Kavaratti, Lakshadweep

Kavaratti has got to be the centre of all fun and action in the Lakshadweep island group. Approximately 360 kilometres off the coast of Cochin in mainland India and a little over 50 kilometres from Agatti, the domestic airport at Lakshadweep, Kavaratti, is well connected to the mainland by boat and Agatti by helicopter and boat services. Kavaratti is the capital and headquarters of the Lakshadweep island group.

The small township of Kavaratti with a little over 10,000 inhabitants is famous for its water sports, shopping and a few heritage spots like museums and mosques. The beaches of Kavaratti also attract thousands of tourists every year and the seafood served at the restaurants and shacks is to die for! The island is just around 4.22 square kilometres and doesn’t take long to see. The road network is good and bikes are available for rent at several places.

Whether you’re a swimmer or not, Kavaratti Island has the facilities to appeal to every aquatic appetite. The marine museum and aquarium features a wide variety of aquatic specimens. Scuba diving excursions are available for all levels of proficiency and for tourists not willing to go that extra mile, they can always try a simpler snorkelling excursion. Glass-bottom boats are available for hire at the beaches for stunning views of the coral reef and the marine life that dwells beneath the surface. For other water sports, one might want to visit the Dolphin Dive Center at Kavaratti.

The population of the Lakshadweep Islands being primarily Muslim, Eid Ul Fitr is celebrated with much enthusiasm here. The month of October is bustling with festive activity and the famous Ujra Mosque built by Shaikh Mohammad Kasim in the 17th century is even livelier than it usually is. Onam, another South Indian festival is celebrated between August and September on the islands.

The white sandy beaches of Kavaratti have for years turned heads and attracted thousands of tropical holiday seekers. The emerald green, pristine water makes for an ideal afternoon dip and seclusion of the island and low levels of commercialisation make it an ideal holiday getaway!