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Varkala is one of the quiet stretches of the Arabian Sea coast, situated in the southern part of the socio-culturally progressive state of Kerala. It is also renowned for Varkala temples and their importance in terms of cultural & historical heritage. Varkala is niched not only for its cliff formations and lovely beach but also for its religious heritage. With its several temples, Varkala has now become a beautiful religious state of architectural importance to visit.
10 Best Temples In Varkala
Discover the spiritual soul of Varkala through the top 10 Varkala temples, each of which provides rich religious tradition and architectural splendour.
1. Janardhana Swamy Temple
Photo : Alexey Komarov / Wikimedia Commons
Janardhana Swamy Temple, housing The Melenaaker, is one of the famous temples in Varkala and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Observers assume that it must be over two thousand years old and demonstrates the architectural Calamity of ancient Kerala. The temple has a large gopuram and intricate carvings that attract more devotees and sightseers. The essential annual festival performed here is the Arattu, which has turned the temple into a centre of lively and pious festivities.
Distance from Varkala: 1 Km
How to Reach: Easily accessible by road from Varkala railway station and bus stand
Timings: Open daily from early morning to evening
Address: Janardhana Swamy Temple Road, Varkala, Kerala
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2. Sivagiri Mutt
Photo : Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image for representation only
Sivagiri Mutt, located near Varkala, is a well-known spiritual centre founded by the acclaimed social reformer Sree Narayana Guru in the early twentieth century. This beautiful ashram is the headquarters of Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham and is a popular temple in Varkala for the Guru’s teaching devotees. The Mutt is spread amid beautiful countryside and houses the Guru’s samadhi (final resting place) and various meditation halls. The yearly Sivagiri Pilgrimage draws thousands of people, emphasising the values of education, cleanliness, and harmony.
Distance from Varkala: Approximately 5 km
How to Reach: Reachable by road; taxis and auto-rickshaws available from Varkala
Timings: Open daily, with specific hours for meditation and prayer
Address: Sivagiri, Varkala, Kerala
3. Anchuthengu Fort Temple
Photo : Ajish R / Wikimedia Commons / Image for representation only
Anchuthengu Fort Temple combines colonial and traditional architectural elements in the ancient Anchuthengu Fort in Varkala. The British East India Company erected the fort in the late 17th century, and it now houses this remarkable temple devoted to indigenous deities. The temple is respected for its historical significance and cultural legacy, attracting people interested in spirituality and history. The temple, surrounded by beautiful flora and overlooks the Arabian Sea, offers a calm getaway. Annual festivals and rituals draw devotees who come to seek blessings and participate in lively celebrations.
Distance from Varkala: About 12 km
How to Reach: Accessible via NH66; local buses and taxis are available
Timings: Open during daylight hours
Address: Anchuthengu, Varkala, Kerala
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4. Shree Saraswathy Temple
Photo : B.K.Viswanadh / Wikimedia Commons / Image for representation only
The Shree Saraswathy Temple in Varkala is devoted to Goddess Saraswathy, the divinity of wisdom, music, and the arts. This holy temple in Varkala, recognised for its peaceful environment and exquisite architecture, serves as a sanctuary for students and academics seeking the goddess’ graces for academic and artistic achievement. The temple enthusiastically celebrates the annual Navaratri festival, which includes lively cultural performances, devotional music, and unique ceremonies. Devotees crowd the temple for Vidyarambham, a festival that marks the entry of young children into the realm of education.
Distance from Varkala: 1 Km
How to Reach: Within walking distance from Varkala railway station and bus stand
Timings: Open daily, morning to evening
Address: Varkala, Kerala
5. Kizhakkekara Sree Krishna Swamy Temple
Photo : Gopi Kottamuri / Wikimedia Commons / Image for representation only
Kizhakkekara Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, located near Varkala, is a prominent Hindu temple devoted to Lord Krishna. The temple, known for its historical significance and architectural splendour, draws worshippers with its elaborate carvings and lively religious events. The temple is well-known for its yearly Utsavam, a colourful celebration that features traditional dance, music, and rituals. Pilgrims come throughout the year to seek blessings and participate in the temple’s spiritual atmosphere. Surrounded by thick vegetation, the Kizhakkekkara Sree Krishna Swamy Temple provides a tranquil sanctuary for meditation and introspection.
Distance from Varkala: About 4 km
How to Reach: Accessible by road; taxis and local buses are available
Timings: Open daily, with specific hours for darshan
Address: Kizhakkekara, Varkala, Kerala
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6. Papanasam Beach Temple
Photo : Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image for representation only
Papanasam Beach Temple, set amid Varkala’s gorgeous coastline, has immense spiritual value as a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. It is thought that a plunge in the holy waters here wipes away sins (“Papanasam” translates to “destroyer of sins”). The temple draws devotees who come to perform ancestral rites and get blessings. Its tranquil beachfront setting heightens the spiritual experience, especially during the annual Arattu festival when colourful processions and ceremonies beautify the ambience. The Papanasam Beach Temple provides a peaceful refuge, combining religious devotion with the natural beauty of Kerala’s coastline.
Distance from Varkala: About 3 Km
How to Reach: Walking distance from Varkala Beach; accessible by road
Timings: Open daily, with specific times for rituals
Address: Papanasam, Varkala, Kerala
7. Vishnu Temple
Photo : Siva Prasad Sujatha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Vishnu Temple, located near Varkala, is a famous Hindu sanctuary devoted to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu trinity. The temple, known for its architectural splendour and spiritual holiness, attracts devotees looking for comfort and blessings. It is known for its yearly festivities, which feature ancient ceremonies and lively processions honouring the god. The temple’s tranquil ambience, surrounded by beautiful foliage, creates a peaceful environment for prayer and meditation. Vishnu Temple is an integral part of Varkala’s religious and cultural fabric, providing tourists with a look into centuries-old customs and instilling a sense of spiritual fulfilment.
Distance from Varkala: 1 Km
How to Reach: Easily accessible by road, near Varkala railway station
Timings: Open daily, from early morning to evening
Address: Varkala, Kerala
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8. Bhagavathy Temple
Photo : Gangadharan Pillai / Wikimedia Commons / Image for representation only
The Bhagavathy Temple is an important temple in Varkala devoted to the Goddess Bhagavathy, who represents feminine power and divinity. The temple complex’s elaborate architecture and sculptures represent traditional Kerala style. It features yearly festivities such as Bhadrakali Pattu, which feature vivid rituals and ceremonial processions. The temple, set in calm surroundings, provides a peaceful setting for prayer and contemplation. The Bhagavathy Temple signifies dedication and reverence, adding to Varkala’s spiritual history via its hallowed presence.
Distance from Varkala: 1 Km
How to Reach: Within walking distance from Varkala railway station and bus stand
Timings: Open daily, morning to evening
Address: Varkala, Kerala
9. Subrahmanya Swami Temple
Photo : Soorajna / Wikimedia Commons / Image for representation only
Subrahmanya Swami Temple in Varkala is devoted to Lord Subrahmanya (also known as Murugan), the Hindu god of combat and victory. This ancient temple is historically significant and architecturally beautiful, with elaborate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere. Devotees come throughout the year, especially during the annual Kavadi festival, to seek blessings and participate in religious ceremonies. The Subrahmanya Swami Temple is a tribute to faith and dedication, maintaining the region’s cultural legacy and religious traditions linked with Lord Subrahmanya.
Distance from Varkala: Approximately 3 km
How to Reach: Accessible by road; local transport options available
Timings: Open daily, with specific hours for darshan
Address: Varkala, Kerala
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10. Sarkara Devi Temple
Photo : Binoy Jsdk / Wikimedia Commons
The Sarkara Devi Temple, located in the peaceful surroundings of Varkala, Kerala, is a respected temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. The yearly festival, Sarkara Bharani, is a prominent feature, attracting pilgrims from all around to watch vivid rituals and traditional art displays. The temple’s construction combines traditional Kerala style with beautiful wood carvings and lavish ornamentation, resulting in a peaceful environment suited to prayer and introspection. Sarkara Devi Temple illustrates Kerala’s cultural history and people’s ongoing devotion to the divine feminine.
Distance from Varkala: Approximately 5 km
How to Reach: Sarkara Devi Temple can be reached by road from Varkala, typically via local taxis or private vehicles
Timings: Open from early morning to late evening
Address: Sarkara Devi Temple, Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, India
Exploring the Varkala temples reveals a tapestry of spirituality and cultural history. Each site provides insight into Kerala’s varied traditions, from the calm Sivagiri Mutt to the historic Janardanaswamy Temple. Discover the core of Varkala’s unique beauty, where history and devotion coexist in peaceful surroundings. Plan your spiritual travel with TripXL and discover the magical appeal of these hallowed destinations.
Cover Photo : Dev / Wikimedia Commons
