Ever dreamt of escaping to a place where the backwaters gently kiss the shores, where the golden sands meet the tranquil sea, and where nature’s beauty unfolds in every direction? Welcome to Poovar Island, a gem hidden in Kerala’s tropical paradise. Nestled in Trivandrum (also known as Thiruvananthapuram), this beautiful island offers the perfect blend of beaches, backwaters, and lush greenery. If you’re searching for a destination that provides relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, look no further!
Poovar Island has a unique charm. It’s not just another beach destination or backwater stop. Here’s why this place should be on your travel list:
Getting to Poovar Island is a breeze, thanks to its proximity to Kerala’s capital. The distance from Trivandrum to Poovar is just 30 km, making it an easy drive.
Poovar is just a short drive from the Trivandrum International Airport, which makes it easily accessible to both domestic and international travellers.
If you’re coming by train, the nearest railway station is Trivandrum Central. From there, it’s a scenic 45-minute drive to the island.
If you prefer road trips, the journey from Trivandrum to Poovar offers beautiful landscapes, so it’s definitely worth hiring a cab or renting a car. The road trip is an experience in itself as you pass through Kerala’s greenery, backwaters, and small villages.
Poovar Island is unique because of its geography. The Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea at this point, creating a rare combination of river, sea, beach, and backwaters. Whether you’re cruising through the waters or lounging on the beach, you’ll constantly be reminded of how beautiful and diverse nature can be.
If you're a beach lover, you’ll absolutely adore Poovar Beach. It's quiet, untouched, and offers stunning sunsets. Unlike some of the more commercialised beaches, Poovar Beach is serene and perfect for long, peaceful walks.
If you’re someone who loves water, then don’t miss the chance to explore the famous Poovar backwaters. Take a traditional houseboat or motorboat ride through these peaceful waters, surrounded by dense mangroves. The calmness of the water and the abundance of birdlife make it feel like you're in another world altogether.
One of the highlights of Poovar Island is the variety of beautiful resorts that cater to all types of travellers, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious visitors.
The most popular accommodation on the island is the Poovar Island Resort, where guests can stay in floating cottages, beachside villas, or traditional Kerala-style accommodations. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a spa treatment or simply relax with a view of the backwaters, this resort has it all.
Another favourite is the Club Mahindra Poovar Resort. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this resort offers a range of activities for kids and adults alike, from Ayurvedic treatments to water sports. Plus, their culinary experience featuring Kerala’s traditional cuisine is something you won’t want to miss!
For those who want to dive deeper into Kerala’s local life, a visit to Poovar Village is essential. Here, you can see the everyday life of the villagers, interact with the locals, and experience the traditional way of living. The village also has several temples and small local markets where you can pick up handicrafts and local produce.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll be thrilled by the local cuisine in Poovar. Freshly caught fish, prawns, and other seafood are cooked with traditional Kerala spices, giving you a taste of the region’s authentic flavours. Don’t miss trying out the local dish ‘Karimeen Pollichathu’ (pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf).
So, you’ve reached this gorgeous destination – what’s next? Here’s a list of exciting activities that will make your trip to Poovar Island unforgettable:
One of the most popular things to do in Poovar is to take a cruise through the backwaters. The best way to explore the backwaters is on a traditional Kerala houseboat or motorboat. You’ll float past lush mangroves, spot exotic birds, and soak in the natural beauty around you. It’s a slow and peaceful way to experience Kerala’s most famous natural feature.
Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic treatments, and Poovar is no exception. Many resorts offer Ayurvedic wellness programs where you can unwind with traditional massages and treatments using local herbs. If you’re staying at Poovar Island Resort or Club Mahindra Poovar, you’ll have easy access to these holistic therapies.
If you’re an adventure seeker, Poovar Beach offers a range of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. It’s a great way to get your adrenaline pumping while enjoying the natural beauty around you.
The backwaters and mangroves around Poovar are home to a variety of bird species. If you’re a bird lover, you’ll love spotting exotic birds such as kingfishers, eagles, and egrets. Don’t forget to carry your binoculars!
While Poovar Island is a destination in itself, there are several other places you can explore nearby.
A short drive away, Kovalam Beach is famous for its crescent-shaped shoreline and lively beach activities. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a bit more action, as there are several shops, restaurants, and activities to enjoy.
Located a couple of hours from Poovar, Kanyakumari is a must-visit. It’s the southernmost tip of India, where you can witness the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean. The sunrise and sunset here are simply breathtaking.
If you want to explore more of Kerala’s history, head to Trivandrum. Don’t miss the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world, and explore the many museums, art galleries, and local markets in the city.
The best time to visit Poovar Island is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) is also beautiful, as the backwaters and rivers are full, and the greenery is at its peak, but be prepared for occasional rains.
Absolutely! Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Poovar Island has it all. From the peaceful backwaters to the luxurious resorts and the unique combination of sea, river, and beach, Poovar is a true hidden gem in Kerala. It’s the perfect destination for families, solo travellers, and couples alike, offering something special for everyone.
So pack your bags, head to Poovar, and let this tropical paradise surprise you!
