Kuruva Dweep, Wayanad, Kerala

Location: Wayanad district, Kerala

Distance: 32 km from Kalpetta, 17 km Mananthavady and 40 km from Sultan Bathery

Where to eat: Road side dhabas small scale restaurants are available. Cool drinks and snacks available in shops near the ticket counter.

Where to stay: Some lodges and resorts are there nearby.

Kuruva Dweep is an island in the delta formed by river Kabini which flows from the Coorg district of Karnataka. This 950 acres island is located in the western ghats range of Wayanad district, Kerela. This area is characterized by semi deciduous forest. The is a protected uninhabited area which can be best enjoyed during monsoon and after monsoon.

I reached there in the afternoon and it was pretty hot. The driver suggested a particular dhaba which was supposed to have very good food. But they said non veg is not available. So went to another dhaba. Where they served boiled rice, samber and river water fish fry. Boiled rice is typically ingested by people in coastal Karnataka. It keeps the body cool. No wonder they also have it here. People in north Kerala have a lot of similarities with people of Coastal Karnataka. Launch for two cost me Rs 140. Following this I proceeded to Kuruva Dweep.

Entry fee: Rs 50

Camera fee: Rs 30

Timings: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm

Note: If you have water bottle, you will have to deposit Rs 20. You will be reimbursed Rs 20 on return if you show the bottle. This island may be closed during monsoon. Check with your hotel or forest department before visiting during monsoon.

The first thing I had to do was cross a section of the river on a bamboo shaft. The shaft is managed by Kerala forest department. Two persons move the shaft by pulling a rope which is tired to the both side of the river. There was not much water in Kabini then and I could see the stony riverbed under water. On the other side it was mainly a bamboo forest with some other variety of trees. The summer is typically a dry season here I think. After roaming around for an hour in the hot and humid environment, I decided to walk back. The area was cleanly maintained and one can see lot of bamboo work. This place would be more green and bountiful during monsoon or after monsoon. I would suggest people to visit then.