Poovar is a fishing village in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. Poovar literally means "Stream of Flowers". Maharaja Marthanda Varma, who was the ruler of the state of Travancore, once saw a red Kovala flower floating in the Neyyar river. And this made him name the river as “Poovar”.

It is situated at a distance of 35 Km from Thiruvananthapuram city. Poovar experiences tropical climate. The average temperature of this place is 27.0 °C. Poovar is a spectacular and a picturesque island which is surrounded by Neyyar river and small canals. This place is situated near to Vizhinjam which is a natural harbour. It is an isolated island which is widely populated by the fishing community. This island is haunted by tourists from different parts of the world because of its natural beauty.

In Poovar, you can witness the rarest sight of the Arabian sea, Neyyar dam, the backwater lake and the beach meeting the land. This is indeed a wonder of nature. The pleasant climate, golden sandy sands, blue lagoons, the line-up of coconut groves and banana groves on both sides, and the pristine environment makes Poovar a mesmerizing eco-tourism destination. The backwaters of Poovar are rich in flora and fauna.

Water birds like Sea Egret, Brahminy Kite, Kingfisher, Black Darter, Indian Cormorant eagle, Night Heron are spotted in the backwaters of Poovar. Bird watching is the main attraction of this place. This is a less crowded place; hence it is the best suitable place for relaxing and a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This is a peaceful and a calm place for doing yoga and meditation.

Swimming is allowed only in the months of October to May in Poovar beach. This beach provides beach sports activities like volleyball, football etc. Other adventurous activities like surfing are strictly prohibited in this beach. Speedboats and wooden motor boats are available here to travel across the river and to explore the beauty of Poovar.

Best time to visit : August-March. The climate during these months are extremely pleasant and cool and it is winter season here.

Nearest Tourist places :

Poovar Beach : - It is a beautiful beach situated between Neyyar river and Arabian sea. It is at a distance of 1.2 Km.

Poovar Backwater Cruise : - It is only 950 m from Poovar. They provide a mesmerizing boat ride across the river Neyyar.

Aazhimala : - It is only 7.8 km from Poovar. Aazhimala surprises everyone with its enchanting beauty. The Aazhimala Shiva Temple located near this beach adds extra beauty to this beach.

Kovalam Beach : - It is at a distance of 16.6 Km. It is one of the famous beaches in Kerala which offers beach activities like swimming, sunbathing and ayurvedic massages.

Vizhinjam : - It is at a distance of 16.6 Km. It is a fishing village where you can witness hundreds of fishing boats parked in the fishing harbour.

Thirparappu Falls : - It is a manmade waterfall that falls from a 50 feet height. It is at a distance of 31.7 Km.

Ways to Reach :

 By Air - Trivandrum International Airport is at a distance of 28.1 Km.

 By Rail - Parassala Railway Station is at a distance of 11 km.

 By Bus - Neyyattinkara KSRTC Bus Station is at a distance of 10.9 Km.

FAQs:

What makes Poovar a popular tourist destination?

Poovar is popular for its rare natural wonder where the Neyyar River, Arabian Sea, and Poovar backwaters meet. The island is known for its peaceful atmosphere, lush coconut groves, pristine beach, and exotic birdlife, making it an ideal eco-tourism destination.

What activities can tourists enjoy in Poovar?

In Poovar, tourists can enjoy birdwatching, boating, and sunset cruises. Poovar Beach offers activities like volleyball and football, while the calm backwaters allow for traditional boat rides through the scenic waterways. The island is also perfect for relaxing, yoga, and meditation.

What are the main attractions in Poovar?

Key attractions in Poovar include the backwaters, the tranquil Poovar Beach, birdwatching opportunities, and luxurious floating cottages. The island is also known for Ayurvedic retreats offering traditional therapies and wellness treatments.

What accommodation options are available in Poovar?

Poovar offers a range of accommodation options, including luxurious resorts, floating cottages, and Ayurvedic wellness retreats. These provide a serene and comfortable stay amidst nature.

Can tourists swim at Poovar Beach?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Poovar Beach, but only from October to May, when the weather conditions are safe. However, activities like surfing are prohibited to maintain safety.

Are there any historical or cultural attractions in Poovar?

Yes, Poovar has a rich history as a former trading hub. Nearby, you can visit a centuries-old martial arts village that reflects the island’s cultural heritage. This gives visitors a glimpse into the island's past.