Things To Do
in Munro Turuttu
Munro Turuttu (commonly Munroe Island or Munrothuruthu) is a small, peaceful cluster of islets where canals, paddy fields and coconut groves meet the backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala, southwest India. The island is known for its lazy waterways, traditional coir and fishing livelihoods, and slow-paced village life that gives a strong sense of local Kerala culture. Visitors come for boat cruises through narrow canals, birdwatching in mangroves and to experience homestay life with fresh seafood and coconut-infused cuisine.
Infrastructure is basic compared with larger cities, so travel here is best for those seeking low-key nature, photography and authentic rural interactions rather than nightlife or luxury hotels.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historical sites in Munro Turuttu, where ancient architecture tells the tales of a bygone era. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes, taking in the vibrant local culture and colorful storefronts. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for traditional breakfast dishes like idli and chutney.
After enjoying a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, head to the iconic Munro Turuttu Fort, where you can explore the remnants of its majestic past. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. Engage with local guides who share fascinating stories about the fort's history and significance.
As the sun begins to set, take a scenic walk along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of waves lapping against the shore. Sample local street food from vendors lining the promenade, indulging in delicious snacks like vada pav and pani puri. Conclude your day with a visit to a local market, where you can shop for handcrafted souvenirs and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the serene Sri Munro Temple, where you can partake in morning prayers and witness the peaceful rituals. The temple's intricate carvings and tranquil atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for reflection and meditation. Afterwards, enjoy fresh coconut water from a nearby vendor to refresh yourself.
Head to the nearby hills for a trek to the ancient Jain temples, nestled amidst lush greenery and offering stunning views of the valley. The hike is invigorating, and the temples are a marvel of architectural beauty, showcasing exquisite stone work. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the spiritual ambiance of the area.
Return to Munro Turuttu and unwind at a local café, sipping on masala chai as you reflect on the day's spiritual journey. As night falls, participate in a traditional dance performance, celebrating local culture and heritage. The evening culminates in a peaceful stroll along the riverside, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍛Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛶Half-day private boat hire | $15-30 |
| 🏡Basic homestay per night | $20-40 |
| 🚕Local taxi/autorickshaw short trip | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, peaceful backwater village life with excellent photo opportunities
- Accessible boat cruises and close contact with nature — birds, mangroves and waterways
- Friendly homestay culture offering immersive local food and hospitality
- Great for day trips from Kollam or as a quiet base for nature-focused travelers
- Limited infrastructure: few shops, banks or nightlife options on the island
- Heavy monsoon rains can disrupt travel and boat services for months
- Medical facilities are basic locally — major hospitals are in Kollam/Trivandrum
- Public transport and schedules can be irregular; relying on local boats requires flexibility
- "Namaskaram" - Hello / respectful greeting
- "Nandi (Nanni)" - Thank you
- "Evideyanu…?" - Where is…?
- "Sughamalle?" - Are you well?
- "Ivide pani undaayal?" - Is there work/are there activities here?
Places to Visit in Munro Turuttu
Visit one of these nice places.
Intimate waterways framed by coconut palms and mangrove roots offer mirror-like reflections at sunrise and quiet scenes of village life and fishing boats.
Wide lake vistas for sunsets, long exposures of boat traffic and panoramic shots with distant paddy fields and palms.
Close-up documentary-style shots of hands working coir ropes, traditional boat construction and textured wooden hulls.
Colorful household scenes, drying fish, verandahs with brass lamps, and everyday life that capture the island’s character.
Food in Munro Turuttu
Munro Turuttu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite where the fish is marinated and wrapped in banana leaf and grilled; find it at homestays and specialty seafood restaurants in the Kollam–Alappuzha region.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cake (puttu) served with spicy black-chickpea curry — a common breakfast available at small cafés and homestays.
Soft, lacy rice pancakes paired with a mild coconut-based vegetable or meat stew; available widely for breakfast or dinner.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small market stalls sell fresh fish, vegetables, coconut and snacks; try freshly fried banana chips, banana fritters and local sweets prepared by vendors.
A short trip to Kollam brings more street-food options — dosa, idli, samosas and coastal snacks — with busy midday and evening stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in village areas, especially when visiting religious sites; lightweight long sleeves and trousers or saris/mundu are appropriate.
Remove shoes before entering homes and some shops; accept food and tea with both hands if offered and show polite appreciation.
Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women, children and private homes.
Be respectful around temples and churches: observe silence, follow any rules about entry and avoid public displays of affection.
Safety
Tipping in Munro Turuttu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. For homestays and guides, tip small amounts directly (e.g., $2–5 depending on service). In restaurants in nearby towns, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is common at mid-range places.
Cash (Indian Rupee) is king on the island and in small shops; carry sufficient cash for food, small purchases and boat hires. ATMs and card acceptance are available in nearby Kollam, but homestays and local vendors may not accept cards — mobile UPI payments are increasingly common but check in advance.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings hot, humid weather with temperatures often in the high 20s–low 30s °C (80s–90s °F); afternoons can be sultry but mornings and evenings are pleasant for boat trips. Hydrate, wear sun protection and expect occasional thunderstorms near the season’s end.
June to September sees heavy southwest monsoon rains; many boat services may be reduced and some homestays close. This is an intense, lush period — great for green landscapes and dramatic photos but travel plans should be flexible and watch for flooding or rougher waters.
October to February is the best time to visit: cooler, drier weather (low 20s–mid 20s °C) with clear skies and comfortable humidity, perfect for cruises, cycling and birdwatching.
Munro Turuttu at Night
Hiking in Munro Turuttu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, flat trails and embankment walks along the shores and through mangrove edges — ideal for birdwatching and easy exploration any time of year outside heavy monsoon.
About 50–70 km inland (a 1.5–2 hour drive) — Thenmala offers marked forest trails, canopy walks and ecotourism activities for those wanting hill-forest hiking.
More serious hiking and viewpoints are found in hill stations of the Western Ghats (Ponmudi, Agasthyakoodam — farther afield and requiring planning) for those combining coastal and mountain experiences.
Airports
How to reach Munro Turuttu by plane.
Approximately 60–80 km south of Munro Turuttu (depending on route); about 1.5–2.5 hours by road. Offers domestic and international flights and is the closest major airport for many visitors.
Around 120–160 km to the north-west depending on road connections; roughly 3–4 hours by road. Larger international hub with frequent domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local residents are predominantly Malayali, many engaged in fishing, coir-making, small-scale farming and related trades — family-run livelihoods define community life.
Religious diversity typical of coastal Kerala with churches, temples and mosques in the wider region; communal harmony is a strong local value.
A growing group of families who host tourists, run small eateries or provide boat and guide services — they form the tourism interface and are often welcoming and resourceful.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Kerala and India; local children and adults play informal matches in fields or village grounds.
Traditional snake-boat races are culturally important in Kerala (especially during Onam); while big races aren’t on the island itself, nearby backwater communities take part in seasonal regattas.
Both a livelihood and a pastime; local fishing techniques and small-scale competitions are common among the coastal and island communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Munro Turuttu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are readily available (rice-based dishes, curries, vegetable stir-fries). Inform hosts in advance at homestays and many restaurants will prepare simple vegetarian Kerala thali or vegetable stews.
Coconut-based dishes, rice, lentils and many vegetable sides suit vegan and gluten-free diets; always confirm use of ghee or fish sauce and ask cooks about ingredients to avoid cross-contamination.
Seafood is very common; explicitly request no fish or shellfish when ordering and consider staying in accommodations that can prepare separate meals to prevent cross-contact.