Kuruva Island, also known as Kuruvadweep, is a stunning and serene island located on the Kabini River in Wayanad district, Kerala. It is a protected river delta that consists of three main islands and several smaller ones, covering an area of about 950 acres. Island is a haven for nature lovers, as it is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids, medicinal plants, migratory birds, butterflies, and reptiles. Island is also a popular destination for adventure seekers, as it offers activities such as bamboo rafting, boating, and trekking.
Kuruva Island Ticket Price
Ticket price for visiting Kuruva Island is Rs. 80 for Indian nationals and Rs. 150 for foreign tourists. The ticket price includes the entry fee, the boat or raft fee, and the forest department fee. Ticket price does not include the camera fee, which is Rs. 50 for still cameras and Rs. 150 for video cameras. The ticket price also does not include the parking fee, which is Rs. 10 for two-wheelers, Rs. 30 for autos, Rs. 50 for cars and jeeps, and Rs. 80 for buses and mini buses.
Kuruva Island Opening Time
Opening time of Kuruva Island is from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. The island is open on all days of the week, except Mondays. Island is also closed during the monsoon season, which usually starts from July and lasts till September. Best time to visit the island is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the water level is low.
How to Reach Kuruva Island?
Kuruva Island is located in Kammasandra village, which is about 6 km from Mananthavady town and 40 km from Kalpetta town in Wayanad district. The island can be easily reached by road, rail, or air.
By Road: The island is well-connected by road to Mananthavady, Kalpetta, and other nearby towns and cities. There are regular buses and taxis available from these places to the island. The island is about 2 hours drive from Kalpetta and 15 minutes drive from Mananthavady.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is about 110 km from the island. There are trains from Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, and other major cities to Kozhikode. From the station, one can take a bus or a taxi to the island.
By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, which is about 120 km from the island. There are flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kochi, and other domestic and international destinations to Calicut. From the airport, one can take a bus, a taxi, or a cab to the island.
Benefits of Visiting Kuruva Island
Visiting Kuruva Island can have many benefits for the visitors, such as:
- Experiencing the beauty and tranquility of nature, away from the noise and pollution of the city.
- Exploring the rich biodiversity and ecology of the island, which hosts many rare and endangered species of plants and animals.
- Enjoying the thrilling and fun activities such as bamboo rafting, boating, and trekking, which offer a unique and memorable experience.
- Learning about the history and culture of the island and the village, which are associated with the legend of Bhakta Manjunatha, a repentant sinner who became a devout devotee of Lord Shiva.
- Relaxing and rejuvenating one’s body and mind, by breathing the fresh air, listening to the soothing sounds of the river and the birds, and meditating in the peaceful environment.
What is the ticket price for visiting Kuruva Island?
Ticket price for visiting Kuruva Island is Rs. 80 for Indian nationals and Rs. 150 for foreign tourists. The ticket price includes the entry fee, the boat or raft fee, and the forest department fee. The ticket price does not include the camera fee or the parking fee.
What is the opening time of Kuruva Island?
Opening time of Kuruva Island is from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. The island is open on all days of the week, except Mondays. The island is also closed during the monsoon season, which usually starts from July and lasts till September.
How to reach Kuruva Island from Bangalore?
To reach Kuruva Island from Bangalore, you can take a flight, a train, or a bus to Kozhikode, which is the nearest airport and railway station to the island. From Kozhikode, you can take a bus or a taxi to Mananthavady, which is about 40 km from the island. From Mananthavady, you can take another bus or a taxi to the island, which is about 6 km from the town.
What are the activities that can be done on Kuruva Island?
Activities that can be done on Kuruva Island are bamboo rafting, boating, and trekking. Bamboo rafting and boating are the best ways to explore the island and enjoy the scenic beauty of the river and the forest. Trekking is a good way to experience the biodiversity and ecology of the island and spot various species of plants and animals.
What are the things to carry while visiting Kuruva Island?
Things to carry while visiting Kuruva Island are a valid identity proof, a camera, a water bottle, a hat, a sunscreen, a mosquito repellent, and comfortable shoes and clothes. Carry some snacks and fruits, as there are no shops or restaurants on the island. Also avoid carrying any plastic or non-biodegradable items, as they may harm the environment of the island.
Kuruva Island is a wonderful and worthwhile place to visit for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. It is a place where one can witness the splendor and grace of the Kabini River and the evergreen forests, as well as the devotion and dedication of the devotees of Lord Shiva. It is a place where one can have a refreshing and rewarding trip with their family and friends. If you are planning to visit Wayanad, you should definitely include Kuruva Island in your itinerary and experience the magic of this island.
