Ponnumthuruthu

Ponnumthuruthu (translating from Malayalam as Golden Island), situated in the peaceful freshwater expanse of Anjengo (Anchuthengu) Lake near Nedunganda just 10 km south of Varkala in Kerala, is one of South Kerala's most secluded, spiritually enchanting, and pristine island retreats.

Spanning approximately 10 acres of untouched tropical island forest completely surrounded by palm fringed backwater lagoons, this historic sanctuary holds deep roots in Travancore royal folklore as the secret island where the royal family hid their precious gold and temple treasures during historical foreign invasions.

It's the home of an ancient 100 year-old Shiva Parvathi Temple (Amman Kovil) hidden beneath dense canopies of banyan, teak, and screw pines, peaceful 30 minute country boat (vallam) canoe rides through narrow mangrove canals from Nedunganda jetty, a thriving habitat for exotic migratory waterbirds, and the magical Maha Shivaratri festival where the entire island is illuminated by thousands of traditional clay oil lamps.

It represents a rich cultural and eco tourism sanctuary where ancient Shaivite island worship, Travancore royal legends, silent backwater nature, and rustic canoe travel unite in Thiruvananthapuram district.

Located in Nedunganda near Kadakkavoor, it sits 10 km south of Varkala Cliff, 5 km from Kadakkavoor Railway Station (KVU), 12 km from Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station (VAK), and 38 km from Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), easily reached by hired auto rickshaw, scooter, or taxi to the Nedunganda boat jetty followed by a country boat crossing.

The Travancore Royal Gold Lore & 10 Acre Forest

Legend holds that centuries ago, the rulers of the Travancore Royal Palace chose this secluded, uninhabited island to safeguard the kingdom's immense gold treasury from marauding colonial fleets and invading armies.

Because of this royal treasure hiding legend, the island earned the name Ponnumthuruthu, meaning "Island of Gold," retaining an aura of timeless mystique among local fishermen and villagers.

Truth is, no roads or permanent bridges connect to the island, preserving its absolute tranquility, untouched forest greenery, and crystal clear backwater surroundings.

The 100 Year Shiva Parvathi Temple (Amman Kovil)

The Island Shrine: At the heart of the island forest sits the 100 year-old Shiva Parvathi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, worshipped here as the divine cosmic protectors.

Maha Shivaratri Night: The premier annual celebration occurs during Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of pilgrims travel by boat after dusk to witness the entire island glowing with clay oil lamps amidst the sound of conch shells and sacred chants.

Canoe Country Boat Rides & Birdwatching

Traditional Country Boat Cruise: To reach the island, visitors board hand punted wooden country boats (vallam) from Nedunganda jetty, gliding silently across glass smooth backwaters lined with blooming water lilies and coconut groves.

Avian Habitat: The undisturbed island trees host diverse birdlife, making it a great place for birdwatchers who can spot kingfishers, egrets, cormorants, darters, and purple herons hunting in the shallows.

After exploring Ponnumthuruthu Island, visit the historic 17th century Anjengo Fort and lighthouse, take a holy dip at Papanasam Beach in Varkala, or explore the 2,000 year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple.