Lakshadweep
About Lakshadweep
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. kilometres. 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.
Things to Do
Minicoy Island
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 tranquillity. This picturesque destination is a popular tourist spot and has gained immense popularity due to activities like tuna canning, tuna fishing and the presence of pristine palm-fringed beaches. Tourists can enjoy some of the most memorable moments here during winters and the onset of summer, as the weather here is ideal during those months.
Agatti Islands
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.The beautiful Agatti island stretches over an area of 8 kilometres, and it is sparsely populated with around 8000 inhabitants. With a total area of a little over 3 square kilometres, the island may be small compared to many other islands but it is nothing but a sheer paradise for beach lovers and offbeat travellers.Agatti Island is the only island belonging to the Lakshadweep group with its airport that makes the island extremely accessible from major parts of the world. The airport is located at a distance of 459 kilometres from the shores of Kochi, India. The locals mostly speak English and Malayalam, and Islam is the main religion of the inhabitants. The primary occupation of the people is fishing. However, tourism is picking up quite well in this region of the world.
Scuba Diving
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 centre 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.
Kalpeni Island
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 forms the Kalpeni islands.These islands are inhabited and are frequently visited by tourists. Kalpeni is famous for its beautiful lagoon surrounding the island and is highly rich in Coral life. Naturally, this place is among the must-see places in Lakshadweep. This is also a great spot to enjoy water sports including Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Reef walking, canoeing, kayaking and sailing yachts.
Water Sports
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.There is no way one should miss out on these. Also, a visit to the lighthouse and a few local houses would complete the trip!
Marine Museum
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.The beautiful, colorful fishes and aquatic species are very pretty and it is a great sight to see these ornamental species. It is also a good place if you are interested in collecting information about marine life and related stuff.
Lighthouse
Built in the late 19th century back in 1885 in the Minicoy Island is one of the oldest lighthouses in Lakshadweep. Standing tall at 300 feet, the view from the top is absolutely mesmerizing. It is one of the must visit place if you are planning a trip to Minicoy Island. However, the foreign nationals are not allowed to visit this island.
Yacht Cruise
Lakshadweep Islands are a perfect destination to go on a luxury Yacht Cruise. Sailing amidst indigo blue waters and divine white sands, the experience is going to be a memorable one and is sure to stay with you for a long time. You might also be able to spot exotic fish and turtles while you are out there. Besides giving you the bliss of thrill and adventure, this is one of the most pristine things to do in Lakshadweep.
Shopping
The quaint little islets of Lakshadweep which are miles away from the modernity offers 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.In fact, most of the islands of Lakshadweep are inhabitants and hence with no mark of concrete edifices at all. However, being a beach destination, you can collect a lot of beach handicrafts, and since fishing is the main occupation of the islanders, there are a lot of fish products that you can take back home.