Poovar is a serene coastal village located in the southern part of Kerala, near Thiruvananthapuram. It is famous for its backwaters, golden beaches, and tranquil environment, making it a popular getaway for travelers seeking peace and nature.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Poovar from various parts of Kerala and India. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Major Cities to Poovar – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train to Poovar is a convenient option for many, especially from nearby cities like Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi. The nearest railway station is Neyyattinkara, about 15 km from Poovar.

• Neyyattinkara Railway Station is the closest major station to Poovar, located approximately 15 km away, with frequent local trains connecting it to Thiruvananthapuram Central and other cities.

• From Thiruvananthapuram Central, which is 30 km from Poovar, you can catch local buses or taxis; the station is well connected to major Indian cities via express trains.

• Train fares from Kochi to Thiruvananthapuram range from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class, with travel times of 4 to 6 hours, making it an affordable and comfortable option.

• During monsoon season, expect occasional delays due to heavy rains affecting tracks, so plan extra time if traveling between June and September.

• Local auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available at Neyyattinkara station for the last 15 km journey to Poovar, with fares typically between ₹300 and ₹500.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Poovar, especially for travelers coming from within Kerala. Several state-run and private buses operate on this route.

• Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs regular buses from Thiruvananthapuram Central Bus Station to Poovar, with journey times around 1 to 1.5 hours and fares between ₹30 and ₹70.

• Private buses and mini-vans also operate frequently, offering slightly faster travel but can be crowded during peak hours and festival seasons.

• The main bus route follows National Highway 66 and then local roads connecting to Poovar; expect some narrow stretches near the village, so larger buses may not enter the village center.

• During the monsoon, road conditions can be slippery, and occasional delays occur, so check bus timings in advance and avoid late evening travel.

• Bus stops in Poovar are close to the beach and resorts, making it easy to walk to accommodations from the drop-off points.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Poovar offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for families or groups wanting to explore the region at their own pace. The roads are generally good, with scenic views along the way.

• Poovar is about 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram city via NH66 and local roads; the drive usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

• From Kochi, the drive is approximately 200 km and takes around 5 to 6 hours via NH544 and NH66, passing through towns like Kottayam and Kollam.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available along NH66, with popular stops including Neyyattinkara and Vizhinjam; toll plazas are minimal on this route.

• Driving during early morning or late evening is recommended to avoid city traffic, especially near Thiruvananthapuram.

• Parking is available near most resorts and beaches in Poovar, but during peak tourist season, it is advisable to check parking facilities beforehand.

Flight

The nearest airport to Poovar is Trivandrum International Airport, which connects the region to major Indian cities and some international destinations. Flying is the fastest option for long-distance travelers.

• Trivandrum International Airport is located about 25 km from Poovar, with taxi or cab rides taking 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

• Domestic flights connect Trivandrum to cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai, with fares ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹6,000 depending on the season and airline.

• International flights operate to Middle Eastern destinations and select Asian cities, making Poovar accessible for international tourists.

• Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at the airport for safe and convenient transfers to Poovar.

• During festival seasons like Onam and Christmas, flight prices may surge, so booking tickets well in advance is advisable.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers heading to Poovar, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to secure the best fares and preferred timings, especially during peak seasons.

• On arrival at Thiruvananthapuram or Neyyattinkara station, use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs for safe and reliable transport to Poovar, avoiding unmetered autos.

• If taking a bus, check the latest KSRTC schedule online or at the bus station to avoid long waits; board buses from the main terminal for better service quality.

• For self-drive travelers, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps, and start early to avoid city traffic and reach Poovar comfortably before dusk.

• Carry some local currency in small denominations for tolls, auto-rickshaw fares, and food stalls, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere in rural areas.

• Pack light but include essentials like bottled water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon months to stay comfortable during travel delays or road conditions.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from stations and airports to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially when traveling late at night.

• Drink bottled water and eat at reputable food stalls or restaurants to avoid stomach issues common with roadside eateries in rural Kerala.

• Book train and bus tickets in advance during festival seasons like Onam and Christmas to avoid last-minute unavailability and overcrowding.

• Local transport within Poovar includes auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws; agree on fares beforehand to prevent misunderstandings.

• Carry minimal luggage as some roads near Poovar can be narrow and uneven, making it difficult for large vehicles to navigate easily.

• During monsoon (June to September), check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, as heavy rains can cause delays and occasional flooding.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Poovar is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach and backwater activities. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip accordingly will enhance your experience and reduce travel stress.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September due to heavy rains and possible road closures or train delays.

• Peak tourist periods like December to January and festival times can lead to crowded transport and higher prices; book tickets early.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures during road travel.

• Fog is rare in this coastal region but can occur in early mornings during winter; allow extra travel time if catching early trains or flights.

Arrival at Poovar & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Poovar, you will find a peaceful village atmosphere with limited but sufficient local transport options. Most visitors rely on auto-rickshaws or resort shuttles to reach their accommodations.

Popular areas to stay include beachfront resorts and guesthouses near the backwaters. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are less common within the village, so negotiating fares with local autos is standard practice.

Conclusion

Traveling to Poovar is straightforward with several options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train to Neyyattinkara combined with a taxi ride is cost-effective and comfortable, while flying into Trivandrum offers the fastest access for long-distance travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking seasonal conditions, and arranging reliable local transport will help you enjoy a smooth journey to this beautiful Kerala destination. With these practical tips, you can confidently plan your trip to Poovar and look forward to a relaxing coastal experience.