The Golden Island Varkala
The famous golden island enjoys a pleasing and scenic location which is at a distance of just 4 Kms from the heart of Varkala. The island lies at a distance of about 55 Kms from the mainland of Trivandrum, from Kollam it is just 35 Kms and merely 25 Kms from Attingal. In all, the island occupies a prime location which makes it very easily accessible from numerous beautiful cities of the South. One can easily hire a private taxi or opt for a ferry which connects the island through the backwaters route.
Enjoying a very scenic and placid location amid the backwaters of Varkala, The golden Island is one of the major tourist attractions of the city. Basically the local people and the residents of Varkala call the place as The verdant Ponnumthuruth which literally means the Golden Island. The place is so peaceful and heavenly that people believe that it has remained untouched by mankind for ages. The virgin beauty of the island has maintained a wonderful ecosystem which abodes immense varieties of flora and fauna. The calm and still beauty of the place is pleasantly broken by the melodious sounds of nature like the rustling of palms, twittering of birds or gurgling of water.
Strolling down the coastline, one can enjoy the revitalizing sea breeze and also the pleasing sight of fishermen humming earthy tones. Spotting the beautiful herons, cormorants and egrets is usual sight on the beaches of the island. The sea gulls, eagles and kingfishers in search of prey paint yet another mesmeric sight here. Not only for the admirers of nature but also for those who are spiritually inclined, the island posses something special to offer. A beautifully embellished temple of Shiva and Parvathi amid the dense groves of coconut add on to the attraction of the island.
If you have a belief on the legends then here is one attached to this temple as well as the island. People believe that this was supposed to the island where the Travancore's royal ladies used to hide their jewels and ornaments. The Shiva Parvathi temple protected their precious belongings from all evils. Henceforth, the place was given the name Ponnumthuruth meaning the golden island.
If you are planning a trip to the island then make sure you carry a camera to capture those interesting moments of your life. One can enjoy all sorts of merrymaking activities on the island except the consumption of non-vegetarian food, alcohol and smoking. So if you are planning to check out this pious island, get ready to detoxify yourself and enjoy some of the best moments of your life under the influence of nature and spirituality.