Top things to do in Lakshadweep as more Indians are ditching Maldives for this Indian archipelago

Discover the wonders of Minicoy Island

The rich underwater world of Lakshadweep. (Photo: Unsplash)

Whether you're a history buff or a passionate angler, this southernmost island of the archipelago will surely win your heart. Locally known as Maliku, Minicoy Island is a hidden gem with a mysterious history and unique culture. Apart from its immaculate white sand beaches one of Minicoy’s most fascinating highlights is a towering 300-foot-tall lighthouse built by the British in 1885. It provides an astounding vantage point over the immaculate blue seas and reefs of the crescent-shaped island.  The ankle-deep waters of Minicoy is also perfect for canoeing and kayaking. You can go solo or with a guide who will help you navigate the smooth waves and take you to his ‘secret’ spots. Watch out for ‘jahadhonis’ or traditional, colourful boats exclusively used for boat races and receiving dignitaries.

Indulge in water sports at Bangaram, Kadamat and Kavaratti islands

Snorkelling and scuba diving are the most sought after water sports at Lakshadweep. Don't worry if you're not a great swimmer; the lagoons in Lakshwadeep are rather shallow and predictable, making it simple even for inexperienced swimmers. Numerous islands provide training facilities where visitors may get expert assistance and safety precautions for participating in water sports. While Bangaram and Kadamat Island are the ideal spots for snorkelling, Kavaratti island with its own water sport training institute is best for scuba diving. Lagoon fishing is also a popular activity where anglers spend long hours on the placid waters in the tranquil time of the night.

Visit Kapleni island for a slower pace of island life

Lakshadweep makes for a serene getaway. (Photo: Unsplash)

One of the most beautiful islands of Lakshadweep the Kalpeni island is home to a stunning underwater world of coral reefs. The crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility to marvel at the corals, tropical fish and other fascinating marine creatures. Whether you dive into the depths or snorkel near the surface — you are bound to encounter parrotfish, butterflyfish, rays and even sea turtles. Kalpeni’s calm and shallow waters provide an ideal setting for swimming and kayaking too. Even a leisurely bicycle ride through the island's narrow lanes, passing by quaint houses, lush greenery, and picturesque vistas is memorable.

Look out for dolphins

Agatti Island, Lakshadweep. (Photo: Unsplash)

After watching them in movies and as figurines in gift shops watching dolphins leaping out of the water and swimming close to your boat can a surreal feeling. You can spot Bottlenose dolphins on Agatti and Bangaram Islands.

If you are lucky you can catch these playful creatures perform breathtaking dives into the ocean.

Eat your heart out

While exotic beaches and thrilling water sports remain a top attraction on the islands, the food in Lakhadweep is equally memorable. The Kerala influence is strong since Lakshadweep was part of Malabar district till the mid 1950s. Start with the popular snack fenvarabondi, made with tender coconut, rice and jaggery and steamed in banana leaf. Tuna caught fresh from the sea is hugely popular and used in aromatic curries, comforting stews or simply fried. If you love mussels you can’t miss the delicious Kallummekaya ularthiyathu — mussels cooked in a blend of spices, coconut and curry leaves. Then there is fried octopus and meen pappas a creamy fish curry which is a favourite of the locals and the tourists alike. It's not all fishy in Lakshadweep. Sannathu, a mixed vegetable preparation with sweet potato, papaya, pumpkin, taro, breadfruit, cooked in coconut milk and spiced with onion and chillies is sensational. It’s eaten with kirufoli, a thin savoury rice flour and coconut crepe. Wash it all down with neera, a juice extracted from the tender parts of the coconut tree and kulukki sarbath, a refreshing drink made of lemon, mint and soda.

Shop for handcrafted goods

The islanders make quaint home décor items, jewellery and other souvenirs from shells, oysters, corals and other stones. You can also buy coconut and seafood goods like fish oil, fish biscuits, coconut oil etc. The island markets in Agatti, Minicoy, or Kavaratti make for best places to shop.

Things to keep in mind before you go

Agatti Island runway in Lakshadweep. (Photo via Unsplash)

• To visit Lakshadweep you need an entry permit issued by the Lakshadweep Administration based in Kochi. To get the permit, you will first need to download a clearance certificate and get it cleared from your local police station (attach identification documents and three passport-size photos).


• You can reach Lakshadweep either by ship or via a flight from Kochi.


• If you are flying, pack light. Aircrafts are small and they have limited capacity.


• The best time to visit is from October to May when the weather is cool and the humidity is low.


• Depending on the number of islands you plan to visit, around 4 to 5 days are enough to explore Lakshadweep.


• Every water sport activity except glass-bottom boat ride and fishing are strictly for above 10 years old.


• BSNL and Airtel are the sole communication providers in Lakshwadeep.


• BSNL offers connectivity across all 10 inhabited islands while Airtel covers Kavaratti and Agatti islands.


• Bangaram Island is the only island that serves alcohol.