Varkala Beach :
Varkala is a sea side resort, as well as an important Hindu centre of
pilgrimage. High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise majestically from the
coastline.
The 2000 year old Janardana Swamy Temple and the Nature Centre are the two
main attractions here. High cliffs border the excellent beach.
This beautiful beach also has a more than 2000 years old shrine of Lord
Vishnu. The beach is rich in mineral water springs that are known for their
medicinal value.
A dip in the holy waters of this beach is believed to purge the body
and the soul of all the sins hence the name 'Papanashini' for this shore. At
the break of dawn following the new moon in the Malayalam month of
'Karkidakam', thousands offer 'Vavu Bali', a ritual believed to help the
souls of ancestors rest in peace.
Pathramanal Beach :
The little island of Pathiramanal, on the Backwaters is a favourite
haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the land.
This island lies between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom and is accessible by
boat only. Surrounded by the Vembanad Lake, stretching from Alappuzha to
Kochi and the Kayamkulam Lake.
The green island thus forms an ideal place for a break in the journey while
on a backwater cruise. The mainland Alappuzha has a vast network of lakes,
lagoons and fresh water rivers criss-crossing it and is a district of
immense natural beauty.
Beypore Beach :
Beypore is situated 10 km south of Kozhikode, at the mouth of
Chliyar River. This is ancient ship building centre. Beypore, one of the
prominent ports and fishing harbors of ancient Kerala was an important trade
and maritime center. This boat-building yard is famous for the construction
the traditional Arabian trading vessel, called the Uru
Fort-Kochi Beach :
Fort Kochi Beach is just 12 km away from Kochi city, a leisurely
walk through the lanes of the city is the best way to discover historic Fort
Kochi. The town was shaped by the Portuguese, the Dutch and later the
British. Kochi Carnival on the New Year Eve is a colourful festival not to
be missed at the beach site.
Ezhimala Beach :
Ezhimala, a beautiful beach has a hillock (286 m high) nearby. An
ancient burial chamber and carved stone pillars can be seen at the foot of
the hills. The hills are noted for rare medicinal herbs. A naval academy is
being developed here. Permission is required for entry.
Chirumullavaram Beach :
This beautiful and secluded beach is a beautiful picnic place. It
is 6 km from Kollam town. This beautiful beach filled with coconut palms.
Changasserry Beach :
Thangasseri is at a distance of 5 km from Kollam town. This seaside
village of historic importance has the ruins of an old Portuguese fort and
church built in the 18th century.
