Kuruva Island

Activity Charges / Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 20 for Foreigners.
Time Required
Three to four hours
Timings
9:30 AM to 4:15 PM
Difficulty Level
Easy
Best Suited For
Photo Fanatics, Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers.

Quick Info

Kuruva Dweep or Kuruva Island is a protected river delta, comprising a cluster of islands over the middle of Kabini River in Wayanad. Located about 14 kms east of Mananthavady in the northern district of Wayanad, Kuruvadweep is spread across 950 acres of evergreen forests. This uninhabited land is rich in flora and fauna. This island is isolated but an array of uncommon species of birds, herbs and orchids are the monarchs of Kuruva Island. The specific geographical characteristic which makes this place very calm is the evergreen forest.  

Those with a bent for trekking can make the most of it by heading for Kuruvadweep. It is also an exciting proposition for those craving for some blissful and serene moments; and for some it is definitely a place where one can get under the cool shades of big trees and listen to the lullaby of the gurgling river. Partying and picnic are restricted here. Touring the island is the only recreational activity permitted here.

This island is located on the Kabini River, about 15 kms from Mananthavady, 58 kms from Sultanbathery and 40 kms from Kalpetta. There are frequent bus services to Kuruva from Mananthavady via Changalagate, Kurukkanmoola and Palvelicham. One can also hire a cab to reach this place.

 

Rankings & Ratings



Nature’s gift to Wayanad.
Editor's Rankings

#3 in 11 Things to Do in Wayanad
#2 in 3 Trekking/Jungle Camping in Wayanad
#2 in 5 Photography Walks in Wayanad
#7 in 8 Sightseeing Spots in Wayanad
#1 in 3 Bird Watching in Wayanad

TripAdvisor Ratings

Editor's Review

The Kuruva Islands is a beautiful place engulfed in evergreen forests. If you want a unique experience, you must try taking a tour of these islands. The bamboo raft offers a wonderful ride. As long as you follow the guidelines, you can be sure that you will be safe. 


PROS

  • Warning boards are provided for the visitors to follow guidelines.
  • Eco-tourism is maintained.
  • There are a lot of small food stalls near the parking area where you get the typical Kerala food.

CONS

  • If there is an unusual inflow of tourists or some climate changes, both counters may close at any time.
  • Swimming and bathing in the river is strictly prohibited.
  • Corruption in handing out the tokens for the limited number of rides during the day.

Detailed Info

Kuruva Dweep or Kuruva Island is a protected river delta, comprising a cluster of islands over the middle of Kabini River in Wayanad. Located about 14 kms east of Mananthavady in the northern district of Wayanad, Kuruvadweep is spread across 950 acres of evergreen forests. This uninhabited land is rich in flora and fauna. This island is isolated but an array of uncommon species of birds, herbs and orchids are the monarchs of Kuruva Island.

Delving deep into this island, you can sight many attractive things like bridges made up of bamboo trees and other rare species of trees. The island is surrounded by streams and you can have a boat ride or rafting through this stream enjoying the enchanting beauty of the island. The boats and rafts are provided by the Kerala Tourism Department and it will take few hours to cover each and every island. The rafts are made up of bamboos providing you a thrilling and exciting journey through the streams. 

The one thing that is really striking about this place is the complete silence broken only by faint jungle sounds. There are three islands with a few submerged satellite islets. The main island has two freshwater lakes, attracting several species of birds. This island is accessible via boats and rafts provided by Kerala tourism.

Some of these islets have massive trees, the boughs of which at some places stoop down and caress the river water. The whole of Kuruvadweep has a unique eco-system worth exploring for nature lovers.

­Entry to this island is restricted during rainy seasons (from June to September). The island is opened during the months from October to May. 

At least three hours is needed to cover at least one island. Entry to this island is restricted by the Forest department and monitored by Vana Samrakshana Samiti. The full track inside the jungle is prepared with rest rooms, huts and benches for the tourists. This is a flat walk without any climbing inside the forest. Walkway bridges are prepared using bamboo for the tourists to cross small streams of water flowing during rainy seasons.

Timings:

Entry timings: 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM
DTPC ticket counter will close by 4:15 PM
Forest departments counter will close by 4:30 PM

Entry Fee:

Entry fee-Boat to Island by DTPC - INR 10 per person
Forest department fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 20 for foreigners
Still camera: INR 25, Video camera: INR 100
Bamboo rafting: INR 300 for 6 persons
Guide fee: INR 100