Explore the tropical paradise of Lakshadweep Island with our detailed guide. From the coral islands’ history, unique culture, and vibrant cuisine to travel essentials like cruise options, accommodation, and reaching the archipelago—this comprehensive overview has everything you need for an unforgettable Lakshadweep adventure.
Lakshadweep At A Glance
The 36-island group known as Lakshadweep is a group of 36 islands famous for its sun-kissed unique beaches and greenery. In Malayalam and Sanskrit, the term Lakshadweep translates to “a hundred thousand islands.”
Lakshadweep, the smallest Union Territory in India, is an archipelago of 36 islands covering 32 square kilometers. There are 12 atolls, 3 reefs, 5 submerged banks, and 10 inhabited islands that make up this union territory with only one district. The islands cover 32 square kilometers in total. Kavaratti serves as both the UT’s capital and its main town.
The Lakshadweep Islands can only access telecommunication services from BSNL and Airtel. All ten inhabited islands are connected by BSNL, whereas Agatti and Kavaratti islands are connected by Airtel.
The islands of Lakshadweep have restricted entry. To visit these islands, one needs an entry permit provided by the Lakshadweep Administration.1
Lakshadweep Map
What is The Capital Of Lakshadweep?
The Indian Union Territory of Lakshadweep’s capital is Kavaratti.At 10.57°N 72.64°E, the island of Kavaratti is situated 360 miles off the coast of the State of Kerala. The closest large city on the Indian mainland is about 404 km away (218 nmi) away. Its lagoon covers 3.46 square miles.As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious Smart Cities Mission, Karavatti has been chosen as one of the one hundred Indian cities to be transformed into smart cities.
The Union Territory of Lakshadweep’s headquarters are located on Kavaratti Island. This island lies between Agatti Island on the west and Andrott Island on the east, 404 kilometers (218 nautical miles) from Kochi. With a 4.22 sq km size, it is located between latitudes 10o 32′ and 10o 35′ N and longitudes 72o 35′ and 72o 40′ E. The island’s maximum length is 5.8 km, while its maximum width is 1.6 km. It contains a lagoon that is 4.96 square kilometers in size and is roughly 6 kilometers long.
On the western side, the island rises 2 to 5 meters above mean sea level, whereas on the eastern side, it rises 2 to 3 meters. The center of the Lakshadweep archipelago is where it is situated. Intriguingly, Kavaratti’s northernmost point features a little inland lake. The island itself has the highest proportion of non-islanders among its inhabitants, covering an area of just over 4 square kilometers.2
Lakshadweep Population
There are 64,473 people living in Lakshadweep, as per the 2011 census. Compared to the 60,000 people listed in the 2001 census, this is an increase.
96.58% of people in Lakshadweep are Muslims, 0.49% are Christians, 0.01% are Sikhs, and 0.02% are Buddhists.
Brief History Of Lakshadweep
The early history of Lakshadweep is primarily based on legends, with local traditions attributing the first settlement to the period of Cheraman Perumal, the last king of Kerala. According to one legend, after converting to Islam, Cheraman Perumal left for Mecca, and a shipwreck led to the discovery and settlement of the islands. Another account involves St. Ubaidullah, who arrived in Amini after a shipwreck, dreamed of propagating Islam, faced opposition, and successfully converted people, with his grave becoming a sacred site.
The Portuguese arrival in the 16th century marked a period of plunder, with the islands sought for their coir. Islanders resisted Portuguese invasion, reportedly killing the invaders by poisoning. Despite the islands converting to Islam, the Hindu Rajah of Chirakkal retained sovereignty until the Arakkal house took over in the 16th century. In 1783, some islanders sought Tipu Sultan’s assistance to escape oppressive Arakkal rule, leading to the division of suzerainty between Tipu Sultan and Arakkal. After the British annexation in 1799, the islands were administered by the British East India Company from Mangalore.
The British rule, exemplified by the Lakshadweep Regulation of 1912, showcased political manipulations for economic gain. The British exploited the islands’ profits through the Beebi without taking responsibility for administration. The Lakshadweep Union Territory was formed in 1956 and officially named Lakshadweep in 1973.
Why is Lakshadweep Known As A Coral Island?
Because of its distinct geographic formation, Lakshadweep is referred to as a coral island. Lakshadweep islands are formed by coral reefs rather than by volcanic activity. The term “coral island” refers to this process of development that lends Lakshadweep its name.
- Coral reefs are Underwater ecosystems featuring reef-buikding corals. In order to create a rigid skeleton, these corals release calcium carbonate.
- These skeletons build up over time to create a coral reef. These reefshave the potential to generate coral islands when they develop close to the water’s surface.
- The islands of Lakshadweep are the product of the gradual but constant buildup of organic material and coral deposits.
- Geological activity causes these materials to finally rise above the water’s surface.
Lakshadweep has some of the most remarkable coral reefs in the planet. They are well-liked by both tourists and researchers since they are home to a wide variety of marine life.
Lakshadweep Culture – All The Excitement Coming Up Right Now!
In the Territory, the two most widely used folk art styles are Kolkali and Parichakali. With the exception of Minicoy, where “LAVA” is the most popular dance style, they constitute an essential component of the local culture. There are similarities between some of the folk dances and those from northeastern India. “OPPANA,” a song sung by the lead performer and followed by a group of women, is a standard component at weddings. In Minicoy, picnics are a popular kind of leisure time. The holidays that are most generally observed are Republic Day and Independence Day, followed in order by Milad ul-Nabi, Idulfitr, Bakrid, and Muharram. It’s interesting to note that religious fervor surrounds the celebration of Republic Day and Independence Day.
Lakshadweep Language – Is There Only One Language Spoken?
According to the 1681 census, Lakshadweep’s mother tongues are eleven of the languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. which the residents of Minicoy speak as their native languages, Mahl and Malayalam. Along with English, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindu, Kannada, Oriya, Tamil, Telegu, Konkani, and Urdu, the migrants who labor within Union territory also speak Bengali.
The current Malayalam Grandha script and Minicoy are the scripts used on the islands. Vattezhuthu is the oldest script used on the islands. Since the advent of Islam, individuals have become more familiar with the Arabic alphabet, especially when studying the Qur’an.
Best Places To Visit In Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep, a stunning archipelago nestled in the Arabian Sea, boasts some of the most breathtaking and pristine destinations in India. This tropical paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Discover the breathtaking beauty of these coral islands, with turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and powdery white-sand beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Delve into the unique culture and traditions of the locals, savoring the authentic cuisine and engaging in water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. From the tranquil Agatti Island to the vibrant coral gardens of Bangaram, each destination is a testament to Lakshadweep’s untouched natural splendor. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this guide provides insights into the best places to visit, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this tropical haven.
Minicoy Island: Go For A Boat Ride
Miliku is a notable Lakshadweep island. The island coordinates all Lakshadeep or sister island plans. Secured on the southwest edge of the archipelago, with several attractions. Its stunning lighthouse and white-sand beaches make it ideal for Lakshadweep sightseeing.
Location | Lakshadweep 682557 |
Time Required | 2 days |
Entry Fee | No entry fee |
Things To Do | Boat rides, Hiking, Food |
Ideal For | Families and friends |
Kadmat Island: Relish Delicious Local Food
Another renowned Lakshadweep tourist destination is Kadmat Island. This coral island boasts abundant aquatic life. The sparsely populated island provides a peaceful escape. Known for its marine life, fishing is the main source of revenue here. You may also enjoy the local cuisine. This island is famed for deep-sea diving and snorkeling.
Location | Lakshadweep 682557 |
---|---|
Time Required | 2 days |
Entry Fee | No entry fee |
Things To Do | Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Explore Marine Life |
Ideal For | Adventure |
Kavaratti Island: Witness Mesmerizing Sunsets
The white beaches and stunning sunsets make this island one of Lakshadweep’s top attractions. The lush vegetation and plantations of this tranquil lagoon are surprising. Kavaratti is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Hundreds of foreign tourists visit the city each year to relax and enjoy the beauty.
Location | Kavaratti 682555 |
---|---|
Time Required | 2 days |
Entry Fee | No entry fee |
Things To Do | Nature Walks, Relaxing Walks on the Beaches |
Ideal For | Families, Solo Travellers |
Marine Museum: Have An Encounter With The Underwater World
This is where you can see some of the best displays of sea life and artifacts. The museum was created to teach people about the importance of aquatic life and to display the different kinds of fish that are present. An important and well-liked piece of art is this shark skeleton. Make sure this museum is on your list of things to do in Lakshadweep.
Location | Kavaratti 682555 |
---|---|
Time Required | 1-2 hours |
Entry Fee | INR 15 |
Things To Do | Seek Information on Marine Life |
Ideal For | Families |
Amini Beach: For Scuba Diving And More
Amini Beach is a great place for tourists in Lakshadweep who want to find a quiet place to relax. This beach on Amini Island is very famous because it is made up of coral sandstone. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, reef walks, or kayaking, among other exciting activities. Amini Beach is a great place to unwind and spend the day sipping drinks and soaking up the sun.
Location | Lakshadweep 682553 |
---|---|
Time Required | 6-7 hours |
Entry Fee | No entry fee |
Things To Do | Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Reef Walking |
Ideal For | Families and Couples |
Andrott Island: For The History Enthusiasts
The Saint Ubaidullah Tomb in the Jumaat mosque is what makes Andrott island one of the biggest islands in Lakshadweep. On this island, you can see octopuses and other sea creatures. If you are interested in history, Andrott Island is one of the best places to visit in Lakshadweep. Andrott island is also known for the Buddhist ruins that can be found there.
Location | Lakshadweep 682553 |
---|---|
Time Required | 5-6 hours |
Entry Fee | No entry fee |
Things To Do | Visit Jummat Mosque, Spot Octopus |
Ideal For | Families and Couples |
View most liked places here!
Best Time To Visit Lakshadweep
You can visit Lakshadweep at any time of the year. People come from all over the world to visit this small island and enjoy its beautiful scenery and peaceful beaches. Most people like “October to March” as the best time to travel, but we’ll still give you some more information about the season!
Summer (March to May)
During the summer, Lakshadweep is a nice place to visit where you can expect to have a good time. It never gets above or below 22°C or below 35°C. The days are warm, but the nights are cool. It’s usually best to go to the beach and do water sports in the summer.
Rainy Season (June–August)
The island of Lakshadweep is nice all year, but the rainy season can be hard. It’s not bad for the whole island, but some places can’t be reached by direct planes.
Winter (September to February)
You can go touring and enjoy water sports in the winter because the weather is nice. Temperatures are mild and never get above 25°C, making it the best time to go.
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Lakshadweep Food – From Mus Kavaab To Kilanji
Here in this section, we have discussed most popular dishes that are must try if you are planning on this trip!
Kilanji
Kilanji is a very thin rice and egg dish that tastes best when paired with a sweet, sloppy dish made with coconut milk, bananas, and jaggery. Usually, this dish is made for visitors and friends or on big events like weddings.
Mus Kavaab
Traditionally prepared with cardamom, coriander, and chili powders, Mus Kavaab is a spiced tuna curry served with sautéed onions, tomato, and curry leaves. The ideal accompaniment to this flavorful, spicy tuna curry is rice.
Octopus Fry
Since octopus is not commonly eaten in other parts of India, this dish is a true delicacy of Lakshadweep cuisine. One of the rare locations where octopus is a staple dish is Lakshadweep. One of these islands’ most beloved delicacies is crispy fried octopus.
Maas Podichathu
Maas Podichathu is a meal prepared using small chunks of dried tuna combined with coconut, turmeric powder, onions, and garlic. This is eaten with rice as a side dish.
Batla Appam
The people who live on Androth Island love the sweet delicacy called Batla Appam. Made with eggs, flour, sugar, and cardamom, this steaming sweet treat is served during festivals and other special events.
Tuna Curry | Spicy Coastal Fish
This spicy beach meal features the freshest tuna catch and is enhanced by the addition of coconut milk and a range of flavorful spices. The blend of traditional Indian spices and the bold flavors of the ocean creates an exotic dining experience in Lakshadweep.
Moplah Cuisine | Flavourful Traditional Recipes
Lakshadweep’s moplah cuisine has a strong cultural base and a wealth of traditional recipes. These delicious dishes create a unique dining experience by fusing flavors from Arabic, Malabari, & indigenous cuisines.
Kinnathappam | Sweet Steamed Rice Cake
The lovely sweet steamed rice cake called as kinnathappam is native to South India. Spices, coconut milk, jaggery, and rice flour combine to make a delectable treat. The beautiful Lakshadweep islands are famous for their delicious grilled fish meals.
Over time, Lakshadweep has seen an increase in tourists, which has had an effect on the island’s culinary traditions. These days, a variety of Korean and continental cuisines are served at restaurants and other eating establishments to satisfy patrons’ palates. Lakshadweep’s food is distinct, possessing rich flavors, a tinge of Indian spices, and freshness. For those who enjoy fish, this archipelago is an absolute delight!
Lakshadweep Cruise Tourism
This is an excellent place for adventure seekers and fans of water sports. It is possible to do anything from deep sea fishing to swimming in the sea. Only ten of the 36 islands are inhabited. A lot of islands are only accessible by day so that you can explore their flora and fauna. The entire island of Pitti has been transformed into a bird sanctuary. There are a lot of terns there. Turtles are also in this category. The fauna on the Lakshadweep islands is abundant, and ecotourism is rapidly gaining traction. You can spend your leisure time here going on walks with turtles and observing birds.
Adventure sports and water sports are available to tourists visiting the islands. In addition, you can enjoy deep-sea fishing, kayaking, and boating. Jet skis and water scooters can be rented. You can go boating in glass-bottom boats, kayaks, and pedal boats. During a boat journey, you may see numerous birds as well as fish that swim next to your vessel and tiny corals beneath the shallow blue waters. Some organizations rent out crew and equipment. You can meet and talk with the locals while taking a tour around the villages, which is a pleasant experience.
Lakshadweep Cruise Options You Can Have While Touring
Samudram Cruise (4 nights 5 days) – 2024
Which ship is used for Samudram sailing?
- mv Kavaratti
How much will it cost?
- 1st Class: Adult – Rs 39,375
- Child: Rs 34,650
- * Including GST (5%)
- Child: 1 to 10 years
- CORDELIA LUXURY CRUISE – MUMBAI-GOA-COCHIN-LAKSHADWEEP
Current Offers:
- Pay full for the interior and get a free upgrade to an ocean view.
- Reserve your room by paying just 25% of the total amount.
Estimated Time Of Cruise Plans
- Goa-Lakshadweep-Mumbai – 3 nights 4 days
- Kochi to Lakshadweep to Mumbai – 3 nights 4 days (Kochi to Lakshadweep cruise)
- Mumbai to Lakshadweep Cruise – 4 nights 5 days
- Mumbai-Goa-Lakshadweep-Mumbai – 5 nights 6 days
- Mumbai-Kochi-Lakshadweep-Mumbai – 5 nights 6 days
For bookings, you can click here!
Affordable Lakshadweep Hotels For You
White Pearl Beach Hotel
The White Pearl Beach Hotel is a top Lakshadweep honeymoon location. It’s remembered as Agatti Island’s southern paradise. This will be your most romantic stay. Exclusive candlelit dinners are available for couples. You’ll get a homemade meal. During your visit, try fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Its warm hospitality and exquisite amenities make it one of Lakshadweep’s greatest hotels.
- Location: Agatti, Lakshadweep 682553 India
- Price: Starting from INR 5,600 per night
- Google rating: 5.0
Agatti Island Beach Resort
Agatti Island Beach resort offers stunning views of tropical islands with sparkling silvery beaches, green coconut palm trees, and coral reefs.
- Location: Agatti, Lakshadweep 682553 India
- Price: Starting from INR 5,500 per night
- Google rating: 4.4
Seagate Holiday Home
Another luxury hotel on Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep. Standard and premium rooms can be booked as needed. You may rest and unwind at the beach just minutes from the accommodations.
- Location: Near Satellite, Agatti Island, Lakshadweep 682553 India
- Price: Starting from INR 7,572 per night
- Google rating: 5.0
Kadmat Beach Resort
Kadmat Beach resort is ideal for families seeking peace and natural living. The posh Lakshadweep Hotel Kadmat Beach Resort is near Bangaram Island.
- Location: Kadmath, Lakshadweep 682555 India
- Price: Starting from INR 4,000 per night
- Google rating: 4.4
Coral Beach Resort
Coral Beach Resort in the heart of Kalpeni Island offers exquisite accommodations. Lakshadweep hotels are affordable holiday homestays with spacious rooms and stunning ocean views.
- Location: Airport Road, Agatti, Lakshadweep 682553 India
- Price: NA
- Google rating: 4.3
Lakshadweep Island Tour Package
Following are some Lakshadweep tour package available. From adventures activity to romantic dates, we have compiled it all!
LAKSHADWEEP SAMUDRAM
(By M.V Kavaratti)
Lakshadweep Samudram is a five-day trip on M.V Kavaratti to Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Minicoy. Daytime island tours include lunch and drinks ashore. Shipboard nights. M.V. Kavaratti has 150 Diamond rooms. Swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports are included in the day excursion. Children 1 year and older to 10 years are considered children.
SWAYING PALM PACKAGE
(M.V. KAVARATTI/ M.V. ARABIAN SEA/ M.V LASHADWEEP SEA/ M.V. AMINDIVI/ M.V. MINICOY)
Swaying Palm is a six- or seven-day Minicoy trip. Exclusive A/C cottages and other beachfront cottages house tourists. Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep Sea, Minicoy, Amindivi, and Kavaratti are among the destinations during the trip.
Marine Wealth Awareness Programme
(KADMAT ISLAND BY FLIGHT Via Agatti Island)
Marine Wealth Awareness Programme offers a 4–7-day trip to Kadmat to see marine life in its glory. The island offers 2-5 fun-filled days of swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Kadmat has a full-service water sports institute. The adventurous can scuba dive, windsurf, and parasail.
Scuba Dive Package
All diving gears are provided. Swimming skills and a doctor’s certificate of fitness for diving are required. Diving courses require fourteen years of age.
For More info, you can visit Lakshadweep.gov.in!
How Can You Reach – Planning A RoadMap
Lakshadweep Airport
Agatti Aerodrome (AGX) on Agatti Island is Lakshadweep Islands’ only airfield. Public airport Agatti Aerodrome serves Agatti Island and neighboring Lakshadweep islands. AAI operates Agatti Aerodrome, which has a 1,291-metre asphalt runway and one passenger terminal. Only Indian Airlines and Kingfisher Airlines serve Agatti Aerodrome. Both airlines fly to Kochi from Agatti Island. Kingfisher Airlines serves Agatti Island and Bangalore. Agatti Island is 7 kilometers long and easily walkable or biked.3
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FAQ
The Mangala Lakshadweep Superfast Express is a Superfast train in India that runs between Hazrat Nizamuddin in Delhi and Ernakulam Junction in Kochi, Kerala via the Konkan Railway route. It is operated by Southern Railway with 12617 / 12618 train numbers.
The minimum airfare for a Delhi to Agatti Island flights would be 12161. The recommended way to reach from New Delhi to Agatti Island is flight to Cochin International Airport, then flight to Agatti Airport and takes 14h 35m
There are Air India flights that reach Agatti in one and a half hours and these operate six days a week. From Agatti, if you want to travel to Kavaratti island, there are helicopter services which run
There are seven ships to Lakshadweep from Kochi, namely, MV Kavaratti, MV Lagoon, MV Amindivi, MV Corals, MV Minicoy, MV Lakshadweep Sea, and MV Arabian Sea.
Located in Mumbai, Cordelia Cruise offers a one-of-a-kind experience with their Mumbai to Lakshadweep cruise. This incredible journey takes you on a 5-day trip to the beautiful Lakshadweep islands
There are no direct flights availabe as of now! However, consider re-verifying.
Tags: #Lakshadweep population, #History of Lakshadweep, #Lakshadweep language, #Lakshadweep food, #Lakshadweep culture, #Lakshadweep cruise, #Lakshadweep tour packages, #Lakshadweep hotels
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