🌴 Munroe Thuruthu: Kerala’s Hidden Village Paradise That’s Slowly Drowning – Visit Before It’s Gone Forever!

Have you ever dreamt of experiencing a peaceful, old-world village life surrounded by rivers, lakes, coconut trees, mangroves, and houseboats?

Then Munroe Thuruthu (Munroe Island) in Kollam, Kerala is that magical place. This is not just another tourist spot – this is a soulful journey into Kerala’s timeless charm. But here’s the catch: this beautiful village is slowly sinking, and in a few decades, it may vanish underwater completely.

This blog is your complete guide to Munroe Thuruthu – why you must visit it, how to reach there, what to do, where to stay, and why this hidden gem is attracting travellers from across the world.

📍 Where Exactly is Munroe Thuruthu?

Munroe Island (locally known as Munroethuruth or Munro Thuruthu) is located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River in Kollam district, Kerala, India.
It is a group of 8 small islands connected by canals and backwaters. The island is named after Colonel John Munro, the British Resident of erstwhile Travancore.

🛶 Why This Place is a Must-Visit

• 🏞️ Unspoiled Village Life – Traditional Kerala homes, paddy fields, toddy tapping, and calmness all around.
• 🚣‍♂️ Canoe Cruises – Early morning or sunset boat rides through narrow canals (kandal kadu or mangrove forests) are unforgettable.
• 🛶 Houseboat Rides – Slow backwater rides with coconut breeze and birdsongs.
• 🐦 Birdwatching – Spot kingfishers, cormorants, and even migratory birds.
• 🏡 Homestay Experiences – Live like a local, eat authentic Kerala food, and learn about coir-making or fishing.
• 🎬 Film Location – Movies like Ponman (2024) and earlier Malayalam movies like Munroe Thuruth, Kappela, and Ozhivu Divasathe Kali were shot here.

🌊 The Sad Reality – Munroe Island is Sinking

Munroe Thuruthu is slowly submerging year by year.

What’s the reason?

1. Climate Change – Rising sea levels and unpredictable rainfall patterns.
2. Unscientific Sand Mining – From nearby rivers which weakens the land.
3. Tsunami After-Effects – Post 2004 tsunami, water intrusion increased.
4. Improper Infrastructure – Backwater encroachments and blocked water flow.

When will it be in real trouble?

Studies by IIT Madras and other environmental researchers have warned that parts of the island may become uninhabitable within the next 20–30 years if the situation continues.

Can anything be done?

• Restricting sand mining
• Elevating land and buildings
• Scientific waterway management
• Promoting eco-tourism to raise global attention and funds for conservation

✈️🛣️ How to Reach Munroe Thuruthu

By Flight:

• Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) – 75 km away
  Take a cab or train to Kollam from there.

By Train:

• Munroturuttu Railway Station is on the Kollam–Sengottai route.
  All major trains stop at Kollam Junction, which is just 25 minutes away.

By Road:

• 27 km from Kollam city
• Easily accessible by car, auto, or hired cab

🏨 Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay

1. Budget Homestays – ₹800 to ₹1,200 per night
   Simple village homes, tasty Kerala food
2. Mid-range Resorts – ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 per night
   Comfort stays with backwater views
3. Luxury Houseboats – ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per night
   Includes meals, AC cabins, sunset cruise

💡 Tip: Book early during peak seasons (October to March)

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

• October to March – Cool, pleasant weather
• Early mornings and evenings – Perfect for boat rides
• Avoid – June to August (heavy monsoon)

🛍️ What to Expect and Do

• 🌅 Sunrise and sunset canoe rides
• 🥥 Try fresh toddy and seafood
• 🌿 Walk through paddy fields and narrow lanes
• 📷 Perfect for photography and peaceful stays
• 🎣 Learn fishing or coir-making from locals

🎥 Watch Before You Go

🌍 Why So Many Foreigners Visit Here?

• Eco-conscious travellers love the natural and sustainable lifestyle
• Digital detox: No traffic, no noise, just peace and people
• Cultural connection: Friendly locals, real village food, and ancient traditions
• Offbeat destination – Not crowded like Alleppey or Munnar
• Cheap and clean stay options

💬 Final Thought – Visit Before It’s Too Late!

Munroe Thuruthu is not just a destination. It is an emotion. A slice of real Kerala that is untouched by commercial tourism. But it’s also silently crying for help.
Your visit can bring not only joy to your heart but also hope to the locals.
Share this article, plan your trip, and experience this floating village before it disappears under the water.

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