Varkala,
a new destination in Kerala, is for those who prefer to do absolutely
nothing while holidaying. Due to a spillover resulting from the
over saturation of Kovalam, foreigners started coming to the town
about six years ago. The trend that started as a trickle became
a steady flow within two years. Today, there is a constant stream
of visitors. However, because of the area's comparative inaccessibility,
a large influx of 'outsiders' has not happened here. At the Varkala
platform, there is no indication that this town is on many a tourist
itinerary.
Tourist
Destinations:
» Janardana
Swamy Temple
The
Janardhana Temple was built during this period and many Hindu's
still visit Varkala to this day, for this very reason. The main
beaches and tourist area are located at the cliff top, which is
about 7 minutes walk from the Temple. The 'cliff-top' is where most
of the hotels and restaurants are located, overlooking the Arabian
Sea.
» Ashtamudi
Lake
Kollam
stands along Ashtamudi Lake and is a major attraction for its elegance
and architectural beauty. Tourists can stay here at economical rates.
» Ananda
Valleeswaram Temple
The
Ananda Valleeswaram Temple of Kollam attracts people on almost all
days. There are several Churches and Mosques around Kollam. The
Pullichira Church was established in 1700 A.D.
Mahatma Gandhi beach & park at Kochupilamoodu, Thirumullavaram
beach and Ashramam picnic village, are some of the important spots
of local sight seeing.
» Varkala
Beach
Varkala
beach is more than just beach for it carries along a religious as
well as medicinal significance. It is also one of the quietest beaches
of Kerala and resembles Kovalam in its charm. However, the added
attraction here is the lesser number of people which means more
space with little dirt
» How
to reach Varkala
By
Air : The nearest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International
airport, which is about 46 km from Varkala
By Rail : The Varkala railway station
links the tourist destination of Varkala with other places like
Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam.
By Road : An excellent road
network links Varkala to all major towns and cities in Kerala.
