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The beautiful coastal town of Varkala sits in the southern part of Kerala and is the only place where the hills are close to the sea. It is one of nature's most beautiful creations and the Discovery Channel has gone ahead and named this place as one of the 'Top Ten Seasonal Beaches in India'.
What makes this town even more beautiful are its various backwaters and inland waterways. Tourists coming from outside the country have likened Varkala to Venice. It is a major hub for travellers who come to relax and rejuvenate themselves in the arms of nature here. Here is a guide to the places to visit in Varkala.
Varkala Beach
One of the places to visit in Varkala is the Varkala Beach, known for the Vavu Beli, a Hindu ritual performed here. Tourists coming here can enjoy the sandy beaches, the calm sea and the cool sea breeze. It is a perfect place to either relax under the sun or to indulge in some beach games like volleyball.
Photo Courtesy: Koshy Koshy
Sivagiri Math
A tourist place in Varkala is the Sivagiri Math, the final resting place of the renowned social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. It is visited by devotees and tourists who come here to learn more about the guru's teachings. He is believed to have said that world has 'One Caste, One Religion and One God'. It is a spiritual place, and you can find people meditating in various places here.
Photo Courtesy: Native Planet
Paravur
Another place to visit in Varkala is the small town of Paravur, known for its estuaries and backwaters. A trip here is absolutely refreshing as you get to be one with nature and be lost in the beauty that surrounds you. Tourists come here in large numbers to enjoy boat rides in its backwaters.
Photo Courtesy: Arunvrparavur
Varkala Tunnel
Another tourist place in Varkala is the Varkala Tunnel measuring 281.63 mt long, it was constructed in 1867. The tunnel was built by the then Deewan of Travancore, T. Mahadeva Rao, for the purpose of providing inland waterways to the Attingal Palace. Tourists coming here can go for a boat ride.
Photo Courtesy: Binoyjsdk
Janardana Swami Temple
Another place to visit in Varkala is the Janardana Swami Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is said to be 2,000 years old and is facing towards Papasnanam Beach. Devotees coming here head to the temple pond and take a dip in the water here which they believe cleanses them of their sins before heading to the temple. Tourists coming here can explore this ancient temple and thereafter head to the beach.
Photo Courtesy: Binoyjsdk
How to Reach Varkala
By Air: The nearest airport is located at Trivandrum that is around 55 km from Varkala. It is well-connected with the major cities in the country.
By Train: There are frequent trains Varkala Railway Station to the other parts of Kerala. It is connected with other major rail heads in South India.
By Road: Varkala is well-connected by road to all parts of the Kerala and Tamil Nadu. KSRTC Bus depot is close by the railway station. KSRTC operates frequent bus services to Varkala from all the important towns in South India.
Photo Courtesy: Thierry Leclerc
