POOVAR
Hey there fellow travel enthusiasts! Are you tired of the same old destinations and looking for something new and exciting? Well, let me introduce you to Poovar, a hidden gem located in the southern state of Kerala, India.
Picture yourself lounging on a pristine beach with crystal clear blue waters and golden sand. Sounds like paradise doesn't it? And that's exactly what Poovar is - a small town that will transport you to a world of serenity and relaxation.
But wait, there's more! Poovar is not just about beaches. It's also home to the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can spot elephants, tigers, and deer. And if that's not enough, take a boat ride through the mangrove forests and witness nature at its finest.
Now, I know what you're thinking - "I've never heard of this place before". That's because Poovar is still relatively unknown to many travelers. But trust me when I say this - it's worth adding to your bucket list.
So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure like no other. Poovar awaits you with open arms!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Poovar
- How to Reach and getting around Poovar
- Weather of Poovar
- Places to Visit in Poovar
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Poovar
- Best areas for Accommodation in Poovar
- Shopping in Poovar
- Nightlife in Poovar
- Festivals and Events in Poovar
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Poovar
- FAQs
History and Culture of Poovar
Poovar is a small coastal village in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Legend has it that this place was once a busy trading center for spices and timber. However, over the years, Poovar has gained popularity as a tourist destination for its beautiful beaches and backwaters.
The culture of Poovar is deeply influenced by its location on the coast. The locals are predominantly fishermen and their lifestyle revolves around the sea. Fish is a staple food here and you can find some of the freshest seafood in the country. The village also has a rich tradition of boat building, with craftsmen passing down their skills from generation to generation.
But what sets Poovar apart from other beach destinations is its unique ecosystem. The village is situated at the mouth of the Neyyar River, where it meets the Arabian Sea. As a result, you can see a variety of flora and fauna here that cannot be found elsewhere. One popular attraction is the mangrove forest, where you can take boat rides to spot exotic birds and crocodiles.
Another interesting fact about Poovar is that it was once ruled by kings who had their own palace here. Today, you can still visit the remains of the palace, which offers a glimpse into Kerala's royal past.
Overall, Poovar offers a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty that will leave any tourist spellbound.
How to Reach and getting around Poovar
How to Reach Poovar
Poovar, a serene coastal village in Kerala, is an ideal destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. If you are planning to visit Poovar, here are some exciting ways to reach this beautiful place.
By Air: The nearest airport to Poovar is the Trivandrum International Airport, which is located about 30 km away from the village. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Poovar.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Poovar is the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, which is well-connected with major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Poovar.
By Road: Poovar is well-connected by road with major cities in Kerala and other nearby states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Thiruvananthapuram, Kanyakumari, or other nearby cities to reach Poovar.
By Water: If you want to experience something unique and exciting, you can take a boat ride from Kovalam Beach or Vizhinjam Harbor to reach Poovar. The boat ride will take you through the scenic backwaters of Kerala and offer breathtaking views of the coconut groves and mangrove forests.
By Bike: If you are an adventure enthusiast and want to explore the beautiful surroundings of Poovar on your own, you can rent a bike from Thiruvananthapuram or Kovalam and ride all the way to Poovar. This will give you an opportunity to explore the local villages and interact with the friendly locals.
In conclusion, there are several exciting ways to reach Poovar depending on your preference and budget. Whether it's by air, train, road, water or bike - each option offers its unique experience that adds more fun and excitement to your journey!
Weather of Poovar
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantPoovar, a small village in the southern state of Kerala, India, enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year. The weather in Poovar is influenced by both the Southwest and Northeast monsoons, resulting in high humidity and occasional rainfall. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C, while winters are pleasant with temperatures around 22°C to 32°C.
The best time to visit Poovar is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During these months, the temperature remains between 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for tourists to explore the beaches and indulge in water sports. The monsoon season starts from June and lasts till September, bringing heavy rainfall that may disrupt travel plans.
March to May is considered the off-season due to high temperatures and humidity levels. However, this time of year can be a good option for budget travelers as accommodation rates are lower during this period. Visiting Poovar during this time requires carrying sufficient sunscreen protection and staying hydrated.
In conclusion, Poovar's weather is suitable for tourism throughout the year except during monsoon season (June-September). However, October to February is an ideal time for visitors who want to enjoy their vacation without worrying about extreme weather conditions.
Places to Visit in Poovar
Poovar Island: Located at the confluence of the Neyyar River and the Arabian Sea, Poovar Island is a scenic spot known for its golden sand beaches, lush greenery and tranquil ambience. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the backwaters, watch dolphins swim in the sea and enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddling.
Thirparappu Falls: A popular tourist attraction in Poovar, Thirparappu Falls is a natural waterfall that cascades down from a height of 50 feet into a pool below. The falls are surrounded by lush green forests and offer a great opportunity for swimming and picnicking.
Kovalam Beach: One of the most famous beaches in India, Kovalam Beach is located just 15 km from Poovar. With its clear blue waters, golden sand beach and palm-lined shores, it is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing and surfing.
Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Built in 1865, Vizhinjam Lighthouse is located on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. Visitors can climb up to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and watch ships sail by.
Padmanabhapuram Palace: A magnificent palace built in traditional Kerala style architecture, Padmanabhapuram Palace is located just 30 km from Poovar. It boasts of intricate carvings, exquisite paintings and royal chambers that have been preserved over centuries.
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over an area of 128 sq km, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, leopards, sambar deer and many more. Visitors can take guided tours through the sanctuary to explore its diverse ecosystem.
Aruvikkara Dam: Located on the banks of Karamana River, Aruvikkara Dam is a popular picnic spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The dam also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga which attracts many devotees.
Shanghumugham Beach: Another beautiful beach located near Poovar, Shanghumugham Beach has golden sand shores lined with coconut trees making it an ideal spot for sunbathing or taking long walks along its scenic promenade.
Anchuthengu Fort: Built by British East India Company in 1696 AD , Anchuthengu Fort was once an important trading post between India and Europe .The fort provides panoramic views of Arabian Sea coast .
10.Aruvippuram Temple :Aruvippuram temple is situated near Neyyar dam .The temple was established by Sri Narayana Guru ,a social reformer.The temple attracts devotees from far & wide . The temple has two main festivals - Sivaratri & Guru Jayanti.
Adventures Activities
Romantic Places
Relaxing Retreats
Beaches
Hilly Regions
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Poovar
Best areas for accommodation in Poovar
Poovar is a small coastal village in the southern part of Kerala, known for its serene beaches and backwaters. The place is famous for its natural beauty, tranquil environment, and Ayurvedic therapies. Poovar offers several options for accommodation, ranging from luxury resorts to budget hotels and hostels.
Best areas for accommodation in Poovar
Poovar Island: Poovar Island is one of the most popular areas for accommodation in Poovar. The island is accessible only by boat and offers an exclusive stay experience amidst nature.
Kovalam Beach: Kovalam Beach is another sought-after area for accommodation in Poovar. The place has several high-end resorts and hotels that offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
Thiruvananthapuram City: Thiruvananthapuram City is the capital of Kerala and is located just 30 kilometers away from Poovar. The city has several options for accommodation, including luxury hotels, budget hotels, and homestays.
Top properties for accommodation in Poovar
Estuary Island Resort: Estuary Island Resort is a luxury resort located on a private island near Poovar. The resort offers luxurious rooms, villas, and cottages with modern amenities like a spa, swimming pool, and multi-cuisine restaurants.
Poovar Island Resort: Poovar Island Resort is another luxury resort located on the beautiful Poovar Island. The resort offers well-appointed rooms and cottages with scenic views of the backwaters.
Little Elephant Hostel: Little Elephant Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel located near Kovalam Beach in Poovar. The hostel offers clean dormitory rooms with basic amenities like Wi-Fi, common kitchen facilities, and laundry services.
In conclusion, whether you are looking for a luxurious stay or a backpacker's hostel, Poovar has something to offer to everyone. So pack your bags and head to this beautiful coastal village to experience nature at its best!
Shopping in Poovar
Poovar is a beautiful village in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, known for its serene beaches, backwaters, and lush greenery. Shopping in Poovar is an exciting experience as the village has a range of markets that sell traditional handicrafts, spices, and other souvenirs. Here are some things to buy, markets to visit, and things to avoid while shopping in Poovar.
Things to buy
- Handmade crafts: Poovar is known for its traditional handicrafts made by local artisans. You can find items like coconut shell lamps, wooden figurines, and handwoven baskets.
- Spices: Kerala is famous for its spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. You can find these at local spice shops in Poovar.
- Ayurvedic Products: Ayurvedic products like massage oils and herbal soaps are popular in Poovar. You can buy these from local shops or Ayurvedic centers.
- Seafood: Poovar is a fishing village located near the sea. You can buy fresh seafood like fish, prawns, and crabs from local fish markets.
Markets to visit
- Poovar Island Market: This market sells a variety of items like handicrafts, clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Spice Market: Located near the Neyyar Dam area of Poovar Village, this market sells a range of spices at reasonable prices.
- Fish Market: The fish market located near the Poovar Beach sells fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.
What to avoid
- Fake products: Be careful while buying expensive items like jewelry or electronic goods. Ensure their authenticity before purchasing them.
- Overpriced items: Bargain before buying anything as some shopkeepers tend to overprice their products.
- Unlicensed Tour Guides: Avoid taking the services of unlicensed tour guides who might charge you more than what's necessary.
- Disturbing wildlife: Avoid buying any products made from animal skins or ivory as it encourages poaching and disturbs wildlife.
Overall shopping in Poovar offers a unique experience with its range of traditional handicrafts, spices, and fresh seafood. However be careful while purchasing expensive items or taking services from unlicensed tour guides.
Nightlife in Poovar
Poovar, a small coastal village in the south of Kerala, India, is not only famous for its pristine beaches and backwaters but also for its vibrant nightlife. The nightlife scene in Poovar is a perfect blend of traditional and modern culture.
There are several places in Poovar where you can spend your night with activities that cater to all kinds of people. Here are three places that you should visit:
Club 7, located near the Poovar Island Resort, is a popular nightclub that offers an array of entertainment options like live music performances, dance shows, and DJ nights. The club has an impressive bar menu that includes both local and international drinks.
The Beach House, situated on the beachfront of Poovar Island Resort, is an open-air restaurant that boasts stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes and exotic cocktails making it a perfect spot for a romantic night out.
Maya Spa, located at Estuary Island Resort, is a wellness center that offers various rejuvenating treatments like Ayurvedic massages, yoga sessions, and meditation classes. It's an ideal place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Apart from these places, there are several other options like beach parties, shopping at local markets or simply enjoying a walk along the beach with your loved ones under the starry sky.
In conclusion, Poovar has something to offer to everyone when it comes to nightlife. From clubs to restaurants and wellness centers, this charming village has it all!
Outdoor Activities in Poovar
Poovar is a small coastal village in Kerala, known for its serene backwaters, coconut groves, and golden sand beaches. Apart from the nightlife, it also offers an array of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. The place is surrounded by lush greenery, making it perfect for hiking and trekking. The picturesque landscape also makes it an ideal spot for cycling and birdwatching.
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Poovar is Kayaking. It is a great way to explore the backwaters while enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Visitors can rent a kayak and paddle through the narrow canals, mangroves, and lagoons to experience the beauty of nature up close.
Another exciting activity to do in Poovar is Fishing. The place is known for its abundant marine life, making it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can take part in traditional fishing methods or hire a boat to experience deep-sea fishing.
For those who love water sports, Jet Skiing is a must-try activity in Poovar. Visitors can rent a jet ski and glide through the calm waters of Poovar beach while enjoying the scenic beauty of the coastline.
In conclusion, Poovar has no scarcity of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. From kayaking to fishing and jet skiing, visitors can indulge in various activities while taking in the natural beauty of this serene village.
Festivals and Events in Poovar
Festivals and events are an integral part of the culture and tradition of Poovar. They offer a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the place, and allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local customs and rituals. From religious festivals to cultural events, Poovar has a lot to offer throughout the year. Some of the popular festivals and events in Poovar are:
Onam (August/September): Onam is one of the most important festivals in Kerala, and Poovar is no exception. It is a 10-day festival that celebrates the homecoming of King Mahabali. The festival is marked by elaborate feasts, traditional dances such as Pulikali and Kathakali, boat races, and flower decorations.
Navratri (September/October): Navratri is another important festival celebrated in Poovar. It is a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, where people worship her different forms. The festival sees vibrant celebrations with traditional dances such as Garba and Dandiya.
Christmas (December): Christmas is celebrated with great fervor in Poovar, with churches beautifully decorated with lights and stars. The locals attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve, sing carols, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional Christmas delicacies.
New Year's Eve (December/January): New Year's Eve is another popular event celebrated in Poovar. People usually gather at beaches or resorts for parties, fireworks display, music performances to welcome the New Year.
Apart from these festivals, there are also several cultural events that take place throughout the year such as Kathakali performances or temple festivals. Visiting during these festive seasons can be a great way to experience the local culture first-hand while enjoying all that Poovar has to offer.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Poovar
- Plan ahead: Before traveling to Poovar, research the festivals and events that take place throughout the year. This will help you plan your trip accordingly, so you don't miss out on any exciting experiences.
- Pack appropriately: The heat and humidity can be intense in Poovar, so make sure to pack lightweight and breathable clothing. It's also a good idea to bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen, as well as comfortable walking shoes for exploring the area.
- Respect local customs: Poovar has a rich cultural heritage, so take the time to learn about local customs and traditions before your trip. Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites, and be mindful of local etiquette when interacting with locals.
- Stay hydrated: With high temperatures and humidity, it's important to stay hydrated while visiting Poovar. Bring a refillable water bottle with you and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Try local cuisine: Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to sample some of the local dishes while in Poovar. Some must-try dishes include seafood curries, dosas, and appams. And if you're feeling adventurous, try some of the spicy chutneys or pickles for an extra kick!
FAQs
What is Poovar?
Poovar is a small village located in the southernmost part of Kerala, India. It is known for its serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and lush green landscapes.
How to reach Poovar?
The nearest airport to Poovar is Trivandrum International Airport, which is around 35 km away. One can also reach Poovar by road from nearby cities such as Trivandrum (27 km), Kovalam (15 km), and Neyyar Dam (25 km).
What are the popular tourist attractions in Poovar?
Poovar offers a variety of tourist attractions such as the Poovar Island, which is surrounded by backwaters and the Arabian Sea. The island has a beautiful beach and offers water sports activities like kayaking, canoeing, and boating. Other popular attractions include the Kovalam Beach, Vizhinjam Lighthouse, and Padmanabhapuram Palace.
What are the best things to do in Poovar?
The best things to do in Poovar are taking a boat ride through its serene backwaters, enjoying water sports activities at the beach or simply relaxing on its pristine beaches. One can also explore nearby villages such as Neyyar Dam or indulge in Ayurvedic massages at one of its many spas.
Is it safe for solo female travelers to visit Poovar?
Yes, it is safe for solo female travelers to visit Poovar. However, it's always advisable to take precautions while traveling alone like avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping emergency numbers handy.
When is the best time to visit Poovar?
The best time to visit Poovar is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant with occasional showers.
What are some of the local delicacies one must try in Poovar?
Some of the local delicacies that one must try in Poovar include seafood dishes such as prawn fry or karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish cooked with spices wrapped in banana leaf), Kerala-style beef curry or chicken curry served with appam (rice pancakes), and payasam (a sweet dessert made with rice, jaggery or sugar).
