Varkala is a coastal town in the southern part of Kerala known for the unique 15-meter-high 'Northern Rock' adjacent to the Arabian Sea. It is popular for its hippie culture, rock huts serving great seafood and global music, and the samadhi of Kerala saint Sree Narayana Guru. Varkala is also known as Jardana Swamy Temple, also known as Dakshin Kashi.
Varkala has some of the best pristine beaches, hills, lakes, forts, lighthouses, natural fisheries and waterfalls – all of which together make this city a little paradise. You'll also find many shops selling yoga mats with signboards in Hebrew, oxidized silver jewelry, and cotton harem pants. The ayurvedic clinics, affordable hostels, resorts, and clean Black beaches make it a must-visit city in Kerala.
Varkala
Varkala was once known as Udaya Marthandapuram after the 16th century Travancore king Udaya Marthanda Varma, who contributed greatly to the development of this small coastal town. Sometimes referred to as Southern Varanasi, Varkala has some fascinating legends attached to its historical origins. According to popular myth, King Pandian built the 2000-year-old Janardhana Swamy temple here as an atonement for his sins as per the instructions of Lord Brahma. Another story tells the story of a group of pilgrims who sought the help of Lord Narada to atone for their sins. The lord threw his loincloth or valkalam, which landed on the seashore, thus naming the city. Pilgrims had to pray here for the remission of sins, giving rise to the tradition of Papanasam or by taking a dip in the holy waters of the sea.
Dangers and Thing
1-Carry a flashlight as power cuts are frequent and the beach gets quite dark after sunset
2-Use caution when walking the rock path at night, as it can be pretty slippery and some areas are not fenced
3-There are a lot of insects on the beach, including mosquitoes, so it's a good idea to come prepared with mosquito repellent.
It's better to dress traditionally at the beach, in keeping with local sensibilities
4-Wear a sarong over your bikini. Also stay away from drunken strangers, and beggars. Varkala has dangerously strong currents, and even expert swimmers must be vigilant in the water.
Local Food in Varkala
The cuisine here is similar to that of its surrounding regions, with slightly greater dominance of seafood and a unique culture about it. Seafood is caught by fishermen and displayed in front of so many restaurants. You can choose your own food from the source, prepare it in a tandoor and enjoy the sunset while you savour one of the freshest items in the state. Vegetarian food is also available in many places. Bars are also spread across the city.
