The Janardhanaswamy Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu with a beautiful architecture located on the hilltop overlooking the Arabian Sea. The temple, built in the traditional Kerala style, is surrounded by lush coconut groves and gives a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The temple tank located nearby is said to have medicinal properties, and people often take a dip in the holy waters seeking blessings from the deity. Be sure to visit the elephant sanctuary housed in the temple complex where you can watch elephants take a bath and receive blessings from the gods.
The scenic Varkala Cliff Beach is a popular tourist destination with a pleasant ambiance, calm waters, and a beautiful sunset view. The rock formations around the cliff beach are said to be over 500 million years old, and you can even find fossils along the beach. The beach has plenty of restaurants that serve authentic Kerala cuisine, and it's an ideal spot to unwind and watch the stunning view of the sunset.
The Sivagiri Mutt is a spiritual center located atop Sivagiri hill and the final resting place of the renowned social reformer and philosopher, Sree Narayana Guru. The complex has many buildings that showcase some impressive architecture, and there is also a peaceful and serene meditation hall, which is open to the public. Be sure to explore the museum housing various personal belongings of the Guru and learn about his contributions to society.
The Varkala Beach is one of the cleanest and most picturesque beaches in Kerala with a soothing ambiance and breathtaking views of the Arabian sea and the Varkala Cliff. The beach has many activities such as beach yoga, swimming, surfing, and parasailing. The beach is flanked by coconut palms, and you can have a calming and relaxing time experiencing the sea breeze while enjoying a wide range of organic food from the local shacks.
If you have more time, you can explore the mesmerizing natural beauty of the Kappil beach or take a day trip to the nearby Varkala Lighthouse, and be sure to try out the delicious seafood at the local restaurants. If you have less time, skip Janardhanaswamy Temple and head straight to Varkala Cliff Beach, and spend more time relaxing on the beach and trying out the local delicacies. The Sivagiri Mutt can be visited in the morning, and you can spend the rest of the day exploring the beach.