Varkala is a quite and peaceful hamlet in the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandum), Kerala, known for its pious aura and beautiful Varkala Beach. Also known as Papanasam Beach, Varkala Beach is a long and stunning stretch of golden sand renowned for its tranquility and serene vibes. The backdrop of the Arabian Sea set against the cliffs of Varkala is a sight to behold as these sedimentary formation peaks are not easily found anywhere else in Kerala.
The pristine beach is divided into two parts with the southern area lying at the end of road leading from the sacred Janardhan Swamy Temple, while the northern part of the beach is more popular amongst tourists for its natural mineral spring and a stunning panoramic view. Varkala Beach is also famous for its water which is regarded to have medicinal and curative properties and a dip in the holy water is said to cleanse the body from all impurities and sins and is thus named as Papanasam Beach, which means ‘Destroyer of Sins’.
If you are a sunset or sunrise lover, Varkala beach will never disappoint you with its picturesque setting and a long walk along the shoreline is what you need to relax your mind and soul. For seafood lovers, there are plenty of stalls and eating joints nearby offering some lip-smacking delicacies. Varkala beach also offers a host of adventure activities such as windsurfing, parasailing, and snorkeling and surfing at Varkala beach is something one must try once in life.
Surfing in Varkala is top of the offering for wave hunters in Kerala with a string of long, cliff-backed beaches colored with hues of gold and consistent chest-high swells. Varkala Beach is one of those with mellow and mushy ride breaks that are not very much up to the level for an advanced surfer but is very beginner friendly.
Varkala beach generates waves for all surfers in different seasons from beginners to advanced level. The cool and pristine waters of Varkala beach is said to have medicinal properties which makes the beach even more alluring to surf. The availability of several surf schools dotting the line of Varkalal beach and other places in Varkala is a highlight for surfers and for those who want to try this thrilling activity.
Surf Schools: Varkala, apart from a jovial spot full of fun and serene views of the nature, is also an adventure spot and especially for surf enthusiasts. There are some of the best surf schools in the town and a few are mentioned below:
Phone – 9207703868
Phone – 9895842538
Phone – 9846605061
Phone – 9037158575
Phone – 9746776690
Where to Stay :
There are several surf hotels and surf hostels dotting the cliff od Varkala that provide accommodation and some of them even have surf classes. These stays also offer food along with lodging facilities and all other necessities. Some of the best places to stay near Varkala Beach are:
Things to Remember:
We all know that keeping rational while enjoying such a thrilling activity can be a little challenging, but if you are planning to register yourself for a surfing lesson or plan to go surfing, here are some things to remember:
For beginners, the peak season between November and February is the best time to surf in Varkala beach as the swells are consistent but shallow.
The months of October and March are good for those who prefer clean and more consistent larger waves, that is for the intermediates.
The monsoon season between June and August brings great swells and are ideal for advanced surfers who want some thrill. But keep in mind that it is the wet season, and you might have to postpone the session due to heavy rains and getting skunked down in the lashing waves should not be a surprise.
There are many shacks and restaurants near Varkala Beach for foodies and seafood lovers. From Tibetan food to Indian and other continental cuisines, there is something for everyone. Some of the best restaurants here are:
Varkala beach is famous for its pristine views and natural spring waters which are said to have healing properties. The historic Janardhanaswamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt near the beach adds to its allure.
Yes, Varkala beach is safe and a haven to swim and surf with beginner-friendly waves which also have medicinal properties making it even more popular.
Surfing cost starts with INR1700 in Varkala and there are some surf schools in and around the town which take surfing lessons for beginners as well as trained surfers.
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