About

Varkala is a sea side resort, as well as an important Hindu centre of pilgrimage. High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline. The 2000 year old Janardana Swamy Temple and the Nature Centre are the two main attractions here. High cliffs border the excellent beach.

This beautiful beach also has a more than 2000 years old shrine of Lord Vishnu. The beach is rich in mineral water springs that are known for their medicinal value. A dip in the holy waters of this beach is believed to purge the body and the soul of all the sins hence the name 'Papanashini' for this shore. At the break of dawn following the new moon in the Malayalam month of 'Karkidakam', thousands offer 'Vavu Bali', a ritual believed to help the souls of ancestors rest in peace.

Beach Activities at Varkala
When you've had enough of lazing in the sun and are ready for some action and fun, you can participate in any of the numerous beach activities offered on the beautiful Indian beaches! For instance, you could indulge in any of the exciting water sports such as surfing or parasailing, or go swimming in the clear blue sea, or even try your hand at building a sand castle or playing a game of beach volleyball!

Parasailing
High fliers amongst the speed lovers can take to the exhilarating sport of parasailing where a 300 feet long rope is attached to the parasail harness at one end and to the speed boat at the other. The sailor is on the shore in a harness, and when the boat takes off he takes a step or two and is lifted into the air, with the parasail lifting behind him!

Scuba diving
Scuba diving lays open the wonders of the deep to you, as attractive coral heads, lobsters, bright colored, fish, shells and sometimes even an old wreck all invite exploration. Windsurfing in another very enjoyable activity where you can test your co-ordination and balancing skills against the might of the waves! You could also try your hand at deep-sea fishing.

A beach combing expedition is another activity that can be a load of fun, and that turns up unexpected treasures and delights!

In case you don't want to indulge in any water sport, you could go for shopping at any one of the frequently held beach bazaars. These bazaars are always abuzz with activity and full of little trinkets and souvenirs that you could take home with you. You can indulge in any number of beach activities in Varkala and the best part about it all is that all you need is loads of enthusiasm and you'll have an absolutely unforgettable time!

Water Sports
Water sports are one of the most thrilling beach activities, and some of the Indian beaches have the best of aqua-sport equipment such as water-scooters and high-speed boats. In fact, India is fast emerging as an Asian adventure sports destination with immense scope in various kinds of water sports.

Water loving speed freaks will not be able to resist getting into a speedboat. Sleek with a growling, throaty engine, these thoroughbred speedboats are compelling machines that make the sea your road.