Papanasam Beach

Papanasam Beach in Varkala is a wide stretch of soft sand with calm waters and steep laterite cliffs rising about 65 feet (20 meters) behind it. Small guesthouses, shops, and restaurants line the top of the cliffs, while a natural mineral spring flows from the cliff base onto the beach.

The beach is closely tied to the ancient Janardana Swamy Temple nearby, which is over 2000 years old and remains an active pilgrimage site. The area also reflects Portuguese and Dutch colonial influence through the nearby Anjengo Fort, which was once a center of maritime trade.

The beach holds deep religious significance for many Hindu visitors who perform ritual prayers and ceremonies here, particularly during specific seasons. People bring offerings, wade into the water, and conduct rituals believed to honor the deceased and cleanse the living of their wrongdoings.

The beach is easily reached from the nearby railway station, about 3 miles away, with regular bus connections from major cities in Kerala. The stairs leading up the cliffs can be uneven and lack handrails, making them tricky to navigate in low light, so plan to stay during daylight hours.

The sand here is black and contains thorium oxide, a mineral that sets this beach apart from most others in Kerala. This unusual geological feature resulted from the tall laterite cliffs that formed over thousands of years, creating a natural wonder distinct to the region.