Updated On:
What if I told you there’s a place where Kerala’s famous backwaters still look untouched: no houseboats, no crowds, just quiet canals and palm archways reflecting the golden sky?
That’s Munroe Island, a sleepy backwater village near Kollam in Kerala that most travelers skip but shouldn’t.
| Location | Kollam district, Kerala |
| Key Highlight | Canoe rides through uncrowded, quiet mangrove tunnels & village backwaters |
| Best Time to Visit | October–March (avoid monsoon) |
| What to expect | Open backwaters, village life, and fewer crowds |
| Cost of Canoe Ride | 800 -1500 INR for a 1- 2-hour ride |
Tucked away in the Kollam district, Munroe Island is one of the best places to be in Kerala if you are seeking slow travel and soulful backwater experiences.
Here’s a complete guide on Munroe Island Backwaters, canoe rides, where to stay, and how to reach this tranquil paradise.
- Where is Munroe Island?
- A Brief History of Munroe Island
- What Makes Kollam Backwaters Special?
- Where to stay on Munroe Island?
- My Experience of the Munroe Island Backwaters
- Munroe Island vs Alleppey: Which Backwaters Should You Choose?
- Total Cost of Munroe Island Travel
- Tips for Canoe Ride
- Things to Do in Munroe Island
- Best Time to Visit Munroe Island, Kollam
- How to Reach Munroe Island
- Is Munroe Island Worth Visiting?
- Your Questions, My Answers
Where is Munroe Island?
Munroe Island (Munroe Thuruthu) is an inland island group, a hidden gem of Kerala.
It lies at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River in Kollam district, Kerala
It is a quiet island that offers an unblemished backwater experience with a view of village life and exotic birds.
A Brief History of Munroe Island
Munroe Island gets its name from Colonel John Munroe, a British officer who governed the princely state of Travancore in the early 1800s.
He was the one who integrated the region’s scattered waterways by commissioning a network of canals through which thousands of tourists glide on canoes.
As a gesture of gratitude, the Malankara Missionary Church Society, to whom he had granted land for a religious study centre, named the island after him.
That history is quietly visible in the Dutch Church on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, built in red brick against the green landscape, which says that this backwater village was once more than just a remote village.
Get a handle on all the information you need for a Kerala trip in this Kerala travel guide.
What Makes Kollam Backwaters Special?
The Munroe Island in Kollam is special for its obscurity.
It feels like a faraway island that has not been inhabited by anyone in years, except it is visited by a few travelers who dare to explore a lesser-known part of the state.
Did you know the island’s backwaters form at the confluence of the Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake?
What makes Munroe Island stand out is its authenticity; it’s not designed for tourists.
You see fishermen at work, school kids waving from the banks, and old women washing clothes by the canals. It’s raw Kerala, and that’s its real beauty.
Bathed in rich culture yet contemporary experience, you literally feel the tagline ‘God’s own country’ in every corner of the Munroe Island backwaters.
(See how to fit Munroe island visit in this detailed Kerala itinerary)
It’s special; you need to experience it to believe and understand.
Where to stay on Munroe Island?
Half of my good memories of this place are thanks to the resort we stayed in.
There are plenty of resorts in Munroe Island of varying budgets and needs.
A quiet evening in Munroe IslandThe best stay in Munroe Island for you would depend on your budget and how you would want to experience the backwaters.
1. The Budget Option: Local Homestays
For budget travelers and those who want the most authentic version of the island, a homestay is the best choice.
Staying with a local family means you get cheaper rates, home-cooked Kerala meals, informal canoe rides arranged by your host, and a slow pace that’s refreshing and new.
However, you might have to compromise on comfort and hotel services.
Here are a few top-rated homestay options in Munroe Island:
2. The Mid-Range Pick: Lakes and Rivers Resort
For a mid-range stay with more privacy and comfort, resorts can be a better option.
I stayed at Lakes and Rivers Resort, perched right where the river meets the backwaters. (Check prices on agoda.com) (Read my detailed review of this Munroe Island resort)
It sits right where the river meets the backwaters and offers near-private canoe access. It was genuinely one of the more beautiful settings I have woken up in.
I absolutely loved the services, property, location, and nature around it.
Here are some more budget & mid-range resort options for you to explore.
Kalloos Island Backwater Resort
3. The Premium Choice: Luxury Resorts.
Another luxury stay option is The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel
If you are travelling at the end of the year, it would be best to make your bookings in advance at Agoda or similar sites.
My Experience of the Munroe Island Backwaters
What surprised me most was the silence. I’ve done Alleppey, but this was different: no traffic of boats, no vendors, no rush. Just still, the water is turning bronze under the sunset.
Once on board the canoe-cum-boat, there were small spots where the helmsman took us to take pictures, each more beautiful than the last.
We cruised on the mushy waters bordered by small bushes on a small boat that was skillfully handled by a local helmsman.
Our cheerful helmsman kept suggesting photo stops, some funny, some truly magical.
As I remember, he seemed eager, perhaps too eager, almost convincing us that these would be memorable captures to take back.
When I look back, I agree with him.
The canoe ride usually starts around 4 p.m., lasts one to two hours, and the riders typically bring you back before dark.
While a few were regular spots, below the arch of tall coconut trees that looked like they were embracing each other, we got a moment very close to nature.
As we cruised deeper into the canals, we came across a small spot near the mangroves where we could get down and enjoy the cold water in front of the backwaters.
The backdrop was the arches made by the mangrove trees, and on our left was the mesmerising sunset.
The weather was pleasant, with a refreshing breeze and cool water. I couldn’t help thinking about the similar sea breeze and sunset wafting from a day earlier at Mararikulam.
No matter how many things to do in Munroe Island articles I had gobbled, nothing prepared me for such a magical moment.
While we returned after two hours of cruising on the backwaters, waving across to the children who stayed in the nearby villages, we felt a sense of peace that is beyond description.
The soft sound of oars cutting through the water with an occasional call from birds perched on one of the trees in the village gave us solace, and we thanked ourselves for picking Munroe Island over Alleppy.
What part of this ride would you most love: drifting through mangrove tunnels, walking barefoot in cool, shallow water, or simply watching the sunset reflect on the still backwaters? Drop your pick in the comments below.
In case you do not want to stay at Munroe Island or are short on time, you can take a day trip from Kochi to Munroe Island backwaters. (Check the tariffs and book here).
You can also book a similar day tour from Varkala as well. (Check rates here)
Related Read: What is special about Varkala? Is it worth it?
Munroe Island vs Alleppey: Which Backwaters Should You Choose?
If you’ve done Alleppey, Munroe Island will feel like an entirely different world. Alleppey is polished—big houseboats, organised tours, and tourist infrastructure.
Munroe is raw: small canoes, local helmsmen, school children waving from the banks. Alleppey is an experience. Munroe Island is an encounter. For couples looking for quiet over spectacle, Munroe Island wins clearly.
Alleppey is a great place to stay on a traditional houseboat if this is your first time visiting the Kerala backwaters. If you’ve been before or simply prefer the road less travelled, Munroe Island will stay with you longer.
| Feature | Munroe Island | Alleppey |
| Crowd Level | Very low — few tourists, no boat traffic | High — busy waterways, organized tours |
| Boat Type | Small canoe, local helmsman | Large houseboats, tourist operators |
| Vibe | Raw, village-life, unhurried | Polished, scenic, well-organized |
| Cost | Lower — ₹6,000–10,000/night for a couple | Higher — houseboats start at ₹8,000–15,000 |
| Best For | Repeat Kerala visitors, slow travelers, couples wanting quiet | First-time visitors, families, and those wanting the classic backwater experience |
If this is your first Kerala trip and you want a guaranteed beautiful backwater experience, you must choose Alleppey.
If you have been before, or if the idea of a quiet canal with no other boats in sight sounds more appealing than a houseboat with a full crew, you must visit Munroe Island.
Total Cost of Munroe Island Travel
For a couple spending one night at a mid-range resort like Lakes and Rivers, expect to spend approximately ₹6,000–10,000, including accommodation, canoe ride, food, and transport from Kollam.
We found it significantly more affordable than an Alleppey houseboat stay for comparable backwater experiences.
Tips for Canoe Ride
- Book through your resort/tour operator (preferred) or directly with the local operators. We booked through our tour operator.
- Morning rides (6–8 a.m.) are perfect for birdwatching; evenings (4–6 p.m.) are perfect for golden light.
- Make advance bookings if you are travelling in peak seasons.
- The rates can vary based on season, time of day, and ride duration. Bargain.
- Carry a hat, water, snacks, and light clothes; it could get very humid.
- Don’t expect luxury; there are no elaborate houseboats. Rather, the boats are simple and quiet, which is part of the charm.
Things to Do in Munroe Island
Honestly, Munroe Island is not a place where you can go around with a checklist of tourist attractions.
The main reason you must come here is to experience tranquillity and slowness around near-empty backwaters, away from the maddening crowds of Alleppey.
But if you are looking for a loose 1-2 day itinerary for Munroe Island, here is what a day or two can hold.
Canoe through mangrove tunnels
This is the heart of any Munroe Island visit. Unlike Alleppey’s wide open lakes with houseboat traffic, Munroe’s canoe routes wind through narrow village canals, under archways of coconut palms and mangroves.
The ride typically lasts 1–2 hours and costs ₹800–1,500 depending on the operator and season.
The highlight for us was the sunrise canoe ride through the narrow canal, for the 6 am sunlight was something ethereal.
Indulge in Birdwatching
Along with the magic sunlight in the morning ride, you can also get a rare chance to spot birds, idling and lazing on branches.
We spotted brahminy kites gliding above the mangroves and egrets standing perfectly still at the water’s edge.
If lucky, you can also spot kingfishers and cormorants on the canal edge.
Carry a compact pair of binoculars. Ensure they are lightweight enough for a day bag and sharp enough for clarity.
Village walk or cycling
Munroe Island is a small island. It stretches about 13.7 sq km across eight islets connected by bridges.
If you wish to explore life deeply, borrow a cycle or just walk along the interior for a completely different view of the backwaters. You can spot paddy fields, coconut farms, children playing outside small houses, and old women sitting on porches.
It’s unhurried and genuinely beautiful.
Ask your resort or hotel to arrange a bicycle; they won’t deny.
Visit Ashtamudi Lake
If you have time left, visit the Dutch church on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake.
The unusual red-brick colonial (Dutch-Kerala) architecture of the church might remind you of the colonial buildings you saw in Kochi.
About 30 minutes from Munroe Island, Ashtamudi Lake is Kerala’s second-largest lake and the gateway to the larger backwater network.
It is palm-lined & connects Munroe to the larger backwater network.
Experience The Kallada Boat Race
If your travel dates coincide with the biggest festival of the island, that is 28 days after Onam, experience the Kallada boat race, an experience you will never forget.
Held annually, 28 days after the Onam festival on the Kallada River at Munroe Island, it marks the end of Kerala’s boat racing season.
Simply do nothing
This sounds flippant, but it isn’t. Munroe Island is one of those rare places that rewards complete surrender to its pace. Sit on your resort’s jetty at dusk.
Watch the light change on the water. Order a chai and don’t look at your phone. If you’ve come from a demanding city life, which most of us have, this is harder than it sounds and more restorative than anything else on this list.
Best Time to Visit Munroe Island, Kollam
The best time to visit Munroe Island is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and the backwaters are calm and full.
Avoid June–August unless you love dramatic rains; the water levels can rise, and canoe rides may be limited.
Just before you book your tickets, do a quick rain check. You can read some additional essential travel tips for a comfortable trip.
How to Reach Munroe Island
Munroe Island sits in the Kollam district, roughly 27 kilometres from Kollam city, and is accessible by road, rail, and water.
By Air:
To travel to Munroe Island, you can catch a flight to Tiruvananthapuram or Kochi and travel by road or train to the island.
From Kochi Airport, it takes about 3½-4 hours by car (via NH66) to reach Munroe Island; from Kollam town, about 30- 50 minutes.
By Train:
Several local MEMU and Express trains (such as the Palaruvi and Venad) stop at Munroturuthu station, a tiny station on the island, connecting it to Kollam and nearby towns.
From Kollam Junction, the ride is very quick, usually taking only 15–20 minutes. Unreserved fares are very affordable, with fares starting from ₹50.
Trains run frequently throughout the day, but it’s always best to check the latest schedule on the NTES or IRCTC app before heading to the station.
By Road:
You can take a rental or auto and drive from Alleppey (93 km) or Kollam (25 km) to reach Munroe Island.
From Kollam: The most straightforward option is a taxi or auto, which takes around 45 minutes depending on traffic.
If you are not in a hurry, opt for a scenic route. Boats from the Kollam jetty run through the backwaters. The backwater ferry takes 1.5 hours for a 25 km journey.
Or you can take a train from Kollam. (Details ahead)
From Varkala: Varkala to Munroe Island is approximately 60 kilometres by road, which will take about an hour and a half by taxi.
There is no direct public transport that makes this easy, so hiring a cab for the day through local transport agencies or arranging a pickup through your resort is the practical option.
This Varkala travel guide will be helpful if you are planning to visit this beach city.
From Trivandrum: Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) is around 75–80 kilometres away from Munroe Island.
If you are based out of Trivandrum, you can book a cab or tickets to the Kottayam Express or Guruvayur InterCity Express for a train ride to the island.
From Mararikulam:
If you are staying a night at Mararikulam, as we did, you can hire a cab for Munroe Island. It will take you 2.45 hours.
However, you can also opt for the Guruvayur – Thiruvananthapuram Express to reach the Munroturuttu railway station.
Is Munroe Island Worth Visiting?
If you like backwaters and find peace around water bodies, there can be nothing better than a trip to Kollam Munroe Island.
It is definitely worth visiting, just for its friendly people, pleasant weather, tranquil backwaters, and nostalgic village life.
Munroe Island boat rides may not feature on every Kerala itinerary, even though people throng to Kollam all the time, but that’s what makes them special.
It’s a place where time slows down, where sunsets melt into the water, and where you can truly experience the backwaters, just you, the oar, and the quiet.
Is it Worth it for couples?
As the sun dipped lower and our boat glided through the arch of trees, I realized how rare such silence is.
If I had to describe Munroe Island in one word, it would be calm.
Ready to slow down in Kerala?
If you’re planning your trip, check out my 10-Day Kerala Itinerary for more offbeat spots and stay ideas. And don’t forget to let me know below which stop on your list surprised you the most!
Your Questions, My Answers
How long is the canoe ride?
The canoe ride is usually 1-2 hours long
Is visiting Munroe Island worth it?
Yes, Munroe Island offers a unique backwater experience: clean, sparsely visited, and serene.
Is Munroe Island better than Alleppey?
Honestly, it depends on what you’re looking for. Alleppey gives you the classic Kerala houseboat experience; well-organised and famous, but can be crowded. Munroe Island gives you something rawer and quieter, narrow canals, village life, and almost no tourist crowds.
For couples seeking genuine stillness over spectacle, Munroe Island wins. If it’s your first Kerala backwater experience, do Alleppey. If you’ve been before or simply prefer the road less travelled, Munroe Island will stay with you longer.
How much does the Munroe Island canoe ride cost?
A canoe ride on Munroe Island typically costs between ₹800–1,500 for a 1–2 hour ride, depending on the operator, season, and whether you book through your resort or directly with a local guide.
Peak season (November–January) rates tend to be higher. Always confirm the price and duration before boarding. Booking through your resort is usually the safest and most hassle-free option.
Can you do Munroe Island as a day trip from Alleppey?
Yes. Munroe Island is approximately 90 km from Alleppey, about 1.5–2 hours by road. It’s very doable as a day trip, giving you enough time for a canoe ride and a slow lunch. That said, if you can stay overnight, do it.
The early morning backwaters and the evening light on the canals are the best parts, and both require being there before the day-trippers arrive.
When is the best time to visit?
From October to March is the best time to visit Munroe Island, when the weather is cooler, and the backwaters are calm.
As the sun dipped lower and our boat glided through the arch of trees, I realized how rare such silence is. Munroe Island didn’t just show me Kerala’s beauty; it slowed me down enough to feel.
Have you been to a place that made you slow down, as Munroe Island did for me?
Share your story in the comments; I’d love to read it.
Discover more from The Hopping Tales Journal
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Leave a Reply