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Known by many names such as “Thuruthi”, Ponnumthuruthu or “Golden Isle” is the picturesque island found 12km off Varkala and literally means Golden Island. Legend has it that the Travancore Royal Family Queens used to store their gold jewellery and other golden ornaments on Ponnumthuruthu for safe keeping, hence the name. For whatever reason however the island itself remains an unblemished, 21st century wonder. Entrance to Ponnumthuruthu is only via boat and if you are mindful of nature and do not wish to disturb the calm and serene ambiance surrounding the area, then hiring a canoe type of boat with an oarsman is the best choice, as the motor boats tend to take away from the peaceful aura the island possesses. A boat must be taken from the Nedunganda Village and you need to travel through the backwaters in order to reach the temple. The jetty to the boat at this point is also a unique as it is a makeshift one and the walkway to it is made of coir waste, coconut husk and mud. Ponnumthuruthu is now essentially a temple property on which a temple to Shiva Parvathi stands. The temple is believed to be over 100 years old. Although it was in near ruin it has since then been renovated almost 10 years ago. Each year the Sivarathri Festival is celebrated on the island in grand style and devotees flock to the island and stay up through the night lighting up the island. Birdwatchers, nature lovers and those looking for peace and quiet will find haven on Ponnumthuruthu. Egrets, Herons, Eagles, Cormorants, Gulls and Water Birds are found in plenty together with a rich abundance of flora and fauna. Once visitors have enjoyed the ambiance at Ponnumthuruthu they may travel to the mainland on the other side of the island which operates a coir manufacturing unit which itself is an interesting site to see. If travellers hoping to visit seek a Varkala hotel then there are quite a few exceptional options to choose from. One of the best Varkala hotels, The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram Varkala offers the very best in comfort, serenity and luxury.
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