Munroe Island (Mundrothuruthu) is a group of eight small islets where Ashtamudi Lake meets the Kallada River in Kollam district, Kerala. Its narrow canals, coconut groves and slow village life make it one of the most peaceful backwater destinations in the state. It is also far less crowded than Alleppey.
This guide covers what you need to plan your trip: how to get there, when to go, what to eat and where to stay. For ideas on what to do once you arrive, see our guide to things to do in Munroe Island.
Where is Munroe Island?
Munroe Island is in Kollam district in southern Kerala, about 25 km from Kollam town. It was named after Colonel John Munro, the British Resident of Travancore, who oversaw land reclamation where the Kallada River joins Ashtamudi Lake.
How to reach Munroe Island
By train (the easiest option)
Munroe Island has its own railway station, Munroturuttu, on the Ernakulam–Kottayam–Kollam line. Passenger, MEMU and some express trains stop here. From the station, auto-rickshaws can take you around the island.
- From Kollam: a short train ride to Munroturuttu, or about 25 km by road
- From Kochi (Ernakulam): trains on the Kottayam route stop at Munroturuttu
- From Alleppey or Varkala: take a train to Kollam Junction, then a local train or taxi to Munroe Island
By road
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easy to find in Kollam. Driving gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to catch the sunrise canoe ride.
By air
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, roughly 80 km away. Kochi International Airport is the other option if you are combining Munroe Island with central Kerala.
By boat
Boat trips to Munroe Island also run from Kollam across Ashtamudi Lake. Check current timings with DTPC Kollam before you go.
Best time to visit Munroe Island
- October to February (best): pleasant weather, calm water and ideal conditions for canoe rides and village walks. Migratory birds also arrive in these months.
- March to May (hot): it gets hot and humid, so plan outdoor activities for early morning and evening.
- June to September (monsoon): the island is at its greenest, but heavy rain can flood low-lying areas and disrupt boat rides.
Time of day: Early morning is the best time for a canoe ride. The light is soft, the canals are quiet and it is cooler.
Festival tip: The Kallada Boat Race is held on the Kallada River at Munroe Island every year, 28 days after Onam (usually late September or early October). Snake boats compete in one of the region’s most exciting traditional races.
How many days do you need?
Half a day is enough for a canoe ride and a short village walk. To enjoy Munroe Island properly, including a sunrise canoe ride, coir villages and a lakeside sunset, stay one or two nights nearby.
What to eat in and around Munroe Island
The backwaters are known for fresh fish and seafood cooked the Kerala way. Dishes to try:
- Karimeen Pollichathu: pearl spot fish marinated and cooked in banana leaf
- Chemmeen Roast: spicy Kerala-style prawns
- Meen curry with tapioca: a local favourite
- Beef roast and seafood curry, served with appam or rice
- Breakfast: appam, ghee masala dosa, or puri with kadala curry
Our restaurant at Hotel Viraj Retreat serves these Kerala dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, alongside North Indian, Chinese and continental food. It is open to hotel guests and visitors.
Where to stay near Munroe Island
Accommodation on the island itself is mostly homestays and small resorts. If you prefer a full-service hotel, stay close by so the canals are still a short drive away.
Hotel Viraj Retreat is a 4-star hotel at Thevalakkara, near Munroe Island. Guests often call it the best hotel in Munroe Island for its quiet setting and warm Kerala hospitality. It offers:
- 19 air-conditioned Deluxe Rooms and Suites with free Wi-Fi
- An in-house multi-cuisine restaurant and three bars
- A banquet hall for weddings, family functions and meetings
- Help planning canoe rides, village visits and houseboat cruises with our sister company JK Royal Cruise
Quick travel tips
- Carry a hat, sunscreen, water and mosquito repellent.
- Wear light clothes and footwear you don’t mind getting wet on canoe rides.
- Respect local homes along the canals, and ask before photographing people.
- Book early for October to February and around the Kallada Boat Race, when rooms fill up quickly.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Munroe Island from Kollam?
It is about 25 km by road, or a short train ride to Munroturuttu railway station.
Which is the nearest railway station to Munroe Island?
Munroturuttu railway station, on the Ernakulam–Kottayam–Kollam line.
What is the best time to visit Munroe Island?
October to February, when the weather is pleasant. Go early in the morning for the best canoe ride.
Is Munroe Island worth visiting?
Yes, if you enjoy quiet backwaters, village life and nature. It is much less crowded than the better-known backwater spots in Kerala.
Plan your stay
Call or WhatsApp +91 8714689001 to book your stay at Hotel Viraj Retreat. We’ll help you plan your Munroe Island visit.
Pingback: Things to Do in Munroe Island, Kollam | A Local Guide