Janardhan Swami Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the beautiful coastal town of Varkala in Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.
The temple’s origins date back to several centuries ago, and it is believed to have been constructed during the 12th century. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings that reflect the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans who built it.
The main deity of the temple is Lord Janardhana Swami, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple also has several other shrines dedicated to different Hindu deities, including Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga.
The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over India and is known for its spiritual significance. It’s believed that offering prayers and performing rituals at the temple can bring blessings, good fortune, and spiritual enlightenment to the devotees.
One of the most significant festivals celebrated at the Janardhan Swami Temple is the Arattu festival. It’s a ten-day-long festival that takes place in the Malayalam month of Meenam (March-April). During this festival, the temple’s deities are taken out in a grand procession and carried to the nearby Papasnanam Beach, where they are given a ritualistic bath. The festival attracts a large wide variety of devotees from all over India.
Apart from its religious significance, Janardhan Swami Temple is also known for its serene and tranquil atmosphere. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, and the nearby Papanasam Beach adds to the temple’s beauty.
The beach is believed to have spiritual significance, and many devotees come here to take a dip in the holy waters to cleanse their sins.
Visitors to Janardhan Swami Temple can also enjoy the traditional architecture and stunning views of the surrounding hills and sea. The temple’s location atop a hill provides breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape.
In conclusion, Janardhan Swami Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Varkala. It’s a perfect place to experience the spiritual and cultural richness of India and to immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the surrounding nature.
How to Reach Janardhan Swami Temple?
Reaching Janardhan Swami Temple is quite convenient. The temple is located in Varkala, a coastal town in Kerala, India. Here’s a simple guide on how to reach the temple:

By Air: The nearest airport to Varkala is Trivandrum International Airport, which is approximately 50 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Janardhan Swami Temple in Varkala. The journey usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
By Train: Varkala Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the temple. It’s well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India. Once you reach Varkala Railway Station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach Janardhan Swami Temple. The temple is located at a distance of around 3 kilometers from the railway station.
By Road: Varkala is easily accessible by road, and there are regular bus services from nearby cities and towns. If you’re coming from Thiruvananthapuram, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Varkala. Once you reach Varkala town, the temple is located near the Varkala Beach. You can easily find auto-rickshaws or taxis to take you to Janardhan Swami Temple.
Once you reach the temple, you’ll be welcomed by its serene and peaceful atmosphere. Take your time to explore the temple’s beautiful architecture, offer prayers, and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Remember to dress modestly and follow the temple’s customs and guidelines during your visit.
So, plan your visit to Janardhan Swami Temple and embrace the tranquility and divinity it offers. Enjoy your journey and the spiritual experience at this sacred Hindu temple in Varkala.