As much as it is a stunning destination, Lakshadweep (literally, a hundred thousand islands) has always remained understated and a bit taciturn about its charms. All that changed at the beginning of this year. While it shot into limelight with the high-profile visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it got much more attention as it got caught in international cross-fire between India and Maldives.
A predominant fallout was that Lakshadweep was swept into an unfair comparison with Maldives and people began extolling its virtues favourably over the other. It began trending on social media platforms and endless reels were churned out. Currently, the archipelago is a hot-ticket destination. While it sits in an ecologically vulnerable position and needs thoughtful tourism, it has also eased its entry restrictions, so here’s how to get there and make the most of the visit.
Know the archipelago
Lakshadweep is an archipelago of 36 islands, 12 atolls and three reefs in the Arabian Sea. Spread over just 32 sq. km, it is the country’s smallest Union Territory, located about 200-440 km from its nearest point on India’s west coast, depending on the island. Less than a dozen of the islands are inhabited, of which about six (Agatti, Kadmat, Bangaram, Minicoy, Kavaratti and Kalpeni) are geared towards tourists. The islands can be reached via flight (about an hour) or passenger ship (cruise time of 14-18 hours); Kochi is the gateway for both. High season lasts from October to May; only a handful of islands are approachable during the monsoons. But a crucial point to note is that entry to Lakshadweep is restricted and all visitors (except a few categories of officials and their families) need a permit that is issued by the Lakshadweep Administration based in Kochi. However, the procedure is much easier and visitor-friendly compared to a few years ago. (More information and requirements are available here).
The allure
From afar and the air, Lakshadweep looks like a set of emeralds placed against a backdrop of sparkling aquamarine. Though just a handful of islands are tourist-friendly, they hold a world of charm within them. What makes these islands, and the archipelago in general, alluring is the spectacular, but also extremely vulnerable, coral reef that fringe them and the pristine beauty that surrounds them. These are tranquil lagoons, rich and diverse marine wealth, jaw-dropping kaleidoscopic underwater views, unspoiled white- and golden-sand beaches, and an indigenous culture that is eye-opening. History, heritage, architecture, culture and cuisine all mingle to provide for a memorable experience. Not to mention, of course, the variety of adventure activities, especially water sports, that are a huge draw for adrenaline junkies.
The islands
Even though only six islands are focussed on tourist activity, visitors are spoilt for choice. Agatti, which is the only island with airport, is the most accessible and has a stunning lagoon with calm tranquil beaches.
Bangaram, a teardrop shaped island, is close to Agatti, is a hub of activity with two other islands close by. It is almost uninhabited and provides a serene experience with its unspoilt beaches and landscape. This is also the island which is known for its surreal glowing waters at night, the result of phosphorescent plankton washed ashore.
Kadmat is a beautiful elongated finger-like island, almost 8km long and only 550m at its widest. It is known for its palm-fringed lagoons in the east and west which are ideal for water sports and adventure activities such as sailing, kayaking, pedal boats; glass-bottomed boats can also be hired to view the marine underwater life. There is also a dive centre for those interested in scuba diving. The island has long sandy beaches as well as sand banks.
Kavaratti is the most populated island and is rich in heritage and culture with beautiful mosques and food. While it also has lagoons and adventure activities, the marine aquarium is worth a visit for the extensive collection of marine creatures and offers a glimpse to those who prefer not to venture into the water.
Kalpeni is part of an atoll of with Tilakkam, Pitti and the uninhabited Cheriyam. This island is particularly preferred for undersea enthusiasts for its huge storm bank of coral debris that was supposedly deposited by a storm in 1847.
Of all the islands, Minicoy is isolated since it is about 200 km south. It has a cluster of 11 villages, and is distinct from the other islands in terms of language, dress and culture. It is known for the traditional lava dance. A 300-ft-tall colonial era lighthouse serves as a distinctive landmark.
Things to do
Lakshadweep lets visitors enjoy the seascapes in various ways. Apart from long walks, lounging on the unspoilt beaches and splashing around the water, or venturing into the islands for cultural and nature experiences, water sports and adventure activities are the mainstay. Almost all islands have kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides. For those more adventurous, there is scuba diving with dive centres located in Kadmat, Kavaratti and Minicoy. For fishing and angling enthusiasts, there is also deep-sea fishing. If you are lucky, you can also spot dolphins and sharks. Possibly the best way to travel to and around the islands is through one of the several packages, lasting between 4 and 7 days, provided by the administration. Each is tailored keeping various interests in mind and provides a sampling of the archipelago’s charms. (More information is available here).
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