around the island and river bank
1 / 10

Ponnumthuruthu Island Varkala

4.4
·77 reviews·, India

A serene island sanctuary in Varkala's backwaters, offering a peaceful escape with a historic temple and scenic boat rides.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise or Dusk

Magical light for photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
around the island and river bank

Ponnumthuruthu Island Varkala

Best Time

Sunrise or Dusk

Magical light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene island sanctuary in Varkala's backwaters, offering a peaceful escape with a historic temple and scenic boat rides.

4.4
(77 reviews)

"It's much better than any other place in Varkala! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏰ Plan Boat Timing

Boats stop by 5-5:30 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing the last ride back. :clock1:

🙏 Respect Temple Etiquette

Maintain a serene atmosphere. Minimal audio and camera movements are recommended inside the temple. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Shiva-Parvathi Temple

The Ancient Shiva-Parvathi Temple

Ponnumthuruthu Island

A 100-year-old spiritual haven with a serene ambiance, offering a glimpse into local traditions.

Reddit
Scenic Boat Ride Through Anjengo Lake

Scenic Boat Ride Through Anjengo Lake

From Nedunganda Village

A picturesque 30-minute journey offering cinematic views and a unique way to reach the island.

InstagramReddit
Lush Greenery and Tranquil Backwaters

Lush Greenery and Tranquil Backwaters

Ponnumthuruthu Island

Experience the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem, perfect for nature lovers.

Instagram+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Serenity: Plan Your Island Escape

Ponnumthuruthu Island, or Golden Island, offers a tranquil escape near Varkala. Access is via a scenic boat ride from Nedunganda Village, typically available from 7:30 AM to 6 PM. Plan your visit to catch the magical light of sunrise or dusk, but be mindful that boat services conclude around 5-5:30 PM. Instagram

Respectful Exploration: Temple and Nature

The island is home to a 100-year-old Shiva-Parvathi temple, a significant spiritual site. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a serene atmosphere, with minimal audio and camera movements recommended within the temple grounds. Reddit While the island boasts natural beauty and a small forest, activities are primarily centered around the boat ride and temple visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunrise or Dusk
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Boat rides available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Your sign to visit God’s own country🌴 #kerala #india #indian #mallu #mallayalam #kochi #munnar #thekkady #periyar #allepey #houseboats #kumarakom #varkala #fortkochi #cochin #bharat #indiatravel #nature #beautifuldestinations #traveltok #travelinspo #traveltiktok #PlacesToVisit #bucketlist #southindia #desitok #browntok #browntiktok #desi #indian
@explorewithjain
15.7K likes • 143.4K views

⏰ Plan Boat Timing

Boats stop by 5-5:30 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing the last ride back. Reddit :clock1:

🙏 Respect Temple Etiquette

Maintain a serene atmosphere. Minimal audio and camera movements are recommended inside the temple. Reddit :pray:

Where else should I go in India? #kerala #india #munnar #solotravel #backpacking
@smacquest
10.1K likes • 87K views
Ponnumthuruthu Island, also known as Golden Island, is a serene destination located near Varkala in Kerala, India. This enchanting island is nestled in the Anjengo Lake and is accessible by a 30-minute boat ride from the Nedunganda Village. . . . Location : 8 km from Varkala town Timings : boat rides available from 7:30 AM to 6 PM No entry fee, . . . . #ponnumthuruthuisland #ponnumthuruthu #anjeng...
gypsy_dialogues
6.2K likes • 82.5K views

📸 Capture the Serenity

Ideal for storytelling and ambient sound capture, especially during sunrise or dusk. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🛶 Kayaking Adventure

Consider kayaking to the island for a unique and active way to experience the backwaters. Instagram :kayak:

Visit this island also in your next trip to Varkala 😍 Ponnumthuruthu also known as Golden Island is an island in Varkala of Trivandrum district in Kerala. It is situated in Anjengo lake. The island is a property of a Valiyapurakkal Family. The island also contain a Hindu temple that is 100 years old. Sivarathri festival Sivarathri is a major festival celebrated at the Siva Parvathi temple at Ponn...
wanderlust__doctor
3.2K likes • 52.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏰ Plan Boat Timing

Boats stop by 5-5:30 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing the last ride back. Reddit :clock1:

🙏 Respect Temple Etiquette

Maintain a serene atmosphere. Minimal audio and camera movements are recommended inside the temple. Reddit :pray:

📸 Capture the Serenity

Ideal for storytelling and ambient sound capture, especially during sunrise or dusk. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🛶 Kayaking Adventure

Consider kayaking to the island for a unique and active way to experience the backwaters. Instagram :kayak:

📍 Location Near Varkala

Just 7-8 km from Varkala town, making it an accessible day trip. Instagram+1 :round_pushpin:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(77 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ponnumthuruthu Island for its serene ambiance, spiritual temple, and picturesque boat ride, offering a peaceful escape from the usual tourist hustle. While some note limited activities beyond the boat trip and temple, its tranquility and unique charm make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a quieter experience. Reddit

"We went boating around this island, and along the way, we stopped at a spot where we could take a short stroll. It was such a great experience! Most people don’t even know about this island—it’s much better than any other place in Varkala!"

Shivani M

"✅ Pros:

Island temple with spiritual and serene ambience

Boat ride adds an extra cinematic layer to your vlog

Not many visitors – ideal for storytelling and ambient sound capture

Amazing shots possible during sunrise or just before dusk

⚠️ Tips:

Boats stop by 5–5:30 PM – plan your timing carefully

Respect the temple space — minimal audio and camera movements recommended

🎥 Want to see how silence looks through a lens? Catch the Ponnumthuruth experience on South Man"

ragnar king

"The place provides exhilarating view.
But there’s nothing much to do other than a boat ride. 😅
Just set the expectation accordingly."

Neha Bajaj

What People Like

Serene island atmosphere
Ancient temple visit
Scenic boat ride

What People Dislike

Limited activities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Ponnumthuruthu Island is by taking a boat ride from Nedunganda Village, which is about 7-8 km from Varkala town. The boat ride itself is a scenic experience through the Anjengo Lake. Instagram+1 Some visitors also mention kayaking as an option. Instagram

Ponnumthuruthu Island is located approximately 7-8 kilometers from Varkala Railway Station and about 38 kilometers from Trivandrum city. Instagram+1

While specific public transport routes to Nedunganda Village might vary, local buses and auto-rickshaws are generally available from Varkala town to reach the starting point for boat rides. It's advisable to confirm local transport availability upon arrival. Instagram

No, Ponnumthuruthu Island is accessible only by boat. You will need to park your vehicle at Nedunganda Village or a nearby designated area before taking the boat. Instagram

The island is surrounded by water and is only accessible by boat or kayak. Walking is not an option. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no specific entry fee mentioned for Ponnumthuruthu Island itself. However, you will need to pay for the boat ride to reach the island. Instagram

Boat rides are typically available from 7:30 AM to 6 PM. It's crucial to plan your return trip as boats stop operating around 5-5:30 PM. InstagramReddit

Advance booking for boat rides is generally not required, as they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, during peak seasons, it might be wise to arrive early. Instagram

Visitors are asked to respect the temple's spiritual ambiance. Minimal audio and camera movements are recommended within the temple premises. Reddit

The cost of the boat ride can vary. While not explicitly stated in the provided information, it's a common practice for such rides to have a nominal fee. It's best to inquire locally about current pricing. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main activities include visiting the ancient Shiva-Parvathi temple, enjoying the serene natural beauty, and taking a peaceful boat ride around the island. InstagramReddit

Yes, the island offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and dusk, with its serene ambiance and natural landscapes. InstagramReddit

Information regarding specific facilities like restrooms or food stalls on the island is limited. It's advisable to come prepared with your own essentials. Reddit

Ponnumthuruthu Island is often described as less crowded than other Varkala attractions, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility and unique storytelling content. Reddit

The island is known for its lush greenery and natural habitat, suggesting the possibility of observing local flora and fauna, though specific wildlife sightings are not detailed. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no specific mentions of restaurants or food stalls directly on Ponnumthuruthu Island. It's recommended to dine in Varkala before or after your visit. Reddit

Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permissible for picnics, but it's important to ensure you dispose of any waste responsibly to maintain the island's pristine condition. Reddit

The nearest dining options would be in Varkala town, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving local Kerala cuisine and international dishes. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The best times for photography are during sunrise and just before dusk, when the light creates a magical atmosphere. Reddit Drone photography can also capture stunning aerial views. Instagram

While general photography is allowed, specific restrictions might apply within the temple premises. It's advised to be mindful and respectful of the sacred space. Reddit

You can expect to capture serene backwater landscapes, lush greenery, the ancient temple architecture, and the tranquil ambiance of the island. InstagramReddit

Drone photography is possible and can yield spectacular aerial views of the island and surrounding backwaters, as seen in some social media content. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ponnumthuruthu Island offers a gentle adventure for families. The boat ride itself is usually a hit with children, providing a fun and scenic journey across the lake. Instagram Once on the island, exploring the small forest area and visiting the ancient temple can be an educational and engaging experience. Reddit It's a good idea to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities on the island are limited. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the water and during the boat trip. The relatively low crowds compared to other Varkala spots can make it a more relaxed outing for families. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For solo travelers looking for tranquility, Ponnumthuruthu Island is a perfect escape. Its serene ambiance and fewer crowds offer an ideal setting for introspection and quiet enjoyment of nature. Reddit The boat ride provides a peaceful transition to the island, and the ancient temple offers a spiritual respite. Reddit Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the island's serene beauty, especially during the golden hours. InstagramReddit Remember to respect the temple's sanctity and enjoy the undisturbed peace. Reddit

📸 Content Creators & Vloggers

Ponnumthuruthu Island is a hidden gem for content creators seeking unique and serene footage. The boat ride offers cinematic shots of the backwaters, perfect for vlogs. InstagramReddit The island's natural beauty, the ancient temple, and the tranquil atmosphere provide diverse visual elements. InstagramReddit Capturing the island during sunrise or dusk will yield particularly stunning and atmospheric content. Reddit The low number of visitors makes it easier to film without disruption, allowing for more authentic storytelling. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mystical Golden Island: Ponnumthuruthu

Ponnumthuruthu Island, aptly named the 'Golden Island,' is a serene sanctuary nestled in the Anjengo Lake near Varkala. Its allure lies in its tranquil atmosphere, lush greenery, and the presence of a centuries-old Shiva-Parvathi temple. The island's name is steeped in local lore, with myths suggesting it's a piece of Sanjivani mountain carried by Lord Hanuman. Instagram This natural beauty and spiritual significance make it a unique destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the usual tourist crowds. Reddit

The journey to the island is an experience in itself. Accessible via a 30-minute boat ride from Nedunganda Village, the voyage offers picturesque views of the backwaters and surrounding landscape. Instagram For the more adventurous, kayaking to the island provides an intimate connection with the serene waters. Instagram The island's relative seclusion means fewer visitors, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and immersive storytelling. Reddit

When visiting Ponnumthuruthu, it's important to be mindful of its dual nature as a spiritual site and a natural haven. The ancient temple is a focal point, and visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor. Reddit The best times to visit for photography and ambiance are during the golden hours of sunrise and dusk, when the island is bathed in a soft, ethereal light. Reddit

Navigating to and from Ponnumthuruthu Island

Reaching Ponnumthuruthu Island involves a charming boat ride from Nedunganda Village, a short distance from Varkala. The boat journey typically lasts about 30 minutes and offers a delightful perspective of the Anjengo Lake's serene backwaters. Instagram This boat ride is often highlighted as a cinematic experience, perfect for capturing vlogs and ambient footage. Reddit Boat services generally operate from 7:30 AM to 6 PM, but it's crucial to note that the last boats depart around 5 to 5:30 PM, so planning your return trip is essential to avoid being stranded. Reddit

For those seeking a more active and personal exploration, kayaking to the island is also an option. This allows for a more intimate experience with the tranquil waters and surrounding nature. Instagram While there isn't a specific entry fee for the island itself, the cost of the boat ride or kayak rental will be your primary expense. Instagram It's advisable to confirm the current rates with the local boat operators upon arrival. Instagram

When planning your departure, remember the operational cut-off for boat services. Missing the last boat could mean waiting until the next morning or arranging alternative transport, which might be challenging. Therefore, keeping track of time and coordinating your return journey well in advance is key to a smooth experience. Reddit

You may also like