Poovar

Like every other region in India, Kerala is extremely diverse and a fusion of different cultures, religions, communities, and language variations. While North Kerala is distinctly influenced by folklore, martial art forms, and rituals that even date back to pre-Hinduism, South Kerala is loved for its beautiful beaches and wildlife sanctuaries. This is because they were part of two kingdoms and had different influences. For instance, Neyyantinkara was home to many uprisings against caste-based injustices and the British. Today, Neyyantinkara is a favorite among tourists who visit the multiple resorts that offer relaxing Ayurvedic therapies and admire the breathtaking views surrounding the Neyyar estuary. The Poovar coastal belt is perhaps the most famous of all and is loved for its amazing views of the mangroves, coconut groves, paddy fields, and golden beaches.

Visit us if you plan to visit Poovar and looking for Poovar travel packages that include the best places to visit and popular adventure activities you mustn’t miss.

Poovar probably gets its name from Raja Marthanda Varma, who once hid here while fighting the Ettuveetil Pillamar. Legend has it that he found the Neyyar riverbank filled with flowers, hence the name Poovar – poo meaning flowers, and aar meaning river.

Poovar was once a quaint coastal village until it was developed into a sought-after eco-tourism destination by the Kerala Government. Today, hundreds of resorts dot Poovar attracting thousands of travelers looking to enjoy the uninterrupted view of the Arabian Sea, the Neyyar River, and the multiple canals that are home to dense mangroves and hundreds of avian species.

Tourists visit Poovar to enjoy boat trips that take you along the Neyyar River and the backwater canals that are densely populated with mangrove swamps and birds, such as the heron, brahminy kites, and kingfishers. You can also dine at one of the many floating restaurants that serve a range of local seafood delicacies.

The place is also loved for the beaches in and around Poovar, including Kovalam, Pozhikkara, and Chowara.

Unlike Kovalam, that’s touristy and crowded, Poovar is a quiet and clean beach. Since Poovar is at a juncture where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea, you can enjoy the beach and the views offered by the estuary at the same place. As you take a boat to reach the beach, you’ll first see the river, then the sandy beaches, followed by the Arabian Sea. There are a few resorts that promise a relaxing and rejuvenating spa experience to guests. You can take in the calm atmosphere and spend the day meditating or lounging by the pool. You could also take a boat ride on the backwaters to admire the scenic beauty around Neyyar Lake.

There are plenty of beaches around Poovar – Pozhikkara Beach, Lighthouse Beach, and Kovalam Beach. Pozhikarra is only a kilometer from Poovar and is famous as a birdwatching trail where you can view exotic birds from a motorboat. Hawa Beach is a favorite among Europeans looking for a perfect tan while enjoying delicious food at one of the many resorts and restaurants in and around Hawa Beach. You can also choose Poovar travel packages around these beaches to make the most of your stay.

The town of Neyyattinkara is only a few miles from Neyyattinkara, a Trivandrum suburb famous for Sri Krishnaswami Temple that Raja Marthanda Varma built in 1755. Legend has it that when the Ettuveetil Pillaimaars came to kill Raja Marthanda Varma, he hid in a cavity inside a jackfruit tree. The tree still stands today within the temple and is called Ammachi Plavu.

Vizhinjam is a natural harbor and a busy fishing village loved by tourists who come here to experience the authentic life of the fishermen. You can also visit the rock-cut cave temple that dates back to the 8th century and is dedicated to Dakshinamoorthy. It is believed to be the oldest rock-cut cave temple in Kerala and is currently under the control of the Archeological Survey of India. The Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium showcases various marine life, including turtles, seahorses, and corals.

The Kuthiramalika translates to Palace of Horses. It was built by Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma in 1840 using teak and rosewood, marble, and granite. This two-story palace is close to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and now houses a museum with exquisitely carved sculptures, Belgian mirrors, paintings, and idols made using white marble.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Ananthapadmanabhan, the presiding deity of the Travancore royal family. The city gets its name from the temple. While the temple is believed to have existed since the 8th century, Raja Marthanda Varma later renovated it, giving it the present structure.

A day trip to Kanyakumari is included in most Poovar travel packages as the place is close by and culturally connected to Kerala. Some top attractions in Kanyakumari include the Bhagawathi Amman Temple, The Stanumalayan Temple in Suchindrum, Thirparappu Falls, and the Nagaraja Kovil in Nagercoil. People also visit here to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset from the beach. The Triveni Sangam or the confluence of the three seas – the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean is spiritually important for Hindus.

The best time to visit Poovar is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and in perfect condition to experience a boat ride from the backwaters. June to September is also a pleasant time to visit Poovar.

Visit us if you are looking for affordable Poovar travel packages that match your budget and travel style.