Poovar Island is a hidden gem in Kerala that will take your breath away with its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. Located at the southern tip of Kerala, Poovar Island is a fishing village that lies between the Arabian Sea and the Neyyar River. It is one of the rare places in the world where you can witness the confluence of sea, river, lake, and beach in one spot.
Poovar Island has a rich history and culture that dates back to the ancient times. It was once a major trading center for spices, sandalwood, ivory, and timber. It was also associated with the legendary King Marthanda Varma Maharaj of Travancore, who sought refuge in Poovar Island from his enemies.
If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, Poovar Island is the perfect destination for you. You can enjoy the pristine nature, the exotic wildlife, the fascinating culture, and the thrilling adventure that Poovar Island has to offer. Here are some of the things that you can do and see on Poovar Island:
How to Reach Poovar Island
Poovar Island is easily accessible from Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. You can reach Trivandrum by air, rail, or road from any major city in India. From Trivandrum, you can take a bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to Poovar, which is about 30 km away. From Poovar, you can take a boat ride to Poovar Island, which is about 10 minutes away.
The boat ride to Poovar Island is an experience in itself. You can enjoy the scenic views of the backwaters, the coconut groves, the mangroves, and the birds along the way. You can also choose from different types of boats, such as motorboats, country boats, or houseboats, depending on your budget and preference.
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Best Time to Visit Poovar Island
Poovar Island has a tropical climate that is pleasant throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Poovar Island is from October to March, when the weather is cool and dry. This is also the peak season for tourism in Kerala, so you can expect a lot of crowd and high prices during this time.
If you want to avoid the crowd and enjoy a more peaceful vacation, you can visit Poovar Island from April to September, when the weather is hot and humid. This is also the off-season for tourism in Kerala, so you can get better deals and discounts on accommodation and transportation during this time.
However, you should avoid visiting Poovar Island during the monsoon season from June to August, when the weather is wet and windy. The heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides in some areas and disrupt your travel plans.
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Things to Do and See on Poovar Island
Poovar Island has something for everyone. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, you will find plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained on Poovar Island. Here are some of them:
1. Explore the natural beauty of Poovar Island by taking a walk along the golden sand beach or taking a boat ride along the backwaters. You can also visit the nearby islands such as Golden Sand Beach Island, Kovalam Beach Island, or Vizhinjam Beach Island, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or surfing.
2. Witness the amazing spectacle of sunrise and sunset on Poovar Island. You can watch the sun rise over the sea and set over the river from different points on Poovar Island. You can also capture some stunning photos of the changing colors of the sky and water during these times.
3. Experience the rich culture of Poovar Island by visiting the local fishing village and interacting with the friendly fishermen. You can learn about their lifestyle, traditions, and customs, and even join them for fishing or boating. You can also visit the ancient mosque built by Malik Ibn Dinar, a Muslim saint who came to Kerala from Arabia.
4. Enjoy the exotic wildlife of Poovar Island by visiting the nearby Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary or Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. You can spot various animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, etc. in their natural habitat. You can also go for birdwatching or trekking in these sanctuaries.
5. Indulge in some adventure activities on Poovar Island such as kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, parasailing, etc. You can also go for a banana boat ride or a speed boat ride for some fun and thrill. You can also try some Ayurvedic treatments or massages at the resorts or spas on Poovar Island for some relaxation and rejuvenation.
Where to Stay on Poovar Island
Poovar Island has a range of accommodation options to suit your budget and taste. You can choose from luxurious resorts, cozy hotels, or homely homestays on Poovar Island. Some of the popular accommodation options on Poovar Island are:
Poovar Island Resort: This is one of the most famous and luxurious resorts on Poovar Island. It offers elegant land-based rooms and floating cottages and villas that are surrounded by coconut trees and lily ponds. It also has a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, and a conference hall. The resort also organizes various activities and events for its guests, such as cultural shows, yoga sessions, fishing trips, etc.
Estuary Island Resort: This is another premium resort on Poovar Island that offers spacious and comfortable rooms and cottages with modern amenities. It also has a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, and a banquet hall. The resort also arranges various activities and tours for its guests, such as boating, fishing, sightseeing, etc.
Isola Di Cocco Ayurvedic Beach Resort: This is a charming resort on Poovar Island that offers cozy and elegant rooms and suites with traditional Kerala architecture. It also has a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, a coffee shop, and a conference hall. The resort also provides various facilities and services for its guests, such as laundry, travel desk, doctor on call, etc.
Over the Hill: This is a quaint homestay on Poovar Island that offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. It also has a garden, a terrace, a library, and a dining area. The homestay also serves delicious home-cooked food and organizes various activities and games for its guests, such as cycling, board games, etc.
Poovar Island is a natural wonder in Kerala that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. It is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, culture, and adventure in one place. It is also a place where you can relax and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Poovar Island soon and experience the magic of this paradise.
