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India has a long list of beautiful and natural beaches in the world. Having a coastline of over 7,600 kms it is also home to several world class resorts towns with their own relaxing spas, diving and water sports, seafood cuisine. Lets have a look at the various beaches located in India
50 kms from north of Thiruvananthapuram The Papanasam (meaning sin cleansing) beach in Varkala Kerala was formed by two huse cliffs was till recently only a pilgrim centre. A few years ago some European backpackers discovered it to be far more serence and less crowded than other well known beaches in Kerala. This opened the flow of tourists who love peace and serenity to Varkala.Then a work of praise from celebrity singer Paul McCartney who was on a holiday to God's own country has helped Varkala hit the big league in the global tourism circuit.
Lakshwadeep islands, Andaman and Nicobar islands, Kadmat Island, Kalpeni Island and more
Jaiselmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Khimsar and more
Jim Corbet National park, Sariska tiger reserve, Rajaji National park, Sunderbans and more
Kullu Manali, Mussourie, Nainital, Shimla, Ooty, Gulmarg and more
How to reach
Nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram 55 kms away
Train and bus connects from Thiruvanathapuram
About Varkala
Varkala beach is called Papanasam beach because it is believed that a dip in the water destroys all kind of sin. Hence, people prefer this shore for their offering of “vavubali” in honour of ancestors and relatives whose souls are in rest. Besides being spiritualling enriching Papanasam beach is also famous for its perennial and medicinal natural springs gushing through a laterite buff near the beach. The mineral springs here are said to have curative properties. A famous beach resort, Varkala is also famous for its 900 year old Janardana swami temple which is an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India and is referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Banaras of the south). The temple is located close to the Papanasam beach, which is considered to have holy waters which wash away sins, and is also an important Ayurveda treatment centre.
Another major landmark in Varkala is the Sivagiri Mutt, established by the great social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The hill-top mausoleum of Sree Narayana Guru is one of the most famous monuments in Kerala.
