general information

Located about is 40 kms north of the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. It takes a little more than a hour to reach the place by road from Thiruvananthapuram, which also has an airport. Varkala Beach is popular for travellers and is developing as an alternative to Kovalam. While not known as a surfing mecca, it has the potential to produce fast and hollow beach break peaks that can get hairy once the swell gets overhead. However mostly you will find mushy waves, crumbling waves.

Varkala Beach in India is also a major pilgrimage destination for the Hindus due to the famous Janardana Swamy Temple, which is over 2000 years old. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple attracts pilgrims every year to take a holy dip in the sea. The present temple complex dates back to the 12th century. There is another temple on a hilltop near the beach, dedicated to Lord (Ayyappan)Hanuman.