Poovattoor

Poovattoor is a village in Kottarakara taluk, located in the northern part of Kerala's Kollam District. It is renowned for its ancient Bhagavathy temple, known as Poovattoor Devi Temple, which is considered the sister temple to Pattazhy and Mannadi Devi Temples. The name "Poovattoor" originates from "Poo attoor," meaning "the place where flowers fell." According to legend, the goddess of Poovattoor is the younger sister of the deities at Pattazhi and Mannadi. She was given a handful of flowers by her elder sister to establish her new abode where they fell.

The village is divided into three parts: Poovattoor West, Poovattoor East, and central Poovattoor. It is situated along the banks of the Kallada River, with the MC road serving as the main thoroughfare. The annual festival at Poovattoor Devi Temple is one of the largest in Kulakkada Panchayat, featuring cultural events such as Kettukazcha, fireworks, processions with decorated structures made from plantain kernels and coconut leaves, and the display of a golden idol adorned with precious stones.

The village boasts several places of worship, including Poovattoor Bhagavathy Temple, Mahavishnu Temple in the east, Vilarithala Sri Mahadevar Temple, Alumkunnil Mahadevar Temple in the west, and Mavady Mahavishnu Temple. Educationally, there are three institutions: two under the Nair Service Society and one government-run LP school. Additionally, Poovattoor has a Primary Health Center for healthcare needs.