Kuruva Island – Gift of Mother Nature to Heavenly Wayanad

Kuruva Island is a worldly tourist spot placed in the Kabana River
tributary in the Gods own Country emerald district of Wayanad at an expanse of 17 km east of Mananthavady and 10 km North West Pulpally. The 950 acres of island is bordered by a vast stretch of evergreen forests and is positioned far away from the maddening crowd making it an absolute place to rejuvenate and invigorate your inner body, mind and soul. 

Despite being separated from the mainland, the island is abode to a number of avian faunas, orchids, butterflies, herbs and many other interesting living things. Also referred to as Kuruvadweep, Kuruva Island is a cluster of three islands and is further adorned with bamboo bridges and rare species of trees which gives it a stunning look.   

One of the prime activities that could be carried out easily by any visitor witnessing the grandiose beauty is strolling along the island and relishing the nature’s beauty which is truly beyond words to describe. The thick shade provided by the evergreen trees makes it ideal for a walk as it feels cool and shady wherever you walk. 

One of the best parts of this island is its walking trail which leads you to interesting nook and corners from where you can view some great sights along with spotting several avian faunas as they try to impress you with their skills. 

Bamboo rafting or boating can be relished which is the best thing to explore the larger parts of this beautiful region in lesser point of time. It will take around three hours to cover each island by boating. Always make sure to wear life jackets before enjoying boating in this island.  

Entry Timings and Fees:

The island remains open for visitors from 9:30 am to 4:15 pm. 

The entry fee is Rs. 10/Indians, Rs. 20/foreigners, Rs. 25/still camera and Rs. 100/video camera. The guide fee is Rs. 100.  

From the DTPC ticket counter, one has relish a boat ride which will cost Rs. 10/person to reach the island.

Certain things are not allowed in the island as a part of eco-tourism. Some of them are

Ø  Partying or picnicking.

Ø  Swimming and bathing.

Ø  Uses of food items, plastic carry bags and drinks.

Best time to Visit: An ideal time to pay a visit to this stunning place is from the month of October to May; the island remains closed during the monsoon period of June to September. 

Accommodation: Tree top huts are available in the islands for nightlong stay or you can also opt to stay in the Banasurasagar Island Retreat nearby the Banasurasagar Dam. Several home stay are also located in this region. 

How to Reach: Frequent bus services are available from Mananthavady (about 17 km) to reach this captivating tourist spot. Taxis from major cities including Sulthan Bathery (about 58 km), Kalpetta (about 40 km), and Pulpally (10 km).   

The closest airport as well as railway station is located in Kozhikode about 100 km away.