For avid birdwatchers, Pathiramanal Island in the Alappuzha district presents the best option for this interesting hobby. Spanning 10 acres on the picturesque Vembanad Lake, this lush green island is the preferred habitat for hundreds of rare migratory birds who fly down here from all around the world.
Accessible only by boat, Pathiramanal Island lies nestled between the backwaters of Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom. This tranquil retreat, also known as Ananda Padmanabhan Thoppu and Pathira Thoppu, falls under the jurisdiction of the Cherthala taluk.
The island is a biodiversity hotspot and home to approximately 90 species of birds, 30 species of butterflies, 160 species of plants, 55 species of fish, and 20 species of spiders. Because human encroachment is nil here, the island has become the ideal roosting ground for various water birds, particularly those belonging to the cormorant family.
Birdwatchers can expect to find a variety of bird species here such as:
Darter, Indian Shag, Purple Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Large Cormorant, Night Heron, Black Bittern, Chestnut Bittern, Little Egret, Median Egret, Large Egret, Cattle Egret, Grey Heron, Common Teal, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Bronze-winged Jacana, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Watercock, Whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Whiskered Tern, Smooth Indian Otters (Lutra lutra)
In addition to its impressive birdlife, Pathiramanal Island is home to rare plants such as Aponogeton appendiculatus and medicinal plants like Calophyllum inophyllum, Tylophora indica, and Senna alata. Mussel colonies of the Villorita species thrive in the waters surrounding the island, further adding to its ecological richness.
Traveling to Pathiramanal Island is easy. Visitors can hop on a motorboat which will take appx. 1.5 hours to reach the island. A faster option is a 30-minute ride on a speedboat. The island is located approximately 1.5 km from the Muhamma boat jetty and about 5 km from Kumarakom.
Evenings on Pathiramanal Island are magical. The island has a melange of a serene ambiance, picture-perfect views of Chinese fishing nets, and sand-laden wooden boats anchored on the shore with local fishermen rowing their canoes on the deep blue sea that hugs a shoreline dotted with lush green vegetation. This tranquil environment provides the perfect setting for relaxation and introspection.
Pathiramanal Island is a sanctum sanctorum for birds and a haven for nature enthusiasts to explore its rich biodiversity and tranquil landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape or an adventurous outing, this hidden gem in the backwaters of Alappuzha promises an unforgettable experience.
Beachfront Bliss in Kerala
Discover Akoya Beach Villa, Alleppey
