Munroe Island is a serene backwater destination located in Kollam district, Kerala. It is famous for its tranquil lagoons, lush greenery, and traditional village life. Varkala, a popular coastal town known for its cliffs and beaches, lies about 65 kilometers southwest of Munroe Island.

This route is often traveled by tourists looking to explore Kerala’s backwaters after visiting Varkala’s scenic spots. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Varkala to Munroe Island, covering trains, buses, cars, and local boat options, along with practical travel tips.

Getting from Varkala to Munroe Island – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and comfortable way to reach Munroe Island from Varkala. The rail network connects Varkala and Kollam, the nearest major station to Munroe Island.

• Varkala Railway Station is well connected to Kollam Junction, which is about 20 km from Munroe Island, with frequent trains running daily taking around 1 to 1.5 hours.

• From Kollam Junction, you can hire a taxi or take local buses to Munroe Island; the road distance is approximately 20 km and takes about 40 minutes.

• Train fares between Varkala and Kollam range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on class, with options from unreserved to AC coaches.

• Trains are generally punctual but can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets via IRCTC in advance is recommended.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays, so check train status before travel during June to September.

Bus

Buses offer an economical and direct way to reach Munroe Island from Varkala, though the journey can be longer and less comfortable than trains.

• Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private buses run from Varkala Bus Stand to Kollam City, with frequent departures every 30-60 minutes.

• From Kollam, you can catch local buses or taxis to Munroe Island; some buses go closer to the island via Kavanad or Ashtamudi Lake routes.

• The total bus journey can take 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and stops, covering about 65 km on NH66 and connecting roads.

• Bus fares are economical, usually between ₹50 and ₹100, but buses may be crowded during peak hours and festival seasons.

• Night buses are limited, so plan daytime travel for safety and convenience.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Varkala to Munroe Island offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace.

• The route via NH66 and SH1 covers approximately 65 km and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Driving allows stops at scenic spots like Kollam Beach or local eateries along the way, enhancing the travel experience.

• Toll plazas are minimal on this route, but watch for narrow village roads near Munroe Island that require careful driving.

• Parking is available near Munroe Island’s boat jetties and homestays, but space can be limited during tourist season.

• Car rentals with drivers are common in Varkala, and self-drive options are available through agencies; ensure valid licenses and vehicle condition before starting.

Boat / Ferry (Local Option)

Since Munroe Island is surrounded by backwaters, local boats and ferries provide a unique travel experience, especially for the last leg from Kollam or nearby points.

• From Kollam, you can take a ferry or motorboat from the Ashtamudi Lake boat jetty to Munroe Island, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

• Boat services operate mostly during daylight hours, with fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the type of boat and distance.

• These boats offer scenic views of Kerala’s backwaters and are less crowded outside peak tourist seasons.

• During monsoon months, boat services may be suspended or delayed due to water levels and weather conditions.

• Booking boat rides in advance through local operators or your accommodation in Munroe Island is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Varkala to Munroe Island, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Book your train ticket from Varkala to Kollam in advance via IRCTC to secure your preferred timing and class, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Upon arrival at Kollam Junction, exit through the main gate and find prepaid taxi counters or use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for a safe and reliable ride to Munroe Island.

• If you prefer bus travel, check the KSRTC schedule at Varkala Bus Stand and board a bus to Kollam; keep your luggage secure and be prepared for possible crowding.

• For self-drive travelers, start early to avoid city traffic in Varkala and Kollam, and use GPS navigation apps to follow the NH66 and SH1 routes accurately.

• Arrange your boat transfer from Kollam to Munroe Island in advance by contacting local boat operators or your homestay host to confirm timings and fares.

• Carry some cash in small denominations for local transport, boat fares, and tolls, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere on the island.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses, as pickpocketing can occur in busy stations and stops.

• Drink bottled water and avoid tap water during the journey; carry your own refillable bottle to stay hydrated, especially in Kerala’s humid climate.

• Book train and bus tickets online where possible to avoid long queues and ensure confirmed seats, particularly during festival seasons like Onam and Christmas.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted app-based cabs from Kollam station to Munroe Island to avoid overcharging and ensure safety during late arrivals.

• Pack light and waterproof luggage, as the region can experience sudden rains, especially during the monsoon months from June to September.

• Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven village paths and boat jetties when exploring Munroe Island.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Varkala to Munroe Island is during the dry months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and backwaters are calm. Monsoon season brings heavy rains and occasional travel disruptions.

During peak festival times like Onam (August-September) and Christmas, transport services can be crowded, so plan and book well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September due to heavy rains causing road and rail delays.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures along the route.

• Festive seasons see increased tourist traffic; book accommodations and transport tickets at least a month ahead.

• Fog can occasionally affect early morning train schedules in winter, so check live train status before departure.

Arrival at Munroe Island & What to Expect

Munroe Island offers a peaceful arrival experience with limited public transport options. Most visitors arrive via boat or road from Kollam. The island’s boat jetties are small but well-maintained, with local guides and homestay hosts often available to assist.

Local transport on the island mainly includes bicycles, small motorbikes, and occasional auto-rickshaws. Staying in homestays near the boat jetty or the main village areas is common, providing easy access to food and local tours. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs are not available on the island, so plan your last-mile travel accordingly.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Munroe Island from Varkala is by taking a train to Kollam followed by a taxi or boat transfer. This combination balances comfort, cost, and travel time, allowing you to enjoy Kerala’s scenic backwaters without hassle.

Planning ahead by booking train tickets, arranging boat rides, and considering seasonal weather will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently explore the tranquil beauty of Munroe Island after your visit to Varkala, making your Kerala trip truly memorable.