Events and festivals in Varkala: when and where they take place

Sivagiri Theerthadanam is an annual pilgrimage held at Sivagiri from December 30 to January 1. Its programme includes spiritual discourses, seminars, cultural events and community welfare activities.

Sree Narayana Guru initiated the pilgrimage in 1928. The first pilgrimage was organized in 1932, with five pilgrims. Its purpose includes promoting eight areas of human development: education, cleanliness, piety, organization, agriculture, trade, handicrafts and technical training.

The pilgrimage gives the Sivagiri grounds a religious and community focus. For background on the site and practical details, the guide to visiting Sivagiri Mutt covers the landmark itself.

The main annual Arattu festival at Janardhana Swamy Temple takes place in March or April. Kerala Tourism describes it as beginning with Kodiyettu on Karthika day and ending with Arattu on Uthram day.

The procession features five caparisoned elephants, ornamental silk umbrellas and peacock fans. Kathakali performances are held all night on the fourth and fifth days of the festival.

The temple is an ancient site and a major pilgrimage destination in Varkala. A temple mandapa inscription is dated 1252, and the Chakra Theertha pool lies on the temple’s north side; its circumference is about 240 feet.

For practical context on access and etiquette, the Janardhana Swamy Temple visitor guide focuses on the temple.

Kerala Piravi is observed on November 1, but no Varkala-specific public programme or arrangements are confirmed. Treat the date as the state observance rather than evidence of a particular local event.

If you are planning a visit around the day, look for an announcement from an official local organizer before making plans around a Varkala programme. The wider guide to Varkala’s seasons and local events can help put recurring dates in context.

The annual pattern gives you a starting point, but it does not confirm the arrangements for a particular edition. Check the official site before you go, especially for current programme details and visitor arrangements.

For Sivagiri, consult the pilgrimage organizers’ official information. For the temple festival, Kerala Tourism describes the recurring festival pattern and traditions; confirm current details with an official source before setting out. No Varkala-specific Kerala Piravi programme is confirmed here.

Plan your event dates first, then confirm how you will get to the relevant landmark and what arrangements are in place. The pilgrimage takes place at Sivagiri, while the Arattu festival is held at Janardhana Swamy Temple.

Kerala Tourism places Varkala Railway Station 3.1 km from Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and Temple Junction Bus Stop 500 metres from it. These points can help you plan local transport for the temple festival; confirm your onward arrangements before travelling.

White House Residency is a hotel in Varkala.

When is Sivagiri Theerthadanam held?

The annual pilgrimage takes place from December 30 to January 1 at Sivagiri.

When does the Janardhana Swamy Temple Arattu festival take place?

The main annual festival takes place in March or April. Its dates and arrangements can vary, so confirm current details with an official source.

Does Varkala have a confirmed Kerala Piravi programme?

Kerala Piravi is observed on November 1, but a Varkala-specific programme or public arrangements are not confirmed.

What happens during the temple Arattu festival?

The festival includes a procession with five caparisoned elephants, ornamental silk umbrellas and peacock fans. Kathakali performances take place all night on its fourth and fifth days.