The 6 Best Things To Do In Poovar, Kerala

Poovar is a peaceful and beautiful place in Kerala where the sea, river, and backwaters meet in one spot. Many travellers search for things to do in Poovar, things to do in Poovar, Kerala, and things to do in Poovar Island because this small village offers a mix of nature, calm surroundings, and simple pleasures. Poovar is famous for its golden beach, wide backwaters, mangroves, floating cottages, and slow village life. If you are thinking about what to do in Poovar Island, you will find many relaxing activities that fit couples, families, solo travellers, and seniors.

In this guide, you will discover the 6 best Poovar things to do. These include a scenic backwater cruise, walking through the beach, exploring nearby villages, learning about fishing culture, visiting an ancient cave temple, and staying in a stunning island resort.

Top 6 Things To Do In Poovar, Kerala

Experience the true beauty of Kerala’s backwater with a trip to this underrated destination and read on to learn about the best things to do in Poovar Island.

1. Explore Vizhinjam Harbour

Vizhinjam Harbour is a small but busy fishing port located close to Poovar. Unlike touristy spots, it gives a real glimpse into everyday life in a Kerala fishing village. The harbour is full of energy, with fishing boats, nets, and local people going about their daily work. Visiting the harbour is one of the top Poovar things to do if you want to see the real local lifestyle.

What To Expect

At Vizhinjam Harbour, you can watch fishermen returning with fresh fish from the sea. They unload their catch while women and local vendors sort, clean, and sell the fish at small stalls. The harbour is a colorful place, with boats painted in bright colors, ropes and nets spread around, and lots of daily activity. The early morning is the best time to visit because the market is busiest, full of sounds, smells, and movement—it really feels alive.

Who Will Enjoy This

• Culture lovers: You can observe how the local people live and work every day.
• Photographers: The bright boats, fishing nets, and lively market scenes make great photos.
• Families: Kids and adults alike will find it interesting to see how villagers make their living and how fresh fish reaches the market.

Local Insights

• Vizhinjam Harbour is still very authentic and not crowded with tourists.
• Always respect the local culture if you want to take pictures.
• Watch the fishermen and vendors quietly, especially in the morning, so you don’t disturb their work.

57 Best Places To Visit In Kerala For A Vacation To Remember In 2023!

2. Walk along the coastline of Poovar Beach

Poovar Beach is a quiet and clean stretch of soft golden sand. Unlike many crowded beaches, it has a peaceful and calm atmosphere, making it one of the best places to relax on Poovar Island. Walking along the shoreline lets you enjoy the cool sea breeze, listen to the gentle sound of waves, and feel completely refreshed. A slow stroll here is not just a walk—it’s a way to connect with nature and enjoy some quiet time.

Why Visit

Poovar Beach is perfect for anyone looking to escape the noise and crowds of busy tourist spots. The calm and open surroundings make it easy to relax. Watching the sunrise or sunset from here is magical the sky changes colors and reflects on the water, creating a beautiful view. You can dip your feet in the sea, collect pretty seashells along the sand, or just sit down and enjoy the simplicity of nature around you.

Experience Highlights

• Photography: Capture amazing photos of golden sands meeting the calm sea.
• Family Time: Ideal for picnics and fun playtime with kids.
• Romantic Moments: Couples can enjoy a peaceful walk hand-in-hand during sunset.
• Solo Relaxation: Travelers alone can meditate, read, or just relax without any distraction.

Best Time To Go

• Morning: The air is fresh, the breeze is cool, and the beach is very peaceful—perfect for an early stroll.
• Evening: Sunset walks are stunning, and the soft light is great for photography.

3. Take a Scenic Poovar Backwater Cruise

A backwater cruise in Poovar is one of the most popular things to do. It is peaceful, relaxing, and gives you a chance to enjoy nature up close. The cruise slowly takes you through calm water channels, green mangrove forests, and golden sandbanks. If you are visiting Poovar Island, this is one activity you should not miss.

What This Experience Offers

During the cruise, you will pass through narrow mangrove tunnels where sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a magical effect. You can see birds sitting on branches, little fish swimming near the boat, and the quiet flow of the Neyyar River. As the boat moves forward, you will reach the golden Poovar sandbar where the river meets the Arabian Sea—this view is perfect for photos. You may also spot small islands, floating restaurants, and villages along the riverbanks, giving you a glimpse of local life.

Ideal For

This cruise suits almost everyone. Families with kids will enjoy the slow and safe ride. Couples can share peaceful, romantic moments. Nature lovers can enjoy the mangroves and birds, and photographers will find plenty of beautiful scenes. Solo travelers and senior citizens will also find it relaxing and easy to do.

Duration & Cost (Optional)

The cruise usually lasts between one and two hours. The price depends on the type of boat and the season. Some boats are simple, while others are more comfortable or private. You can pick one that fits your budget and preference.

Tips

• Go in the morning or evening for cooler weather and better photos.
• Always wear a life jacket, even if you know how to swim.
• Book your cruise through a trusted operator or your resort to avoid issues.
• Carry a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable.
• Avoid going during heavy rains, as visibility can be poor.

9 Cottages In Kerala To Plan An Exotic Stay In ‘God’s Own Country’

4. Learn about the local fishing culture in Vizhinjam

Fishing is the main source of livelihood for people in Poovar and the nearby village of Vizhinjam. Visiting here to understand their fishing culture is one of the most unique things to do in Poovar Island. It gives you a glimpse into how locals live, work, and celebrate even the small successes in their everyday lives.

Why It’s Worth It

Fishing in Vizhinjam is mostly traditional. People use small wooden boats and cast nets by hand. Watching the process from catching fish to selling it in the market shows you how simple village life works. You can also learn how boats are built or repaired, see the teamwork needed for fishing, and notice how tightly knit the community is in helping each other.

Activities

• Talk to Fishermen: Learn about their daily routines and the challenges they face.
• Watch the Nets: See them cast their nets into the sea and bring the fish ashore.
• Visit the Fish Market: Watch the fresh catch being sorted and sold, and experience the lively market atmosphere.
• Explore Boat Workshops: Check out the small workshops where boats are repaired or newly made, and understand the craftsmanship involved.

Respect & Etiquette

• Always ask before taking photos of locals.
• Do not touch fishing tools or equipment without permission.
• Be polite, observe quietly, and appreciate their way of life.

5. Explore the Vizhinjam Cave Temple

The Vizhinjam Cave Temple is a very old temple carved directly into a rock, dating back to the 8th century. It is one of the most interesting things to do in Poovar, Kerala, especially if you enjoy history and culture. Visiting this temple gives you a glimpse into the life and beliefs of people who lived many centuries ago.

What Makes It Special

The entire temple is carved from a single rock, which shows how skilled the ancient craftsmen were. You can see detailed sculptures of gods and goddesses on the walls. There are also small caves nearby where sages used to meditate and pray. The temple is located close to the coast, so it is surrounded by natural beauty, making the visit even more peaceful and memorable. Old inscriptions on the walls tell stories of the past, which history lovers will find fascinating.

Perfect For

• Heritage lovers and architecture enthusiasts: You can study the detailed carvings and the unique rock-cut design.
• Spiritual travelers: The calm environment makes it a good place for quiet reflection.
• Photographers: The ancient sculptures and the view of the coast provide great photo opportunities.

Tips Before Visiting

• Wear comfortable shoes because some climbing is needed.
• Avoid visiting during heavy rain, as the rocks can be slippery.
• Plan to spend around 30–45 minutes to fully explore the temple.
• Keep quiet and show respect, as this is a sacred place.

Winter In Kerala: 11 Best Places To Visit For A Blissful Vacation In 2023!

6. Stay at the Poovar Island Resort

Staying at the Poovar Island Resort is one of the most special things to do on Poovar Island. Unlike regular hotels, this resort is built right on the calm backwaters, giving you a chance to be close to nature while enjoying comfort. The views of the lagoon, water, and greenery around make it a peaceful and relaxing place to stay.

Why This Stay is Unique

The resort features floating cottages, so each room is right above the water. You can wake up in the morning to the sounds of birds, enjoy the sunrise from your own balcony, and spend time watching the calm backwaters around you. The resort also has an Ayurveda spa, where you can relax and feel refreshed.

Best Experiences Inside the Resort

• Have a romantic candlelight dinner by the water.
• Take a dip or relax in the riverside swimming pool.
• Enjoy a private boat ride or a backwater cruise to explore the area.
• Try traditional Ayurvedic treatments and spa therapies for health and relaxation.

Who Should Stay Here

• Couples will enjoy the romantic setting.
• Luxury travellers will love the comfort and views.
• Families can have a calm and peaceful holiday.
• Wellness seekers can focus on health, relaxation, and rejuvenation.

Bonus: More Things To Do Near Poovar

If you have some extra time while visiting Poovar, there are several other nearby attractions you can explore. These places are perfect for day trips and add more variety to your holiday. They let you enjoy nature, culture, and local experiences beyond Poovar itself.

Quick List of Nearby Activities

• Thirparappu Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by greenery. It’s great for family picnics, photography, or just relaxing by the water.
• Kovalam Beach: A famous beach known for its wide sandy shore and iconic lighthouse. You can take a long walk, enjoy the sunset, or try local snacks by the shore.
• Ayurveda Massages: Local Ayurvedic centres offer traditional massages and treatments that help you relax and feel refreshed after a long day of sightseeing.
• Fishing Village Walks: Explore nearby villages to see how locals live. You can watch traditional fishing methods, talk to villagers, and experience everyday village life.
• Kayaking: Paddle through calm backwaters and mangrove areas. This is a peaceful way to enjoy nature and spot birds and fish along the way.
• Padmanabhapuram Palace: A historic palace with traditional Kerala-style architecture. You can learn about the region’s history and admire the old designs and wooden carvings.

These bonus activities give travellers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. They are easy to reach from Poovar and make your trip more memorable.

Best Time To Visit Poovar

Poovar can be visited almost all year, but each season offers a slightly different experience. Knowing the seasons will help you plan things to do in Poovar better.

Season Breakdown

• Winter (October to February): The best time to visit. The weather is cool and pleasant. Ideal for beach walks, backwater cruises, and sightseeing.
• Summer (March to May): It can get hot, but mornings and evenings are good for exploring beaches and resorts. Perfect for early morning backwater cruises.
• Monsoon (June to September): Heavy rains transform Poovar into a green paradise. Good for nature lovers, but some outdoor activities may be limited.

How To Reach Poovar

Reaching Poovar is easy whether you travel by air, train, or road.

By Air

The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 20 km from Poovar. Taxis and car rentals are available from the airport.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Trivandrum Central, around 25 km from Poovar. From the station, you can hire a cab or use local transport to reach the village.

By Road

Poovar is connected by roads to nearby cities like Trivandrum and Kovalam. You can drive or hire a taxi. Local buses are also available for budget travellers.

Where To Stay in Poovar

Poovar offers accommodation options for every type of traveller. You can choose based on comfort, budget, or experience.

Categories

• Luxury Resorts: Floating cottages, spa facilities, and riverside views.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable rooms with easy access to the beach and backwaters.
• Budget Stays: Simple guesthouses or homestays for solo travellers or families.

Tips For Booking

• Book early during peak season (December–January) to get good rooms.
• Check for backwater-facing rooms for the best experience.
• Some resorts offer packages including meals, cruises, and spa treatments.

Travel Tips for Poovar

To make your Poovar trip smooth and enjoyable, follow these simple tips. They cover clothing, safety, bookings, and local etiquette.

Practical Advice

• Clothing: Wear light, comfortable clothes. Carry a hat or cap for sun protection.
• Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Essential for beach walks and backwater cruises.
• Safety: Always wear life jackets during boat rides. Avoid swimming in deep waters alone.
• Boat Booking: Book cruises in advance if visiting during peak season. Private boats give a better experience.
• Cash Requirements: Keep small cash handy for small shops, local transport, and tipping fishermen.
• Footwear: Carry comfortable shoes for walking along beaches and temple visits.
• Respect Locals: Be polite, ask before taking photographs, and follow local rules at religious sites.

Final Summary/Closing Note

Poovar is one of Kerala’s most peaceful and unique destinations. From serene beaches and mangroves to ancient temples and floating resorts, the things to do in Poovar cater to every traveller. Whether you want relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Poovar has it all.

Take a backwater cruise, enjoy quiet beach walks, explore fishing villages, visit heritage sites, and stay in the famous island resort to fully experience this gem of Kerala. Poovar invites you to slow down, breathe fresh air, and create unforgettable memories. Do not miss the chance to explore all these activities and enjoy its natural beauty, calm waters, and warm local culture.

Poovar, Kerala offers a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy, from lounging on the golden sands of Poovar Beach and taking boat trips through the tranquil backwaters, to visiting the ancient cave temples at Vizhinjam and exploring the fishing village. Explore our Kerala tour packages to learn more.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.

Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons, Facebook, Pexels and Pixabay.

FAQs About Things to Do in Poovar, Kerala

People Also Read:

Things To Do In Munnar Things To Do In Kovalam Things To Do In Trivandrum

Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.