PEAKLIFE

By Neha Mehrotra

Paradise is an overused word in conjunction with islands, yet the very idea of a secluded islet has a calming effect on those of us caught up in the hustle of city life. It evokes images of clear skies, swaying hammocks, turquoise seas, and soft white sand. A grand display of white sandy beaches, plam grooves, and a serene coastal life, Lakshadweep is all this and then some more. Nestled in the Arabian Sea, this lesser-explored island stands as India’s tropical haven, offering more than just the typical island charm. From secluded spots to coral reefs and exciting adventures, our comprehensive travel guide is your key to exploring all the essential details before you embark on your visit to the Lakshadweep Islands.

Getting There

There are two modes of travel to Lakshadweep, i.e., flights or ships. From Kochi, there are Air India flights that reach Agatti in one and a half hours. Through the sea, seven ships—MV Arabian Sea, MV Dweep Setu, MV Kavaratti, MV Bharat Seema, MV Minicoy, MV Lakshadweep Sea, and MV Amindivi Sea—transport people to Lakshadweep from Kochi, which takes 14–20 hours. You can also book a cruise from Mumbai, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, and Kochi.

Lakshadweep requires special permits for non-residents to visit, which can be obtained online or through the Lakshadweep Tourism Department.

Places to Visit

Bangaram Island

This uninhabited, tear-shaped atoll is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, and deep-sea fishing. Amidst lush greenery and coconut groves, visitors can stroll along nature trails, discovering the island’s beauty. This eco-paradise also boasts a bird sanctuary and a turtle hatchery, adding to its natural allure. You must come to the seashore at night when the phosphorescent plankton wash ashore and give a blue glow to the seashore.

Agatti

Agatti is one of the most beautiful isles in Lakshadweep, with milky white sands and turquoise waters, coconut and palm groves, and a reef. It’s also one of the few islands that is inhabited, so take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of this island and savour delicious food. You can also visit the Golden Jubilee Museum, where you can find models of a traditional Minicoy sailboat, wooden chests recovered from islands, and a few shipwrecks. Also, visit the Mohiyudeen Mosque, the oldest mosque on the island.

Kavaratti Island

It’s the most developed island in Lakshadweep, with 12 atolls, three coral reefs, and white sand beaches. It houses the Kavaratti Aquarium, a must-visit destination for exploring the diverse marine life of Lakshadweep. Another popular attraction is the Ujra Mosque, known for its exquisite architecture and serene surroundings. You can also visit the Lakshadweep Diving Academy and participate in a range of programmes or water sports levelled from beginners’ to advanced.

MiniCoy Island

The island, locally known as Maliku, is an ideal place for sightseeing because of its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear water, and white sandy shores. Being the second-largest islet on Minicoy Island, it is secluded from the main group of islands, so you can experience some privacy here. The long stretch of shore is dotted with coconut trees and creates the perfect idyllic environment for the tourists. Look for the Minicoy lighthouse, built during the British regime, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding seascape.

Kadmat Island

Kadmat boasts fantastic underwater visibility, making it an ideal destination for glass-bottom boat rides, thrilling water sports including deep-sea diving, scuba diving, snorkelling, the serene experience of kayaking, and more. The coral island has a vibrant marine life, and the primary source of income here is fishing; it’s also a great spot to try some of the locally cooked catch. The island is scarcely populated and makes for a great, quiet getaway.

Accomodations

Lakshadweep provides a plethora of accommodation options tailored to your preferences. For a honeymoon experience, consider the White Pearl Beach Hotel, renowned for its exclusive candlelight dinners, homemade culinary delights, and a range of activities such as fishing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. If you seek breathtaking views of tropical islands, the Agatti Island Beach Resort is an excellent choice. Its boat-styled rooms, inviting ambiance, and captivating sunrise and sunset vistas have earned it the highest ratings among Lakshadweep hotels. Alternatively, the Bangaram Island Resort offers beach proximity and top-notch amenities, while the Kadmat Beach Resort provides a serene setting. The Kalpeni Tourist Hut promises excellent accommodations, beachside dining arrangements, local cuisine, and vibrant folk dance performances.

What to Eat

The cuisine of Lakshadweep is a delightful blend of influences from Kerala and the Malabar Coast. Coconut and seafood play a significant role, with dishes like Mas Huni, a spicy fish curry; Avial, a vegetarian dish cooked in coconut milk; and Mus Kavaab, a zesty tuna curry, being local favourites. Apart from seafood, locals really enjoy rice, which is used as a staple. Popular snacks include Fenvarabondi, made with tender coconut, rice, and jaggery, steamed in a banana leaf, and Bisfarata, a mini-fried paratha flavoured with gulkand. For your sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the Dweep Halwa and Batla Appam, a steamed sweet delicacy made of eggs, flour, sugar, and cardamom.