Kanyakumari - Varkala

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasham Beach is a beach in Varkala municipality of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, along the Arabian Sea, part of the Indian Ocean. The word Papanasham means wash away sins. It is believed that a dip in the waters of Papanasham Beach washes away all the sins in one's life. Varkala beach is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea.These cliffs are of tertiary sedimentary formation, and named by geologists as Varkala Formation. They are a geological monument as recorded by the Geological Survey of India. Water spouts and spas are on the sides of these cliffs. Sivagiri Mutt is another attraction, located atop the Sivagiri hill. Varkala railway station is known by the name of Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station. Varkala beach has adventure and leisure activities such as boat riding, parasailing, jetting and horse-riding. There are also restaurants and cafes; alcohol is not served.

Kanyakumari, situated at the southernmost tip of India where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean meet, is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. While Kanyakumari is not particularly known for extensive shopping streets, there are local markets and areas where visitors can explore and purchase souvenirs. Kanyakumari's shopping areas are generally concentrated around the town center and the vicinity of the popular tourist spots. The Main Bazaar area is a hub for local markets, shops, and street vendors offering a variety of items. The shops in Kanyakumari offer a range of souvenirs and handicrafts, including traditional South Indian artifacts, seashell products, wooden carvings, and local artworks. Popular items include seashell jewelry, keychains, and decorative items. Some shops in the Main Bazaar area sell traditional South Indian clothing, such as sarees and dhotis, along with accessories like bangles, earrings, and scarves. Kanyakumari is in close proximity to Kerala, which is known for its spices and tea plantations. Visitors can find shops selling local spices, tea blends, and Ayurvedic products. Being a coastal town, Kanyakumari offers an opportunity to purchase seafood, dried fish, and local snacks. These can make for unique and flavorful souvenirs. The streets around popular attractions like the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue often have street vendors selling a variety of items, including trinkets, clothing, and small handicrafts. Beyond the Main Bazaar area, there are local markets where you can explore a more authentic shopping experience. These markets often cater to both locals and tourists. It's common to negotiate prices with street vendors and in local markets. Bargaining is a part of the shopping culture in many areas. Given the spiritual and cultural significance of Kanyakumari, visitors can find items related to Hindu religious practices, such as idols, prayer beads, and religious literature. Apart from traditional markets, there are also convenience stores and supermarkets in Kanyakumari where visitors can purchase everyday items, snacks, and beverages. While Kanyakumari may not be known for extravagant shopping streets like some other tourist destinations, the local markets and shops offer a chance to explore the cultural and artisanal side of the region. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of shopping in a town that holds historical and religious importance.​ ​