A travel Guide to Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep Tourism

Lakshadweep is a group of islands. Though the word ‘Lakshadweep’ translates to ‘hundreds of thousands of islands’ in Malayalam, the group comprises only 36 small islets out of which 10 are inhabited and only 5 are open for tourism. These islands are located around 120 to 270 nautical miles from the shores of Cochin. Lakshadweep Islands are also the home to 12 atolls, 5 submerged banks, and 3 coral reefs.

Lakshadweep tourism offers one of the best locations in the world for honeymooners as well as the ones who want to take a break from the chaotic concrete jungle and spend some alone time. Some of the most popular Lakshadweep attractions are the lighthouse in Minicoy, the Marine Museum and Urja Mosque in Kavaratti, and of course the water sports activities which attract thousands of tourists every year.

Places to visit in Lakshadweep

1. Minicoy Island

Minicoy, commonly called Mailku by the locals, is the second-largest island of Lakshadweep. Located 398 km from the shores of Cochin, this Island is popular amongst travellers for its pristine white sand beaches and the vast stretches of colourful coral reefs. It is one of the top places to visit in Lakshadweep. You can spend a lazy day at a luxury beach resort or indulge yourself in some fun water sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and kayaking. One of the most popular Lakshadweep tourist places in Minicoy is the old lighthouse which offers an aerial view of Minicoy with the beautiful backdrop of the emerald Arabian Sea.

2. Agatti Island

Situated on one of the coral isles of Lakshadweep, Agatti Island is considered to be a gem for tourists. It is one of the most popular Lakshadweep attractions amongst beach lovers and offbeat travellers. It is also the home to the only airport in Lakshadweep, making it more accessible than the rest of the islands. Because of its small size, you can explore this place on foot or rent a scooter or bike to move around. You can have a nice sunbathing session by the Arabian sea, or you can go for a romantic walk in the evening with your loved one. If that’s not enough, you can explore your adventurous side by indulging in several water sports.

3. Bangaram Island

Bangaram is a tiny island accompanied by a mesmerising lagoon. If you are someone who wants to take a break from the fast-paced life and your hectic schedule, then this is one place you need to tick off your Lakshadweep travel guide. The people who live here are the ones who run the beach resort that was established in the year 1974. The small area and even smaller population make it a private island that offers canoeing, kayaking, water surfing, and much more. There is a provision for scuba diving and snorkelling as well. Apart from water sports, you can even enjoy a romantic evening on a night cruise with your loved one.

4. Kavaratti Island

Kavaratti is considered to be another jewel of Lakshadweep and is the home to 12 atolls, 3 coral reefs, and 5 submerged banks. You can witness the Arabian sea in its full glory along with its pristine white sand beaches. You can visit the Kavaratti Marine Aquarium where you can learn more about the diverse marine life of the island. It is also the home to another popular spot in the Lakshadweep travel guide, Urja Mosque.

5. Kadmat Island

Kadmat Island attracts tourists because of its typical sunbathing weather by the silvery-white beaches. The island is inhabited by marine turtles that live and breed here. You can simply stare deeply into the azure blue water and be mesmerised by the wonders of nature. The beaches in this part of Lakshadweep are pure in a sense because the location is less commercialised as compared to the rest of the Islands and pretty much untouched. You can dive deep into the sea and witness the rich and diverse aquatic life. The place hosts several cultural activities every year that contributes a lot to Lakshadweep tourism.

Things to do in Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep offers a lot of things to do on your visit, from sightseeing to adventurous water sports to educating you about the aquatic diversity and whatnot. Some of the most common things to do in Lakshadweep are mentioned below.

Visit the Lighthouse in Minicoy

This is one of the top things to do in Lakshadweep. It is one of the oldest lighthouses and was built in the year 1885 by the Britishers. Tourists visit the 50 meters tall structure because it offers a stunning view of Minicoy and the Arabian sea. You can reach the top of the lighthouse and click beautiful photographs, or if you are someone who likes to live in the moment, you can simply gaze at the Sun hiding behind the horizon.

Marine Museum in Kavaratti

If you want to learn more about the diverse aquatic kingdom, you should visit the popular Marine Museum in Kavaratti. It was first established to endorse marine conservation. You can witness a wide range of colourful fishes and aquatic wildlife.

Boating in Lakshadweep

You can enjoy a variety of boat rides during your visit to Lakshadweep. There are several types of boating experiences such as speed boats, pedal boats, kayaks, canoes, etc. One of the most selling boating experiences in Lakshadweep is the glass-bottomed boat rides as it helps you enjoy the beautiful aquatic wildlife, coral reefs, and colourful fishes in the sea.

Water sports in Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is gaining popularity amongst honeymooners and adventure seekers because of the coastal topography. Water sports play an important role in contributing to Lakshadweep tourism. You can enjoy scuba diving in almost every part of the island that’s open to tourists and enjoy watching marine life. You can also visit places like Bangaram, Kadmat, and Minicoy to indulge in other water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and much more.

Enjoy the nightlife in Lakshadweep

The nightlife in Lakshadweep is very popular. You can enjoy drinks at Bangaram Island, which is one of the most famous Lakshadweep tourist places. Apart from tropical beverages, you can enjoy local seafood and cultural dance to make a romantic evening with your better half. If you are lucky enough, you can also witness the bioluminescent effect that makes the water glow.

Best time to visit Lakshadweep

The best time to visit Lakshadweep is between October to May which makes up the months of winter and summer. The summer season in Lakshadweep brings along temperatures that vary between 22-33? during the day but the breezy evenings and nights compensate for it. The best season to visit Lakshadweep is anything other than monsoons as it is really difficult to travel by sea to Lakshadweep during this time. Secondly, most resorts and water activities are shut down in the months of June to August.

How to reach Lakshadweep?

One need not worry about how to reach Lakshadweep. If you are planning to visit Lakshadweep, you can choose one of the following options:

By Airways: There are no direct flights to Lakshadweep. You will have to travel to Cochin from the starting point of your journey. Lakshadweep has only one airport and it is situated on Agatti island. You can take a flight from Cochin to Lakshadweep which operates 6 days a week. One thing you need to know before you make the trip is that you will require a travel permit from Lakshadweep tourism which you can get at Cochin.

By Sea: It is the most common way to reach Lakshadweep. There are passenger ships at regular intervals that take you from Cochin to Lakshadweep. There are different classes of accommodation on these ships that come along with entertainment facilities and medical support. However, if you are someone who might get seasick, opt for airways as the travelling period by sea lasts between 14 to 20 hours.