Munroe island is an unexplored exotic destination located in the Kollam district in Kerala. This island is a group of 8 beautiful islets that are connected by canals. Mundrothuruthu is the other name of the island that is situated at the confluence of the Kallada river and Ashtamudi lake.
Another intriguing fact about the island is that it’s been named after a resident Colonel John Munroe of colonial times.
The best time to visit Munroe island is anytime throughout the year, as the weather here remains pleasant due to its coastal location. You must avoid planning a trip during the monsoon season from June to September as it can be hot and humid.
History of Munroe Island
In 1795, the Britishers expanded and established their supremacy in South India and took over the princely state of Travancore. The East India Company started appointing administrative heads, and Colonel John Munroe was the second administrative head of Travancore. During this time, Colonel Munroe initiated the work to interlink these islets through canals, and since then, it came to be known as Munroe island.
Major Attractions Around Munroe Island
1. Kallada Boat Race
You will be smitten by the boat race that is held annually during the Onam festival celebration. The race is conducted in the straight passage of the river, and the winners are awarded prizes. Every year thousands of tourists who arrive here are enthralled by the boat race.
2. Boating and Canal Cruise
Mulling over things to do in Munroe Island? Get on your toes because boating or a canal cruise will turn your evenings in Munroe Island magical and memorable.
Places to Visit Near Munroe Island
1. Thevally Palace
Built in the early 19th century, Thevally Palace is a royal gem from the heritage of Kerala. The palace is situated on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake and embellished with palm and coconut trees. On your visit to Thevally palace, locals will share the tales of a love affair between a British officer and a local woman, that will make you fall for the palace again!
2. Palaruvi Waterfalls
Falling from 300ft Palaruvi waterfall is a must-visit destination. While witnessing the beauty of this waterfall, you will find yourself among a lush green forest with the melodious sound of the waterfall, a cool breeze, and an earthy fragrance in the air that can freshen your soul. Locals claim the water has medicinal properties that it acquires while passing through an area with plantation of herbs and shrubs.
3. Kollam Beach
Known to be the first beach wedding destination in Kerala, Kollam beach is a pride and joy of Kerala. Adorned with a mesmerizing view of the Arabian Sea, alluring azure colour water, and a scintillating sky, Kollam beach is where you can indulge in fun activities such as boat rides, canal cruise, or may visit Mahatma Gandhi Park or Marine Aquarium.
4. Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is the spot for some memorable wild encounters only if you are ready for some action! You are very likely to spot endangered species of animals like Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langurs, along with birds like great-eared nightjar and many nocturnal birds at Shenduruny Sanctuary.
How to Reach Munroe Island in Kerala
From Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, you have to cover approximately 2852km via NH 44, 1600km via NH 48, 2300km via NH 16, and 680km via NH NH544, respectively. Continue reading to find out the best travel options to reach Munroe island.
By Road. If you wish to explore the country life down south, then planning a road trip to Munroe island is a great idea. You can arrive here via national and state highways while witnessing village life and fascinating views en route to Munroe Island. Listed below is the estimate of distance and the best route to take on arriving from nearby cities.
By Air. Trivandrum Airport is where you must terminate your air journey to reach Munroe Island. Flights by all domestic airlines such as IndiGo, AirIndia, SpiceJet, GoAir, and Vistaraarrive here hence you can plan an air journey from anywhere in India without worrying about the availability of flights. From the airport, you have to cover another 80km via taxi or local bus to reach Munroe island.
- From Delhi. Board Vistara or IndiGo flight from Delhi. The airfare starts from INR 6,000
- From Mumbai. Board IndiGo flight from Mumbai. The airfare starts from INR 4,000
- From Kolkata. Board IndiGo flight from Kolkata. The airfare starts from INR 6,000
- From Bengaluru. Board non-stop IndiGo flight from Bengaluru. The airfare starts from INR 3,000
By Rail. Kollam junction railway station is the nearest to Munroe island. Trains from all parts of the country arrive here, and listed below are some options that you may consider.
- From Delhi. Board NDLS TVC SF SPL from New Delhi and deboard at Kollam Junction station
- From Mumbai. Board LTT TVC SPL from Lokmanyatilak Terminus and deboard at Kollam Junction station
- From Kolkata. Board SHM TVC SPL from Shalimar station and deboard at Kollam Junction station
- From Bengaluru. Board MYS KCVL FEST SPL from KSR Bengaluru and deboard at Kollam Junction station
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here.
