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Lakshadweep
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Nestled in the heart of the Arabian Sea, the pristine archipelago of Lakshadweep is a haven for travelers seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In 1956, the archipelago was designated as a Union Territory, and in 1973, it was officially named Lakshadweep. Prior to this, it was recognized as the Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands. The term "Lakshadweep" translates to "a hundred thousand islands," although there are only 36 islands, comprising 12 atolls and three reefs, ad only 10 of these islands are inhabited.
Agatti (island’s only airstrip) serves as the entry point for most visitors to Lakshadweep. The island is a visual treat, with its white beaches, turquoise waters, shimmering lagoons and coral formations. Water enthusiasts can indulge in activities like snorkeling, diving, and swimmig. Agatti's coral reefs are home to a myriad of marine life, making it a paradise for underwater exploration.
Stroll along the eastern beach to marvel at brilliant white coral in various shapes and sizes, surrounded by schools of colorful fish, live coral, sea anemones, starfish, and sea cucumbers in the shimmering waters. Immerse yourself in this underwater wonderland through snorkeling around the reefs or a glass-bottomed boat ride.
For a cultural and historical experience, explore the Golden Jubilee Museum, which houses a model of a traditional Minicoy sailboat and a collection of recovered jars and wooden chests from islands and shipwrecks. On the ground floor, discover two Buddha busts dating between the 9th and 12th centuries CE, offering insights into the island's pre-Islamic past. Another tourist hotspot is the Mohiyudeen Mosque, the oldest on the island.
Often referred to as the Jewel of Lakshadweep, Bangaram Island is a true tropical paradise. Accessible by a short boat ride from Agatti, Bangaram welcomes visitors with its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Covering 120 acres, Bangaram Island is devoid of permanent residents, welcoming only sporadic visitors from the nearby island of Agatti, home to the airport. Enclosed by a coral reef, the island features a shallow lagoon. Amidst the expansive coconut groves on Bangaram, there’s a diverse array of wildlife, including graceful fishers, porcupines, parrots, Puffer fishes, Hermit Crabs, and Seabirds. A short boat ride takes visitors to the pristine Bangaram Atoll shores from Agatti.
On the sandbars, observe crabs emerging from tiny pinholes or larger hideouts, with mounds of sand nearby. Striped, orange crabs stand tall, creating a unique spectacle. A stroll in the shallows during low tide offers a more textured experience of the lagoon. Divers and snorkelers can explore live coral, including branch coral adorned with fluorescent blue tips, patches of red-stained lumps, bread-like growths, brain coral, and table coral.
Kavaratti, the administrative capital of Lakshadweep, is not only known for its administrative significance but also for its rich cultural heritage. The island is home to numerous mosques, including the ornate Ujra Mosque with its intricate wood carvings and stunning architecture. While less frequented, Kavaratti Island is home to some of India's most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. With vibrant blue waters, pristine white sand, and colorful coral reefs teeming with life, Kavaratti is increasingly resembling a paradise. From Agatti ships and cruise vessels are available to Kavaratti.
The clear turquoise waters of Kavaratti harbor some of the liveliest coral reefs. It's a temptation that snorkelers and scuba divers will find impossible to resist in this stunning underwater world. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the world's largest leisure-diving organization, offers various programs from beginners to advanced levels. Diving bookings should be made through the SPORTS office in Kochi. Also visit the museum-cum-aquarium, featuring diverse shell varieties, including cowries once used as currency across the Indian Ocean. Explore remarkable corals and a multitude of fish species.
Kadmat Island, known for its serenity and untouched beauty, is a tranquil retreat for those seeking solitude. With its untouched coral reefs and lush green landscapes, Kadmat is a haven for nature lovers. The island is less crowded compared to its counterparts, offering a peaceful escape from the tourist hustle. Kadmat Island is approximately 77 km away from the nearest airport, Agatti. Passengers are transported from Agatti to Kadmat Island by a fast boat and are returned to Agatti in time for their departure.
Various water sports crafts, including kayaks, pedal boats, sailing yachts, skiing boats, and glass-bottomed boats, are available for rental. The island's scuba diving center has become a popular attraction for water sports enthusiasts.
The southernmost island of Lakshadweep, Minicoy, stands out for its distinctive Maldivian culture. The locals speak Mahl, write in Thana script for religious sonnets, and adopt a Maldivian style in their attire, resembling long toga-like capes. Minicoy, the southernmost island in the Lakshadweep Sea, boasts a stunning crescent shape and a magnificent lagoon with a secluded beach. The lake, surrounded by the sole cluster of mangroves in the Lakshadweep Islands, adds to the island's charm. Minicoy Island is approximately 300 km away from the airport. However, we recommend opting for the water route, as numerous passenger ships connect Kochi to Minicoy.
From stunning coral reefs to picturesque lagoons, and from coconut groves to thoughtfully arranged beach huts, Minicoy has a wealth of offerings. Whether you're into scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, kayaking, water skiing, deep-sea fishing, sailing, glass-bottom boat rides, or fishing, this place has all your interests covered. A stroll through vibrant villages along the shore unveils charmingly painted houses. Near Aloodi village, a local-followed old sundial reflects a time roughly 45 minutes behind IST and the 1885-built lighthouse provides unparalleled views.
Lakshadweep, with its captivating islands, diverse marine life, and rich cultural heritage, promises an unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you seek adventure in the vibrant coral reefs, relaxation on pristine beaches, or a taste of authentic cuisine, each island has something unique to offer.
