Varkala, perched on Kerala’s stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, is not just a beach destination—it’s also a powerful spiritual hub. From ancient temples and ashrams to yoga centers and cliffside meditation spots, Varkala offers a unique blend of natural beauty and inner peace for spiritual seekers.
1. Janardhana Swamy Temple
Why visit: A 2,000-year-old Vishnu temple known as the "Kashi of the South," where rituals and coastal energy combine for a sacred experience.
Highlights: – Ancient architecture – Papanasam beach rituals – Powerful spiritual aura
Timing: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Sivagiri Mutt
Why visit: Founded by social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, this hilltop ashram offers peace, spiritual teachings, and panoramic views.
Highlights: – Samadhi of Guru – Daily prayers and bhajans – Historic social legacy
Timing: 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM & 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Entry: Free
3. Papanasam Beach Ritual Zone
Why visit: A spiritual beach where people perform rituals to cleanse sins and honor ancestors—ideal for quiet reflection and oceanfront meditation.
Highlights: – Holy dip in sea – Sunrise energy – Coastal spiritual practices
Timing: Sunrise to sunset
Entry: Free
4. Varkala Cliff Sunrise Meditation Point
Why visit: The peaceful cliff edge is perfect for early morning yoga, journaling, or quiet breathwork with sea views.
Highlights: – Panoramic ocean view – Morning calm – Ideal for solo practice
Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM
Entry: Free
5. Santhi Yoga International Ashram
Why visit: A registered yoga school offering spiritual retreats, teacher training, and meditative healing in a nurturing setting.
Highlights: – Daily yoga & meditation – Ayurveda sessions – Peaceful garden campus
Timing: By course schedule
Entry: From ₹500 per session or included in package
6. Soul & Surf Varkala
Why visit: A unique retreat combining mindful surfing with meditation and spiritual lifestyle sessions by the sea.
Highlights: – Guided meditations – Ocean mindfulness – Spiritual workshops
Timing: Retreat-based
Entry: From ₹3,000/day
7. Bohemian Masala Yoga & Wellness Retreat
Why visit: A spiritually inclined eco-stay with daily yoga, kirtans, and holistic therapies in a rustic, creative setting.
Highlights: – Morning meditations – Sound healing – Vegan sattvic food
Timing: Program-based or stay
Entry: From ₹2,500/night
8. Varkala Lighthouse Meditation Spot
Why visit: Near the lighthouse lies a quiet viewpoint perfect for sunset contemplation and peaceful solitude.
Highlights: – Cliff and beach view – Evening breeze – Great for mindful reflection
Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹10
9. Holy Cross Church, Varkala
Why visit: A calm and welcoming church near the coast with a peaceful prayer atmosphere and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Highlights: – Colonial design – Spiritual ambiance – Friendly community
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry: Free
10. AyurSoul Retreats & Panchakarma Centres
Why visit: Many centers in Varkala offer Ayurvedic detox with spiritual grounding, ideal for seekers of holistic wellness.
Highlights: – Panchakarma therapy – Mind-body healing – Quiet coastal setting
Timing: Booking-based
Entry: From ₹1,500/session or included in retreat stays
Feature Image:- Photo by Austin Curtis on Unsplash
