Varkala Tunnel Tourism

Varkala Tunnel, also known as Varkala Turuthu, is a historical structure located in the coastal town of Varkala in the Indian state of Kerala. The tunnel is an engineering marvel from the British era, constructed to establish an inland waterway route and improve the transportation system. It was built under the supervision of T. Mahadeva Rao, the dewan of Travancore, and took almost 14 years to complete. The tunnel was commissioned in 1880. The long, winding structure stretches for over 924 feet and showcases the brilliant engineering techniques of the 19th century. It was primarily used for ferrying goods and people between Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram, which encouraged trade in the region. Today, Varkala Tunnel is a historic relic and has become a tourist attraction, drawing visitors fascinated by its architecture and the beautiful landscapes that surround this feature. The serene backwater canals near the tunnel present a picturesque setting and reflect a significant part of Kerala's cultural heritage.