Tucked away in the Ashtamudi Lake near Kollam, Munroe Island (Munroethuruth) is a serene and untouched backwater destination that remains one of Kerala’s best-kept secrets. Surrounded by lush coconut groves, narrow canals, and traditional villages, Munroe Island Tour offers a peaceful escape from city life, making it perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers.
Named after Colonel John Munroe, a British officer who helped develop Kerala’s canal system, the island is famous for its narrow waterways, canoe tours, and traditional coir-making villages. If you’re looking for an authentic, offbeat experience in Kerala’s backwaters, Munroe Island is the place to be.
This Munroe Island Tour Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, accommodations, must-visit places, travel routes from Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, distances, and local cuisines.
How To Reach Munroe Island? 🚗🚆🚤
Munroe Island is well-connected by road, rail, and water transport, making it easily accessible from Kollam, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram.
By Road 🛣️
The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge and ferry services.
- From Kollam (27 km) – A 45-minute drive via NH 66.
- From Thiruvananthapuram (85 km) – A 2-hour drive via NH 66.
- From Kochi (150 km) – A 4-hour drive via NH 66.
Local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available from Kollam town to Munroe Island.
By Train 🚆
Munroe Island has its own railway station (Munroturuttu Railway Station – MQO), which is connected to Kollam, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram. Some trains stopping here include:
- Kollam–Punalur Passenger
- Thiruvananthapuram–Kollam Express
From the station, you can walk or take a tuk-tuk to your hotel or homestay.
By Water 🚤
You can also reach Munroe Island by ferry or houseboat from Kollam, which is a scenic and relaxing option.
- Public ferry services operate between Perumon and Munroe Island.
- Houseboats and canoe rides from Ashtamudi Lake offer a unique way to explore the island.
By Air ✈️
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (85 km). From the airport, take a taxi or train to Munroe Island.
Best Time To Visit Munroe Island ☀️🌧️
Munroe Island has a pleasant tropical climate, but some seasons offer a better experience than others.
| Season | Months | Weather | Best Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – February | Cool & Pleasant (20°C–30°C) | Canoe Rides, Village Walks, Birdwatching |
| Summer | March – May | Warm & Humid (25°C–35°C) | Early Morning Boat Rides, Sunset Views |
| Monsoon | June – September | Heavy Rainfall (22°C–30°C) | Greenery, Rain Photography, Houseboat Stays |
Best Time to Visit: November to February is ideal for comfortable weather, sightseeing, and backwater experiences.
Munroe Island Hotels & Resorts 🏨🌿
Munroe Island offers a range of eco-resorts, budget homestays, and houseboat stays, ensuring a peaceful experience close to nature.
Luxury Resorts & Boutique Stays 🌳
- Munroe Island Lake Resort – A serene backwater resort with traditional Kerala-style cottages.
- Ashtamudi Villas & Houseboat – A premium lakeside retreat with canoe tours.
- Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort – A luxurious stay near Munroe Island with Ayurveda spa.
Budget & Homestay Options 🏡
- Munroe Paradise Homestay – A cozy budget homestay with canoe tours and village walks.
- Green Chromide Homestay – A peaceful stay offering authentic Kerala meals.
- Vini’s Farm Stay – A private island eco-retreat, perfect for nature lovers.
For an authentic experience, opt for a backwater homestay or houseboat stay.
Best Places To Visit In Munroe Island 🌊🏞️
1. Munroe Island Backwaters
A must-visit, offering canoe rides through narrow canals, surrounded by coconut palms and mangroves.
2. Kallada River & Ashtamudi Lake
Enjoy a boat ride or houseboat stay on Kerala’s second-largest lake, famous for its scenic beauty.
3. Dutch Church Munroe Island
A centuries-old church built by the Dutch, known for its colonial architecture and peaceful ambiance.
4. Coir-Making Villages
Explore traditional coir-making workshops, where locals craft handwoven mats and ropes from coconut husk.
5. Perumon Bridge & Railway Bridge
A perfect viewpoint for watching boats, trains, and the beauty of Ashtamudi Lake.
6. Birdwatching Trails
Home to Kingfishers, Cormorants, Egrets, and migratory birds, Munroe Island is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
7. Sunset & Sunrise Viewpoints
Watch the sun rise over the backwaters and set over coconut groves, creating stunning reflections on the water.
Munroe Island from Kochi 🚗
Munroe Island is just 4 hours from Kochi, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
- Distance: 150 km
- Travel Time: 4 hours
- Route: Kochi → Alappuzha → Kollam → Munroe Island
2-Day Itinerary from Kochi
- Day 1: Drive to Munroe Island, check-in at a homestay. Enjoy a canoe tour through the backwaters.
- Day 2: Explore coir-making villages, Dutch Church & birdwatching trails, then return to Kochi.
Munroe Island from Thiruvananthapuram 🚗
Munroe Island is just 2 hours from Thiruvananthapuram, making it an easy weekend retreat.
- Distance: 85 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours
- Route: Thiruvananthapuram → Varkala → Kollam → Munroe Island
1-Day Itinerary from Thiruvananthapuram
- Start early (7 AM) from Thiruvananthapuram.
- Visit Munroe Island Backwaters & Coir-Making Villages.
- Enjoy a houseboat cruise & sunset views before returning.
Munroe Island Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kollam | 27 km | 45 min |
| Thiruvananthapuram | 85 km | 2 hrs |
| Kochi | 150 km | 4 hrs |
| Alappuzha | 95 km | 2.5 hrs |
Munroe Island Local Cuisines 🍛🐟
Munroe Island Tour offers delicious Kerala coastal cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood, coconut, and spices.
Must-Try Dishes 🍽️
- Karimeen Pollichathu – Grilled pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf.
- Meen Curry (Fish Curry) – Spicy red fish curry with tapioca.
- Prawn Roast – A must-try local delicacy.
- Appam & Duck Curry – A Syrian Christian specialty.
Try these at homestays, backwater resorts, or toddy shops.
Final Thoughts 🌊🌿
Munroe Island is a hidden paradise in Kerala’s backwaters, offering a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you want to canoe through narrow canals, experience village life, or simply unwind by the lake, this offbeat destination guarantees an unforgettable experience.
So pack your bags and explore the untouched beauty of Munroe Island! 🚤✨
