Things to do in Munroe Island with Family

Planning to explore Munroe Island? Our guide to the best things to do in Munroe Island is here to help you unveil the charm of this hidden gem in Kerala!

While planning my trip to Kerala, all the popular spots like Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Thekkady, and Trivandrum kept popping up. But I was searching for something different – a peaceful place to experience the real, rustic side of Kerala.

That’s when I stumbled upon Munroe Island. It turned out to be a stunningly beautiful, quiet spot, just perfect for relaxing and soaking in the natural beauty of Kerala. It’s like you’ve stepped into a different world, where everything is peaceful and oh-so-natural.

As you glide through narrow, winding canals on a traditional country boat, with nothing but the sound of water and birds for company. It’s so peaceful that you can actually hear yourself think! The locals here are the heart and soul of Munroe Island. They’re super friendly and have the most interesting stories to share. You might even get invited for a cup of tea – how cool is that?

The beauty of this place is in the simple things. Watching the sunset over the backwaters is just magical. And if you’re up for it, try your hand at fishing with the local fishermen. It’s so much fun!

Munroe Island is not your typical tourist spot. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and experience the laid-back, rustic side of Kerala. Trust me, you’ll love it here!

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Where is Munroe Island

Munroe Island, or Mundrothuruth as it’s locally known, spanning 13.4 square kilometers, lies beautifully at the meeting point of Asthamudi Lake and Kallada River. Comprising eight smaller islets in the Kollam district of Kerala, this island forms a captivating network of canals surrounded by verdant greenery.

History of Munroe Island

Munroe Island has a rich history tied to its namesake, Colonel John Munroe, a British resident and influential Deewan of Travancore between 1810 and 1819. Known for his significant land reforms, Munroe was a notable figure.

In response to a request from a senior priest for land to establish a seminary and a settlement for Christians, Munroe generously obliged. The grateful community named the island in his honor as a mark of respect.

While you’re checking out the more celebrated destinations in Kerala, make sure to add Munroe Island to your list for a unique and peaceful experience.

Beautiful Things to do in Munroe Island Kerala

Here’s a list of the best things to do on Munroe Island, Kerala!

Explore the Enchanting Waterways of Munroe Island

Sail through Munroe Island’s hidden canals, a journey revealing the island’s beauty and daily life. The locals, who know these waters like the back of their hand, are always ready to take you on a tour (lasts for 2 to 3 hours) through the narrow waterways in their canoes. The canals, surrounded by coconut trees, are a treat. Make sure to try a fresh coconut, picked right before your eyes!

Navigating through Munroe’s canals is like a mini-adventure. Some passages are so tight, barely allowing the canoe to slip through, while at other spots, we ducked to avoid low-hanging branches. Watching our canoe guide skillfully steer through these challenges was impressive – it’s their everyday life, after all.

As the canoe meandered from the quaint residential areas into the lush mangroves and finally out into the expansive Ashtamudi Lake, the scenery was mesmerizing. The sunset was a highlight, with the sun playing hide and seek behind the trees, casting a kaleidoscope of oranges and purples across the sky. The peacefulness of the surroundings and the stunning views were soul-soothing.

Whether you choose to explore in the crisp morning air or during the golden hours of the evening, it’s a magical experience. We were lucky to catch a breathtaking sunset, a perfect end to our day in this little slice of paradise.

We arranged a 2-hour canoe trip through our resort, which was a great deal at INR 900 for our family of four (two adults and two kids) in 2019. The price of the tour ranges between INR 1000 to INR 3000 depending upon the time and other facilities provided during the tour.

For other cruising options, many tourists recommend Munroe Island Backwaters Canoe tour led by Vijeesh. You can also explore canal cruises offered by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) in Kollam.

Enjoy Fishing with Locals

During our canoe ride, our inquisitive nature led us to question our guide about the blue nets across the water, learning they were protective covers for fish and prawn farms. He suggested a fishing session with the locals for a unique experience.

This turned out to be not just fun, but a wonderful learning opportunity for the whole family. We gained insights into local life, and the kids were thrilled with the hands-on fishing adventure, making it a memorable part of our trip.

We even had a chance to feed the fish, an activity that was simple yet filled with joy, especially for the children.

Walk or Bike Through the Munroe Island

We took advantage of the bicycles provided by our resort to explore the quaint pathways of Munroe Island.

On our bike ride, we stumbled upon a popular spot, ideal for watching sunsets and renting canoes or boats. The island is small enough to comfortably walk around and discover its charm. It’s quite a sight to see local homes with backyards brimming with bananas, coconuts, and especially passion fruit.

We were intrigued by the abundance of fruit vines, and upon asking, learned that the ‘fashion fruit’ we saw was actually passion fruit. It seems to be a local favorite!

Our exploration was made even more delightful when we stopped to try the famous Munroe mocktail. Known for its refreshing blend of local flavors, it’s a must-try on the island. We found that the Munroe Mocktail restaurant is particularly renowned for this special drink, offering a unique taste of Munroe Island in a glass. This stop was a perfect way to rejuvenate ourselves as we immersed in the island’s natural and cultural richness.

A heads-up: the bicycles don’t come with child seats, just a flat rack at the back. The men’s bicycles have a rod at the front. If you’re traveling with young children who might not be comfortable, you might want to skip the bike ride.

Witness the Traditional Art of Coir Making

In Munroe Island, you’ll find that coir-making goes beyond being a mere craft, it’s a way of life for many locals. This traditional skill involves weaving coconut husks into coir, a versatile natural fiber. As you wander around the island, you might spot residents busy at this art, transforming the husks right in their homes.

It’s fascinating to watch the process, which has been passed down through generations. The skill and speed with which they work are impressive, showing years of practice and dedication. Observing coir-making offers a glimpse into the island’s culture and the ingenuity of its people, who have harnessed the natural resources around them to create a sustainable livelihood.

This experience is a unique opportunity to appreciate the simplicity and resourcefulness of life on Munroe Island. Observing coir-making on Munroe Island offers a window into the islanders’ profound bond with their environment and traditions, beyond simply witnessing a local craft.

Indulge in Bird Watching

Munroe Island is a paradise for those who love birds. With a diverse array of species nestled in the backwaters and mangroves, it’s a fantastic spot for families to bond over nature.

Kids will be thrilled to spot different birds, making it both an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.

Witness the Kallada Boat Race

Boat races are an integral part of the culture of Kerala. The sight of traditional snake boats, each manned by up to 100 rowers, is both exhilarating and iconic. As the rowers increase their pace, the water churns more vigorously, amplifying the excitement and cheers from the spectators.

This thrilling event takes place 28 days post Onam, Kerala’s harvest festival, usually around August or September, on the Kallada river. Munroe Island offers an ideal vantage point to witness this spectacular regatta.

Visit the Dutch Church

The Dutch Church on Munroe Island is a cool spot for families to explore. Built back in 1878, this old red brick church near Lake Ashtamudi shows how the Dutch and Kerala styles mixed.

Even though there aren’t regular church services anymore, it’s still a neat place to see and learn about history. Imagine telling the kids stories about the old days and how people from different parts of the world influenced this little island. It’s like a little adventure back in time, perfect for curious minds!

Catch a Sunrise or Sunset

Watching the sunrise or sunset on Munroe Island is a must-do for families. Imagine finding a comfortable spot by the water’s edge, where you and the kids can watch the sky transform with vibrant colors.

The S Curve View Point aka Munroe Viewpoint is renowned as the best spot on the island for these moments.

From here, the sun’s rising or setting rays create mesmerizing reflections on the backwaters, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings. This viewpoint, with its unique curve and panoramic view, offers a serene and truly awe-inspiring atmosphere. It’s a simple yet unforgettable way to start or end your day together.

The Perumon Railway Bridge is another excellent spot for watching a beautiful sunrise or sunset on the island. The bridge, known for its historical significance due to a major railway accident in 1988, provides a unique backdrop for the sunrise and sunset views. This location offers a striking contrast of the serene Keralan backwaters and the architectural marvel of the bridge.

Munroe Island Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit Munroe Island

You can visit Munroe Island any time of the year, but the best months are from November to February, when the weather is pleasant.

We went there at the end of March, and it was quite hot and humid. It’s important to stay hydrated during this time.

A handy tip: It’s better to avoid the monsoon season, as there’s a risk of flooding.

How to Reach Munroe Island

Getting to Munroe Island is quite straightforward whether you prefer train, road, or ferry.

The island has its own small railway station known as Munroturuttu, identified by the code MQO, which links to Kollam. For those coming from farther away, Kollam, located 25 km from Munroe Island, is the nearest major railway station. From there, you can easily hop on a rickshaw (Tuktuk) to reach Munroe.

If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 70 km from the island. There are plenty of cabs and taxis available at the airport, and you also have the option to rent a car if you prefer driving yourself.

For train enthusiasts, the Guruvayur – Thiruvananthapuram Intercity Express is a convenient option, running between the two cities.

Additionally, you can experience a scenic ferry ride from the Perumon Ferry Terminal in Kollam to Munroe Island, operated by Kollam KSWTD. This is a great way to start your island adventure with picturesque views of the water.

Where to Eat on Munroe Island

Eating on Munroe Island is all about simplicity and local flavors. Since it’s a small place without fancy restaurants, your best bet is to enjoy meals at your homestay or hotel. This is a fantastic chance to taste authentic, home-cooked local dishes.

Also, make sure to try the fresh coconut water and the coconuts themselves. You could even have a go at plucking your own coconut, just like we did – it’s a fun and unique experience!

Where to Stay on Munroe Island

Munroe Island is unique in that almost every residence doubles as a homestay, offering an authentic local experience.

Among these, Munroe Island Backwaters Homestay, managed by Vijeesh, stands out. It’s said that Vijeesh’s father was a pioneer in establishing the homestay trend here over a decade ago, inspiring others to follow suit.

If homestays aren’t what you’re looking for, there are several good properties to consider:

Lake n River Resort: Located at a picturesque spot surrounded by water, this resort offers stunning views of the mangroves and palms. It’s perfect for relaxation and also has swings, badminton, and cricket facilities.

Munroe Island Lake Resort: Known as one of the finest hotels on the island, it offers a blend of comfort and nature.

Munroe Paradise: A charming option for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Munroe Eco Camps: For those wanting a more rugged, close-to-nature experience, these camps provide a no-frills but authentic outdoor stay.

We spent one night on the island, which was a serene and rejuvenating experience, perfect for nature lovers. While a day is enough to see the sights, you might want to stay longer to fully embrace the local lifestyle.

Keep in Mind: The hotels and resorts here offer basic amenities, so set your expectations for simplicity over luxury.

If you prefer not to stay overnight on the island, consider a day trip from Kollam. There are luxurious accommodation options in Kollam such as The Raviz Resort Spa, Ashtamudi, and The Quilon Beach Hotel and Convention Center, both offering a more upscale stay.

Our family always looks for a place like Munroe Island in our travels, so we can take a break from the busy world and relax for a bit. If you feel the same way, this charming little island should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kerala. Trust me, it’s a little slice of paradise that you and your loved ones will cherish forever.

Munroe Island Update: Beauty Amidst Environmental Shifts

Back in 2019, I shared the enchanting beauty of Munroe Island – a serene escape nestled in Kerala’s backwaters, a paradise for those seeking the silence and peacefulness of nature. Today, as I revisit this topic, it’s essential to shed light on a significant issue that has emerged since my last post.

Recent reports and investigations as of late 2022 have highlighted a growing environmental concern – Munroe Island is facing the threat of submergence. Its size has dramatically reduced from 13.4 sq km to just 3.52 sq km over three decades, affecting both the geography and the lives of its residents.

The causes are multi-fold, including the devastating effects of the 2004 Tsunami and ongoing climate change, leading to rising sea levels. Additionally, human actions like improper farming practices and dam construction have worsened the situation.

Despite these challenges, the island’s allure remains, with its lush scenery and tranquil waterways. Yet, it’s vital to recognize its vulnerability and seek innovative solutions like amphibian housing and eco-friendly tourism to sustain this unique environment and support the local community.

Munroe Island’s situation serves as a stark reminder of the broader implications of climate change, emphasizing the need for proactive environmental conservation.

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