About Saint Mary Statue Island
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends
Suggested Duration: 2 - 3 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram Railway Station, about 27 km away
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 27.9 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Neyyattinkara Bus Stand, about 10 km away
Saint Mary's Statue Island, Poovar in Kerala, is a peaceful island destination known for its statue of Mother Mary that watches over the scenic backwaters. It is a hidden gem among the many places to visit in Kerala, the island offers a tranquil escape with its lush coconut palms, quiet lagoons, and spiritual ambiance. The highlight of the island is the beautiful white statue of Saint Mary that rises high in the blue sky, visible even from a distance.
The island is visited by pilgrims and travelers both, who come here to feel its serenity and behold beautiful sunsets. It is also a popular stop for boating trips on the backwaters. It is accessed by a boat ride, this offbeat destination is perfect for those looking to explore something unique in Kerala. The Saint Mary Statue Island is perfect for quiet reflection, or taking pictures. It is a perfect mixture of nature, devotion, and peace.
Saint Mary Statue Island Highlights
• Behold the beauty of the Saint Mary Statue in Poovar, which is located peacefully on Kerala’s Beautiful backwaters.
• Take a calm boat ride through peaceful lagoons to the Saint Mary Statue.
• Watch the sunset behind the statue and palm trees, perfect for those golden hour photos.
• Walk around lush greenery and untouched nature, ideal for relaxing, reflecting, or simply doing nothing.
How To Reach Saint Mary Statue Island
- By Car/Taxi: Saint Mary Statue Island is around 5 km away from Kumarakom or nearby points like Cheepunkal. You can drive up to the boat jetty closest to the island, which takes about 10–15 minutes by car from central Kumarakom. Local taxis or auto-rickshaws are readily available.
- By Boat: The way to reach the island is via a short boat ride. You can hire a local ferry or canoe from Cheepunkal Jetty or nearby resorts. The ride takes around 10–20 minutes.
Best Time To Visit Saint Mary Statue Island
Peak Season (October to February)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant and cool with clear skies and mild humidity.
- Things to Do: Perfect for boat rides, nature photography, and quiet visits to the island.
Moderate Season (June to September)
- Weather Insights: Monsoon showers offer lush surroundings, but boats may be limited during heavy rain.
- Things to Do: Enjoy fresh greenery and peaceful views, ideal for a short spiritual retreat.
Low Season (March to May)
- Weather Insights: Hot and humid with bright sunshine.
- Things to Do: Visit during early morning or evening time for better comfort and witnessing minimal crowd.
Saint Mary Statue Island Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable footwear as the path might not be suitable for fancy footwears, and you will be walking in a natural environment.
- Check boat schedules beforehand if you’re not on a guided cruise.
- Avoid peak noon hours during summer due to heat and strong sunlight.
- Plan your visit during weekdays if you want to avoid religious or weekend crowds.
Take a boat ride to the island
Reach the island through the calm Kerala backwaters. The boat ride itself is peaceful, passing through beautiful waterways, visitors can spot birds of different species, lush vegetation, and traditional houseboats. It's one of the most peaceful routes in the region.
Include the island in your backwater cruise
If you’re on a cruise, ask your guide to stop at the Saint Mary Statue Island. It adds a unique cultural and spiritual touch to your journey. Stopping here gives your trip a peaceful pause from other tourist routes.
Explore the nearby backwater villages
After visiting the statue, move to the nearby villages accessible by boat. These areas offer great views of Kerala’s rural life, which include fishermen at work, toddy tappers, and locals weaving coconut leaves. It’s a cultural experience that adds to the beauty of the island.
Try and buy Kerala snacks sold near the shore
You can spot local vendors nearby selling banana chips, tender coconuts, and local sweets. Grab some snacks or local dishes and sit by the view of the sea, it’s a simple but joyful moment.
Tourism Board Alliances
Saint Mary Statue Island FAQs
How can one reach to the Saint Mary Island?
You can reach the island via a boat from nearby jetties near Kochi or Alleppey. Some backwater cruises include a stop here. It's a short, mesmerising boat ride, and it is best to go during the morning or evening hours for pleasant weather and views.
Is there an entry fee for the island?
There is no entry fee to visit the Saint Mary Statue Island, but transportation to the island, such as a boat ride or cruise, might charge you some fee. You must confirm the charger from boatmen or your tour operator beforehand.
Can I visit the island anytime during the day?
Yes, you can visit anytime throughout the day, but best times are early morning or late afternoon, so that you can avoid the heat. Visiting during golden hour provides great lighting for photography and a peaceful environment to behold.
Is Saint Mary Statue Island suitable for families or kids?
Yes, Saint Mary Statue Island is safe to visit with children and family members. Since it's a site of cultural and religious importance, visitors are kindly expected to keep noise to a minimum and respect the peaceful atmosphere.