Lakshadweep is one of the world’s most spectacular tropical islands. Lying 200-300km off the coast of Kerela, it is the smallest union territory of India comprising of 12 coral atolls, 3 coral reefs, 5 banks and many islets. The total number of islands in Lakshadweep is 36. among the total 10 inhibited islands, only 4 of them are open for tourists. Kavaratti is the capital island. Lakshadweep can be reached by flights and passenger ship services from Cochin. The main airport is in Agatti and from there helicopter transfers to Kavaratti are arranged.

Malyalam is the spoken language in all islands except Minicoy where people speak Mahl, which is also spoken in the Maldives. The climate in Lakshadweep is warm, tropical-humid. The temperature ranges from 22 degree to 33 degree, which changes a bit in winters making the weather cooler.

The best time to visit the islands is between September and May as the Lakshadweep administration organizes package tour for tourists. In an attempt to conserve the ecology and culture of Lakshadweep, only some of the islands have been opened up for tourism and water sports.

All visitors ( both Indian & Foreign Nationals ) to Lakshadeep Islands require entry permit.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR
The Lakshadweep group of islands are well connected to Cochin. Islands like Agatti and Bangaram have airports whereas the rest of the islands have regular helicopter services.

BY SEA
You can take a cruise to Kavaratti from Kochi. The vessels have all the facilities like video shows, cafeteria, entertainment lounge etc. during monsoons, ship based tourism is closed for safety reasons.

MUST SEE

KAVARATTI
The capital island is located 404 km from Cochin. The climate there is moderate. It is the headquarters of the Union Territory administration since 1964. Marine life exhibits cab be seen at the marine aquarium which has an excellent collection of specimens. You can also get an eyeful of coral formations under water from the glass- bottomed boats. Kavaratti is also famous for its 52 mosques, the most famous being the Urja mosque, which has water with magical healing powers. Helicopter transfers from Agatti to Kavaratti are available through out the year.

MINICOY
Minicoy, is located 398 km from Cochin and can be reached by ships from Agatti. It is one of the largest and southern-most islands in lakshadweep with a unique form of language, dress and food.The lighthouse of the island is one of the oldest and was constructed in 1885. Excursions here include – Tunna canning factory, the lighthouse and a long drive through dense coconut grooves.

BANGARAM
Shaped like a teardrop, the Bangaram island is encircled with picturesque blue-green waters. This island located 459 km from Cochin, has a warm climate all round the year and is a paradise for divers with its exquisite coral formations. It is a beautiful and breathtaking island in Lakshadweep. It has been ranked among the best getaways of the world, with Bangaram island resort, offering luxury beach huts and private villa’s. Helicopter transfers from Agatti to Kavaratti are available through out the year.