Munroe Island is one of Kerala’s quietest backwater escapes. It is a cluster of eight small islets where Ashtamudi Lake meets the Kallada River, about 25 km from Kollam town. It was named after Colonel John Munro, the British Resident of Travancore, who oversaw land reclamation in the area.
There are no big attractions or crowds here. What Munroe Island offers is slow village life on the water: narrow canals, coconut groves, coir-making and some of the calmest sunrises in Kerala. As a hotel on the island’s doorstep, we are often asked what is worth doing. Here is our local guide.
1. Take a sunrise canoe ride through the canals
This is the experience Munroe Island is known for. Small country boats and canoes take you through narrow canals that big houseboats cannot enter. You glide under low footbridges, past homes, paddy fields and coconut trees, and watch village life begin for the day.
Tip: Go early. The morning light is beautiful, the water is calm and it is cooler before the midday heat. Carry a hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
2. Watch traditional coir being made
For generations, families on Munroe Island have made their living from coir, the fibre from coconut husks. Visit a coir village to see the full process: husks soaked (retted) in the backwaters, fibre beaten and spun by hand, and ropes and mats woven. It is a rare look at a craft that is slowly disappearing.
3. Go birdwatching among the mangroves
The island’s mangroves and quiet waterways attract kingfishers, herons, egrets and, in the cooler months, migratory birds. Early morning, during or right after your canoe ride, is the best time to spot them. Bring binoculars if you have them.
4. See fish and prawn farming up close
Fishing and prawn farming are part of everyday life here. Along the canals you will see local fishermen at work and farms where prawns are raised. Your boatman can usually tell you how it all works.
5. Cycle or walk through the village
Munroe Island is best explored slowly. A walk or bicycle ride along the village roads takes you past paddy fields, coconut groves, traditional Kerala houses and small churches and temples. It is a good way to see how people live on the islands.
6. Watch the sunset over Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake is the second largest lake in Kerala. As the day ends, the water turns gold and the palm silhouettes make it one of the most photographed views in Kollam. It is a peaceful way to end a day on the island.
7. Eat authentic Kerala food
No trip to the backwaters is complete without the local food. Try Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish marinated and cooked in banana leaf), Chemmeen Roast (spicy prawns), meen curry with tapioca, and a traditional breakfast of appam, masala dosa or puri with kadala curry.
You can try all of these at our multi-cuisine restaurant, which is open to hotel guests and visitors. It also serves North Indian, Chinese and continental dishes.
8. Take a houseboat cruise on the backwaters
For a longer time on the water, combine your island visit with a houseboat cruise on Ashtamudi Lake. Our sister company JK Royal Cruise runs houseboat trips from Kollam, so you can easily add one to your stay.
Nearby places for a day trip
If you have an extra day, these spots are within driving distance:
- Thangassery Lighthouse: a historic lighthouse by the sea in Kollam
- Kollam Beach: a relaxed evening beach in the city
- Palaruvi Waterfalls: one of Kerala’s tallest waterfalls, best after the monsoon
- Jatayu Earth’s Center: a giant sculpture and adventure park on a hilltop
Tips for visiting Munroe Island
- Best time to visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. The monsoon (June to September) makes the island lush and green, but rain can disrupt boat rides.
- How long to spend: Plan at least half a day for the canoe ride and village. Stay overnight to catch both sunrise and sunset.
- How to get there: Munroe Island is about 25 km from Kollam by road. The nearest railway station is Munroturuttu, and the nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport.
- What to carry: A hat, sunscreen, water, mosquito repellent and a spare set of clothes if you are going canoeing.
Planning the journey? Our Munroe Island travel guide covers how to reach the island by train, road and air, and the best time to visit.
Where to stay near Munroe Island
The best way to experience the island is to stay nearby. You can then take the sunrise canoe ride without an early drive from Kollam or Varkala.
Hotel Viraj Retreat is a 4-star hotel at Thevalakkara, close to Munroe Island. Many guests call it the best hotel in Munroe Island for its calm setting and warm Kerala hospitality. We have 19 air-conditioned Deluxe Rooms and Suites with free Wi-Fi, three bars, a banquet hall and an in-house restaurant. Our team can also help you plan canoe rides and visits to nearby villages and temples.
Plan your Munroe Island trip: Call or WhatsApp us on +91 8714689001 and we’ll help you make the most of your stay.
Frequently asked questions
What is Munroe Island famous for?
Munroe Island is famous for canoe rides through narrow backwater canals, traditional coir-making, and peaceful village life where Ashtamudi Lake meets the Kallada River.
What is the best time to visit Munroe Island?
October to March has the most pleasant weather. For the canoe ride, go early in the morning, around sunrise.
How far is Munroe Island from Kollam?
It is about 25 km from Kollam by road. The island also has its own railway station, Munroturuttu.
Is one day enough for Munroe Island?
Half a day covers the canoe ride and village walk. An overnight stay lets you enjoy both sunrise and sunset without rushing.
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Take a break from your routine. Soak in the backwaters. Savour authentic Kerala food. Enjoy every moment at Hotel Viraj Retreat.
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