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Poompuhar Travel Guide

Located on the estuary of the Kaveri River, Poompuhar has started attracting thousands of discerning travellers in the recent times. Noted as the backdrop of one of the greatest south Indian epics, the Silapaddikaram, Poompuhar has always enjoyed immense importance in Sangam literature and also as a significant tourist destination of Tamil Nadu. Though travellers might not be completely spoilt for choice in terms of the places to visit in Poompuhar, however, the few that are there are definitely worth a visit. Especially history buffs and art aficionados can have a great time exploring this small town. Owing to its location, the place is aptly named Poompuhar as "puhar" in Tamil means 'estuary'.

Though, all this while its popularity as a travel destination was restricted only to Tamil Nadu, of late it has started attracting tourists from other parts of the country as well. Known to be the oldest inhabited place in Tamil Nadu, Poompuhar used to be a famous port town during the Chola Dynasty. It is believed that the town was once completely destroyed by a Tsunami that affected it back in the 500 CE. However, over the time, the town has refurbished itself and today it's not only bustling with some activities but is also gradually making its mark as a tourist attraction.

Best Time to Visit Poompuhar

Owing to its geographical location, Poompuhar enjoys a tropical humid climate round the year. Summers are hot and humid while monsoons experience moderate to heavy rainfall. On the other hand, winters are cool and pleasant, and thus, attract a lot of tourists during that time. Therefore, it can be said that winters are the best time to visit Poompuhar.

  • Summer

    Summer

    Summers in Poompuhar span from March to early June. During these months, temperature ranges between 30°C and 38°C and often goes up to 40°C. Needless to say, such warm temperature makes it exceptionally hot and travellers find it difficult to explore around the town.

  • Monsoon

    Monsoon

    Poompuhar experiences monsoons from mid-June to September. Rainfall recorded here is usually from moderate to heavy, and the months of July and August experience the highest rainfall. Since humidity increases substantially, travellers might find it somewhat uncomfortable exploring the town. Nonetheless, if you want to experience the beauty of the beach side, you may do so, provided you carry the appropriate gears.

  • Winter

    Winter

    Winters are probably the best time to visit Poompuhar when the temperature spans from 19°C to a maximum of 25°C. The weather is at its best during these times - cool breeze flowing through the day, thus making it much easier for travellers to explore the town.

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Places to Visit and Things to Do in & around Poompuhar

Famous for its estuary of the Kaveri River, the small town of Poompuhar makes for an ideal escape for many wanderers who are willing to explore some offbeat locations. Take a stroll along the Poompuhar Beach or spend some time exploring the art gallery. Do remember to admire the architecture of the Zion Church and at the same time offer prayers.

  • Silapddikaram Art Gallery

    Dedicated to the famous Tamil epic of the same name, the Silapaddikaram Art Gallery is one of the most visited places in Poompuhar. This seven-story structure is well-known for its anomalous architecture, that often leaves travellers in awe. The gallery preserves all kinds of art work related to the epic. The total height of the structure is 50-feet and it houses several sculptures that have been carved out by the students of Mamallapuram Art College.

  • Elanchi

    The Elanchi or the Ilanji Mandram is yet another amazing sightseeing place in Poompuhar. Again, this attraction is also related to the epic Silappdikaram. Elanchi or Ilanji Mandram finds its mention in the epic and it refers to a tank whose waters have miraculous powers to heal diseases. This anecdote finds its mention in the epic and from thereon, the locale has emerged as one of the major attractions of Poompuhar.

  • Kotra Pandal

    Kotra Pandal happens to be yet another tourist attraction inspired from the epic Silapddikaram. According to legends, Kotra Pandal is a stage in which the engagement of Madahavi, a character from the epic took place. The event happened in accordance with the time-honoured tradition set by the architects. The canopy over the stage still remains to be painted with many beautiful pictures that visitors find awe-inspiring.

  • Poompuhar Beach

    One of the main tourist attractions at Poompuhar happens to be the main Poompuhar beach. Located along the Bay of Bengal, the beach starts from the Kaveri River and extends till three kilometres to Neithavasal. The sands of the beach spreads around three kilometres with a host of palm trees swaying around the fringes. Witness the beautiful sunrise on the wee hours of morning or admire the beauty of the orange sun as it sets across the horizon.

  • Zion Church

    One of the most popular religious shrine of Poompuhar happens to be the Zion Church. The shrine was built in 1701 by the Dutch settlers of the town and the church still upholds a typical Dutch style of architecture. Later when India was occupied by the British, Poompuhar also experienced its ravages. The church was rebuilt by the British later on twice - once in 1782 and later in 1784.

Where to Stay in Poompuhar?

Poompuhar's increasing popularity as a tourist destination has also given rise to many hotels and guest houses. Decent accommodation options in Poompuhar are available that cater to budget travellers. Since this place is slowly developing there is still some time for the luxury accommodations to establish here. However, an average, clean and state-of-the-art hotel can cater to the need of those seeking a bit more comfort.

How to Reach Poompuhar?

Strategically located along the Bay of Bengal, Poompuhar is accessible from various parts of south India as well as the rest of the country. Nagapattinam is the nearest railway station to Poompuhar from where several options are available that can take one to Poompuhar. On the other hand, travellers can take a flight till Trichy and thereupon take a bus or a taxi up to Poompuhar.

  • By Air

    The nearest airports to Poompuhar happens to be Trichy (145 kms) and Madurai (278 kms). Trichy and Madurai are extremely well-connected by several domestic airlines throughout the country. Once you have arrived at the Madurai or the Trichy airport, you can easily avail buses or taxis that can take you to Poompuhar.

  • By Rail

    Poompuhar can be accessed via the railways as well. Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu located 58 kilometres away is the nearest railway station to Poompuhar. Several local trains from all over Tamil Nadu travels to Nagapattinam on a daily basis. Once at Nagapattinam, travellers can easily avail buses and other local transport to reach Poompuhar.

  • By Road

    Poompuhar is extremely well-connected with the rest of Tamil Nadu and other states in south India by roadways. A wide network of national and state highways takes you to Poompuhar. NH 32 connects Chennai to Poompuhar while NH 67 connects the town to Coimbatore. If you are travelling from Madurai to Poompuhar, you need to take a state highway. State-run buses from several cities of Tamil Nadu are available for the town, cabs are also easily available.

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