When planning a trip to Kerala, most tourists prefer to visit places such as Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, and cafes in Kochi itself. However, if you are looking for a more secluded experience away from the crowds, you should look into the beautiful islands located near Kochi. These places offer the opportunity to see quiet backwaters, palm trees, green fields, the life of fishermen, and the ancient traditions of Kerala.
Visiting these locations is not limited to sightseeing; here you can go cycling, take boat trips, tour villages, and try local cuisine. Below is an overview of five such islands that you can include in your next trip to Kerala.
Kadammkudi Island is located about 15 kilometers from Kochi and consists of a cluster of 14 small islands. It is surrounded by Vembanad Lake and is known for its tranquil atmosphere, paddy fields, palms, and small waterways. Instead of large tourist attractions, it boasts rural simplicity. Guests can rent bicycles for rides or walk through the village streets, observing the work of fishermen. The views at sunrise and sunset here are particularly picturesque. The lives of the locals are still tied to agriculture, fishing, coconut harvesting, and toddy tapping.
If you are interested in the traditional fishing culture of Kerala, Kumbalangi Island will be an excellent choice. This village on the backwaters is known for its fishing traditions and, according to Kerala Tourism, is considered India's first eco-tourism village. Here you can experience traditional fishing, take a boat ride, and tour the village. Additionally, you can taste authentic Kerala cuisine. The waterways, surrounded by mangrove forests, are abundant with shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Under favorable weather conditions, bioluminescence in the water can also be observed here.
Vaypin is one of Kochi's larger islands. It is situated between the Arabian Sea and Vembanad Lake and is connected to Kochi via the Goshri Bridge. On the island, you can see the coastline, fishing villages, and historical sites. For those seeking tranquility, the fishing village areas and beaches are suitable. Those interested in history can visit Pallippuram Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, which showcases the maritime history of Kochi.
Located in Vembanad Lake, Vallarapadam Island presents a unique blend of religious and modern aspects of Kochi. It is home to the famous Vallarapadam Church, or St. Anne's Basilica, which attracts a large number of pilgrims. In addition to the church, you can enjoy beautiful water views and small patches of greenery. This island is worth including in your itinerary if you want to combine a visit to a religious site with viewing the backwaters and the peaceful atmosphere surrounding Kochi.
Willington Island differs from others because it is not natural but was man-made. It was constructed in 1936 using land and other materials extracted from the Port of Kochi. This island is closely linked to the port, shipping, and trade history of Kochi. A walk around it allows you to see the city's development in a maritime context and glimpse into the past. If you want to understand Kochi not only as a resort town but also through the lens of its port and maritime heritage, Willingdon Island offers a completely different experience.