Want to enjoy turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and pristine beaches? Look no further than Lakshadweep, a Magnificent archipelago of 36 emerald islands scattered like gems in the Arabian Sea. But before you pack your swimsuit and snorkel, read this Lakshadweep Tourism Guide so you can have a hassle-free vacation.
Lakshadweep, formerly known as the Laccadive Islands, is a union territory of India. It is an archipelago of 36 islands serving as the maritime boundary between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Laccadive Sea to the east. It is 200 to 440 km (120 to 270 mi) off the Malabar Coast of India. It has some of the most beautiful and interesting islands and beaches with mesmerizing and colorful underwater scenery. Water sports such as swimming, windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular among visitors.
Top 10 Most Popular Tourist Spots of Lakshadweep
Below is a list of must-visit places and tourist destinations in Lakshadweep.
1. Minicoy Island
Minicoy or Maliku is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep, known for its unique Maldivian culture and stunning coral reefs. It is located in the middle of the enormous Arabian Sea and ranks as the second-largest island of the Lakshadweep Archipelago. Vibrant coral reefs, charming white-sand beaches, and the freshwater surroundings of the endless ocean are the hallmarks of Minicoy. The old lighthouse offers a breathtaking view of the gorgeous sea, adding to the island’s attractions. Coconut and palm trees blanket the entire island, enhancing its natural beauty.
Visitors can try snorkeling or scuba diving here, or relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The luxury beach resorts on Minicoy Island are a popular choice for tourists seeking peace. Traditional dishes like Farata, Mus Kavav, Tuna Fish Fry, and Rayereha are must-tries.
2. Agatti Islands
The gateway to Lakshadweep, Agatti Island is a gem of this archipelago, known for its stunning lagoon, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Agatti Island derives its name from the coral atoll it sits upon—the Agatti Atoll in the Lakshadweep archipelago. The entire island is adorned with lush greenery and beautiful geological formations. Its breathtaking beach views make it an ideal beach vacation spot. This Island is a paradise for beach lovers and adventurous travelers alike. The tropical environment of Agatti Island is perfect for sunbathing on the pure white sand beaches under the blue skies.
Visitors can enjoy activities like scuba diving, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding here. The Glass bottom boat rides are very famous; a must-try experience. With beautiful corals, a wide range of colorful fish, and unusual aquatic creatures, Agatti Island is a must-visit place.”
3. Kavaratti Islands
The administrative capital of Lakshadweep, Kavaratti, is a lively island with a vibrant local market and a beautiful lagoon. This island has three coral reefs, underwater banks, and twelve atolls. The stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the white-sand beaches provide peace within the serene surroundings. Kavaratti is well known for its coconut trees, diverse marine life, breathtaking scenery, and exciting water sports. Famous food dishes on Kavaratti Island include fried tuna fish, sambar, rice, squid, idli, poori, and avail.
This island is ideal for adventurous travelers who wish to enjoy the natural splendor of the sea and beaches. Adventurers can enjoy kayaking, jet skiing, scuba diving, and motorboat trips on this island. You can also take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the colorful coral reefs or visit the Marine Aquarium and the Ujra Mosque
4. Bangaram Island
This tiny, teardrop-shaped beautiful island, Bangaram, is a true eco-paradise. The island is home to a bird sanctuary, a turtle hatchery, and a lush coconut grove. With only one beach resort, its small size and low population make it feel like a private island.
You can relax on the pristine beach, go for a nature walk, or take a boat ride around the island. Various water sports are available, such as windsurfing, kayaking, water skiing, and canoeing.
5. Kalpeni Island
Kalpeni, also known as Koefaini, is a group of three islands: Cheriyam, Pitti, and Tillakkam, famous for their palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is the most gorgeous region of the Lakshadweep archipelago. Kalpeni is well-known for its stunning lagoon surroundings and abundant coral life. This location is undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions if you are visiting Lakshadweep.
Here, you can go swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, reef walking, scuba diving, or fishing, and explore the island’s lush vegetation.
6. Marine Museum
The Marine Museum in Kavaratti showcases numerous marine-related artifacts while raising awareness about marine products and their conservation. The museum’s highlight is its aquarium, featuring stunning and colorful fish. Observing these aquatic species is truly delightful. For those eager to learn about marine life and related topics, this museum is a fantastic destination.
7. Kadmat Island
Kadmat Island, also known as Cardamom Island, is a coral island within the Amindivi subgroup of the Lakshadweep archipelago. Its silvery white beaches, sun-kissed shorelines, stunning blue lagoons, azure oceans, and vibrant coral reefs are its most delightful features. The island is home to many sea turtles, which nest and lay eggs here. Kadmat Island offers a wide range of activities that draw thousands of tourists annually.
Popular activities on the island include glass-bottom boat rides, deep-sea diving, scuba diving, and snorkeling for adventure seekers. Kayaking is another favored activity among visitors to Kadmat Island.
8. Andrott Island
Andrott Island, also known as Andretti Island, is a small inhabited island in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. It is the largest island in Lakshadweep and is situated closest to the Indian subcontinent. Despite being inhabited, the island retains its natural beauty and charm. Offering a unique travel experience, it allows visitors to relax amidst palm trees and a shallow lagoon. Notable attractions on Andretti Island include Buddhist archaeological relics and the tomb of Saint Hazrat Ubaidullah.
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9. Pitti Island
Pitti, also called Pakshipitti, is a tiny, empty coral island in Lakshadweep. It’s near Kalpenni Island, reachable by a small boat. This charming spot is covered in old corals and is vital for birds like sooty terns, greater crested terns, and brown noddies. These birds nest close to each other but not mixed together, making nests on dry coral rubble. They follow a seasonal pattern for breeding. As there’s no protective reef, waves regularly clean the islet, preventing guano buildup. The marine life here is incredibly fascinating. Pitti is an excellent spot for snorkeling and kayaking, a lovely place to relax and enjoy nature.
10. Island of Thinnakara
Thinnakara Island in Lakshadweep provides a peaceful getaway with quiet beaches and tent-like rooms. The island’s resort provides a tranquil stay amidst nature, offering tent-style rooms that exude simplicity yet provide comfort and hygiene. Thinnakara Island has stunning scenery with white beaches, colorful corals, and an endless blue sea. Its limited connectivity and lack of human habitation have preserved its natural allure, Thinnakara as a paradise for nature lovers, you can enjoy the beach or try water activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving.
Things To Do in Lakshadweep
- Water Sports: Lakshadweep is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. You can go swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing
- Island Hopping: With its numerous islands, Lakshadweep is perfect for island hopping. You can hire a boat and explore the different islands at your own pace
- Relaxing on the Beach: No trip to Lakshadweep would be complete without relaxing on the beach. Soak up the sun, listen to the waves, and let your worries melt away
- Ayurveda: Lakshadweep is home to several Ayurvedic resorts and spas that offer traditional treatments for various ailments
- Birdwatching: Lakshadweep is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 100 species of birds found on the islands.
Best Time to Visit Lakshadweep
The best time to visit Lakshadweep is from October to mid-May. You can also visit Lakshadweep from March to mid-May because during these months it is easy to explore all the places. From mid-May to September it is rainy. Though all the resorts in Lakshadweep are open throughout the year, reaching there by ship is difficult during monsoon. Islands like Agatti and Bangaram are pleasant even during the monsoon and can be reached by flight from Kochi.
How to get entry permit for Lakshadweep
There are two ways to apply for the permit:
- Online: The easiest and fastest option! Head to the ePermit portal (https://epermit.utl.gov.in/pages/signup) and create an account. Fill out the form with your details, choose your island and travel dates, and upload any required documents. Pay the fees and voila! Your permit will be emailed to you 15 days before your trip
- Offline: Download the application form from the Lakshadweep Administration website (http://www.lakshadweeptourism.com/contact.html) or get it from the District Collector’s office in Kavaratti. Fill them out, attach the required documents, and submit them to the Collector’s office. This process may take longer, so plan accordingly.
How to Reach Lakshadweep
Kochi serves as the main gateway to Lakshadweep for tourists. To reach Lakshadweep Island, you can use ships or flights from Kochi. Agatti and Bangaram islands can be reached by flight from Kochi. Indian Airlines runs flights from Kochi, connecting to various airports within India and abroad. During the fair season, high-speed vessels operate between islands.
Conclusion
Lakshadweep is an incredibly magical place that will rejuvenate and refresh you. With its stunning scenery, laid-back atmosphere, and abundance of activities, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing and unforgettable vacation. Though these beautiful groups of islands appear as tiny dots in the Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep is an actual treasure trove of amazing natural beauty and adventure places. The places to visit in Lakshadweep offer some of the most unique experiences in India. Plan your trip to Lakshadweep and get set for a memorable vacation.
Hope this tourism guide will help you to plan your holiday better in Lakshadweep. Share with those who want to go to Lakshadweep.
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