuram Temple Market: Ideal for purchasing religious items and traditional Kerala artifacts.

Local Foods

  • Fish Curry Meals: A staple dish in Varkala, consisting of rice and fish curry.
  • Puttu and Kadala: A popular breakfast item made from steamed rice cake and black chickpeas curry.
  • Appam with Stew: Fermented rice pancakes served with vegetable or meat stew.
  • Banana Chips: A famous snack made from raw bananas, often flavored with salt or spices.

Celebrations

  • Vavu Bali: A Hindu ritual performed by devotees to honor their ancestors, usually observed at Papanasam Beach.
  • Sivagiri Pilgrimage: Held annually from December 30 to January 1, it attracts thousands of followers of Sree Narayana Guru.

Demographics

  • Population: Approximately 42,273 (as of the latest census).
  • Ranking in India: Varkala is a significant tourist destination, ranking high among coastal towns in India for its natural beauty and cultural importance.

वृकला, केरल का एक सुंदर समुद्र तटीय शहर है, जो अपने प्राचीन समुद्र तटों और धार्मिक स्थलों के लिए प्रसिद्ध है।
वृकला का आकर्षण:

  • वृकला बीच: यह प्रसिद्ध समुद्र तट अपनी प्राकृतिक सुंदरता और साफ पानी के लिए जाना जाता है।
  • जनार्दनास्वामी मंदिर: एक प्राचीन मंदिर जो भगवान विष्णु को समर्पित है।
  • स्थानीय भोजन: मछली करी भोजन, पुट्टू और कडला, अप्पम विद स्टू, केले के चिप्स।