Janardanaswamy Temple

The Janardanaswamy Temple is a Hindu shrine in Varkala situated on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, decorated with traditional wooden carvings in Kerala style. The temple houses a central sanctuary dedicated to Lord Vishnu and attracts visitors from various locations who come to pay their respects.

This sanctuary was established in the 11th century as a place of worship for believers. It has endured through centuries as a significant center of devotion for the Hindu community across the region.

The temple serves as a gathering place where devotees come daily to participate in worship rituals and ceremonies. Visitors can observe how local pilgrims integrate their spiritual practices into their daily lives and mark important occasions here.

The temple is easily accessible by bus or taxi and located near Varkala with various lodging options in the surrounding area. Visitors should wear modest clothing and remove their shoes when entering the sanctuary, as this is an active place of worship for many believers.

The temple houses a rare metal idol depicting Vishnu in a reclining position, facing toward the sea from its clifftop setting. This unusual orientation and the idol's craftsmanship draw the attention of visitors interested in ancient metalworking techniques.

Location: Varkala

Location: Thiruvananthapuram district

Inception: 12 century

Website: http://varkalatemple.org

GPS coordinates: 8.73183,76.70987

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:24