Varkala Beach is a quiet beach along the southwestern coast of India. It is located in Varkala town in Thiruvananthapuram district. Unlike other bustling tourist hotspots, Varkala beach offers a peaceful retreat. There are many massage centres, as well as yoga and meditation centres near the beach. You can take a walk along the shore, collect seashells, or simply sit on the cliffs and watch the beautiful sunset as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours.

Papanasam
The Varkala Beach is also known as the Papanasam beach. It is one of the main beaches at Varkala and famous for its religious significance. Close to the Papanasam beach is the ancient Janardhana Swamy temple or Varkala temple which is probably one of the oldest Hindu temples in Kerala. The temple is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu in the form of Janardana swamy.

It is believed that when you pray at the temple and take a dip in the waters, your body will be free of impurities and your soul will be absolved of sins. Hence, the name ‘Papanasam’, which translates to ‘destruction of sins’. Janardana swamy temple is also considered as an auspicious place to do 'pitrkarma' or the ritual of offering obeisance to departed souls. They believe that, through this ritual, the soul of the deceased will get moksha or eternal salvation. 

Varkala Formation
Varkala beach has a remarkable stretch of red laterite cliffs. It is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the sea. The cliffs have been declared a national geological monument by the Geological Survey of India. It is a unique geological feature on the otherwise flat Kerala coast, and is known among geologists as the ‘Varkala Formation’.

Adventure Sports
Varkala beach offers a variety of adventure sports such as surfing, parasailing, paragliding and stand-up paddle-boarding. Whether speeding across the waves or soaring above the coastline, adventure seekers are guaranteed an unforgettable experience. With experienced guides to assist, water sports in Varkala is for adventurers of all ages. 

There are also many eateries and shops selling curios, clothing, books and more.