Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Trivandrum, or Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, is the perfect gateway to exploring Kerala’s multifaceted beauty. From the majestic Padmanabhaswamy Temple to Napier Museum’s historical treasures, the city is ideal for an unforgettable Kerala adventure. But don’t just limit your experience to the city. The islands near Trivandrum offer a captivating blend of beaches, mind-blowing scenery, temples, and history. Head south to Poovar Island for a serene escape or north to Munroe Island to cruise through lush canals.
Top 15 Islands Near Trivandrum
Beyond the bustling city of Trivandrum lies a captivating collection of islands, each offering a unique escape. Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and cultural treasures of the following islands near Trivandrum:
1. Edayar Island
Photo: Timothy A . Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Edayar Island, a serene retreat near Trivandrum, offers visitors a tranquil escape amidst lush greenery. Surrounded by backwaters, this peaceful island provides an ideal spot for relaxation and nature walks. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various avian species in their natural habitat. Traditional fishing activities give a glimpse into local life, making it an enriching cultural experience. Small local eateries serve delicious Kerala cuisine, adding a culinary delight to your visit. Touring the entire island will take just an hour, and don’t forget to visit the sacred Parasurama temple.
Distance From Trivandrum: 7 km
Suggested Read: Beautiful Islands In Kerala To Visit On Your Next Trip
2. Poovar Island
Photo: Bliss Vallabhassery / Wikimedia Commons
Poovar Island near Trivandrum is renowned for its stunning backwaters and pristine beach. It offers a unique blend of coastal charm and natural beauty. The places to visit in Poovar include boat rides through the backwaters to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The tranquil beach, with golden sands and azure waters, is perfect for relaxation. Poovar is also famous for its floating cottages, offering a unique stay experience amidst nature. Ayurvedic wellness centres provide rejuvenating treatments, making it a popular hotspot for health and wellness tourism. The island’s diverse ecosystem, including mangroves and birdlife, makes it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Distance From Trivandrum: 55 km
3. Ponnumthuruthu Island
Photo: Fabian Wiktor / Pexels / Image Only For Representation
Ponnumthuruthu Island, known as the Golden Island, is a hidden gem near Trivandrum and is popularly listed among the top places to visit near Trivandrum within 100 Km. Enveloped by lush greenery and tranquil Anjengo backwaters, this serene island provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is accessible by a short boat ride. The ancient Shiva-Parvati temple attracts both pilgrims and tourists. The island’s scenic beauty, with its dense coconut groves and calm backwaters, provides a perfect setting for peaceful walks and picnics. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be captivated by the variety of bird species here.
Distance from Trivandrum: 30 km
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Trivandrum
4. Ezhumanthuruthu Island
Photo: Vishnubonam / Wikimedia Commons
Ezhumanthuruthu Island is a serene destination known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil environment. It is located closer to Kottayam. Surrounded by pristine backwaters, this island is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking peace and solitude. The lush greenery and calm waters are suitable for relaxation and leisurely walks. Traditional fishing practices offer a glimpse into the local lifestyle and culture. The island’s natural beauty and serene ambience make it a great place for photography and birdwatching, providing a refreshing escape from city life.
Distance From Trivandrum: 170 km
5. Bolgatty Palace and Island
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Bolgatty Palace and Island is a unique destination offering a blend of history and natural beauty. The island is home to the historic 18th-century Bolgatty Palace, built by the Dutch. The palace, now a luxury hotel, offers a regal stay experience amidst lush greenery and serene backwaters. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding waters. The island also features a golf course, adding a recreational aspect to the visit.
Distance From Trivandrum: 230 km
Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Trivandrum
6. Munroe Island
Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons
Munroe Island is a tranquil retreat known for its scenic backwaters and rich cultural heritage. The island offers a unique experience of Kerala’s traditional village life, with many Things To Do In Munroe Island such as canoe tours, birdwatching, and exploring local coir-making traditions. Visitors can enjoy boat rides through the narrow canals to soak in the picturesque views of the lush green landscapes and water bodies. Birdwatchers can spot various species in the island’s serene environment. Coir-making and traditional fishing practices provide a glimpse into the local lifestyle.
Distance From Trivandrum: 80 km
7. Kuruva Island
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Kuruva Island is a pristine island surrounded by lush greenery and serene waters. This uninhabited island offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The island houses rare species of flora and fauna, which adds to its rich biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy trekking through the dense forests and exploring the scenic beauty. Calm waters around the island are ideal for boating and rafting. Birdwatching is another popular activity, with numerous species to spot.
Distance From Trivandrum: 380 km
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Trivandrum
8. Vypin Island
Photo: Niraksharan / Wikimedia Commons
Vypin Island is a popular destination known for its scenic beaches and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the picturesque Cherai Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Historic Fort Vypin and Pallipuram Fort stand tall, paying homage to the island’s colonial past. The island is also home to the Cochin Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Small local restaurants serve delicious seafood and traditional Kerala dishes.
Distance From Trivandrum: 215 km
9. Pathiramanal Island
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Pathiramanal Island is a serene destination renowned for its rich biodiversity and tranquil surroundings. The island offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts in the Vembanad Lake. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, as the island is home to numerous rare bird species. The lush green landscapes and calm waters provide a picturesque setting for leisurely walks. Boat rides around the island offer scenic views and a peaceful experience, connecting you with nature.
Distance From Trivandrum: 130 km
Suggested Read: Popular Private Islands In Kerala
10. Rameswaram Island
Photo: Bombman / Wikimedia Commons
Rameswaram Island is a renowned pilgrimage destination with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Though it is slightly far from Trivandrum, it is easily accessible. Any Rameshwaram Travel Guide will highlight the grand Ramanathaswamy Temple, famous for its intricate architecture and spiritual ambience that attracts numerous visitors. Apart from its religious significance, the island offers picturesque beaches and clear blue waters, ideal for relaxation and water activities. The Pamban Bridge, connecting the island to the mainland, provides stunning views of the surrounding seascape.
Distance From Trivandrum: 360 km
11. Veli Island
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Veli Island is famous for its natural beauty, calm lagoons, and lush parks. It is located where Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea. On the lagoon’s sparkling water, families come in droves to do water sports like pedal boating, row boating, and speed boating. A lot of parks with toys make it a popular place for families to have picnics. This beautiful spot is only a short drive from the city. The floating bridge to Veli Beach, the KTDC-run floating restaurant, and the well-kept grounds add to its charm.
Distance From Trivandrum: 10 km
Suggested Read: Places to Visit Near Trivandrum
12. Valiyakunnu Island
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
There aren’t as many tourists on Valiyakunnu Island, but it still has all the charm of a traditional Kerala island. The calm backwaters surround the island, and thick coconut groves surround the edges, making for a picture-perfect setting. Valiyakunnu is a great place for birdwatchers and nature lovers because it isn’t very popular with tourists. Visitors can see traditional village life and the rich variety of plants and animals that only live in Kerala’s backwaters by canoeing through the narrow canals.
Distance From Trivandrum: 30 km
13. Pozhiyoor Estuary Islands
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
The Pozhiyoor Estuary is among the best islands near Trivandrum for couples
where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. It has a number of small islands and sandbars. The Pozhiyoor area is known for its peaceful Golden Beach and a wide range of plants and animals. The mangroves that surround the waterway make it a safe place for birds and marine life. At high tide, the river dramatically merges with the sea, giving tourists stunning views and the unique chance to see life in both freshwater and marine environments.
Distance From Trivandrum: 30 km
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Trivandrum
14. Aruvikkara Backwater Islets
Photo: Shishir Dasika / Wikimedia Commons
The Aruvikkara Backwater Islets are tucked away around the famous Aruvikkara Dam and the Karamana River. These small rocks have beautiful views, lots of plants, and a cool, refreshing climate. The gardens and peaceful reservoir in the area are very popular with both nature fans and people just out for a picnic. People often go for walks early in the morning, take pictures, and feed fish in the clear backwaters. The nearby Durga temple adds a spiritual touch to the scenery, making nature and culture work well together.
Distance From Trivandrum: 15 km
15. Kadinamkulam Kayal Islands
Photo: Akhilan / Wikimedia Commons
Kadinamkulam Kayal is the name of the beautiful backwater area north of Trivandrum. The lake and its islands have long been the centre of fishing towns and communities that make coir. The Arabian Sea is on one side of Kadinamkulam, and on the other side are calm backwaters. This makes it a great place to go fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching. With views of the water in the morning and sunset, and temples and old churches that are still used today, these islands have a lot of cultural depth.
Distance From Trivandrum: 20 km
Suggested Read: Water Parks In Trivandrum And It’s Surroundings
The islands near Trivandrum present stunning natural beauty, diverse activities, and a rich cultural heritage. Each island, with its unique perspective, will enhance any travel itinerary. The serene backwaters soothe the soul, while the nearby hills invite ardent trekkers. Everywhere you look, you will find native flora and fauna with stunning views. Get the best deals through Trip XL to enrich your travel experience and create unforgettable memories.
Cover Photo: Prasanth Ajantha / Wikimedia Commons
