Poovar is a small coastal village located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, India. It is known for its beautiful beaches and backwaters, as well as its natural beauty. The village is situated at the confluence of the Neyyar River, the Arabian Sea, and the backwaters of Poovar. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its fishing and boat building industries.
The village is situated at the estuary of the Poovar River and is located near the Neyyar Dam. The golden sand beach and estuary of Poovar is an ideal place for swimming, sunbathing and fishing. Also it has many resorts and homestays for the tourists to stay.The beach is secluded and surrounded by coconut groves making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Also close to the beach is an estuary which connects the sea to the backwaters, there's a boathouse where you can hire a boat to explore the mangrove forest.
The name Poovar is believed to have originated from the Malayalam word "Poov" meaning flower and "Aar" meaning river, together meaning "River of Flowers." It is said that the village was once surrounded by a wide variety of flowers, which gave it the name.
Another theory is that the name Poovar is derived from the Tamil word "Puvar" meaning "golden village." This is said to be due to the golden sand beach and estuary of Poovar.
Historically, Poovar was an ancient port-town and trade center, which was known for its spice and timber trade. The place was a major hub for the trade of pepper, cinnamon, and other spices. The port was used by traders from as far as Rome and Greece.
Poovar has a rich history and culture, and it is believed that the village has been inhabited for more than a thousand years. The village has been ruled by various dynasties and has been an important center for trade and commerce.
Today Poovar is known for its beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and backwaters and is a popular tourist destination in Kerala.In recent years Poovar become a major destination for Ayurveda and Yoga retreats which is the traditional medical system of India, with an emphasis on holistic wellness and the use of herbal remedies.
Another theory is that the name Poovar is derived from the Tamil word "Puvar" meaning "golden village." This is said to be due to the golden sand beach and estuary of Poovar.
Historically, Poovar was an ancient port-town and trade center, which was known for its spice and timber trade. The place was a major hub for the trade of pepper, cinnamon, and other spices. The port was used by traders from as far as Rome and Greece.
Poovar has a rich history and culture, and it is believed that the village has been inhabited for more than a thousand years. The village has been ruled by various dynasties and has been an important center for trade and commerce.
Today Poovar is known for its beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and backwaters and is a popular tourist destination in Kerala.In recent years Poovar become a major destination for Ayurveda and Yoga retreats which is the traditional medical system of India, with an emphasis on holistic wellness and the use of herbal remedies.
Visitors to Poovar can enjoy a Variety of activities, including:
1. Swimming, sunbathing and fishing at the golden sand beach and estuary of Poovar.
2. Boat tours through the backwaters to see the mangrove forests and local fishing villages.
3. Birdwatching - The village is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
4. Water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding and jet skiing.
5. Relaxing at the resorts and homestays
6. Visiting the Neyyar Dam and the nearby Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
7. Enjoying Ayurvedic massage and spa treatments at various resorts and wellness centers.
8. Visiting nearby places like Kovalam, Varkala and Trivandrum.
9. Shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
10. Indulging in local Kerala cuisine and seafood.
These are some of the popular activities that one can indulge in Poovar.
Tourist spots in Poovar
Some of the popular tourist spots in Poovar include:
2. Backwaters: Visitors can take a boat tour through the backwaters to see the mangrove forests and local fishing villages.
3. Neyyar Dam: This dam is located near Poovar and offers a picturesque view of the surrounding area.
4. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located near the dam and is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, and leopards.
5. Poovar Island: The island is located at the confluence of the sea, lake and river. It is an ideal spot to enjoy the serene backwaters and the beautiful sunset.
6. Eco-friendly resorts: Poovar has a number of eco-friendly resorts, which offer unique experiences of living in the lap of nature.
7. Kovalam: This famous beach town is located around 15km from Poovar and is known for its beautiful beaches and ayurvedic spas.
8. Trivandrum: The capital city of Kerala is located around 30km from Poovar and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical monuments.
9. Chithara: This is an artist village located around 20km from Poovar and is known for its traditional mural painting and art.
These are some of the popular tourist spots in Poovar that one can explore during their visit to this beautiful village.
Where to stay
There are several options for accommodation to suit different budgets and preferences.
1. Resorts: Poovar has a number of resorts that offer luxurious accommodation, with amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and restaurants.
2. Homestays: Homestays are a popular option for those looking for a more authentic experience of local culture and hospitality.
3. Guesthouses: There are also a number of guesthouses and budget accommodations available for those traveling on a budget.
4. Eco-friendly resorts: Poovar has a number of eco-friendly resorts which offers unique experiences of living in the lap of nature.
5. Houseboats: Staying in a houseboat is a unique way to experience the backwaters of Poovar.
When choosing where to stay, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget. It's also a good idea to check online reviews and compare prices to find the best option for your needs.
When to visit
The best time to visit Poovar depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do during your trip.
1. October to May: This is considered the best time to visit Poovar as the weather is pleasant and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and boat rides.
2. June to September: This is considered monsoon season in Poovar and the weather is generally hot and humid, with occasional rains. However, if you're looking to experience the backwaters in its full glory, this is the time as the water level increases.
3. Winter months: December to February, the temperature may drop a little but still it's warm enough to enjoy the outdoor activities
It's important to note that Poovar is a year-round destination, and each season has its own charm. So, it's best to plan your visit based on your preferences and the activities you wish to do during your trip.
How To Reach
There are several ways to reach Poovar:
1. By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, which is located around 30km from Poovar. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Poovar.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station is Trivandrum Central railway station, which is located around 30km from Poovar. Taxis and buses are available from the railway station to Poovar.
3. By Bus: Poovar is well connected by road to major cities in Kerala. State-run buses and private buses are available from Trivandrum, Kovalam and Varkala to Poovar.
4. By Car: Poovar is well connected by road and can be reached by hiring a taxi or driving on your own.
5. By boat: Poovar is accessible by boat from the backwaters of Neyyar Dam and Kovalam.
It's recommended to check for the availability of transportation options as per the current situation and plan accordingly. The best way to reach Poovar will depend on your location and budget.
Tips
Here are a few tips for visiting Poovar:
1. Plan ahead: Research and plan your trip in advance, as it will help you make the most of your time in Poovar.
2. Pack appropriate clothing: Poovar has a tropical climate, so pack light cotton clothing and a light sweater for the evenings.
3. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: The sun can be quite strong in Poovar, so make sure to protect yourself from sunburn. Also, bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
4. Carry cash: While most places accept card payment, it's always better to have some cash handy, as some places may only accept cash.
5. Be respectful of local customs: Poovar is a traditional village, so be mindful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and avoid loud music or other disruptive behavior.
6. Be mindful of the environment: Poovar is known for its beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and backwaters, so it is important to be mindful of the environment and not leave any litter.
7. Try the local cuisine: Poovar is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine. Try some of the local dishes and you'll be in for a real treat.
8. Respect the culture and tradition of the place, always adhere to the regulations and laws of the place.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Poovar.
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