Janardhana Swamy Temple
This ancient temple, believed to be 2000 years old, is built in the traditional Kerala architectural style. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is an important shrine of pilgrimage for the Vaishnavites. This temple is the very reason why Varkala is nicknamed ‘Dakshin Kashi’ or ‘Benares of the South’. Exquisite painted carvings adorn the roof-top of the temple. There is a huge banyan tree in the vicinity of the temple with carved idols of the serpent gods scattered around. Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the inner walls of the temple, but can stroll around the premises.
Sivagiri Mutt
The Mutt houses the ‘Samadhi’ or burial vault of the famous scholar, saint and visionary of Kerala – Sri Narayana Guru. The Guru, who fought against the religious intolerance spread across the state, promulgated the ideology of ‘one caste, one religion and one god for men’. Thousands of pilgrims flock to the Mutt for the ‘Jayanthi’ or the guru’s birth celebrations in August, and his ‘Samadhi’ or death anniversary in September each year. On these two days religious intercourses, rallies, seminars, public meetings, community feasts and unique rituals are held. Apart from this, the annual Sivagiri pilgrimage season popularly known as ‘Sivagiri Theerthadanam’ is held during the last week of December drawing hordes of pilgrims.
Varkala Beach
Blessed abundantly by nature, Varkala beach is counted amongst one of the top beach destinations of the country. The beauty of this beach is further accentuated by the surrounding cliffs covered with palm groves. These cliffs, named ‘Varkala Formations’ by Geologists, are unique to the region. The beach is also frequented by Hindu devotees as it is believed that the sea has the power to absolve sins. Special prayers and offerings are done on the beach for the departed souls by devout Hindus, during the Malayalam month of ‘Karkkidakam’. The beach is also famous for its mineral water sprouts that are believed to have healing properties.
Varkala Tunnel
The Varkala Tunnel, a 924 ft long tunnel, was built more than a century ago to aid the seafaring trade between Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. The tunnel built in engineering perfection provides ample natural light and air circulation.
Kappil Lake
Kappil Lake is a less-explored, quiet and scenic spot, ideal for a relaxing cruise enjoying the captivating beauty of the landscape. The surrounding area is draped in lush greenery including numerous coconut grooves. As a stepping stone towards tapping into the vast tourism potential of the area, a boat club has been recently built here.
Anjengo Fort
Anjengo Fort was a stronghold bastion of the British in the coastal belt of Kerala. Built in the 17th century, the remnants of the old English fort and its cemetery are now protected national heritage monuments. The earliest sepulcher in the cemetery dates back to 1704 AD.
Kaduvayil Thangal Dargah
Located at a distance from Varkala near Kallambalam, this Dargah houses the tomb of a local Muslim saint. People from all walks of life, irrespective of their faiths, flock to this shrine to receive the saint’s blessings.