India is one of the most diverse countries in the world where you can find snow-covered mountains, hill stations, plans, deserts, beaches, and islands. India is also the place of several river islands. In short, India is the complete package for a wanderer to visit. India also has some beautiful river islands.
River Island is the exposed land within a river. It is also known as riverine Island. These islands are the result of changes in the course of a river. In India, many natural and man-made river islands are extremely beautiful. If you don’t know about those, Keep reading. I made this list of River Islands in India for you.
In this article, I am listing the best river islands in India. These are beautiful yet unexplored by most of the travelers of the country. So, if you want to see natural beauty, go and explore these river islands in India.
River Islands in India
Here is the list of the best and most beautiful river islands in India to visit. A few of them are natural and some of them are manmade.
1. Majuli – Assam
Majuli is the river island in the Brahmaputra River. It is in Asam and is also the first island to be made a strict in India. It had an area of 880 square kilometers at the beginning of the 20th century but now it has only 352 sq. km area. It has shrunk because the Brahmaputra has grown. The place has 44 villages and has a population of close to 2 lakh. You can take the ferry from Jorhat City to reach Majuli.
The best time to visit Majuli is during winters and you can also go to Majuli in Monsoon when the showers make their surroundings beautiful. It is best to avoid going to the place in summer.
2. Nongkhnum Island – Meghalaya
Nongkhnum Island is the biggest river island in Meghalaya and is also the second-largest river island in Asia. Nongkhnum Island is located about 14 Kms from Nongstoin. The place is calm and is ideal for those who love peace. It is also really beautiful. This river island is encircled by the Kynshi River and also has some beautiful waterfalls in its vicinity. The island covers a total area of about 20 to 25 sq km.
Previously, one had to trek to reach Nongkhnum Island. Now the road has been constructed that brings to straight the sandy beach. The government is also constructing lodges for travelers to stay and explore this place.
The best time to visit this river Island is during the Monsoon season.
3. Umananda – Assam
Umananda is another popular river island in Asam. It is also located in the city of Guwahati in Asam. Umananda is also in River Brahmaputra and is known as the smallest inhabited river island in the world. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva created the island for his wife Parvati’s happiness and pleasure. Stories claim that Shiva also burnt Kamadeva with his third eye on Umananda when he interrupted his Meditation. British named the island Peacock Island for its structure.
You can reach there in just 10 minutes of the ferry ride from near Guwahati High Court.
Also, read Best Islands To Visit in December
4. Bhavani Island – Andhra Pradesh
Bhavani Island is one of the largest river islands in India. It is located on the Krishna River at Vijayawada. Bhavani Island is spread over an area of 133 acres. This island is named after Kanaka Durga Temple which is dedicated to Goddess Bhavani. It offers a mesmerizing environment where you can peacefully spend your time with several colorful birds living around you. There are several activities including water skiing, kayaking, and parasailing to enjoy here.
You can reach Bhavani Island by boat from the banks of the Krishna River.
5. The Island – Chennai
This river island is situated on the Coovum River in the northern part of Chennai. I was created artificially in the early 19th century. It has a beautiful environment to enjoy. It is popular amongst locals for the trade fair that is held every year from January until the end of March.
6. Parumala – Kerala
Parumala is also in Kerala located in the Pathanamthitta district. It is in the Pampa River and offers a charming and peaceful place to spend time. It is popular for Parumala Church which is one of the most prominent pilgrimage sites for Christians. People there also held an annual function of Ormapperunnal in November in the compound of the church.
7. Munroe – Kerala
Munroe Island is also a known river island in India located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River. It is in Kollam district of Kerala. The place is named in honor of Resident Colonel John Munro of the former Princely State of Travancore. It measures 13.4 square kilometers in area.
It is about 25 kilometers away from Kollam. You can reach here via roadways, railways, or inland water navigation. To reach the island, you have to take Ferry from Perumon Ferry Point in Kollam.
The best time to visit Munroe Island is between October and May. But the place is pleasing at all times of the year. Avoid visiting the place in monsoon.
8. Divar Island – Goa
Divar Island is located on the Mandovi River in the western state of Goa. This beautiful island is a haven of natural beauty, decorated with lush green landscapes and retro villages that have preserved the traditional Goan way of life.
You can visit this island by taking a short ferry ride. Visitors can explore ancient churches, and scenic trails, and soak in the serene atmosphere. This place is an ideal destination for those seeking a laid-back retreat amidst the scenic beauty of Goa’s inland waterways.
9. Shivanasamudra Island
The beautiful Shivanasamudra Island has stunning waterfalls and natural splendor. It is surrounded by dense greenery that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether exploring the island’s lush trails or simply soaking in the serene ambiance, Shivanasamudra Island promises a refreshing experience amidst Karnataka’s pristine landscapes.
10. Barren Island (Andaman and Nicobar Islands)
Barren Island is famous for its unique volcanic landscape and is situated in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is also the only active volcano in South Asia. It offers phenomenal scenery against the backdrop of the azure sea. Visitors can witness the volcanic activity here by fumaroles emitting sulfuric gases and occasional eruptions. This makes it a beautiful spot for adventure seekers and scientists alike.
Read More, Most Beautiful Islands in India
Final Words
Here are a few river islands in India or riverine Island in India. If you are planning a trip to North East or South India, do not miss to go there and experience river islands of India. We have included all the information I had, but that is not enough. If you know more about any of the riverine islands added in this article, you can share more details with us and I will surely include that with proper credit to you.
