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Lakshadweep is set of 39 islands and has fast become a tourist hotspot, especially for those sold to the idea of a secluded sun and sand vacation. With over 4200 sq km of lagoon area and 36 sq km of island area, there is something for everyone here. The islands with its vast coastline offers to its visitors many beaches and lots of watersports!
The driving factor backing Lakshadweep's success as a tourist destination has got to be the way nature has been preserved on the islands. The two major islands are Agatti which houses Lakshadweep's domestic airport and Bangaram which is a tourist favorite. The entire setting of Lakshadweep can't help but make you wonder if the place was built for tired city dwellers in search of a break. Fishing is a great way to distress and numerous opportunities prevail at Lakshadweep to fish. Scuba diving is another popular tourist activity. Here is a guide to the islands you must head to in Lakshadweep.
Agatti Island
Popularly known as the gateway to the Lakshadweep, Agatti is known for its scenic beauty. The white sandy beaches, pristine water and turquoise blue lagoon are absolutely breathtaking. It has several underwater activities like scuba diving and snorkeling at the tourist's disposal. Fishing is another popular sport, and don't forget to hire a glass bottom boat over an afternoon to witness the beautiful coral reef. If you happen to catch your own fish at the lagoon, they are happy to setup a barbeque for you. While you're at it, make it a point to try their local cuisine on the beach.
The coconut trees that can be seen in Agatti Island.
Photo Courtesy: Rupankar Mahanta
Bangaram
Bangaram is often called the honeymooner's paradise. It is rich in marine and land base fauna and you can catch a glimpse of various kinds of birds, fish, porcupines and parrots here. Scuba diving and Snorkeling excursions promise a spectacular view to what lies beneath the water surface for the travellers. If you get tired of the beach then take a walk through the island's lush and vast coconut grove.
The vast blue sea off the coast of Bangaram Island.
Photo Courtesy: Binu K S
Maliku Island
Maliku Island also known as the Minicoy Island is the southernmost island of the Lakshadweep Island. Historically part of what is today known as a separate nation, Maldives, Minicoy bears several similarities both culturally and linguistically to the Maldives. The island is covered almost entirely with coconut palms and boasts of an amazing natural sand patch in the north which makes for an amazing holiday place. The food and the ambience on the island are nothing short of the best. Tourist planning to head to the Lakshadweep isles should make it a point to do a day trip to this wonderful dot on the map.
A serene beach at Maliku Island.
Photo Courtesy: Ajmal Hussain PKH
Kalpeni Island
Around a hundred and fifty miles off the coast of Cochin in mainland India is the tiny island Kalpeni. This island is known majorly for its beautiful lagoon. It is also famous for Tip Beach which is a white sandy beach with a shallow emerald colored lagoon and clean pristine water ideal for diving and snorkeling. Kayaking and reef walking are other activities the beach is famous for. The island has a tall lighthouse from where you can stare at the beauty of this region.
Sunset at Kalpeni Island.
Photo Courtesy: Vaikoovery
Kavaratti
Kavaratti is the capital of the Lakshdweep Islands and is also the center of all fun and action. It 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 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 snorkeling excursion. Glass bottomed boats are available for hire at the beaches for stunning views of the coral reef and the marine life that dwells beneath the surface. 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 commercialization make it an ideal holiday getaway.
Ducks on a beach at Kavaratti Island.
Photo Courtesy: Thejas
How to Reach Lakshadweep
By Air: Flights from Bangalore and Cochin are available to the airport at Agatti island. Furthermore Bangaram also has an aerodrome for inter-island travel.
By Sea: Regular ferry services are available from Cochin to Agatti Island. They have various classes of vessels and each of the services is comfortable and air-conditioned. Some cruise packages also offer Lakshadweep as one of their destinations, which is a cost effective way of getting there and seeing the place.
So when are you travelling to the islands of Lakshadweep?
Photo Courtesy: Thejas
