Lakshadweep, a paradise in the Arabian Sea, beckons travelers with its enchanting landscapes, azure lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. This tropical haven, boasting sunlit beaches and starlit nights, is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Before you embark on your Lakshadweep tour, here’s everything you need to know about this picture-perfect island getaway.
About Lakshadweep:
The name ‘Lakshadweep’ translates to “one lakh islands” in Sanskrit. Situated off the coast of Kerala, these islands offer a breathtaking aerial view resembling green emeralds set in a bed of turquoise blue seas. With only a few inhabited islands and five accessible for tourism, Lakshadweep prioritizes preserving its rich natural habitat. The islands are adorned with tropical vegetation, and the warm, breathable weather adds to the allure. The locals, known for their hospitality, welcome visitors with open arms.
Permit to Visit Lakshadweep:
Before entering Lakshadweep, a permit is mandatory. Travelers can apply for permission through authorized tour operators, typically booking package tours through the SPORTS quota. To simplify the process, booking accommodations in advance allows hotel authorities to coordinate with tourism officials on your behalf.
Getting to Lakshadweep:
Access to Lakshadweep is available via air or sea from Kochi, Kerala. Agatti, with its airstrip, connects to Kerala, and ferry services link Agatti to Kavaratti and Kadmat islands. Chopper services are available for Bangaram and Kavaratti islands.
Best Time to Visit:
Optimal travel to Lakshadweep is from October to mid-May, avoiding the challenging monsoon season from mid-May to September.
Places to Stay:
Luxury accommodations like Agatti Island Beach Resort, Bangaram Island Resort, and Kadmat Island Resort offer a delightful stay. Depending on your budget, resorts, homestays, and government lodges provide diverse options. Choosing tour packages inclusive of coral reefs and adventure sports enhances your Lakshadweep experience.
Places to Visit:
- Kadmat Island:
- Known for coconut tree-lined beaches and coral reefs.
- Kavaratti Island:
- Administrative capital with turquoise blue seas and white beaches.
- Offers water sports like snorkeling, water bikes, and parasailing.
- Kalpeni Island:
- Features uninhabited islands surrounded by lagoons and coral reefs.
- Ideal for beginners to enjoy scuba diving.
- Bangaram Island:
- Known for palm grooves, sand beaches, and thrilling adventure sports.
- Popular for scuba diving.
- Agatti Island:
- The only island with an airstrip, offering scenic vistas and blue lagoons.
- Activities include deep-sea fishing, kayaking, and boat rides.
- Viringli Island:
- No local inhabitants, offering solitude and a chance for fishing.
- Bitra Island:
- A serene location for relaxation, beachcombing, and interacting with villagers.
- Minicoy Island:
- Unique culture with a Maldivian language (Dhivehi).
- Lighthouse built by the British and traditional lava dance performances.
Activities and Adventures:
Lakshadweep offers a plethora of activities for both leisure seekers and adventure enthusiasts:
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving:
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs and marine life.
- Water Sports:
- Engage in kayaking, paddle boarding, and windsurfing in the crystal-clear lagoons.
- Cultural Experiences:
- Attend traditional dance performances and explore the local way of life.
- Lighthouse Climbing:
- Scale the lighthouses on various islands for panoramic views of the archipelago.
Shopping:
Indulge in shopping souvenirs like pure coconut oil and powder from Kadmat Island. Kavaratti Island offers fish pickles and exclusive keepsakes.
Food and Lifestyle:
Savor Lakshadweep’s cuisine, resembling Keralite food, with dishes like avail, coconut laddoos, and spicy seafood. Don’t miss trying Kadalakka, sugar-coated sweets made from pulses and ground rice.
Nightlife in Lakshadweep:
Alcohol is banned except on Bangaram Island. Enjoy quality time with family and friends in luxurious hotels, where barbecues and folk dance performances provide entertainment.
Moving Around:
Helicopters and speedboats facilitate island-hopping within Lakshadweep.
Local Language:
Locals speak English, Malayalam, and Mahl, with Dhivehi spoken at Minicoy Island.
Lakshadweep beckons with its unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. Armed with this guide, pack your bags, secure your permits, and get ready to explore the captivating paradise that is Lakshadweep.
