Landmark
Varkala Tunnel
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
Varkala Tunnel is a 19th-century railway tunnel carved through laterite cliffs, part of the old Kollam–Thiruvananthapuram line. Though no longer in active use, the tunnel's dark, arched passage and mossy walls create a moody backdrop for photographers. Sunlight filtering through the ends casts dramatic shadows, and the surrounding vegetation adds a wild touch. Visitors often walk through the short tunnel, marveling at the engineering of a bygone era. It's a quiet, offbeat landmark that offers a glimpse into colonial-era infrastructure.
Don't miss
- Walking through the dark, arched tunnel with natural light effects
- Photographing the mossy laterite walls and tunnel entrance
- Exploring the surrounding overgrown railway track area
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Varkala Tunnel
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inMarsala Tasting of 5 Sicilian organic wines5★ · 40 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$15 per personSee dates →
Best full dayCuChi Tunnel Tour: The Legendary Underground Network5★ · 4,030 travelers5–6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$22 per personSee dates →
Private & flexible2000 year old Buddhist trail to Karla & Bhaja Caves as a day trip from Mumbai4.9★ · 14 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$190 per personSee dates →More attractions in Varkala