Location & Accommodation
Our Location
About Varkala
Varkala, a calm and quiet hamlet, lies on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram district. It has several places of tourist interests like a beautiful beach, a 2000-year-old Vishnu Temple and the Ashramam – Sivagiri Mutt a little distance from the beach.
The Papanasam beach (also called as Varkala beach), which is ten kilometers away from Varkala, is renowned for the natural spring. It is considered to have medicinal and curative properties. A dip in the holy waters at this beach is believed to purge the body of impurities and the soul of all sins; hence the name ‘Papanasam beach’.
A two thousand year old shrine the Janardhanaswamy Temple, a short distance away from the beach. The Sivagiri Mutt, founded by the great Hindu reformer and philosopher Sree Narayana Guru (1856 – 1928) is also close by. The Samadhi (the final resting place) of the Guru here attracts thousands of devotees every year during the Sivagiri Pilgrimage days – 30th December to 1st January. Sree Narayana Guru propagated the ideology: “one caste, one religion and one god”, in a society torn by the taboos of caste system.
Varkala offers excellent accommodation facilities for tourists and is fast becoming a popular health resort with many Ayurvedic massage centres.
Attractions: Beach, mineral water springs, the Sivagiri Mutt and a 2000-year- old Vishnu Temple.
Location: Lattitude: 8.740543, Longitude: 76.716785
Accomodation
During the retreats or trainings you will stay in one of our houses. In both of them we offer the same quality of rooms with a private twinbed room with a private bathroom and balcony as well as ceiling fan (Airconditioner for an extra fee available, if not fully booked).
Our Yoga shala is situated on the rooftop of the main house.
You also have access to a small kitchen and a beautiful garden. The beach, restaurants and shops are only 2min walking distance.
Janardhana Temple
One of the ancient temples in Kerala, the Janardhana temple is a major pilgrim spot in Varkala. The temple, which has a history of some 2000 years, is located on a steep hill, at the entrance of the beach road. Varkala Janrdhanaswami Temple is popular not only as a pilgrim centre but it also allures everyone with its architectural splendour.
Varkala CLIFF
Varkala CLIFF is a geologically important site in the region. The cliff is formed by laterite and overlooks the Varkala beach. It has been declared as a Geological monument by the Geological Survey of India but the stunning view of the golden beach and the playful waves that it offers is worth a visit for beach lovers and photographers.
Stay at the Heart of the School
Ganesha Palace
Located within Shiva Rishi Yoga School, Ganesha Palace offers the most connected and vibrant stay for students who wish to be at the center of the yogic experience. Here you are just steps away from the dining hall and our beautiful rooftop Yogashala, where daily classes take place with open views and peaceful energy.
Quiet Garden Living
Shiva Mandala
Just a gentle 2-minute walk from the school, Shiva Mandala offers a more peaceful and private atmosphere, ideal for guests seeking extra quiet, rest, and space. Surrounded by greenery and garden views, this house creates a calm sanctuary while still keeping you close to all classes and activities.
