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.

Must Visit Places

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.

Bangaram Island

Bangaram Island is a beautiful tiny island in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, India. The Bangaram Island encompasses an area of 1.234 km2 and is the largest island in the chain of islands in the region (also known as an atoll) with a beautiful lagoon. With a population of only 10 and just one beach resort, it is an apt destination for people who want to disconnect entirely from the fast-paced world.

The beach resort on the island was inaugurated in 1974, and it became more accessible for tourists after the Agatti Aerodrome was commissioned and the frequency of commercial flights from Kochi increased. The Government of India is also promoting tourism on the Island and is projecting it to be a major destination for international tourism.

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.

Kavaratti Islands

Kavaratti is a small island spread across an area of 3.93 sqm km and one of the most beautiful gems from the Lakshadweep islands. The island is home to 12 atolls, five submerged banks, and three coral reefs. The spectacular views of the Arabian sea, the sparkling white-sand beaches offer solace amidst the tranquil nature.

Kavaratti is best known for its coconut trees, a vast expanse of marine life, beautiful sceneries and the enthralling water sports. Kavaratti lies 360 km from the shores of Kochi. It doesn’t have its airport and Agatti is the nearest airport to the island. Under the mission to develop smart cities, Kavaratti has been chosen to be developed into a smart city in the years to come.              Source: Holidify.com