Located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, Varkala sits about 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram. You can access the area via State Highway 64, National Highway 66, or the Varkala railway station. For air travel, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is situated approximately 57 km away. Historically connected to regional waterways via the 19th-century Varkala Tunnel system, this municipality provides a direct link to coastal southern India.
The coastal scenery is highlighted by a 7.5 km stretch of dramatic cliff formations along the Arabian Sea, declared a National Geological Monument. Formed by sedimentary rock erosion and tectonic upliftment, these sandstone beds date back to the Miocene–Pliocene era. The area includes Varkala Beach—also known as Papanasam beach—which features water springs, as well as the nearby Thiruvambady beach, known for its distinctive black sand near the northern cliffs.
Varkala holds deep spiritual significance as a pilgrimage site, often referred to as the Varanasi of the South. Local tradition holds that taking a dip in the ocean at Papanasam beach absolves sins, making it a prominent spot for the Hindu tradition of Vavu beli. The atmosphere is further enriched by nearby historic sites, including the 2,000-year-old Janardana Swami Temple dedicated to Vishnu, the Sivagiri Mutt ashram, and the Varkala Cultural Centre.
This destination suits culture enthusiasts, pilgrims, and nature lovers alike. Visitors can explore local traditions, experience Kathakali performances at the cultural center, or take part in bird watching on nearby Ponnumthuruthu Island. The coastal town also features dedicated ayurveda centers situated close to the main beach area.
01 Highlights & things to do
What makes this stretch of coast worth the trip — from the water to the walks, wildlife and the views.
Compiled from Wikipedia · conditions vary with weather, tides and the season.
Beach map & the area
The free OpenStreetMap layer below shows the beach and its surroundings — the coastline, access roads, nearby towns and where to park. Zoom in for detail, or open it live in a full map.
Map: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL, free).
02 Getting there
| Option | Detail |
|---|---|
| Nearest Airport | Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (57 km away) |
| Train | Varkala railway station |
| Road | State Highway 64 and National Highway 66 |
Getting there · Last updated: 2026-09-12 · always double-check access & ferries
03 Best time to visit & the water
| Season | When | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Monsoon | June to August | Brings the majority of the region's 310 cm average annual rainfall. |
| Winter | December to February | Offers mild winter conditions. |
| Summer | Summer | Experiences average temperatures of 32 °C (90 °F). |
Conditions vary with weather, tides & season · Last updated: 2026-09-12
04 Nearby & around
Other beaches, coves, towns and sights within easy reach — worth stringing together into a coastal day.
Good to know
- The 7.5 km stretch of Varkala cliffs is a protected National Geological Monument.
- Ayurveda centers are located conveniently close to the main beach.
- Varkala Beach (Papanasam beach) is an active site for sacred rituals, including Vavu beli.