Ponnumthuruthu Island, Varkala - Timings, Entry Fee, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 7 km from Varkala Railway Station, Ponnumthuruthu, also known as Golden Island, is an island situated in Anjengo Lake at Nedunganda near Varkala, Kerala. It is one of the most beautiful uninhabited islands in Kerala, and among the most beautiful places to visit as part of Trivandrum tour packages.

Encircled by the Anjengo backwaters, Ponnumthuruthu Island is a private property that belongs to Valiyapurakkal Family. Ponnumthuruthu literally means the golden island. According to legends, the Queens of Travancore Royal family used to hide their gold on the island to keep it safe, and hence the name. The star attractions include a 100 years old Shiva Parvathi temple, which is also called `Thuruthu kshethram' by the natives. The temple is situated amidst a thick coconut grove and gets decked up in lights during Sivarathri. Sivarathri is a major festival celebrated here when many devotees spend the night on the island.

The lush, secluded island of Ponnumthuruthu is perfect for a secluded trip. This delightful getaway is an ideal option for a sunset view. The majestic vistas of the ferry ride include husks waving through the backwaters and the greenery of land coming alive with fresh warm rays of the sun. Besides, the island is also a haven for birdwatchers as it is home to a plethora of flora and fauna, especially waterbirds and land birds like cormorants, egrets, and herons.

Ponnumthuruthu Island is easily reachable by a 30-minute boat ride from the makeshift jetty at the Nedunganda Village. The mainland on the other side of Ponnumthuruthu is a coir village. There is a small coir-making unit near the ferry. Travellers can visit the unit.

Timings: 5.30 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 6 PM

Entry: Free