5 Most Famous Temples in Varkala – Travel Guide

By - September 10, 2025 - Kerala

When people hear the name Varkala, the first image that often comes to mind is the dramatic cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, dotted with cafés and yoga retreats. While Varkala is indeed famous for its laid-back beach culture, the town holds an equally important place on the spiritual map of Kerala. Known as “Dakshina Kashi” (the Kashi of the South), Varkala is home to several ancient and sacred temples. These shrines are not only places of worship but also treasure houses of Kerala’s traditions, architecture, and festivals.

For travelers who come seeking more than sun and sand, exploring the temples of Varkala offers a chance to experience the cultural heartbeat of the region. From the centuries-old Janardanaswamy Temple that overlooks Papanasam Beach to lesser-known gems like the Sarkara Devi Temple and the Ponnumthuruthu Shiva–Parvati Temple, Varkala blends mythology, history, and devotion in ways that fascinate both pilgrims and casual visitors.

This guide takes you through the most famous temples in Varkala, detailing their legends, rituals, and visitor tips so you can plan a meaningful journey.

Temples in Varkala – Top 5 Religious Sites to See:

1. Janardanaswamy Temple

Janardanaswamy Temple, Varkala

No temple in Varkala is more iconic than the Janardanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Janardana form. Situated close to the cliff and Papanasam Beach, this temple is nearly 2,000 years old and is the epicenter of spiritual life in the town.

History and Legends

Local legends claim that this temple was established when a group of sages prayed to Lord Vishnu for protection from evil. Another popular belief connects it with the great epic Mahabharata. It is said that the Pandavas, after the Kurukshetra war, came here to perform rituals for their ancestors. Because of this, the temple is often linked with pitru tarpanam (ancestral rites).

The temple is also associated with the story of sage Narada, who is believed to have meditated here. According to lore, Lord Brahma himself is said to have consecrated the idol.

Architecture

Built in the traditional Kerala style, the temple features a striking circular sreekovil (sanctum), tiled roofs, and intricate wooden carvings. The temple tank is another highlight—pilgrims often take a holy dip before entering. The stone steps that lead to the shrine create a sense of solemnity and grandeur.

Spiritual Significance

Janardanaswamy Temple is called “Dakshina Kashi” because it is considered as sacred as the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the sea at Papanasam Beach (meaning “destruction of sins”) and offering prayers at this temple can absolve one of karmic debts and ancestral sins.

Festivals

  • Arattu Festival (March–April): A 10-day annual festival where the deity is taken in procession to the beach for a ritual bath. The event includes Kathakali performances, traditional drumming, and cultural displays.
  • Karkidaka Vavu Bali (July–August): Thousands gather on Papanasam Beach to perform rites for their ancestors.

Visitor Tips

  • The temple opens daily from 4:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
  • Dress modestly; men are expected to remove shirts before entering the inner sanctum.
  • Non-Hindus may not be allowed inside the sanctum but can walk around the temple premises and soak in the atmosphere.

2. Sarkara Devi Temple

Sarkara Devi Temple Varkala

About 12 km from Varkala lies the Sarkara Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. This temple is renowned for its energy, striking rituals, and the famous Sarkara Bharani festival, which is one of Kerala’s most colorful temple celebrations.

History and Beliefs

It is believed that Goddess Bhadrakali appeared in this region to protect devotees from evil forces. The deity is worshiped here in a fierce yet benevolent form, embodying both protection and maternal grace.

Architecture

Unlike Janardanaswamy Temple, the Sarkara Devi shrine has a distinct Dravidian-Kerala fusion style, with a square sanctum and gabled roof. The outer walls are adorned with murals and sculptures that reflect the goddess’s power.

The Sarkara Bharani Festival

The annual Bharani festival held in March–April is a massive event that attracts devotees from across Kerala. Highlights include:

  • Kuthiyottam ritual, where boys undergo a symbolic penance to honor the goddess.
  • Processions with decorated elephants and traditional percussion ensembles.
  • Thalappoli, a procession of women carrying lamps and offerings.

Why Visit?

This temple offers a very different experience from the serene Vishnu temple in Varkala town. Here, you feel the fiery energy of Goddess Kali, with rituals that leave a lasting impression on anyone interested in Kerala’s living traditions.

Best Kerala Holiday Packages to Explore:

3. Edava Palakkavu Bhagavathi Temple

The Edava Palakkavu Bhagavathi Temple, about 5 km north of Varkala, is another important shrine dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi.

Unique Features

  • The temple is known for its thrilling Pooram festival, featuring caparisoned elephants, fireworks, and percussion music.
  • Local communities come together during this time, making it a vibrant cultural gathering.

Significance

While not as large as Janardanaswamy or Sarkara Devi, this temple holds immense local importance. Many families in the area consider it their kula daivam (family deity).

Traveler Insight

Visiting during festival time gives you a glimpse into authentic village traditions, far removed from the touristy side of Varkala.

4. Navaikulam Sree Sankaranarayana Temple

Navaikulam Sree Sankaranarayana Temple Varkala

Located around 12 km from Varkala, in Navaikulam village, this temple is dedicated to Sankaranarayana, a combined form of Lord Shiva (Shankara) and Lord Vishnu (Narayana).

History

This temple is believed to date back over a thousand years and is one of the rare places in India where Shiva and Vishnu are worshiped in a single form.

Architecture

The temple’s gopuram (tower) and large courtyard reflect Kerala’s ancient craftsmanship. The murals depict mythological stories, while the sanctum has an idol symbolizing the union of the two gods.

Festivals

  • Sankranti Utsavam and Shivaratri are celebrated here with grandeur.
  • The temple also hosts cultural events featuring classical music and dance.

5. Ponnumthuruthu Shiva–Parvati Temple

Ponnumthuruthu Shiva–Parvati Temple Varkala

For a truly unique experience, head to Ponnumthuruthu, also known as Golden Island, about 20 minutes by boat from Varkala. This lush island in Anjengo Lake is home to a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Why It’s Special

  • The boat ride through coconut groves and calm backwaters sets the tone for a spiritual retreat.
  • The temple is believed to be more than a century old and is associated with the Travancore royal family.
  • The atmosphere is serene, making it a perfect spot for meditation and quiet reflection.

Festivals

During Shivaratri, the temple comes alive with lamp lighting and rituals that transform the island into a glowing spectacle.

Tips for Visiting Temples in Varkala

  1. Dress Respectfully: Modest attire is mandatory. Carry a shawl or scarf for extra coverage.
  2. Remove Footwear: Shoes must be left outside the temple premises.
  3. Mind Photography Rules: Most temples restrict photography inside sanctums.
  4. Plan Timing: Early mornings (6–9 a.m.) and evenings (4–6 p.m.) are best for cooler weather and authentic rituals.
  5. Transport Options: Auto-rickshaws, rental scooters, and taxis are widely available for temple-hopping.
  6. Festival Seasons: Check local calendars for annual temple festivals. These vibrant events offer a unique cultural immersion.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day Sacred Circuit

  • Start with Janardana Swami Temple at sunrise.
  • Walk to Parthasarathy Temple for a quieter visit.
  • End at Kappil Temple and Lighthouse for backwater serenity and coastal views.

Full-Day Spiritual Experience

  • Morning puja at Janardana Swami Temple.
  • Drive to Cherthala Ananthanarayan Temple.
  • Lunch at a local Kerala eatery.
  • Afternoon meditation at Ayiramthengu Temple.
  • Evening reflections at Sivagiri Mutt with a view of the sunset.

Why Explore Temples in Varkala?

Temples in Varkala are more than religious sites—they are windows into Kerala’s cultural soul. They showcase intricate architecture, living traditions, and a deep connection between nature and devotion. Exploring them allows travelers to balance the lively cliffside cafés and beaches with moments of peace, reflection, and cultural understanding.

From the grandeur of Janardana Swami Temple to the quietude of Parthasarathy Temple and the reformist legacy of Sivagiri Mutt, each shrine adds a different layer to Varkala’s identity. Visiting these temples ensures your journey here is not only about landscapes and leisure but also about timeless stories and sacred experiences.

Conclusion

Varkala’s temples form an essential part of its character. They invite you to slow down, observe rituals that have survived centuries, and feel the spiritual energy that permeates this coastal town. Whether you are a pilgrim, a culture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, these temples offer more than just a visit—they offer perspective, calm, and connection.

So, on your next trip to Varkala, step beyond the cliffs and beaches. Walk barefoot into stone courtyards, watch the flicker of oil lamps, and listen to the chant of prayers. Between the ocean waves and temple bells, you’ll discover the true essence of Varkala—a blend of nature, devotion, and timeless heritage.

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