About Varkala

{"data":[{"city":"Varkala","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7378685","lng":"76.7163359"},"localArea":[{"id":"d0","name":"Janardhana Temple","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1sightseeing/Janardhana-Temple-1x1-2.jpg","openingTime":"5:30 AM","closingTime":"8:00 PM","description":"The Janardhana Temple is the main star in this temple town. Presiding over Beach Road, this two thousand-year-old structure is an inspiring spectacle, with bursts of colour adorning its exterior. The temple grounds have a sprawling banyan tree and shrines to Ayyappan, Hanuman and other deities.","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7317585","lng":"76.710022"}},{"id":"d1","name":"Varkala Beach","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1sightseeing/Varkala-Beach-1x1.jpg","openingTime":"","closingTime":"","description":"Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a haven for sunbathers and those who enjoy being in the water. There are rustic cliff-side establishments at which you can sample seafood fresh from the ocean as you appreciate and soak in a mesmerising sunset.","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7355515","lng":"76.7031667"}},{"id":"d2","name":"Sivagiri Mutt","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1sightseeing/Sivagiri-Mutt-1x1.jpg","openingTime":"5:00 AM","closingTime":"9:00 PM","description":"A popular pilgrimage site, Sivagiri Mutt is the headquarters of the Shri Narayana Dharma Sanghom Trust, an ashram devoted to Kerala’s most prominent sage, Shri Narayana Guru. The resident swami is reputedly an incredible source of knowledge, and is always open to intriguing conversations. ","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7389575","lng":"76.7315465"}},{"id":"d3","name":"Explore the backwaters","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1activities/Island-1x1-2.jpg","openingTime":"","closingTime":"","description":"The pretty Ponnumthuruthu Island stands pretty in the middle of a backwater lake roughly ten kilometres south of Varkala. While you offer prayers at the Shiva-Parvati temple also known as the Golden Temple, the highlight of the trip is the scenic row-boat ride to and around the island.","coordinates":{"lat":"8.69895049","lng":"76.74678183"}},{"id":"d4","name":"Conquer the waves","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1activities/Surf-1x1.jpg","openingTime":"","closingTime":"","description":"The gentle surf that laps Varkala’s beaches is perfect for beginners – high enough to give you a thrill, yet safe enough to be practising in. Learn how to paddle, push-up, and then jump onto your feet at the thrilling moment. It is a lovely and active way to spend a day at the beach.","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7355515","lng":"76.7031667"}},{"id":"d5","name":"Cruise placid waters","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1activities/Lake-1x1.jpg","openingTime":"","closingTime":"","description":"Fringed by coconut trees, the serene Kappil Lake meanders gracefully before merging with the Arabian Sea. The best way to enjoy the beauty of this tranquil lake is to hire a boat and glide across the placid surface, soaking in the magic of being surrounded by nature.","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7757367","lng":"76.6793454"}},{"id":"d6","name":"Unearth hidden gems","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1shopping/Hidden-gems-1x1.jpg","openingTime":"","closingTime":"","description":"You will find shops in Varkala selling gorgeous traditional jewellery as well as ornaments and local attire from Tibet. Pick up some of these delights for yourself or to gift to your loved ones.","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7378685","lng":"76.7163359"}},{"id":"d7","name":"Browse through beach bazaars","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1shopping/Beach-bazaar-1x1.jpg","openingTime":"","closingTime":"","description":"Take a break from sunbathing or frolicking in the water, and stop by at the little shops lining the coast. Fascinating souvenirs and artefacts can be found here. Items crafted using coir and carved horns are among some signature designs that are a must-buy.","coordinates":{"lat":"8.7355515","lng":"76.7031667"}},{"id":"d8","name":"Go organic","imagePath":"/content/dam/thrp/destinations/Varkala/city-highlights/1x1shopping/Honey-1x1.jpg","openingTime":"","closingTime":"","description":"The Khadi Store in Varkala has a collection not just of beautiful clothes made from khadi, but also a range of natural and organic food products such as honey and oils. Ethnic paper and leather curios as well as lovely pottery may also allure you to take a piece of Varkala back with you.","coordinates":{"lat":"9.2172913","lng":"76.5360527"}}]}]}