-1024x683.jpg)
-820x1024.jpg)
-1024x683.jpg)
If you’re an avid traveler who yearns to explore the ravishing wonderlands scattered across the country, we’re sure that Kerala occupies the top spot on your travel bucket list. Known for being a biodiversity hotspot, Kerala allures several nature lovers with its lush green meadows, misty Western Ghats, sleepy hill stations, raging rivers, and pristine beaches.
But what many people don’t realize is that this state is adorned with some hauntingly beautiful islands that are devoid of tourist crowds. The jaw-dropping beauty of these islands leaves you mesmerized and makes you feel truly one with nature. Instead of indulging in mainstream tourist activities, we urge you to discover the tranquil yet adventurous islands to experience Kerala to its fullest. Not sure which islands are the best in the state? Here’s a handpicked list of 8 islands in Kerala that you must visit.
Poovar Island is a tiny coastal hamlet resting on the southern coastline of India in the Thiruvananthapuram district. Poovar Island, which literally translates to River of Flowers, is one of the most scenic holiday destinations in Kerala that attracts families, soul-searching solo travelers, and honeymooners alike.
The calm waters of Neyyar River running through the island, the tall coconut trees scattered across the landscape, and the lush green woodlands make this island a visual treat. The diverse flora and fauna, the native fishing community, the golden sand beaches, and the heart-pumping boat races are some things that make your vacation memorable.
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Want to know more about what all to explore while vacationing in Poovar Island? Click here to find out!
Resting on the beautiful Kabini River, the Kuruvadweep Islands in Wayanad is a preserved river delta that is home to some dense woodlands and diverse flora and fauna of Kerala. Sprawled across about 950 acres of land, thome to a unique topography, and secluded away from the eye of mainstream tourists, the Kuruvadweep Islands are engulfed in a mystical vibe.
One of the most enjoyable things to do here is to go rafting in the bamboo rafts provided by the Kerala Tourism Department. These enthralling rides along the gushing streams that surround the island let you immerse in the natural beauty of the island. Apart from that, birdwatching in Kuruvadweep is also popular. Visited by several migratory birds and home to several rare species of orchids and herbal plants, the Kuruvadweep Islands offer you a chance to unwind and rejuvenate.
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Had a great time at the Kuruvadweep Islands? Here are 7 fun things to do in Wayanad after experiencing these beautiful islands!
Located just about 5 km away from Ernakulam, the spectacular Vypin Island was formed due to the floods of the 14th century. What’s intriguing about this island is that the Portuguese culture still has a stronghold over the natives of the island. Unsurprisingly, you also get a chance to peek into the rich historical past of the country. Popular for its stunning shoreline, the Vypin Island sprawls across 27 km and is home to some of the most stunning beaches like Munambam, Puthuvype, Kuzhupilly, and Cherai.
The Goshree Bridges that connect Kochi to Vypin Island are one of the main attractions of Vypin. Visitors can interact with the local fisherfolk and try their hand at fishing at the Munambam Fishing Harbour. Not only is this harbor one of the most beautiful and largest harbors in the Kochi area, but it is also studded with multiple exciting and tranquil places like the Cherai Temple, Sahodaran Ayyappan Smarakam, Azheekal Varahamoorthy Temple, Cruz Milagres Church, Elamkunnapuzha Subrahmanya Temple, and so on.
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the cities and find time to connect with yourself? Let us tell you that there is no place better for indulging in self-care other than Vini’s Farm Island. Stretching across 2 acres of land in Kollam, Vini’s Farm Island is basically a set of private islands that are ideal for solo travelers, nature enthusiasts, and couples who wish to reconnect with themselves and each other in the cuddles of nature.
Decorated with some really lavish wooden villas, you can spend some really luxurious nights and enjoy the modern amenities on this island. Sandwiched between the serene Ashtamudi Lake from one side and the beautiful Kallada River from the other, these islands are filled with thick, verdant vegetation. In addition to relaxing in the laps of nature, you’re also served some really delicious organic food here. If you are in Kerala, Vini’s Farm Island is an unmissable location that you can escape to for a great weekend.
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kollam Junction
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Kerala is extremely famous for its backwaters and you simply cannot holiday in this state without treating yourselves to the stunning backwaters that are scattered across the state. Kavayyi (also popularly known as Kavvayi Kayal) is famous for being the biggest backwater island cluster in the northern part of Kerala. Covering the districts of Kasaragod and Kannur, these islands find prominence in the travel writing accounts of explorers and scholars like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta.
Endowed with lush green landscapes that will surely blow your mind, these sets of islands are renowned for their bewitching natural beauty. If you plan to visit Kavvayi, don’t forget to interact with the friendly natives and get a chance to experience their lifestyle. The water around these islands tends to be extremely calm and clear which makes this location ideal for adventure sports. Thrill-seekers can choose to get an adrenaline rush by participating in exciting activities like zorbing and boating.
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Payyanur
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Don’t forget to witness the magical Theyyam performance while wandering around Kannur!
The Ernakulam district of Kerala is filled with several enchanting tourist attractions and the Bolgatty Island is the classiest and the most beautiful of them all. Converted into a heritage resort post-independence, Bolgatty Island resort offers its visitors some stunning vistas and high-quality services. Perfect for honeymooners, this island allows you to leave all your worries behind and immerse yourself in the coastal beauty of this region.
Apart from all this, the Kochi International Marina that can hold about 34 yachts at once ends up attracting several visitors. Wandering around the island will also lead you to the Bolgatty Event Center. This Center is renowned for hosting top-notch exhibitions, weddings, conferences, and other events. If you love gazing at endless backwaters and vacation in the very heart of nature, you should certainly add Bolgatty Island to your itinerary.
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Don’t forget to discover the wonders of Kochi while you are travelling to Bolgatty Island with our Kochi Travel Guide.
Bursting with tourism potential, the Dharmadam Island or the Green Island that is snuggled in the Kannur district will literally take your breath away. Dotted with swaying coconut trees and surrounded by dense vegetation, this island is a small slice of heaven for all nature lovers. The foamy waves crashing against the shoreline and the pinkish-orange hues of the evening sky add to the charm of this dreamy island.
The picturesque landscape set against the backdrop of the azure sea lets you click some really stunning snaps for your Instagram feed. The simplest way to reach Dharmadam Island is to take a ferry from Muzhappilangad Beach. The entire journey is extremely scenic so do enjoy it to your fullest. Sometimes the tides get really high and turbulent because of which it is advisable to check the weather before heading to this island.
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Dharmadam
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Fall in love with nature all over again by including Pathiramanal Island in your itinerary. Enveloped in an enchanting aura, this island is covered in dense woodlands and dotted with floating weeds, swaying palm trees, and hyacinths. Translating to ‘Sands of the Night’, this ravishing island is hidden away in the backwaters of the Alappuzha district. It’s an ideal nature’s retreat and you can have a peaceful and serene holiday with your loved ones here.
Don’t forget to grab a pair of binoculars before you head to these islands. Popular for being the dwelling grounds of a diverse species of birds, this island is a paradise for bird watchers. Many migratory birds from all around the world frequent this island in different seasons. You might easily be able to spot birds like the night heron, little egret, common teal, and stork-billed kingfisher here. Do enjoy an enthralling boat ride and explore every nook and cranny of the lakes that surround this island to make your vacation unforgettable.
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Alappuzha
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
Also Read: 9 Memorable Things To Do In Kerala
Which Is The Largest Island In Kerala?
Resting on the majestic Kabini River and located in the Wayanad District, the Kuruvadweep Island is one of the largest islands in Kerala.
Which Is The Only Man-Made Island In Kerala?
The Willingdon Island is not only the largest man-made island in Kerala but also in India. It was formed in 1936 during the construction of the Kochi Port.
Are Ernakulam And Kochi The Same?
Kochi, which was formerly known as Cochin during British times is a prominent port city of the Malabar Coast of India. This city is a part of Ernakulam, which is a major district of the state of Kerala.
Which Is The Smallest Island In Kerala, India?
Gundu Island is the smallest island in Kerala.
Which Is The Cleanest City In Kerala?
The following cities are some of the cleanest cities of Kerala.
Alappuzha
Thiruvananthapuram
Palakkad
Kollam
Kottayam
Kozhikode
Thrissur
Kochi
How Many Islands Are There In Kerala?
Kerala has as many as 2130 backwater islands with the latest addition of the Maradu Island.
Is Lakshadweep A Part Of Kerala?
Lakshadweep Islands are recognized as an Indian Union Territory with Kavaratti serving as its capital. The region comes under the jurisdiction of the Kerala High Court.
Is Kochi An Island?
Kochi has several large and small islands under its banner. Fort Kochi Island and Bolgatty Island are two of the major ones.
.jpg)