Munroe Island, located at the picturesque confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River in Kollam district, Kerala, is a hidden gem in the Kerala backwaters. Named after Colonel John Munroe, the Dewan of the Travancore Kingdom in the early 1800s, this island holds historical significance. Colonel Munroe played a key role in land reclamation efforts in the delta where the Kallada River meets Ashtamudi Lake, and the reclaimed land was named in his honor.
In 1795, the British established their supremacy in South India, bringing the princely state of Travancore under their governance. From 1800 onwards, a Resident was appointed by the East India Company to oversee administrative affairs, with Colonel Colin Macaulay as the first Resident, followed by Colonel John Munroe.
Natural Beauty and Tranquility
Munroe Island is a serene, tranquil paradise, surrounded by a fabric of green and blue, with small towns and villages nestled along its banks. The vast network of canals, lagoons, and waterways makes this area one of Kerala’s premier backwater destinations. Ashtamudi Lake, with its natural beauty, remains unmindful of its own charm.
Visitors to Munroe Island can immerse themselves in the local way of life and explore:
- Coir retting and weaving processes
- Fishing and prawns feeding
- Migratory bird watching
- Narrow canals and waterways
- Coconut farms and lagoons
- Mangrove plants and tiny islands like Pathupara
The famous Kallada Boat Race takes place nearby, adding to the island’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Accessibility and Location
Munroe Island covers an area of 13.4 square kilometers (5.2 sq mi) and has a population of around 10,000. Despite this, the island feels uncrowded and peaceful, with houses scattered far apart amidst the lush greenery. The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, located 64.4 km away, and the island is accessible by road, rail, and inland waterways. Munroe Island is 29 km from Varkala and 11.3 km from Kollam.
A Hidden Pearl in the Backwaters
Once dependent solely on water transport, the island now has a few roads, but life here remains calm and serene. The sound of birds singing, temple music, and the gentle movement of water provide a peaceful soundtrack to everyday life. Fishermen head out in the mornings and evenings, while others dive to collect sand or seafood. Women weave ropes from coconut fiber, and children take school buses to nearby schools. Life on Munroe Island is simple, stress-free, and connected to nature.
Munroe Island truly is a hidden pearl in Kerala’s backwaters—a place of calm, beauty, and tranquility, perfect for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.