Introduction

The verdant Ponnumthuruth (meaning Golden Island) is in the middle of the placid backwaters near Varkala. Untouched now for centuries, this virgin island is a vibrant ecosystem home to a variety of flora and fauna. There is a still beauty about the place, occasionally broken by the rustling of wind through palm trees, the twittering of birds or the gentle lapping on water on the white beach. Amble down the coastline, enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and listen to the fishermen as they hum earthy songs while casting their nets in the lake. You can easily spot cormorants, egrets and herons fishing in the emerald waters while gulls and eagles surge in the sky. The island also has something for those who are spiritually inclined. Shrouded by dense coconut groves is a century-old Shiva-Parvathi temple. If legend is to be believed, the royal ladies of Travancore used to hide away their jewelry here, and hence the name Ponnumthuruth.

The island is about 55 kilometers (34 miles) from Trivandrum, 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Kollam and only 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from Varkala. And if you are driving down from the capital, take National Highway 47 up to Attingal about 25 kilometers (16 miles) away, and further on take the Kadakkavur road. From Kadakkavur it is a lovely coastal drive to Nedunganda village – the ferry boarding point. For those coming from Kollam, it is the road to Varkala from Kallambalam on the NH 47. And from Varkala you can take the road to Kadakkavur to get to the ferry point at Nedunganda.

Board a ferry from this sleepy backwater village and sail through a pictorial tree-lined canal to the backwaters, and thence to Ponnumthuruth. Or hire a country boat rowed by an oarsman if you feel that the continuous hum of the onboard ferry motor tends to break the peace of the area. The ferry takes a round of the backwaters, then to the pristine island, and back. Tourists can also be picked up from the Akathumuri Resort by the lake on the mainland. You can get snacks and soft drinks at the jetty. Since the soil of Golden Isle is believed by the locals to be sacred, smoking and consumption of alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited both on the ferry and island. You are not allowed to carry non-vegetarian food.

Spend the day exploring the island’s seven acres of wooded grounds at the centre of which is this old Shiva-Parvathi shrine with a temple tank. Meditate, take pictures, soak up life on the backwaters, and experience a serenity so overwhelming.

A word of caution there is no distinct walkway on the island and thick scrubs can obstruct your way. It is better to walk the circumference of the island by holding on to the branches – a great way to observe the water birds from up close. Tread carefully along the bank as the earth can by loose in some places.

If you wish to stay the night near the island you can book an accommodation at the lakefront Akathumuri Resort, a brief distance from the Golden Isle. The resort has spacious lake-facing cottages, an onsite restaurant and other facilities for a comfortable stay.

Special Attributes

Unspoilt and uninhabited. Water birds come out in numbers on the banks of the island.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable. Since the island has a shrine held sacred by the locals, it is better to avoid wearing short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

Private taxi

Enjoyed by

Nature lovers and avid bird-watchers

Exposure

You will be outdoors all day. The island is shrouded by greenery, and keeps the harsh afternoon sun out.

Avoidable Season

April, May June, July, August, September

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

The place looks particularly beautiful at sundown. While exploring the island keep your tone soft and help maintain its serenity.

Type of site

Island shrine