Top 6 Activities in Poovar, Kerala
Travel to Poovar Island to experience the true beauty of Kerala’s backwaters, and read on to learn about the best things to do in Poovar Island.
- Go to Vizhinjam Harbour.
The Vizhinjam Harbour is a truly remarkable destination, not only because of its natural beauty, but also because of its historical significance as a major seafaring hub. Tourists visit these cave temples not only for their architectural and historical significance, but also to witness the devotion of the many devotees who come to offer prayers on important religious occasions. The Vizhinjam Harbour and its cave temples are not to be missed if you are a history buff or simply looking for an immersive cultural experience.
- Take a stroll along Poovar Beach’s coastline.
It is located at the confluence of the Neyyar River and the Arabian Sea and is ideal for picnics and relaxation due to its golden sands and picturesque backwaters. One of the highlights of visiting Poovar Beach is the opportunity to take a boat trip along the backwaters, an experience that is not only exquisite but is also reasonably priced. Poovar Beach, located just 12 kilometres from the popular beach town of Kovalam in Thiruvananthapuram, offers visitors a glimpse into life in a traditional coastal village.
- Hike to Tirparappu Falls.
Tirparappu Falls, located approximately 55 kilometres from the southernmost tip of mainland India, Kanyakumari, is a truly enchanting destination that allows visitors to witness the awe-inspiring power of cascading water. Despite the fact that it is a man-made waterfall, it falls from a height of 50 feet, creating a picturesque and tranquil natural setting. The water collects in a charming pool below, which is ideal for visitors, especially children, to frolic in.
- Discover Vizhinjam’s local fishing culture.
Fishing is an important part of Vizhinjam’s culture and economy, and the village is home to a large community of traditional fishermen. If you’re looking for cultural activities on Poovar Island, this is the place to go. They catch fish in nearby waters using traditional methods such as catamarans and country boats. The catch is then brought to shore and sold in the village fish market, providing a living for many families. Visitors to Vizhinjam can observe the fishermen’s daily lives and learn about their traditional fishing methods. It is also possible to take a boat trip with local fishermen to observe their work and learn about their way of life.
- Visit the Vizhinjam Cave Temple.
It is thought to be the smallest rock-cut shrine in southern India, dating back to the 8th century, and is one of the earliest examples of rock-cut cave temples in Kerala. The shrine features a central cell with an independent sculpture of the Hindu deity Dakshinamurthy, as well as unfinished sculptures of the Hindu deities Siva and Parvathi on either side of the cell. The Archaeological Survey of India, which has been maintaining and preserving the site since 1965, now has control of this rock-cut cave. Visitors to the Vizhinjam Rock-cut cave will be able to see the intricate carvings and unique architectural style of this ancient temple, as well as learn more about the region’s rich cultural heritage, making it one of the most recommended places to visit in Poovar.
6. Stay at Poovar Island Resort.
The resort offers a unique blend of elegance and natural beauty, set on 25 acres of lush green coconut gardens alongside the beach. The resort currently consists of elegant land-based superior rooms built around a natural lily pond swimming pool, and is one of the few places in India where you can find the unique experience of floating cottages and villas afloat on the backwaters and facing the sea. One of the most popular activities on Poovar Island is water sports. The resort is located 30 kilometres from Trivandrum International Airport and is only accessible by a 10-minute boat ride on the river, adding to the resort’s secluded and exclusive atmosphere.
