Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island in Wayanad

The Kuruva island is near River Kabini in Wayanad and is an unhabited island of ever green forest on the tributaries of east flowing river, far away from the disturbances of city life. Rare species of birds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal kingdom. It is an ideal picnic spot and is 17kilometers east of Mananathavady and 40kms northwest of Sulthan Bathery.

The sprawling 950 acres of the protected river delta, Kuruva Dweep is a must-visit ecotourism spot in Kerala. Replete with lush evergreen forests that are home to diverse fauna, the Kuruva Island in Wayanad, Kerala, is in every sense a nature’s paradise. This untampered heaven is set right in the middle of the Kabini river and has the most beautiful surroundings imaginable, making it a perfect picnic spot for you and your loved ones far away from city pollution. Among the many things that Kuruva offers, its bamboo raft rides and treks are the most exciting. Trekkers who come here often find themselves smitten by its serene environment and exotic species of animals, plants, and birds. Here’s a short guide to help you know all about this tiny island before you visit.

Note: For trekking, make sure you have a guide to accompany you if you don’t want to get lost.

Travel Tips For Kuruva Island

1. Ensure to carry caps, and sunglasses to avoid the sun and protect your eyes
2. Its not advisable to swim in the river, only go for boating and bamboo rafting
3. Since there are plenty of birds coming in, so carry your binoculars
4. Remember the island permits only 575 tourists daily, so if you reach late then you wil be disappointed with no entry
5. It is better to avoid the monsoons since walking will be tough through the muddy lands and the boating on the river is not safe
6. While on the boats, use life jackets for safety
7. Do not forget to carry your camera since there are plenty of opportunities to click pictures
8. Choose your shoes properly as there will be lots of walking and hence you must not tire yourself with an improper footwear
9. Remember to carry mosquito repellant creams or sprays, especially when you opt for the nature walks, trekking and hiking
10. Beware of leeches during trekking, best is to wear good protective socks 
11. Drinking and smoking are not allowed in the island, and hence respect it
12. Never litter around 
13. You cannot use plastic in the island, restriction to keep the place eco-friendly 
14. It is better to avail the services of a guide during trekking or hiking
15. You wont find any washrooms or change rooms in the island so plan accordingly.
16. Carry food and water with you as you wont find many shops 
17. Respect the nature around as the place is home for many species of birds, fish, marine life, trees, plants and many other herbs

The best part of Kuruva Island is the flock of migratory birds arriving at the island and mesmerizing all by their chirping and presence. There are variety of species of trees, herbs and orchids.

The other attractions of the island are its two lakes. You can walk around the lakes and feel the soothing freshness and purity in the environment. There are bamboo rafts operated by the Tourism department to row towards the island, altogether an adventurous experience.

Highlights Of Kuruva Island

1. There is no human habitation on the island, so you’ll still find it in its pristine and untouched form.
2. The island is famous for its exciting boat rides and bamboo raft rides that will take you through beautiful surroundings.
3. Kuruva Island is a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting owing to its diverse range of fauna. The island is also a favorite of trekkers and hikers who prefer pristine natural surroundings.
4. Kuruva Island is home to a large variety of colourful wild orchid species.
5. Far away from urbanisation, Kuruva Island is a great place to escape the noise and clutter of cities and relax amidst a peaceful natural environment.

How To Reach Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island Wayana d is well connected by rail, road and air. The nearest airports are the Calicut International airport and the Kochi International airport about 115km an^[10] d 256km away respectively from the island. The nearest railway station is at Kochi, about 110 km away from the island. Cabs and buses are available from the airports and the railway station to reach the island. The buses stop at Puzhakkara Durgadevi temple from where you can walk towards the island entrance. 

By Air: The Calicut International Airport in Kozhikode is located 120 km away from Kabini in Wayanad. You can easily hail a cab or take a bus from the airport (or nearby) to get to Wayanad. Or you can hire a vehicle, look for Kuruva Island directions on Google Maps, and drive there yourself.

ALSO SEE - Airports in Kerala-Helpful guide for tourists visiting Kerala

By Rail: The Kozhikode Railhead is connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, along with many regional towns and cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Once your train arrives, you can take a taxi or bus to get to Wayanad.

By Road: Regular KSRTC bus services as well as private AC buses serve the region of Wayanad. You can take a bus or hire a vehicle from any city in Kerala and even Tamil Nadu and get to Wayanad at nominal rates. You can also easily get a taxi to Wayanad from the nearest cities listed below.

You can rent a cab from any of the rental companies and ride towards the island. An offbeat place yet vibrant with the nature’s amazing diversified species. An ideal reason for tourists and the locals to spend a quaint time amid nature. You will feel the refreshing smell of nature around and will surely rejuvenate yourself. Kerala has lots of places to visit but if you visit this island, you will surely carry back with you nice memories to cherish in future.

Distance to Kuruva Island from nearby Cities

Mangalore to Kuruva Island: 236 km (6 hours)

Bangalore to Kuruva Island: 245 km (6 hours)

Kozhikode to Kuruva Island: 107 km (3 hours 15 mins)

Kochi to Kuruva Island: 282 km (7 hours)

Vythiri to Kuruva Island: 45 km (1.5 hours)

Sulthan Balthry to Kuruva Island: 47 km (56 minutes)

Edakkal Caves to Kuruva Island: 44 km (1.5 hours)

Best Time To Visit Kuruva Island

The most suitable time to visit this island in Wayanad, Kerala is during the winter season from October to March. Planning a trip to Kuruva Dweep in Wayanad is advisable as during these months as monsoons have lost their fury. The weather during this time is pleasant enough for you to explore this hotspot of exotic flora and fauna as well as engage in exciting activities here. Just make sure you do your Kuruva Island booking by August itself for the best accommodation and cheapest flights.

Kuruva Island Timings

Kuruva Dweep in Wayanad is shut during monsoons. The uninhabited virgin Kuruva Island is open during the months of October to May. The Kuruva Island Timings are from 9.30 am to 4 pm in the evening.

Things To Do In Kuruva Island

Located in Wayanad, Kuruva Dweep is the perfect getaway from the crazy city life. A visit to Kuruva Island will refresh both your body and mind.

Here are some of the best Kuruva Island activities that will make your visit to this mini paradise an absolutely thrilling affair.

1. Boat Rides

You can ride the traditional wooden boats across the shimmering Kabini river of Kerala. Or you can also sail on the unique bamboo rafts that will give you a much deeper experience of the local life and culture of Kerala. Bamboo rafting is an excellent way to explore Kuruva deep especially for tourists who have an adventure in mind. Both will give you an equally wonderful experience of Kabini’s beautiful surroundings.

2. Trekking

You and your dauntlessly brave friends can have an adventure of a lifetime and go trekking in the dense evergreen jungles of Kuruva Island. From colourful wild orchids, rare wildlife, to exotic flora, you’ll encounter a surprise at every turn on your hiking journey through the forest.

3. Birdwatching

The island is home to a variety of colourful migratory and resident bird species like hornbills. Owing to the absence of human habitation on the island and its remoteness, you will be able to spot a large number of Kerala’s gorgeous aviaries here. Just have your binoculars and cameras ready!

4. Picnicking

If you’re travelling with your family, you can choose to have a relaxing picnic in the pristine environs of Kuruva. You can also take a leisurely walk with your amour to soak up in the secluded and refreshing foliage and listen to the sounds of nature all around you.

5. Food to try

One of the biggest attractions of Kuruva Island is the traditional Kuruva rice and Kuruva fish available on the mainland where you take the ferry. Enjoy the exclusive taste of Malabari spices seeped into juice Kuruva fish pieces. The authentic Kuruva rice coupled with Kuruva fish is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Explore the serene Kuruva Dweep with your family and friends that is sure to mesmerize you with its lush green forest and pervading silence.

Excited much? We bet you are! Kuruva Island is that perfect power package of nature, wildlife, exciting activities, and a respite from city life that you’ve been wishing for! Plan a trip to Kerala right away and experience all that it has to offer with your loved ones!