Varkala is a small town in the Thiruvanathapuram district of south Kerala. It has grown over time as a favourite backpacker’s hangout in Kerala. Despite its backpacker vibe, it is essentially a temple town with a 2000 year old temple - Janardanaswamy temple- dedicated to Lord vishnu. It is one of the oldest Vaishnavaite shrine in south India. Apart from the temple, Papanasam beach is considered a holy place where Hindus come to offer offerings to the passed loved ones.