Discovering the Hidden Gem of Kerala: Munroe Island
Tucked away in the backwaters of Kollam, Munroe Island is a tranquil escape that blends the best of nature, culture, and heritage. Also known as Munroe Thuruthu, this cluster of eight small islets is located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River, offering a mesmerizing interplay of lake and river landscapes.
Why Visit Munroe Island?
If you’re looking for a quiet, offbeat destination in Kerala, Munroe Island is the place to be. The island offers an authentic village experience where time seems to slow down. Life here revolves around lush paddy fields, swaying coconut palms, and intricate canals that weave through the island like nature’s own roadmap.
A Day on Munroe Island
Start your day with a canoe tour through the narrow canals — a signature Munroe Island experience. Glide past quaint homes, friendly locals, and migratory birds. These canals give you an intimate view of village life, far from the usual tourist trail.
You can also explore the scenic beauty of the lake and river merging, a sight that changes dramatically with the shifting sun. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a dream for anyone seeking peace and natural beauty.
How to Reach Munroe Island
Munroe Island, Kollam, is well connected by rail and road. The nearest railway station is Munroturuttu, one of the smallest yet most scenic stations in India, nestled right within the island. You can also reach the island via a short drive from Kollam city.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Munroe Island Kerala is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, and the waterways are at their most vibrant.
Experience Local Culture
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness coir making, fishing, and other traditional livelihoods that the locals still practice. Some homestays even offer cooking classes and cultural evenings, making your stay all the more immersive.
Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, a couple in search of a romantic escape, or a nature lover wanting to explore Kerala’s backwaters differently, Munroe Island Kollam Kerala offers an experience like no other.
Mandrothuruth, Mandrothuruth Kollam, Mariyalayam Munroe Island Residency, and Mundrothuruthu, while keeping a natural flow and travel-blog tone:
Mandrothuruth: Kerala’s Serene Secret in the Backwaters of Kollam
Have you ever dreamed of drifting through tranquil waters, surrounded by palm-fringed landscapes and untouched village charm? Then it’s time to discover Mandrothuruth — also known as Mundrothuruthu or Munroe Island, a lesser-known but breathtaking destination in Kollam, Kerala.
What is Mandrothuruth?
Mandrothuruth Kollam is a cluster of scenic islets formed at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River. Locals refer to it by many names — Munroe Island, Mundrothuruthu, or Mandrothuruth — but they all point to the same idyllic paradise, a place where waterways form the lifeblood of daily life.
The island is named after Colonel John Munroe, a British resident who served in the princely state of Travancore in the early 19th century. His efforts in land reclamation laid the foundation for this now-flourishing island community.
Where to Stay: Mariyalayam Munroe Island Residency
For travelers seeking a peaceful stay right in the heart of the island, Mariyalayam Munroe Island Residency offers an authentic and comfortable experience. Nestled amidst lush greenery and close to the calm backwaters, this homestay is perfect for those looking to unwind, explore the culture, and enjoy the slow life of the island.
Expect warm hospitality, delicious Kerala-style meals, and easy access to canoe tours, village walks, and bird watching right from your doorstep.
Things to Do in Mandrothuruth
- 🌿 Canoe Cruise through narrow canals to witness village life up close
- 🐟 Watch local fishermen at work using traditional methods
- 📸 Photograph the stunning sunrise over Ashtamudi Lake
- 🏞️ Walk or cycle through lush paddy fields and coconut groves
- 🛶 Visit nearby attractions like Sasthamcotta Lake or Thenmala for day trips
Getting There
Mandrothuruth is easily accessible by train — the Munroturuttu Railway Station is quaint, charming, and possibly one of the most scenic train stops in India. From Kollam, it’s just a short drive or train ride to this hidden haven.
Why Visit Mandrothuruth?
Whether you call it Munroe Island, Mundrothuruthu, or Mandrothuruth, this destination is one of Kerala’s best-kept secrets — perfect for eco-tourists, backpackers, and anyone craving an authentic off-grid experience. Mandrothuruth Kollam is not just a place to visit, it’s a place to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with nature.

Here are four captivating snapshots of Mundrothuruthu (Munroe Island) in Kollam, Kerala:
- Scenic backwater vistas lined with coconut palms—perfectly capturing the tranquil charm of Munroe Island.
- Local canoe tours through narrow, tree‑fringed canals, offering an immersive slice of rural life.
- The iconic mangrove arch, a magical tunnel of greenery that’s become one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in South Kerala.
- Aerial view of the island network, emphasizing Munroe Island’s unique position at the junction of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River.