Experience Scenic Canal & Canoe Cruising
Cruise through narrow backwater canals surrounded by coconut groves and tranquil village landscapes- a perfect setup for an eco-friendly and peaceful tourism experience, an off-beat indeed!
Munroe Island | Peaceful Backwater Escape of Kerala
Discover the Magic of Munroe Island
Munroe Island offers peaceful canal cruises through scenic backwaters lined with coconut trees and village life. This hidden Kerala escape charms couples, nature lovers, and slow travelers with canoe rides, local culture, fishing scenes, and stunning sunrise views.
About Munroe Island
Everything About Munroe Island: Beyond the Lagoons
Munroe Island is also popular in Kerala as Munrothuruthu, which is a tranquil and picturesque, yet charming island located in Kerala’s Kollam. The speciality of this island is its geographic location, which is at the confluence of the Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake. This place got its name from one of the British residents, Colonel John Munroe, a resident of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore. You will be amazed to feel a unique and immersive experience amidst lush greenery, pristine backwaters and the rich cultural heritage.
The island’s calm atmosphere, stunning sunrise views, migratory birds, and authentic backwater lifestyle make Munroe Island a perfect destination to experience the untouched natural beauty of Kerala. Here’s another unique highlight of this stunning island- its seasonal bioluminescent backwaters, alongside local villagers’ traditional coir making practices which are carried out here for generations now. This tiny island, which is a network made of 8 interconnected islets where the Asthamudi Lake and Kallada river beautifully meet and reflect the untouched heritage of Kerala’s backwaters, the eco-friendly atmosphere and the slow-paced lifestyle, which is a great option if you are keen on a digital detox!
Why Visit Munroe Island?
TL;DR - Munroe Island offers peaceful backwaters, scenic canoe rides, rustic village experiences, lush greenery, stunning sunrise views, and a perfect escape into Kerala’s untouched natural beauty.
You must visit Munroe Island if you are seeking to enjoy peaceful backwaters, scenic canoe rides, witness a rustic village life, lush greenery, and a refreshing escape into Kerala’s untouched nature.
Explore rustic Kerala Village Life
Explore and get a unique experience of traditional fishing, coir-making, local culture, and the peaceful rhythm of island life, which you otherwise do not see very often in the cities.
Perfect Digital Detox Destination
This secluded island is a perfect escape from the overcrowded tourist spots in Kerala, where you can relax amidst calm backwaters, nature, and refreshing silence, without any interruption.
Stunning Sunrise & Nature Views
Witness scintillating sunrise views, flocking of migratory birds, mangroves, and Kerala’s untouched backwater beauty, away from the chaotic city life!
Note by Trip2Keralam - Early morning canoe rides offer the most rewarding Munroe Island experience, allowing you to witness the calm backwaters, vibrant birdlife, and authentic village life at its most peaceful and picturesque.
Top Tourist Attraction Points in Munroe Island
TL;DR - Munroe Island captivates visitors with scenic canals, historic landmarks, lush paddy fields, colonial heritage, serene churches, and the breathtaking beauty of Ashtamudi Lake.
Discover the rustic charm of Munroe Island through its hidden waterways, historic landmarks, lush and emerald paddy fields, timeless village charm and the authentic untouched beauty of little explored Kerala!
Perumon Railway Bridge
You cannot miss this major engineering marvel and equally scenic viewpoint in Munroe Island, spanning the Ashtamundi Lake in Kerala’s Kollam. You get to capture a breathtaking sunset view over the backwaters and witness the bridge carrying the trains, connecting the island to the mainland. You can also pay your homage to the nearby memorial built to commemorate the victims of a tragic accident on the bridge in 1988.
Munroe Museum Bungalow
This is a 200-year old colonial heritage building which was once the administrative residence of John Munroe, the British Colonel of the erstwhile Travancore, now operates as a historical museum where you can see the colonial artifacts, a notable vintage European toilet and some rare family photographs of John Munro.
Munroe Island Canals
This is a serene cluster of eight small islets, located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River, famous for its intricate and narrow canal system. This is the ultimate spot to experience a slow-paced and peaceful village getaway. You can enjoy the traditional canoe cruising, observe the traditional village life, and also witness the famous Kallada Boat Race, if you visit here on the occasion of Onam festival.
Paddy Fields of Munroe Island
Once you explore Munroe Island’s paddy fields, you will realise that these are the defining features of a tranquil backwater village, which were once the place for abundant traditional rice cultivation. These paddy fields have now transformed into cultivating hotspots of “Katimeen” (pearl spot), shrimp and tilapia. You can enjoy these paddy field views alongside coconut groves by taking early morning Canoe tours.
1878 AD Dutch Church
This Dutch church is also known as St. Mary’s church, which marks a serene, historic landmark on Munroe Island, where you can witness the blending of Dutch and Kerala architecture. You can also enjoy a quiet, unobstructed and scenic sunset view from here, over the Ashtamudi Lake.
Ashtamudi Lake
A visit to this lake will allow you to see its unique octopus-shaped "eight-armed" structure, which is equally celebrated for its scintillating backwater cruises, rich biodiversity and for the protected Ramsar Wetlands.
Note by Trip2Keralam - To experience the true charm of Munroe Island, plan your sightseeing during the early morning or late afternoon hours when the canals, paddy fields, and Ashtamudi Lake showcase their most scenic and peaceful atmosphere.
Must-Do Experiences in Munroe Island for Tourists
TL;DR - Discover Munroe Island through scenic canoe cruises, bicycle tours, breathtaking sunrises, heritage attractions, cultural experiences, traditional coir making, and the vibrant Kallada Boat Race.
For experiencing the ultimate slow and rustic charm of Kerala’s untouched island life, come visit and enjoy the peaceful canoe cruises, scenic village cycling, breathtaking backwater sunrises, cultural experiences and historic landmarks of Munroe Island.
Visit the Munroe Museum Bungalow
Step into the Munroe Museum Bungalow and discover the island’s colonial history and local heritage. The museum displays vintage articrafts, traditional tools, and stories that connect visitors with the roots of Munroe Islands.
Enjoy a Canoe Canal Cruise in the Lap of Nature
Cruise through the peaceful canals of Munroe Island and enjoy breathtaking views of lush greenery, calm waterways offers the perfect chance to relax, spot local wildlife, and experience the charm of Kerala’s backwaters near Kollam.
A Bicycle Tour Around the Island
Explore the scenic villages of Munroe Island on a bicycle tour and discover paddy fields, coconut groves, and homes surrounded by papaya, banana, and cinnamon plants. Along the way, you can spot colorful birds like kingfishers and egrets, watch locals craft coir products, and enjoy fresh coconut water or a refreshing lime drink.
Watch Sunrise at Ashtamudi Lake and Sunset at Perumon Railway Bridge
Start your morning with a peaceful boat ride across Ashtamundi Lake and watch the sunrise light up lush backwaters and coconut grooves. End the day at Perumon Railway Bridge while the sunset reflects across the calm waters fed by the scenic Kallada River.
Explore the Enchanting Waterways of Monroe Island
Visit the historic 1878 Dutch Church on Munroe Island and admire its beautiful colonial architecture and timeless charm. The nearby old boating dock offers stunning photography spots and peaceful sunset views over the backwaters.
Witness the Traditional Art of Coir Making
Watch skilled local artisans turn coconut husks into strong coir products using age old techniques. This cultural experience offers a close look at one of Kerala’s traditional cottage industries.
Witness the Kallada Boat Race
Experience the excitement of the Kallada Boat Race as colourful snake boats race across the water with powerful rhythm and energy. The lively crowd, music, and festive atmosphere make this event unforgettable.
Note by Trip2Keralam - For the most immersive experience, combine an early morning canoe cruise with a village bicycle tour to witness Munroe Island’s backwaters, birdlife, local culture, and scenic landscapes at their most vibrant and peaceful.
Best Beaches & Coastal Experiences in Munroe Island
TL;DR - Enjoy the scenic beauty of Ashtamudi Lake, explore the sandy shores of Kollam Beach, experience sunset kayaking on tranquil backwaters, and admire panoramic coastal views from Tangasseri Lighthouse.
Ashtamudi Lake, nearby beaches, sunset kayaking adventures, and historic coastal landmarks offer some of the most memorable waterfront experiences around Munroe Island.
Ashtamudi Lake Exploration
Ashtamudi Lake is the most visited backwater and lake in Kerala, which is popular for its large palm-shaped structure.You will find coconut groves and palm trees along both the banks of the lake and nothing is as unique as catching a scintillating glimpse of the sunrise and enjoying an early morning boat ride on this lake.
Kollam Beach (~13 km away)
A trip to Kollam beach is another exciting journey, 13km away from this island where you can catch an exceptional beauty of the picturesque landscapes and the natural blue waters, away from the bustle of cities. Its long, sandy coastline alongside its exceptional amenities and activities like sun bathing, swimming and even fishing will keep you entertained.
Sunset Kayaking
You can rent a kayak and paddle on the open waters of Ashtamudi Lake, where you can feel the serenity of the backwaters, with a sunset view in the background.
Tangasseri Lighthouse
This lighthouse is located right by the Tangasseri beach, which is about 16km away from this island, where you can enjoy a visit to this historic lighthouse and enjoy a panoramic view of the Arabian sea coastline.
Note by Trip2Keralam - The most rewarding coastal experience around Munroe Island is combining an early morning Ashtamudi Lake cruise with an evening visit to Tangasseri Lighthouse for spectacular sunrise and sunset views on the same day.
Famous Temples & Spiritual Places to Visit in Munroe Island
TL;DR - Explore the peaceful temples, heritage churches, and spiritual landmarks of Munroe Island that showcase the region’s rich cultural traditions, religious heritage, and tranquil village atmosphere.
Discover the peaceful temples, heritage churches, and spiritual village shrines of Munroe Island that beautifully reflect the region’s spiritual traditions and cultural roots.
Pezhumthuruthu Sreedevi Temple
This temple is located on the outskirts of the island, which is a peaceful shrine, with a meditative atmosphere and thick vegetation surrounding it, offering a serene feeling.
Kottanampuram Sree Madankavu Temple
This is a quiet, traditional backwater shrine, much revered by the locals in this island, where you can experience a deep connection with the cultural heritage of this place.
Dutch Church (Built in 1878)
This church was built by the Dutch in the 18th century, which is an amazing blend of the Dutch & Kerala architecture. You can enjoy this quiet, introspective spot which takes you down the colonial history of this place.
Vadakkidathukavu Devi Temple
His local temple is nestled among the palm groves and in case you visit Munroe Island anywhere between February and March, you can get to experience the vibrant temple festivals of this village.
Note by Trip2Keralam - Many of Munroe Island’s spiritual sites are deeply connected with local traditions and village life, making them ideal places to experience the island’s cultural heritage in a peaceful and authentic setting.
Best Food to Eat in Munroe Island
TL;DR - Munroe Island offers delicious Kerala cuisine featuring fresh seafood, traditional roasts, authentic local spices, and popular snacks that perfectly complement its serene backwater charm.
Munroe Island serves authentic Kerala flavors with fresh seafood, rich local dishes, and crispy snacks that perfectly complement the backwater experience.
Karimeen Pollichathu
Enjoy pearl spot fish cooked with rich spices and wrapped in banana leaves for an authentic Kerala flavour.
Prawns Fry/ Roast
Taste fresh prawn tossed with aromatic spices that deliver a spicy and flavourful seafood experience.
Crab Roast
Savor juicy crab cooked in a thick masala that brings out the bold coastal flavors of Kerala.
Duck Roast
Relish tender duck cooked with roasted spices and rich gravy for a hearty traditional meal.
Pazham Pori (Banana Fritters)
Try crispy banana fritters made from ripe bananas and enjoy this popular Kerala tea time snack.
Note by Trip2Keralam - Freshly prepared seafood dishes are among the highlights of Munroe Island’s culinary scene, offering visitors an authentic taste of Kerala’s rich backwater and coastal food traditions.
What to Buy from Munroe Island- Famous Local Shopping Items
TL;DR - Shop for authentic coir products, premium spices, local artworks, traditional snacks, and handcrafted souvenirs that beautifully reflect the culture and lifestyle of Munroe Island.
You can shop for authentic coir products, handmade crafts, local spices, traditional souvenirs, and village-made items, all of which reflect the peaceful backwater culture of Munroe Island.
Eco-friendly Coir Products
Since this island is heavily dependent on coconut cultivation, one of the best things you can shop from here are woven coir products, garden baskets and floor carpets, which are 100% natural and biodegradable and you can extend support to the local cottage industry.
Spices
With this island popular for yielding high-quality spices, you can buy raw black pepper, cardamom, pure and unrefined coconut oil and cloves. It is indeed sheer luck to get your hands on farm-to-table products at affordable prices!
Local Arts and Paintings
You will be surprised to know that this island is a home to a thriving artist community which quietly yet beautifully sketches the village life, reflected through art pieces, canvas paintings.
Local Food and Snacks
Before you leave this island, stock up on some of the interesting local food and snacks like Kerala banana chips, local jaggery and jackfruit chips.
Note by Trip2Keralam - Munroe Island is one of the best places to purchase authentic village-made products directly from local communities, allowing you to take home meaningful souvenirs while supporting traditional livelihoods.
Top Market Places & Shopping Streets in Munroe Island
TL;DR - Explore Munroe Island’s local shopping spots for handmade artwork, traditional village products, local snacks, souvenirs, and authentic backwater market experiences.
For buying handicrafts and coir products, souvenirs, local artwork, and getting the feel of an authentic village shopping experience, you need to explore the small local markets and cultural shopping spots across Munroe Island, which has limited options for shopping streets and malls.
Raghu Munroe Art Gallery
This is a small shop run by the artist Raghu Munroe who is into painting beautiful paintings of Munroe Island's landscapes. You can get yourself some paintings which are sold at a very nominal price. You can also understand the local ways of life through his paintings.
Mundrothuruthu Panchayat Shopping Complex
This is a small local shopping hub where you can explore the daily essentials, traditional products of this village, get hands on local snacks and handmade items. This will enrich your authentic village market experiences.
Note by Trip2Keralam - Shopping in Munroe Island is less about large markets and more about discovering locally made products, artwork, and village specialties that reflect the island’s unique backwater culture and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Munroe Island during a Kerala Trip
TL;DR - October to March is the best time to visit Munroe Island for pleasant weather, scenic canoe rides, village exploration, birdwatching, and relaxing backwater experiences.
The best time to visit Munroe Island falls between October and March, when cool and pleasant weather creates the perfect setting for canoe rides, village wa;ks, sightseeing, and peaceful backwater experiences.
Summer (moderate season)
During summer, temperatures can rise up to 35°C with warm and humid weather, but the island stays calm with fewer tourists. Early morning canoe rides and evening walks along the backwaters offer a relaxing experience during this season.
Winter (peak season)
Between October and March, Munroe Island enjoys comfortable weather with temperatures ranging between 20 to 30°C. Visitors flock here for scenic canal cruises, cycling tours, birdwatching, sunrise views, and cultural experiences across the island.
Monsoon (off season)
From June to September, rain transforms Munroe Island into a lush green paradise with overflowing canals and refreshing landscapes. Heavy showers may affect outdoor activities, but the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty make the island look magical.
Note by Trip2Keralam - Winter remains the most popular season for exploring Munroe Island, while monsoon offers a completely different experience with lush greenery, rain-fed canals, and some of the most picturesque backwater landscapes in Kerala.
How to Reach Munroe Island
TL;DR - Munroe Island is well connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from major cities across Kerala and neighbouring states.
Munroe Island connects easily to major cities across Kerala through road, rail, and air routes.
By Air
Trivandrum International Airport lies about 80 km from Munroe Island.
By Rail
Kollam Railway Station sits about 25 km away, while Munroe Island Railway Station offers the closest rail access.
By Road
Buses, taxis, and private vehicles connect Munroe Island with Kollam and nearby towns through scenic backwater roads.
Note by Trip2Keralam - Travelling by rail is one of the most convenient ways to reach Munroe Island, while the scenic road journey from Kollam offers beautiful views of Kerala’s backwaters and countryside along the way.
Travel Tips for Visiting Munroe Island
TL;DR - Plan your Munroe Island trip with simple seasonal awareness, canoe safety, local transport guidance, and outdoor activity preparation for a smooth and relaxing backwater experience.
Plan your Munroe Island trip with a few simple travel tips for a smooth and relaxing backwater experience filled with canoe rides, village walks, scenic views.
Weather and seasonal travel insights for Munroe Island
Canoe ride and backwater safety tips
Local transport and village travel guidance
Cycloing, boating, and outdoor activity tips.
Note - Early morning canoe rides, light walking plans, and basic seasonal preparation can help you enjoy Munroe Island’s backwaters, village life, and outdoor experiences more comfortably.
Why Choose Trip2Keralam for Your Munroe Island Tour?
TL;DR - Trip2Keralam offers customised Munroe Island experiences with comfortable stays, local expertise, seamless transport, and personalised sightseeing for a peaceful and memorable backwater getaway.
If you want a peaceful and memorable escape to Munroe Island with personalized backwater experiences, local guidance, comfortable stays, and smooth travel arrangements, Trip2Keralam offers everything you need for a relaxing getaway.
Customised Munroe Island Tour Packages
We create Munroe Island tour packages for couples, families, solo travelers, nature lovers, and slow travelers who wish to enjoy Kerala’s backwater charm at their own pace.
Comfortable Stay and Easy Transport
Enjoy comfortable accommodation, scenic backwater stays, and convenient transport that make your Munroe Island trip smooth and stress free.
Local Backwater Travel Expertise
Our local travel expertise and friendly guidance help you explore the hidden canals, village life, canoe rides, and cultural experiences of Munroe Island with ease.
Personalised Sightseeing and Leisure Experiences
We design every Munroe Island experience around your travel style, from peaceful canoe cruises and cycling tours to sunrise views and authentic local experiences.
Note - Munroe Island is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, and a well-planned itinerary can help you experience its backwaters, village life, scenic beauty, and cultural charm without feeling rushed.
🚣 Final Thoughts — Why Munroe Island is Kerala’s Most Peaceful Backwater Escape
🧭 TL;DR
Munroe Island offers tranquil canals, scenic backwaters, authentic village life, canoe rides, sunrise views, and untouched natural beauty that create a unique and peaceful Kerala experience.
Munroe Island welcomes travellers with its tranquil canals, scenic backwaters, authentic village life, and untouched natural beauty that perfectly capture the soul of Kerala. Far away from crowded tourist destinations, the island offers a peaceful environment where nature, culture, and local traditions come together beautifully.
From serene canoe rides through narrow waterways and breathtaking sunrise views to cultural experiences and interactions with local communities, every moment on this charming island feels calm, refreshing, and memorable.
Whether you seek relaxation, slow travel, nature exploration, photography opportunities, or simply a digital detox away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Munroe Island provides a truly unique backwater experience unlike anywhere else in Kerala.
Its peaceful atmosphere, rustic charm, scenic landscapes, and authentic local experiences continue to leave a lasting impression on every traveller who visits this hidden gem.
✨ PLAN YOUR MUNROE ISLAND ESCAPE
Experience the true charm of Munroe Island with Trip2Keralam , where we carefully create personalised Kerala travel experiences tailored to your interests, comfort, and travel preferences.
From backwater holidays and canoe experiences to nature escapes, family vacations, village experiences, and customised Kerala tours, every itinerary is thoughtfully designed to help you discover the authentic beauty of Munroe Island.
Discover Kerala slowly and beautifully — comfortable, authentic, and unforgettable.
Plan Your Kerala Trip by Region
North Kerala
Munroe Island Travel FAQs
TL;DR: Quick answers about Munroe Island tourism, backwaters, canoe rides, village walks, nearby airport, railway access, sightseeing places, best season and peaceful Kerala island experiences.
📍 What is Munroe Island?
TL;DR: Munroe Island is a group of 8 small islets in Kollam’s backwaters.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Munroe Island is a network of 8 small islets located in the backwaters of Kollam district, Kerala, near the meeting point of the Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake. It is named after Colonel John Munroe and is known for peaceful canals, village life and backwater experiences.
🛣️ How to reach Munroe Island?
TL;DR: Munroe Island is reachable from Trivandrum Airport and Kollam Junction.
Snippet-Ready Answer: The nearest airport to Munroe Island is Trivandrum International Airport, around 80 km away. Kollam Junction is the nearest major railway station, around 25 km away. From both points, tourists can continue by taxi, bus or local transport.
🏝️ What are the popular tourist attractions in Munroe Island?
TL;DR: Backwaters, canal cruises, village walks and Munroe Museum are popular attractions.
Snippet-Ready Answer: Popular tourist attractions in Munroe Island include the Kallada Boat Race during Onam, Munroe Island backwaters, Munroe Museum, canal cruises, village walks, coconut groves and traditional Kerala village landscapes.
🚣 What are the best activities to do in Munroe Island?
TL;DR: Canoe rides, village walks and sunset views are the best activities.
Snippet-Ready Answer: The best activities in Munroe Island include canoe rides through palm and coconut-lined canals, backwater cruises, traditional Kerala meals, sunset watching, village walks and exploring small temples and local hamlets with Trip2Keralam.
📅 When is the best time to visit Munroe Island?
TL;DR: October to March is the best time to visit Munroe Island.
Snippet-Ready Answer: The best time to visit Munroe Island is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is lower. Monsoon months from June to September can make roads muddy and backwaters swell, which may affect travel and boating plans.