BEACH

A long sandy beach framed on one end by dizzyingly tall ruby-red laterite cliff and on the other the never ending blue ocean. Green coconut trees cover the cliff top and the crashing waves make a jagged white foam line along the beach. At the very top of the cliff, a pathway snakes its way over a large length of the cliff. Cafes and hotels are seemingly precariously perched on the edge of the cliff along the pathway. An idyllic place to sit down, relax, and enjoy your vacation. Find your spot in a café on the cliff to take in the panoramic view. You can shop for trinkets at the stores around the cliff. Or, walk down the side of the cliff to stroll on the beach and feel the sand between your toes. Stay till the sun goes down to see breathtaking sunset.
Varkala beach can also be a spiritual experience. The beach is also called “Papanasam” beach (meaning “washing away ones sins”). Keralites believe that a dip in the waters here will wash away your sins. Many come here to perfom the last rites for their departed family members. Walk up or drive to the 2000 year old Sri Janardhana Swami Temple (incarnation of Vishnu) on the cliff top at the south end of the beach. The deity in the temple is a standing idol of the god Vishnu, with his right hand raised towards his mouth. Legend says that when the deity’s hand touches his mouth, the world will end!

A five minute stroll northwards will take you to “Hawah beach”. Both these beaches are good swimming spots as the water is shallow for many meters. Further on is Samudra beach, which does not have many shops or restaurants, making for a quieter beach experience. At Kovalam, you can rent surf boards and ride the waves, rent a catamaran (the traditional wooden boat) and enjoy the beautiful sunset from the water or find a restaurant on the beach and enjoy the local day’s catch. Also flavour other local delicacies like the local fried chicken or beef fry. Don’t forget to wash down your meal with some fresh coconut water, sold by vendors at the beach. If you are looking for Indian artifacts to take home, stroll down the row of shops around Lighthouse beach. These beaches have attracted International attention since the 1930s. Once a quiet fishing town, the beaches are a big draw for tourists. After you enjoy the sun, surf, and the bustle of a tourist spot, come back to Anantya to find your quiet corner of paradise.