Looking to travel to India for your Yoga Teacher Training?
Embarking on a life-changing journey like a yoga teacher training program can challenge you on multiple levels – mental, physical and spiritual. This experience if further amplified when you travel to a foreign location far from home.
Here is where Varkala comes in– A picturesque coastal town nestled in the southern region of Kerala, a true hidden gem. Boasting pristine beaches surrounded by towering red cliffs and lush palm trees, it is a land of natural beauty.
The climate is delightful, the locals are welcoming and the overall vibe is blissful. This serene environment makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to deepen their yoga practice and fully immerse themselves in a paradise-like setting.
Furthermore Varkala has a reputation for being a safe destination to travel in Southern India.
With its beaches, hills, forts, lakes, lighthouses, temples, water sports, ayurvedic resorts and eateries you will find plenty to explore.
Here are some of our hand-picked things to try during your stay in Varkala.
Varkala Cliff – Varkala beach is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent the Arabian Sea. The Cliff is divided into North and South segments and stretches for about 2-3 kms and is popular place to go for strolls and watch sunsets.
The water of the beach is thought to be medicinal/holy in a sense. A dip in the water is said to cleanse the body of sins and is named Papanasam Beach ‘Destroyer of sins’
The golden sands of Varkala beach make it a great location kick back and relax . If you are a bit more adventurous, there are many water sports like windsurfing, parasailing, paragliding and snorkelling that you can enjoy.
Anjengo Fort – a major landmark of Anchuthengu. Situated on a land between the sea and backwaters, it is just 12 kms from Varkala en route to Kodakkavur. Built in the 1690s during the British colonial era it was the first trade settlement of the British East India company.
It served as a platform to help the British make inroads into the trade of pepper and cotton cloth. It was also the first signalling station for inbound British ships. The fort has survived through several sieges and has its place as an important piece of Kerala’s history.
Compared to other forts in Kerala, Anjengo fort looks and feels atypical with different characteristics. It is more like an enclosed bastion with high laterite walls. It has some lookout points and entrances in the east and west.
Travellers can see ancient tombstones and gardens in the fort premises.
Varkala Lighthouse is another great place to visit in Anchuthengu. Located close to the Anjengo fort is the 130 feet tall still working lighthouse.
Built by the British it was meant to be a beacon for inbound British ships.
Over two hundred spiral steps (inside the lighthouse) bring you to the top. There you are treated to a spectacular 360 degree view of the surrounding coast & backwaters.
Interested in learning to Surf? – Varkala is perhaps an ideal destination for such an endeavour. Known for its mellow swells, surfing here is beginner friendly.
There are a several locally popular surfing spots and many options for surf lodges/clubs. Here are a few places you could try:
- Sanaa Surf School – North Cliff
- Soul & Surf Kerala – South Cliff
- Moana Surf School – South Cliff
- Moon Waves Surf School – Papasanam Beach
- Surf N Sea – Near Aquarium
- Elixir Surf Club – Perumkulam
- Baywatch Surf School – Panchamama Beach Resort
Ponnumthuruthu Island also known as “Golden Island” because of the golden sand found on its shores. It is a small island located in the backwaters of Astamudi Lake.
The island is a popular destination for tourists and is only accessible by boat. Visitors can hire boats to reach the island and can also hire local guides to take them around the island. The island is home to a variety of bird species and is a great spot for bird watching and picnics.
The island has a 1000 year old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is an important temple in the area and is known for its intricate carvings and murals.
Janardhana Swami Temple is a 2000-year-old Hindu temple located in Varkala. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped as Janardhana, which means “one who removes obstacles.” The temple is considered to be one the 108 Divya Desams, which are sacred abodes of Lord Vishnu.
The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites and is considered to be a sacred site for purification and offering prayers.
The temple is also known for its beautiful architecture, with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from mythology.
Jatayu Earth Center is a theme park and tourism center located in Chandayamangalam. It is named after the mythical bird Jatayu, a character from the Hindu epic Ramayana. The park is spread across 65 acres of land and features a life-size sculpture of Jatayu, which is the largest bird sculpture in the world.
The park includes an adventure zone, a virtual reality show, cultural village and several other attractions. The park aims to be an educational and cultural center promoting the ancient Indian epic Ramayana. The park is an eco-friendly project, using solar energy and rainwater harvesting systems.
Kappil beach and lake is a popular destination situated near the village of Kappil, which is located about 7kms from Varkala. The beach is known for its beautiful scenery, with a backwater lake on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other.
The Kappil beach is one of the lesser known beaches in the area and thus less crowded than nearby beaches. The beach is surrounded by coconut groves and its a perfect place for those who want to relax in a peaceful environment.
The backwater lake is also a popular spot for boating. Visitors can hire boats to explore the lake and nearby islands. The beach is also a great spot for sunset and sunrise views.
Varkala is a great place to have a unique and breathtaking kayaking experience.
Varkala has several lakes and backwater channels. So you can choose to experience the meditative aspects of paddling in calm waters or enjoy the adventure of exploring the wilderness or coast.
Kayaking is also a great way to get some exercise and build some strength while exploring with your friends.
Here is a small list of Kayaking operators to contact
- CanFly Adventure
- Shiva Kayaking & Golden Island Boating
- Mangrove Village Adventures
- Swim Adventure and Water Sports
- Syzygy Ecosports
- Varkala kayaking & Boating Golden Island
- Copa Cabana.