Formerly known as Laccadive Islands, Lakshadweep translates to ‘one hundred thousand islands’ in Malayalam. Home to a few of the most beautiful and exotic islands and beaches of India, Lakshadweep lies 400km off the southwest coast of the Arabian Sea.
The smallest union territory of India has only 36 islands having a total area of 32 sq. kilometers. It’s made up of 12 atolls, 3 reefs and 5 submerged banks out of which ten Islands are inhabited.
Lakshadweep is typically accessed from Kochi (Kerala) and a permit is required to visit Lakshadweep for all tourists (including Indians). After permit, Indians are permitted to visit all islands, however, even after permit, foreigners are permitted to just visit Agatti, Bangaram and Kadmat Islands. Permits can be obtained from Kochi itself.
Perhaps the charm of Lakshadweep islands lies in their remoteness. Far off the beaten track, they attract no hordes of merrymakers to their shores. The islands, though all equally mystical and beautiful, each offers a unique blend of tourist spots. Some islands have been promoted for diving and water sports, still, others have been developed so that people enjoy the charm of relaxation.
Places To Visit In Lakshadweep
Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep Overview
One of the 36 small islets of Lakshadweep group of Islands, Minicoy, also known as Maliku in the local language is one of the best-kept secrets of India. It is located amidst the vast expanse of Arabian Sea, just 398 km or 215 nautical miles from the shores of Cochin.
The small island encompasses the total area of 4.801 sq. km and is exclusively known for its vibrant coral reefs, quaint white-sand beaches and the freshwater of the infinite ocean. The Minicoy Island is the second-largest island of the Lakshadweep and is one of the few inhabited islands of the group. It is best known for its luxury beach resorts that are an ideal destination for the travellers seeking tranquility.
Agatti Islands, Lakshadweep Overview
Agatti Islands is considered another jewel from the Lakshadweep group of islands in India. The island is situated on one of the coral isles of Lakshadweep islands and is few of the islands from the Lakshadweep group that is inhabited by people. One may explore the island on foot or rent a two-wheeler to commute. Every corner of the island is rich with natural vegetation and beautiful geographical formations.
Bangaram Island, Lakshadweep Overview
Bangaram Island is a beautiful tiny island in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, India. The Bangaram Island encompasses an area of 1.234 sq.kms and is the largest island in the chain of islands in the region (also known as an atoll) with a beautiful lagoon. With a population of only 10 and just one beach resort, it is an apt destination for people who want to disconnect entirely from the fast-paced world.
Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep, Lakshadweep Overview
Scuba Diving in Lakshadweep is one of the most popular activities amongst travellers. Agatti, Bangaram and Kadmat islands are the three islands that prove a perfect setting for the Scuba. Each dive center has attached resorts catering to the needs of beginners as well as those interested in CMAS and PADI courses by certified divers. The islands are also enriched with a diverse variety of tropical fishes, vibrant corals and other creatures like turtles, rays and coral sharks.
Kavaratti Islands, Lakshadweep Overview
Kavaratti is a small island spread across an area of 3.93 sq.km and one of the most beautiful gems from the Lakshadweep islands. The island is home to 12 atolls, five submerged banks, and three coral reefs. The spectacular views of the Arabian Sea, the sparkling white-sand beaches offer solace amidst the tranquil nature.
Kalpeni Island, Lakshadweep Overview
Also known as Koefaini, Kalpeni islands is a group of three islands and is one of the most picturesque areas of Lakshadweep. Cheriyam, Pitti and Tillakkam are the islands which together form the Kalpeni islands.
Water Sports in Lakshadweep Islands, Lakshadweep Overview
Apart from admiring the nature, the next best thing on any vacationer’s ‘to-do list’ should be water sports. There are plenty of opportunities for Scuba diving, Yachting, Pedal boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Snorkeling, etc.
Marine Museum, Lakshadweep Overview
Situated in Kavaratti, Marine museum showcases plethora of marine related artifacts and aims at promoting marine products and its preservation. The interesting thing about the museum is its aquarium which has few of the most striking species of sea fishes and water animals.
Kadmat, Lakshadweep Overview
Sprawling over 9.3 kms in length, Kadmat Island is a gorgeous island which is part of the Amindivi subgroup of islands in the Lakshadweep archipelago. Boasting of silvery white beaches, sun kissedshores, wonderful blue lagoons, azure blue waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Kadmat Island is a travellers’ delight.
City Shopping, Lakshadweep Overview
The quaint little islets of Lakshadweep which are miles away from the modernity offer an exotic beach holiday. The markets of the island aren’t much developed, and there are very few things that you can take back home as Lakshadweep souvenirs.
Best time to visit Lakshadweep
September to February is the best time to visit Lakshadweep Islands as the climatic conditions remain pleasant (between 20-30-degree Celsius). March to May are also good months but the weather will be hotter by 2-3-degree Celsius.
How to reach Lakshadweep
The Union Territory has an airport in Aggati, which is connected to the Kochi Airport only. – www.holidify.com
