Dharmadam Island

Dharmadam Island (celebrated across North Malabar as the mystical 'Green Island' or Dharmapattanam, famous for its rare phenomenon of being reachable by walking directly through shallow ocean waters during low tide), situated 100 meters off the Arabian Sea coast at the confluence of the Anjarakandy and Thalassery rivers in Dharmadam just 18 km south of Kannur town in Kerala, is one of Kerala's most secluded, ecologically pristine, and enchanting private island sanctuaries.

Covering approximately 5 acres of dense canopy built on a rocky laterite base, Dharmadam (derived from 'Dharma Pattanam' or Town of Virtue) was an ancient Buddhist settlement and busy maritime trading port mentioned in classical Greek and Roman navigation logs, today wrapped in a thick emerald cloak of wild cinnamon trees, coconut palms, and mangrove forests surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea and on the fourth by the scenic Anjarakandy river estuary.

It's the home of the exhilarating knee deep sea walking adventure where visitors wade across the 100 meter shallow sandy ocean bar from Dharmadam Beach during low tide, panoramic viewpoints gazing across the long curving sands of Muzhappilangad Drive in Beach (Asia's longest drive in beach) to the north, safe nesting grounds for migratory marine birds including white bellied sea eagles and egrets, dense thickets of medicinal herbs and coastal flora, secluded laterite rock perches where tidal waves crash against the island's seaward perimeter, and an absolute absence of roads, shops, or permanent human habitation that preserves an untouched tropical castaway atmosphere.

It represents a rich coastal, Buddhist heritage, and eco adventure sanctuary where tidal sea walking hydrology, ancient maritime history, secluded island birdwatching, and pristine Arabian Sea tranquility unite in Dharmadam grama panchayat.

Located in Dharmadam just 4 km north of Thalassery town center, 5 km south of Muzhappilangad Beach, 18 km from Kannur Railway Station (CAN), 5 km from Thalassery Railway Station (TLY), and 28 km from Kannur International Airport (CNN), easily accessible by coastal buses, auto rickshaws, and country ferry boats.

The Low Tide Ocean Walk & Anjarakandy Estuary

At low tide, the sea recedes to reveal a submerged sand ridge, allowing visitors to walk through knee deep water from Dharmadam Beach onto the island.

The island sits right where the Anjarakandy and Thalassery rivers mingle with the sea, forming rich brackish water ecosystems.

Truth is, wading through warm tidal waters while schools of small fish dart around your ankles is an unforgettable coastal experience.

Ancient Buddhist Lore & Maritime Heritage

Dharma Pattanam History: Historians believe Dharmadam was once a prominent Buddhist center in the early centuries CE, later evolving into a spice trade post.

Avian Haven: The uninhabited island canopy provides undisturbed resting branches for sea eagles, terns, and kingfishers.

Muzhappilangad Views & Country Boat Ferries

Muzhappilangad Panorama: Standing on the island's northern rocks gives a direct view of vehicles cruising along the famous drive in beach.

Country Boat Transfers: During high tide, local fishermen operate traditional country rowboats to ferry visitors safely across the river mouth.

After exploring Dharmadam Island, drive along the sands of Muzhappilangad Drive in Beach, tour the colonial ramparts of Thalassery Fort, or relax at Payyambalam Beach in Kannur.