Kanyakumari and Varkala: Beaches, Temples, and Serenity

 

In August, Kanyakumari, Varkala, and Trivandrum offer a serene and tranquil experience, with lush green landscapes thanks to the monsoon season. While some rain can be expected, it enhances the beauty of these destinations, making them less crowded. These places are known for their spiritual significance, stunning beaches, and colonial history, and your visit provides a perfect mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural exploration. We visited these places in August.

History

Kanyakumari is known for its religious significance, especially the Vivekananda Rock Memoria land Kumari Amman Temple. The town stands at the confluence of three seas: the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean. It has been a prominent trade and cultural center for centuries.

Varkala is a coastal town in Kerala, famous for its Janardanaswamy Temple and Varkala Beach. The cliffs of Varkala are unique, offering panoramic views of the sea. The town attracts both spiritual seekers and beach lovers.

How to reach

We began our trip by taking a flight from Bangalore to Trivandrum, and from there, we traveled to Kanyakumari. Upon arrival at Trivandrum Railway Station, we boarded Train No. 16310 (Express Train) at 9:30 AM for a 2.5-hour journey, reaching Kanyakumari by 12 PM. This direct train route made it convenient for us to travel between the two cities, though private taxis or buses are also available for the same journey, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours by road.

The following day, we made our way to Varkala from Kanyakumari, taking the Train No. 56351to Varkala Sivagiri Station and arriving at 2 PM. Alternatively, private taxis or buses can be hired for the 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Kanyakumari to Varkala. Once in Varkala, we rented a bike from local rental shops like Varkala Rent A Bike and Varkala Bike Rentals, with rentals priced around ₹300 to ₹500 per day. The bike made it easy for us to explore the picturesque Varkala Cliff, Janardanaswamy Temple, and Kappil Beach.

For our return journey to Trivandrum, we booked a cab from Varkala, which took approximately 1 hour to reach. If you’re planning your own trip, there are multiple ways to reach both Kanyakumari and Varkala. Kanyakumari is accessible by train, bus, or taxi from Trivandrumor Kochi, while Varkala can be easily reached from Trivandrum by train or taxi. The nearest airport to Varkala is Trivandrum International Airport, from where you can take a taxi for a 40-minute ride to Varkala.

Places to stay

In Kanyakumari, you can choose from a variety of accommodations:

• Luxury Hotels: Sparsa Resort offers sea views and modern amenities, while The Gopinivas Grand is a budget-friendly option close to major attractions.

• Budget Stays: Kanyakumari Hotel provides simple amenities at an affordable price.

• Airbnb: Cozy sea-view rooms or guesthouses are available for a homely stay.

• Backpacker Hostels: The Backpackers Hostel Kanyakumari offers dorms for budget travelers.

In Varkala, options include:

• Luxury Resorts: The Gateway Hotel offers luxury with sea views and a pool, and Varkala Marine Palace is a beachfront property with simple comforts.

• Budget Resorts: Blue Water Beach Resort provides affordable beachside accommodation.

• Airbnb: Cliffside cottages and rooms with ocean views offer a more intimate stay.

• Backpacker Hostels: Varkala Backpacker Hostel is great for budget-conscious solo travelers, with dormitory options.

Day wise itinerary 

Day 1: Kanyakumari Highlights

Arrive in Kanyakumari and check into your hotel. Begin your day by visiting the Thanumalayan Temple and Kumari Amman Temple to experience their spiritual and architectural beauty. In the afternoon, take a ferry to explore the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue. Visit the Gandhi Memorial Mandapam. End your day with a visit to Vattakottai Fort, followed by watching the sunset at Sunset Point or the beach.

Day 2: Kanyakumari to Varkala 

Start your day early with a peaceful sunrise at Kanyakumari Beach before heading to Our Lady of Ransom Church, a beautiful Gothic-style Catholic church overlooking the sea and and the Triveni Sangam, where the three seas meet .After exploring the church, take a train to Varkala Sivagiri (approximately 2.5-3 hours). Once you arrive in Varkala, check into your hotel and relax. Have lunch at a cliffside café, then spend the afternoon at Varkala Beach and explore the stunning Varkala Cliff. End your day by watching the sunset from the cliff.

Day 3: Varkala, Jatayu Earth Center, and Black Beach

Begin your day by visiting the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple, followed by a trip to Jatayu Earth Center (approximately 40 km from Varkala). This magnificent center, dedicated to the mythical Jatayu bird, features an impressive sculpture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After returning to Varkala, visit the Black Beach for its unique dark sands and peaceful surroundings. Spend some time relaxing by the beach. Afterward, have lunch at a local Kerala restaurant and then enjoy the serene beauty of Kappil Beach or take a Kappil Backwaters boat ride.

Day 4: Relaxation in Varkala and Departure to Thiruvananthapuram

In the morning, you have the option to try surfing at one of Varkala’s surf schools. Soul & Surfand Varkala Surf School offer excellent lessons for beginners. Alternatively, you can visit Papanasam Beach, known for its religious significance, where taking a dip is believed to cleanse sins. Afterward, head to Anchuthengu Fort (approximately 10 km from Varkala), a historical British-era fort offering beautiful coastal views and a peek into the area’s colonial past.

Afterward, take a cab to Thiruvananthapuram (~1 hour) for your return journey.. If you have time, you can visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a stunning piece of Dravidian architecture and one of the richest temples in the world. Alternatively, you can relax at the beach or enjoy a local meal before heading back.

Best time to Visit

The best time to visit Varkala and Kanyakumari is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, beach activities, and outdoor exploration. Summers (April to June) are hot and humid, but this is the offseason, offering cheaper accommodations. Monsoons (July to September) bring lush greenery but limit outdoor activities, making it a good time for Ayurvedic treatments and indoor relaxation.

Pack essentials like sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and modest attire for temple visits. Don’t miss trying Kerala-style seafood in Varkala and Tamil delicacies in Kanyakumari for a complete cultural and culinary experience.

Getting Around

In Kanyakumari, getting around is easy with auto-rickshaws and local taxis, which are ideal for visiting major attractions. Be sure to negotiate fares before starting your ride. Many attractions, such as Sunset Point and Gandhi Mandapam, are within walking distance of each other. For budget travelers, local buses are available but may have limited frequency.

In Varkala, renting a bike or scooter is the most convenient option to explore places. Bikes can be rented near Varkala Cliff or the railway station from shops like Varkala Bikes or Green Pepper Tours, with daily rates ranging from ₹300 to ₹800. Always inspect the bike and carry your license. Auto-rickshaws are readily available but can be expensive for tourists, while walking is a great option for exploring Varkala Cliff, its cafes, and nearby beaches. For longer trips, hiring a cab provides comfort and ease.