Varkala is a coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala, situated along the Arabian Sea. It’s famous for Varkala Beach, which is lined with striking red cliffs covered in palms. Just to the south lies Papanasam Beach, believed to hold sacred waters. Perched on a nearby hill is the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple, a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Further inland, the Sivagiri Mutt stands as a monument honoring the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, who is laid to rest there.