Varkala is a small town with a population of little over 40,000. It is located around 20 kms. south of Quilon (Kollam) and around 50 kms. Northwest of Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). The town is situated on the seashore with a neat beach, which is less crowded than other popular beaches like Kovalam etc. It is almost like a private beach and it has a mineral water spring and because of the peaceful atmosphere in the beach, Varkala is recommended by many visitors. The name PAPA NASHINI (destroyer of sin) came to be associated with the beach and hence many people visit the beach to immerse the ashes of departed members of the family and pray at the famous Janarthana Swamy Temple.