Varkala
The Varkala beach is popular among international tourists for its un-crowded, pristine beach. You’d love it too because it is a secluded beach just 51 kms from Thiruvananthapram. The brownish sands, the cliffs and the wide arc of the beach is unique and a sight to behold.
It is said that viewing a sunset at Varkala beach is especially breathtaking. The sky turns a red and yellow hue with shades of orange and gold. With the rocky cliffs on one side with coconut groves on it and the waves of the Arabian Sea on the other sight is majestic.
Though the sea seems mild and great for a dip, it would be good if you have good swimming skills and there are lifeguards in sight. Sometimes the undercurrents can be tricky. Varkala is of course a wonderful place for sunbathing. Being secluded and less crowded, it is a favorite haunt of foreign tourists. You can also see them playing volleyball or beach football. Join them or go parasailing, wind-surfing or scuba diving – there are facilities for it all here.
The Varkala town itself is distance away from the beach. If you are adventurous, you can go exploring the smaller beaches and thereby enjoy a whole beach to yourself, if you are lucky. The souvenir shops and restaurants lining the beach add a unique colorful and festive atmosphere to the location.
Some of the other sightseeing locations include the Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and Hanuman set atop a hill. The temple is reputed to be over 1000 years old. The entry to within the temple is strictly limited to Hindus.
The Sivagiri Mutt founded by the Sree Narayana Guru, the renowned Hindu Philosopher and reformer is a major attraction. According to the Discovery Channel, Varkala is one of the top ten seasonal beaches in the world. You can also check out the Kapil lake and the Chilakkoor Beach which are a short distance from the Varkala beach.
Another great thing about Varkala is the yummy fresh seafood cooked in typical Keralean style with lots of coconut milk, fresh ground spices and kokum. The locality also has many bars with local and international beers available.
