Poovar Island is a destination of unparalleled beauty, steeped in rich history and cultural significance. As a fishing village located on one of the most picturesque islands near Trivandrum, it played a crucial role in the development of Kerala and the upliftment of the King of Travancore, Raja Marthanda Varma, who himself named the town Poovar. The island has been inhabited since at least the 9th century A.D. and visiting it is one of the most popular things to do in Poovar.
Visitors to Poovar Island will be struck by the stunning confluence of the Arabian Sea, lakes, and rivers that can be found here, providing an idyllic setting to soak in the tranquillity of nature. The best time to visit Poovar is during the winter season. As a fishing village, it is a unique opportunity to witness the daily lives of hardworking fishermen as they go about their duties, surrounded by lush greenery and the sparkling waters of the island. It truly is a place that transports you to another world.
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. Visit the Vizhinjam Harbour
The Vizhinjam Harbour is a truly remarkable destination, not only for its natural beauty but also for its historical significance as an important hub for seafarers. Tourists are drawn to these cave temples not only for their architectural and historical significance but also for the opportunity to witness the devotion of the many devotees who come to offer prayers during important religious occasions. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an immersive cultural experience, the Vizhinjam Harbour and its cave temples are not to be missed.
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2. Walk along the coastline of Poovar Beach
With its golden sands and picturesque backwaters, it is an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation and is located at the juncture of the Neyyar River and the Arabian Sea. One of the highlights of visiting Poovar Beach is the opportunity to take a boat trip along the backwaters, an experience that is not only exquisite but can be arranged at nominal rates. Located just 12 kilometres from the popular beach town of Kovalam in Thiruvananthapuram, Poovar Beach offers visitors a chance to see a slice of life in a traditional coastal village.
3. Hike up to the Tirparappu Falls
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Located at a distance of about 55 kilometres from the southernmost tip of mainland India, Kanyakumari, the Tirparappu Falls is a truly enchanting destination that offers visitors the chance to witness the awe-inspiring power of cascading water. Despite being a man-made waterfall, it falls from a height of 50 feet, creating a picturesque and serene natural setting. The water collects in a quaint pool below, which is an ideal place for visitors to frolic around, especially for children.
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4. Learn about the local fishing culture in Vizhinjam
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Fishing is an integral part of the culture and economy in Vizhinjam, and the village is home to a large community of traditional fishermen. If you are looking for cultural things to do in Poovar island, this place is it. They use traditional methods such as catamarans and country boats to catch fish in the nearby waters. The catch is then brought to the shore and sold in the local fish market, providing a livelihood for many families in the village. Visitors to Vizhinjam can witness the daily life of the fishermen and learn about their traditional fishing methods. It is also possible to take a boat trip with local fishermen to see them at work and learn about their livelihood.
5. Explore the Vizhinjam Cave Temple
Considered to be the smallest rock-cut shrine in southern India, it is believed to date back to the 8th century and is one of the earliest examples of rock-cut cave temples in the state of Kerala. The shrine has a central cell with an independent sculpture of the Hindu deity Dakshinamurthy, and on either side of the cell are unfinished sculptures of the deities Siva and Parvathi. This rock-cut cave is now a protected monument under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India, which has been maintaining and preserving the site since 1965. Visitors to the Vizhinjam Rock-cut cave will have the opportunity to witness the intricate carvings and unique architectural style of this ancient temple and learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the region, making it one of the most recommended places to visit in Poovar.
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6. Stay at the Poovar Island Resort
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Built on 25 acres of lush green coconut gardens alongside the beach, the resort offers a unique blend of elegance and natural beauty. The resort currently comprises elegant land-based superior rooms, built around the swimming pool on a natural lily pond, and is one of the few places in India where you can find the unique experience of floating cottages and villas which are afloat on the backwaters and face the sea. Enjoying the waters is one of the top things to do in Poovar island resort. Located 30 kilometres from Trivandrum International Airport, the resort is only accessible by a 10-minute boat ride on the river, adding to the secluded and exclusive atmosphere of the resort.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Poovar, Kerala
What are some popular activities to do on Poovar Beach?
Some popular activities on Poovar Beach include swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and taking boat trips through the backwaters.
What are some historical sites to visit in Poovar?
Some historical sites to visit in Poovar include the Vizhinjam Rock-cut cave, an 8th-century rock-cut temple, and the Vizhinjam Harbour, an important historical hub for seafarers.
How can I explore the fishing village of Vizhinjam?
Visitors can explore the fishing village of Vizhinjam by visiting the local fish market, taking a boat trip with local fishermen, and participating in the annual fishing festival.
Are there any luxury resorts in Poovar?
Yes, Poovar Island Resort is a luxury resort located on 25 acres of lush green coconut gardens and offers elegant land-based rooms, floating cottages and villas on backwaters.
Are there any unique experiences in Poovar?
Poovar offers unique experiences such as the opportunity to witness the daily lives of traditional fishermen, visit ancient cave temples, and take boat trips through the tranquil backwaters.
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