Varkala Janardhana swamy Temple Arattu

In the month of Meenam (March-April) the Varkala Janardhana swamy Temple Arattu is celebrated. This Arattu Festival begins with Kodiyettu (Flag Hoisting) on Karthika day (the auspicious day) and ending with Arattu on Uthram day (another auspicious day). The grand procession adds colour to this festival with five barded elephants with Ornamental silk umbrellas, peacock fans etc. are carried, which make the event unique and mark as one of the significant festival of Kerala.

The Janardhana Swamy Temple is believed to be 2000 years old situated on a very steep hill. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple bestows the traditional South-Indian architecture. The red-tiled roof of the circular building is the main shrine of the temple. The temple is 3 kms from the Varkala railway station and atleast ten thousand devotees visit the place during Arattu.

The forth and fifth day during Arattu is celebrated with various performances like Kathakali dance all night long. It is one of the main attractions of this Kerala Festival. Tour to Kerala is worthless until and unless you enjoy the true spirit of India which entails in its festivals.