A quiet seaside destination on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Varkala is, with each passing day, becoming a favorite destination of tourists from various parts of India and abroad.The beach offers a magnificent view of the sun rise and sun set that few destinations in kerala boast of.

Situated in Trivandrum district and 40 kms from the capital city, Varkala is also an important Hindu pilgrimage center being the eternal resting place of the eminent social reformer Sri Narayana Guru.

This secluded beach known as the Papanasham beach is a beautiful picnic center. The High cliffs with mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline giving the visitors a spectacular view. The best time to visit the beach is when the beach extends up to the very cliff face giving an additional 500 meters of serene beach space. This happens during the months of December/ January/February. The other places of tourism atrraction include The Janardhana Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Anjengo Fort, Yoga, Ayurveda, & Massage centres.

The main festivals, Onam and Vishu are celebrated in a grandeur manner. The Kathakali, Ottanthullal and music concerts are performed in the surroundings of the old Devaswom building during December and January.