6 river islands too cool to miss

Who says you need a coastline to enjoy island vibes? This summer, ditch the usual beach scenes and explore the heart of India—where rivers have their own private paradises! There are lush riverine charm of Assam, laid-back lagoons of Kerala, and so much more to discover nature’s best-kept secrets that are complemented with boat rides, untamed beauty, and cultures untouched by the chaos of city life. So if you are curious to experience how time drifts differently, explore these river islands for a different experience.

Vypin Island is located off the coast of Kochi in Kerala. It is a blend of natural beauty, lush greenery, and pristine beach water. It is widely famous for its stunning beaches, local fishing villages, and historic sites such as Pallipuram Fort. Visitors here can enjoy boat rides along the backwaters. This island’s charm lies in its tranquil environment and picturesque landscapes, making it a hidden gem to explore.

This sacred island is known for its religious significance, most prominently during the annual Sagar Mela pilgrimage. Ganga Sagar is located at the mouth of the Ganges River; apart from its spiritual significance, it is famous for its beautiful beaches and peaceful surroundings. This island is remote and soul-soothing, perfect for spiritual rejuvenation and slow travel.

Nestled in the Krishna River near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. This is one of the largest river islands, spanning over 133 acres. Bhavani Island is adorned with lush greenery and serene landscapes. It has spiritual significance, as this island derived its name from Goddess Bhavani, a form of Goddess Durga. Here you can engage in water activities like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing.

Nestled in the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India. It is renowned as the world’s largest river island, spanning over 352 sq. kilometres. This island is home to around 22 active satras (monasteries), which are vibrant hubs for art, dance, music, and spiritual learning. Majuli’s wetlands and paddy fields make it a haven for birdwatchers.

Tucked between the Kaveri and Kollidam rivers, this island is not just a geographical marvel but also a sacred spiritual haven. This island is home to one of the largest and most revered Vaishnavite temple complexes in the world. Pilgrims are drawn to this island, which is famous for its ancient gopurams and ancient sculptures.

Known as Kuruva Island, nestled in the Wayanad district of Kerala. Spanning over 950 acres approximately, this island is inhabited by rare species of birds, orchids, and medicinal plants.
This island is a paradise for birdwatchers with numerous resident and migratory bird species.
On this island, you can explore the surroundings using bamboo rafts and fiber boats operated by the Kerala Tourism Department.