Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island in Wayanad (celebrated internationally as Kuruvadweep and Kerala's sole protected freshwater river delta archipelago, spanning 950 acres / 3.84 square kilometers of uninhabited evergreen riverine islets in the tributaries of the Kabini River, world famous for its traditional pole driven bamboo rafting, natural forest canopy walkways, endemic riverine flora, and rich bird sanctuary), located near Mananthavady in Wayanad in Kerala, stands as the district's premier riverine eco tourism haven.

Formed by the confluence of the Panamaram and Mananthavady tributaries as they unite to birth the sacred east flowing Kabini River, this protected cluster of evergreen islets remains completely uninhabited by humans, building an undisturbed great place for rare orchids, giant bamboo groves, and migratory water birds.

It's the home of the thrilling bamboo raft crossings operated by licensed forest department boatmen using long bamboo steering poles over crystal clear river currents, the natural footbridges crafted from woven bamboo and stone crossing tranquil freshwater streams, the dense canopies of evergreen trees entwined with ancient medicinal lianas and flowering wild orchids, the rich avian population sheltering hornbills, kingfishers, egrets, and cormorants along sandy riverbars, the shallow rocky wading pools where travelers dip their feet in cold river waters, and an intensely peaceful, deeply calming riverine atmosphere where the gentle lapping of river ripples and rustling bamboo fronds create an unforgettable island sanctuary.

It represents a rich Kabini river basin conservation triumph, freshwater delta biodiversity, and gentle eco rafting where bamboo rafts, riverine jungle canopies, Kabini tributaries, and Mananthavady woodlands unite in Kuruva Island Wayanad.

Located 17 km east of Mananthavady and 40 km north of Kalpetta, it sits just 28 km from Sultan Bathery, 115 km from Calicut International Airport (CCJ), and 100 km from Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), accessible by road via Pakkam or Palvelicham entry points.

950 Acre River Delta & Evergreen Islet Groves

Kuruvadweep comprises a cluster of small forested islets surrounded by the flowing channels of the Kabini River system.

The forest department strictly regulates daily footfall to protect endemic butterflies, freshwater fish species, and delicate riverbank vegetation.

Truth is, gliding silently across the sparkling Kabini River on a flat bamboo raft while morning birds chirp overhead is exceptionally soothing.

Bamboo Rafting & Nature Walkways

Bamboo Raft Ferries: Traditional sturdy bamboo rafts ferry visitors across the main river channels from both Pakkam and Palvelicham entry ghats.

Shaded Island Trails: Wooden boardwalks and earthen trails guide travelers through dense bamboo groves and giant ficus trees across the main island.

Wayanad Eco Tourism & Heritage Circuit

Mananthavady Loop: Sits just 15 km from Pazhassi Raja Tomb, 20 km from ancient Thirunelli Temple, and 22 km from Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary.

District Day Tour: Connects smoothly with Banasura Sagar Dam (30 km), Edakkal Caves (42 km), and Chembra Peak (50 km).

After taking the bamboo raft tour at Kuruva Island, visit Pazhassi Raja Tomb, explore Thirunelli Temple, or tour Wayanad.