Explore the pristine backwaters, golden sand beaches, and tranquil charm just 30 km from Trivandrum
📍 Introduction
Living in a bustling city like Trivandrum can sometimes make you crave a quick escape—a place that feels like a world away yet is close enough to reach without much planning. Enter Poovar, a serene coastal village in Kerala, just 30 km from Trivandrum. Known for its calm backwaters, golden sand beach, and unique estuary, Poovar offers a perfect weekend getaway, especially when paired with a rejuvenating boating experience.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything that makes Poovar boating not just an activity, but an unforgettable escape—from the scenic landscapes to the travel ease and practical tips.
🛶 1. The Allure of Poovar: Where the River Meets the Sea
Poovar is one of the rare places in India where a lake, a river, the sea, and a beach meet at one point. This natural estuary, also known as the Golden Sand Beach, is the highlight of the region.
When you hop onto a Poovar boating ride, you glide past:
- Lush mangroves
- Floating restaurants and cottages
- Birds in flight
- Fishermen casting their nets
- Palm-fringed islands
It’s no wonder that tourists and locals alike describe the experience as therapeutic, romantic, and refreshing.
🗺️ 2. How to Reach Poovar from Trivandrum
Getting to Poovar from Trivandrum is quick and convenient. Here are your options:
- By Car: A 45-minute drive (~30 km) via NH66 or Vizhinjam Road.
- By Taxi: Cabs are readily available and ideal for family or group outings.
- By Bus: KSRTC buses run from Trivandrum Central to Poovar, though infrequent.
- By Auto/Two-Wheeler: Great for solo or budget travelers.
Tip: Early morning or late afternoon drives offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos.
🛥️ 3. Types of Boating Experiences You Can Choose
Poovar offers a variety of boating options for every type of traveler:
⛵ Standard Backwater Cruise
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Boats: Covered motorboats
- Ideal for: Families and first-timers
🛶 Sunset Boating
- Duration: Around 90 minutes
- Timing: Starts around 5:00 PM
- Best for: Couples or photography lovers
🛥️ Mangrove Forest Ride
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Route: Through narrow canals and thick mangrove cover
- Experience: Feels like a natural tunnel, cool and shady
🌊 Beach + Estuary Combo Ride
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Inclusions: Ride to estuary + stop at Golden Sand Beach
- Highlight: Spot where Neyyar River meets Arabian Sea
Note: Rates typically range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,500 depending on season and duration.
📸 4. Top Sights to Capture on Camera
Your Poovar boating journey is incomplete without your camera or smartphone. Must-capture scenes include:
- Golden Sand Beach: A picture-perfect stretch separating the river and the sea
- Floating Cottages: Unique accommodations on the water
- Estuary Point: The exact point where river, lake, and sea meet
- Migratory Birds: Especially during November–February
- Sunset Over Water: A golden hour glow like no other
🌴 5. Why It’s Perfect for a Weekend Trip
Still wondering why Poovar boating is ideal for a weekend getaway from Trivandrum? Here’s why:
✅ Short Travel Time
You spend more time enjoying and less time commuting. Great for a half-day or full-day plan.
✅ Peaceful Atmosphere
Unlike crowded tourist hubs like Kovalam, Poovar remains quiet and less commercialized.
✅ Romantic & Family-Friendly
Whether it’s a couple’s trip or a family outing with kids, boating in Poovar suits all age groups.
✅ Affordable Luxury
With options like floating resorts and private boats, you can enjoy luxury without breaking the bank.
🕰️ 6. Best Time to Visit Poovar
Poovar is a year-round destination, but here’s a breakdown:
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Nov–Feb | Best weather, migratory birds, ideal for photography |
| Monsoon | Jun–Sep | Lush green surroundings, less crowded |
| Summer | Mar–May | Hot, but early morning rides are still enjoyable |
Pro Tip: Always check the tide timing before your trip to avoid delays or cancellations.
🧳 7. What to Carry for Your Boating Trip
Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you enjoy your trip comfortably:
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water bottle and light snacks
- Camera or mobile with full charge
- Light cotton clothing
- Hat or cap
- Waterproof bag for electronics
- ID proof (some boat services ask for it)
🏨 8. Nearby Attractions to Explore After Boating
Make the most of your trip by checking out nearby spots:
🌊 Kovalam Beach
Only 18 km from Poovar, known for its lighthouse and lively shacks.
🛕 Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
For marine life lovers, located en route to Kovalam.
🧘 Ayurvedic Resorts
Poovar and nearby areas host many authentic Ayurvedic spas and resorts.
🍛 Floating Restaurants
Experience lunch on the water—fresh seafood, Kerala meals, and coconut-based curries.
💬 9. What Visitors Say
“The ride through the mangroves was magical. I’ve lived in Trivandrum all my life and never realized such beauty existed just 30 km away!”
— Arun Nair, Local Resident
“Perfect weekend escape. The beach stop and estuary view were unforgettable.”
— Anjali & Rohit, Couple from Kochi
📞 10. How to Book a Poovar Boating Ride
To avoid last-minute hassle, you can pre-book your boating slots through:
- Official website: poovarboating.co.in
- WhatsApp: Available on the site for direct chat
- On-site counters: Located at the Poovar boating jetty
- Travel agents: Many Trivandrum-based travel desks offer combo packages
Note: Always confirm if life jackets and safety measures are included.
✨ Conclusion
If you’re in Trivandrum and looking for a scenic, peaceful, and refreshing weekend experience, look no further than Poovar boating. With its unique ecosystem, relaxing vibes, and photographic beauty, Poovar is more than just a destination—it’s an experience.
Don’t just hear about it—plan your trip this weekend and let the backwaters of Poovar soothe your soul!
