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Backwaters & Islands

Ponnumthuruthu Island

Ponnumthuruthu Island, also called Golden Island, is a small backwater island near Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district, reached by boat through the Anjengo Lake system. Coconut greenery, birdlife and a historic Shiva–Parvati temple give the island a tranquil character, offering travellers a gentle contrast to Varkala’s cliff and beach scene and a closer look at Keralam’s backwater environment.

DistrictThiruvananthapuram
PIN Code695307
Place NamePonnumthuruthu Island
Place Typebackwater
LocalityVarkala
TalukVarkala

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Destination guide

About Ponnumthuruthu Island

Ponnumthuruthu Island, commonly called Golden Island, is a green backwater island in the Varkala region of Thiruvananthapuram district. Keralam Tourism places it in the Anjengo Lake backwaters and notes that visitors typically reach the island by boat from the Nedunganda side. The crossing is part of the appeal, passing calm water, coconut-lined banks and bird habitat before arriving at the small island.

A Shiva–Parvati temple with a history of more than a century adds a cultural element to the natural setting, while the surrounding backwaters attract visitors interested in quiet photography and birdwatching. Ponnumthuruthu works especially well as a peaceful add-on to a Varkala itinerary because its mood is very different from the busier cliff and beach areas. Boat schedules and access depend on local conditions, so travellers should use authorised operators and life jackets.

The PIN field is left blank because a reliable postal address for the island itself was not verified.

At a glance

Quick Summary

Ponnumthuruthu, or Golden Island, is a boat-access backwater island near Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram, known for coconut scenery, birdlife and a historic Shiva–Parvati temple.

Information source

Nammude Keralam Last checked 2026-09-09

Travel with care

Visit Safely

Conditions can change. Follow current official advisories and instructions from local authorities or on-site staff.

  • Check the current weather and official local advisories before travelling, particularly during the monsoon.

  • Visit during published entry hours and allow enough daylight for your return journey.

  • Follow staff instructions, warning signs, marked paths and safety barriers. Keep children supervised.

  • Avoid restricted, slippery, flooded or poorly lit areas, and never cross a closed access point.

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