Lakshadweep Island Beaches
Lakshadweep partly submersed in the blue waters of the Arabian sea spell bounds its visitors with its emerald isles. The panoramic view of the island decorated with the wonderful lagoons, sylvan sea shores with the swaying palm trees waits in open arms to welcome its visitors. Lakshadweep unfolds the mystery of its rich marine life with the tall coconut trees in the vicinity.
Places Covered: Lakshadweep Island Beaches

Lakshadweep Island Beaches

Lakshadweep Island Beaches
Just off the coast of Kerala are a widely scattered group of coral islands – 36 of them – collectively known as Lakshadweep. They form part of the Union of India and are one of the country’s newest tourist destinations. Ten of the islands are inhabited by simple, peace-loving folk whose language is close to that spoken in Kerala. The islanders have lifestyles and occupations that revolve around coconut cultivation, coir matting and fishing. Even today, nothing is actually produced in the islands themselves, and everything comes from the ’mainland’, as India is somewhat quaintly referred to there. Tourism’s major focus is on water sports, as each of the islands are surrounded by a coral reef providing large areas of crystal clear water for everything from snorkeling to wind surfing. The five islands which are open to tourists have simple accommodation in the shape of beach cottages. Permits to visit Lakshadweep can be obtained from the Lakshadweep tourist office in Cochin. Regular flights operate from Cochin to one of the islands, as well as modestly priced ship cruises which stop at all the islands open to tourism. These cruises begin and end at Cochin. While equipment for water sports is available at the islands themselves, not much in the way of shopping and entertainment is possible as yet. Lakshadweep is the perfect holiday for those who want to get away from the artifices of the world and enjoy a few days in simple yet stunningly beautiful surroundings.

Bangaram Island
This is a tourist paradise, and is the only island that allows foreigners. It has calm placid lagoons, bordered by soft white-sand beaches. Scuba diving, swimming, sun-bathing, and exploring the coral reefs keep you occupied the entire day. You can see shoals of colourful tropical fish, beautiful coral formations, a variety of other underwater creatures such as octopus, rays, starfish, sea anemones and crabs. On the water's surface you can see turtles and dolphins. This island has the more up-market resorts, but it might be worth paying for the exclusivity and peaceful atmosphere.

Kavaratti Island
These islands have the administrative headquarters and the homes of many of the local people. The tourism infrastructure is well-developed here, although you might miss the peace and quiet. There is a choice of water sports facilities, hotels and restaurants. The beaches are beautiful with white sands and turquoise lagoons.

Agatti Island
This is the island which has the only airport of Lakshadweep. You can make this your base and make day trips to the other scenic islands such as Bangaram, Parali I and II, and Tinnakara.

Kadmat Island, Kalpeni Island
This island has the Water Sports Institute and the Lacadives Diving School. You can utilize the facilities of both these institutes for snorkeling and scuba diving, under the supervision of trained guides. Visit the Kalpeni Island for it enormous and shallow lagoon with the largest variety of coral reefs.

Minicoy Island
You can see the villages of the local people in this island and experience their rich culture and heritage. This island also has a large stretch of mangrove and a wide and peaceful beach and lagoon. An old lighthouse built by the British gives you panoramic views of the archipelago.