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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos

Ponnumthuruthu Island Varkala
Best Time
Magical light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island sanctuary in Varkala's backwaters, offering a peaceful escape with a historic temple and scenic boat rides.
"It's much better than any other place in Varkala!
"
⏰ 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Shiva-Parvathi Temple
Ponnumthuruthu Island
A 100-year-old spiritual haven with a serene ambiance, offering a glimpse into local traditions.

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.

Lush Greenery and Tranquil Backwaters
Ponnumthuruthu Island
Experience the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity: Plan Your Island Escape
Respectful Exploration: Temple and Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ 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:📸 Capture the Serenity
Ideal for storytelling and ambient sound capture, especially during sunrise or dusk.
:camerawithflash:🛶 Kayaking Adventure
Consider kayaking to the island for a unique and active way to experience the backwaters.
:kayak: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.
:clock1:🙏 Respect Temple Etiquette
Maintain a serene atmosphere. Minimal audio and camera movements are recommended inside the temple.
:pray:📸 Capture the Serenity
Ideal for storytelling and ambient sound capture, especially during sunrise or dusk.
:camerawithflash:🛶 Kayaking Adventure
Consider kayaking to the island for a unique and active way to experience the backwaters.
:kayak:📍 Location Near Varkala
Just 7-8 km from Varkala town, making it an accessible day trip.
:round_pushpin:What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Some visitors also mention kayaking as an option.Ponnumthuruthu Island is located approximately 7-8 kilometers from Varkala Railway Station and about 38 kilometers from Trivandrum city.
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.
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.
The island is surrounded by water and is only accessible by boat or kayak. Walking is not an option.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Visitors are asked to respect the temple's spiritual ambiance. Minimal audio and camera movements are recommended within the temple premises.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Yes, the island offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and dusk, with its serene ambiance and natural landscapes.
Information regarding specific facilities like restrooms or food stalls on the island is limited. It's advisable to come prepared with your own essentials.
Ponnumthuruthu Island is often described as less crowded than other Varkala attractions, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility and unique storytelling content.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
The nearest dining options would be in Varkala town, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving local Kerala cuisine and international dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during sunrise and just before dusk, when the light creates a magical atmosphere.
Drone photography can also capture stunning aerial views.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.
You can expect to capture serene backwater landscapes, lush greenery, the ancient temple architecture, and the tranquil ambiance of the island.
Drone photography is possible and can yield spectacular aerial views of the island and surrounding backwaters, as seen in some social media content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
📸 Content Creators & Vloggers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Golden Island: Ponnumthuruthu
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. For the more adventurous, kayaking to the island provides an intimate connection with the serene waters. The island's relative seclusion means fewer visitors, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and immersive storytelling.
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. 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.
Navigating to and from Ponnumthuruthu Island
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. 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. It's advisable to confirm the current rates with the local boat operators upon arrival.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit