The Janardana Swami Temple is a 2000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The four-story building has stunning architecture, featuring intricate stone carvings, and sculptures. Visitors can participate in the daily rituals and offerings, take a dip in the sacred pond, or attend the evening pooja. Take part in the Sakthi Abhishekam which is performed every morning.
Take a walk along the laid-back Varkala Cliff and avail a stunning view of the sea and the beach. The area is bustling with cafes, shops, juice bars, and street vendors. Stop by the Sivagiri Mutt for a peaceful and scenic place located atop a hillock nearby. Approach the 80-foot tower erected by Sree Narayana Guru in 1912 and witness the view from up there.
This historic site was built by the British East India Company in the 17th century and has been used as a Dutch exchange settlement. Built-in the defensive style of architecture, the fort has a majestic entrance, strong walls, and a watchtower. It is located by the anchorage port, providing an amazing view of the coast. Visit the lighthouse in the fort, and a small cemetery is nearby.
For a deeper immersion, veer off the beaten path and visit the lesser-known places around the town. Take a cooking class or visit the regional theatre for cultural insights. Ensure to plan the visit to places that are open on the selected day of travel and carry a lot of water to stay hydrated. It is recommended to wear light and comfortable clothing and footwear as the majority of the time is spent outdoors.