Janardhana Swamy Temple

Janardhana Swamy Temple, located in the coastal town of Varkala, Kerala, is an ancient and highly revered shrine dedicated to Lord Janardhana, a form of Lord Vishnu. Believed to be over 2,000 years old, the temple stands as a spiritual and cultural symbol, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. Its location atop a hill, overlooking the Arabian Sea and near the famous Varkala cliffs, adds to its charm and sanctity. The temple’s entrance is marked by a majestic banyan tree and a traditional gopuram that leads into a serene inner sanctum.

The temple is particularly known for its annual Arattu festival, which attracts large gatherings and includes elaborate rituals, traditional music, and processions. The idol of Lord Janardhana, adorned with jewels and silk, is ceremoniously bathed and taken in a grand procession to the nearby beach. Devotees believe that prayers here can cleanse sins and bring spiritual peace, making it a vital pilgrimage site in southern Kerala.

Besides its religious importance, the temple is admired for its architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by palm trees and sea breeze, it offers a perfect blend of devotion, history, and scenic beauty for all visitors.

🚗 How to Reach

By Road: Janardhana Swamy Temple is located in Varkala, about 45 km north of Thiruvananthapuram.

By Train: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is the nearest, just 3 km away from the temple.

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is approximately 50 km away.

🕘 Visiting Hours & Entry

Open Days: All days of the week

Temple Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Best Time to Visit: October to March; especially during Arattu Festival in March-April

🌟 Highlights of Janardhana Swamy Temple

→ Ancient Vishnu Shrine: A revered temple believed to be over 2,000 years old, dedicated to Lord Janardhana, an incarnation of Vishnu.

→ Cliffside Location: Set close to the Varkala cliffs and beach, offering a scenic spiritual experience.

→ Devotional Significance: Devotees believe prayers here cleanse sins and grant peace and protection.

🛕 Spiritual Significance

→ Arattu Festival: The major annual festival, featuring processions to the beach, traditional rituals, and cultural performances.

→ Pithru Tarpanam: Rituals for ancestral offerings are commonly performed here, especially near the Varkala Papanasham beach.

→ Daily Pujas: Traditional poojas, abhishekam, and deepa aradhana are performed daily following Vaishnavite traditions.

📞 Contact Information

Location: Janardhana Swamy Temple, Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala – 695141

Temple Office: +91 470 2600200 (subject to availability)