Home / Destinations / Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep Overview

India’s very own island destination that is brimming with scintillating beaches, turquoise waves, and lush greenery. Situated off the coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep is a group of 36 islands scattered in the Arabian Sea. Kavaratti is the capital which is very well connected to the other islands via boats and helicopters.

After the recent trip of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lakshadweep tourism has boomed like never before. More and more travellers are heading to this natural treasure of beauty. In fact, luxury hotels are being planned to enhance the travel experience. And why not? The islands deserve all the attention and love. Filled with beaches, lakes, coral reefs, and lagoons, these remote islands will leave you awestruck. The culture of Lakshadweep in itself is a vibrant experience you shouldn’t miss.

Every year millions of tourists every year, making tourism a significant part of its economy. The number is set to grow more. In this Lakshadweep travel guide, we will share everything you need to know for planning a trip – from Lakshadweep itinerary to things to do and where to stay. Keep reading!

Ideal Number of Days

While Lakshadweep may appear small on the map, the islands boast a wealth of attractions. So, when you plan a Lakshadweep itinerary, make sure you create one for at least 5 days. This way, you can visit the majority of the islands.

Moreover, a long trip will also give you enough time to get accustomed to the climate and culture. If you have more time and budget, you can extend your stay and visit other places in Lakshadweep as well.?

Best Time To Visit Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep has a tropical climate which means it is neither too cold nor hot. Lakshadweep temperature dwindles between 27°C and 32°C, making it a year-round destination for travellers. Even the rainy season in Lakshadweep is pleasant and refreshing.

That being said, every season has its perks. To find the best time to visit Lakshadweep, we have shared an overview of what the weather feels like in every season. Plus, we have also mentioned the festivals or events to help you make the most of your trip:

Read and decide which is the best month to visit Lakshadweep:

Lakshadweep In Summer (March To May): For adventure lovers, this is the best season for Lakshadweep trip. The weather is a little hot but it is perfect for all water sports like scuba diving, kayaking, snorkelling and so much more. The crystal clear waters also allure you to swim and spend time in the ocean. This is also when many tourists throng the islands for holidays, so make sure you book the accommodation and flights in advance.

Lakshadweep In Monsoon (June To August): Lakshadweep monsoon makes the island look like a paradise of greenery. The coast is no longer calm but roars with strong winds and waves. This also means that sometimes, it is not easy to reach the islands. If you still wish to plan the trip, visit the beautiful islands of Bangaram and Agatti which are serviced by direct flights from Kochi.

You can take part in tribal festivals that happen in this season or celebrate Id-Ul-Fitr at the mosques. Also since this is an offseason, you can grab awesome deals and discounts on hotels in Lakshadweep.

Lakshadweep In Winter Season (September To February): Apart from summer, winter in Lakshadweep is also the best season to visit. There is so much to see and so many things to do in Lakshadweep like sunbathing, island hopping, and even water sports.

Couples on honeymoon especially pick this Lakshadweep tourism season to spend quality time on private islands. You can also be part of festivals like Lakshadweep Minicoy Festival and learn more about the traditions and rich culture of the island.

Lakshadweep temperature

Month	January	February	March	April	May	June
High/Low (°C)	22°/ 30°	22°/ 30°	22°/ 30°	25°/ 34°	26°/ 35°	26°/ 35°

Month	July	August	September	October	November	December
High/Low (°C)	26°/ 34°	26°/ 34°	26°/ 33°	25°/ 35°	24°/ 31°	23°/ 30°

Historical Facts About Lakshadweep

The history of Lakshadweep is long and traces its roots back to the 1st century CE when it was first mentioned by a Greek sailor to be a place for tortoise shells. From then on, Lakshadweep history unveils the gradual influence of Islam, Hindu dynasties, Europeans, and the independence which shaped Lakshadweep’s culture and economy.

We've broken down Lakshadweep's history into different parts, highlighting important facts from ancient times to recent events.

Let's explore the story of Lakshadweep, step by step, from its early days to the present.

Arab Influence: The historical evidence suggests that they were visited by Arab sailors as early as the 7th century. The locals were primarily engaged in fishing and coir production.
Ancient Settlement (1500 BCE): Archaeological findings on Kalpeni indicate human settlement in Lakshadweep as far back as 1500 BCE.
Buddhist Influence (300 BCE): Jataka tales of Buddhism from 300 BCE mention the islands, suggesting the spread of Buddhism to the region.
Cheras Rule: References in Tamil Sangam literature point to the rule of the Cheras, one of the ancient Tamilakam kingdoms, in Lakshadweep.
Sailors and Traders (1st Century CE): The islands were known to sailors, as evidenced in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea from the 1st century CE.
Trade Route with Roman Empire (2nd Century CE): Archaeological evidence supports the existence of a trade route with the Roman Empire as early as the 2nd century CE.
Chola Rule (11th Century): In the 11th century, the Cholas took control, as indicated by inscriptions from Thanjavur.
European Colonization (15th Century): In the late 15th century, the Portuguese gained control, utilizing the islands for coir production until a local revolt expelled them in 1545.
Tipu Sultan's Rule (1787): Aminidivi islands came under Tipu Sultan's rule in 1787, later annexed to the British Raj in 1799 after the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War.
British Administration (1908): The British took over administration in 1908 due to non-payment of arrears, attaching Lakshadweep to the Madras Presidency.
Post-Independence Integration (1947): After Indian independence in 1947, Lakshadweep became part of the Dominion of India and the Madras State in 1950.
Union Territory Formation (1973): Lakshadweep, previously Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands, became a separate union territory on November 1, 1973.
Strategic Naval Establishment: Due to its strategic location, Lakshadweep has evolved into a key naval establishment, safeguarding vital shipping lanes to the Middle East.
Tourism Development: In the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century, there has been a gradual development of tourism in Lakshadweep. The islands attract tourists with their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and rich marine life.

Minicoy Island and Kavaratti Island

Calm, stunning, untouched – these are the three words that instantly pop in the minds when someone hears about Lakshadweep Islands. This cluster of islands has always invoked fascination since it seems like a paradise hidden away amidst the turquoise sea. But now more and more people are planning their trips to Lakshadweep and creating the best of itineraries.

If you are also planning a trip, here are the top 10 places to visit in Lakshadweep you should definitely add to your plan. Read on:

Minicoy Island: Minicoy Island is India’s best-kept secret brimming with natural beauty, refreshing weather, and cultural delight. The southern-most island, Minicoy Island has one of the largest coral reefs in Lakshadweep. But that is just one reason why this tops the list of the best places to visit in Lakshadweep. Minicoy Island also has white-sand beaches, mirror-like reflecting lakes, and the oldest lighthouse that stands tall against the sea.

The island is also home to 10 villages where you can plan a tour to learn more about Lakshadweep culture and be a part of their traditional festivals and dance performances. If you are lucky, you can also attend the lava dance which is performed on festive occasions.

Kavaratti Island: The capital of Lakshadweep, Kavaratti Island famous for its pristine beaches and stunning landscape. It is also home to over 50 mosques, with Ujra mosque being the most beautiful. There is also an aquarium where you can spot colourful fish and learn more about the marine life around the islands in Lakshadweep.

Plus, if you love water sports and marine life, there is also a Dolphin Dive Centre that will make your entire experience unforgettable and magical.

Kadmat Island And Thinnakara Island

Kadmat Island : Also known as Cardamom Island, this one belongs to the Amindivi subgroup of islands in Lakshadweep. It is long and narrow – shaped just like a strip! But this emerald isle is more than just its shape. This gorgeous island has everything you can expect from Lakshadweep tourist places – coral reefs, sun-kissed beaches, azure lagoon, shores lined with coconut trees, and a serene environment.

What more? It is a popular nesting spot for marine turtles. So, if you reach in time, you may witness the hatchings! Other than this, Kadmat Island is also famous for adventure activities like snorkelling, deep sea fishing, and so on.

Thinnakara Island: Crystal clear waters and exotic marine life – presenting to you another gem of Lakshadweep. Thinnakara Island is just 40 minutes away from Agatti, making it easy to add it to your Lakshadweep itinerary. It is located between Bangaram and Parali Islands.

The beautiful lagoon and flawless beaches make it a perfect spot to chill in peace. It gives you the vibe of being a private island with minimal hotels. Just like Kadmat, this island in Lakshadweep is also famous for water sports. But there’s one more thing not everyone knows. Thinnakara island is where you can see the magical blue glow on the beach at night, thanks to the phosphorescent plankton that gets washed ashore.

Agatti Island And Bangaram Atoll:

Agatti Island: A trip to Lakshadweep is incomplete without Agatti Island. The major reason is that this is the only island with an airport – making it easy to reach Lakshadweep. The other reason is its unmatched beauty. This slice of paradise is perfect for all travellers – be it solo wanderers or family people.

Apart from the beaches, you can also visit Kalpitti Village to glimpse into their traditions and customs. You can also try local dishes and interact with locals. There’s also a little market where you can buy local handicrafts, such as intricately woven mats and coir products.

Bangaram Atoll: When it comes to the places to visit in Lakshadweep, you can not leave Bangaram Atoll aside. This enchanting spot has idyllic beaches and flourishing marine life. You won’t believe but this little island is so pretty that some people spend 4-5 days just basking in its beauty.

Another reason is that Bangaram is the only island in Lakshadweep where sales and consumption of alcohol are permitted. This means, while you can enjoy the breath-taking lagoon in the day, you can also feel the party vibes at night.

Kalpeni Island And Kiltan Island

Kalpeni Island: Most of the Lakshadweep tourist spots are islands and why not – each of them will make you fall in love with the beaches. Kalpeni Island is also among them. This tropical masterpiece is a haven for water enthusiasts. You can run through the sandy beaches and dive deep into the sea to see vibrant coral gardens up close.

This inhabited atoll is a group of three islets – Tilakkam, Pitti and an uninhabited island on the north called Cheriyam. Pitti Islets is the love of bird enthusiasts as it is home to Pitti Bird Sanctuary. You can hire a boat to reach this secluded spot and watch exotic bird species like sooty tern, the greater crested tern, and the brown noddy.

Kiltan Island: If you are looking for places to visit in Lakshadweep to understand its culture, Kiltan Island is the perfect one. The island boasts of thick forests and probably the best beaches to explore.

This home of the Sufi saint Shaikh Ahmed Naqshabanthi is also one of the most populated islands in Lakshadweep. This means, you can find more hotels, more markets, and man-made structures. For instance, Kiltan Island has a 41-metre lighthouse and mosques as well.

Amini Island And Andrott Island

Amini Island: This small, oval-shaped island is another hidden gem not many people know about. Fringed by coconut palms and azure waters, Amini Island offers a perfect retreat into nature's lap. You can book resorts that have artificial wood finish decks from where you can see the best sunsets of your life.

You can also try adventurous activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, reef walking, and kayaking to turn a simple trip into a thrilling one.

Andrott Island: For those wanting to see Lakshadweep historical places, Andrott Island is a treasure. One of the largest islands in Lakshadweep, this island is famous for the Saint Ubaidullah Tomb in the Jumaat mosque. It is believed that it was Saint Ubaidullah who preached Islam in the Lakshadweep Islands.

You can also take a stroll through the narrow lanes where you can find coral-stone houses reflecting the rich culture of the island. Apart from ancient mosques, you can also see several Buddhist archaeological remains.

Snorkelling And Scuba Diving

A trip to Lakshadweep means lots of fun activities and the thrill of the sea. So whether you visit Kavaratti or Andrott Island, you will find plenty of things to do in Lakshadweep. We have jotted down the best ones to help you stay ready for adventure!

Snorkelling

One of the best things to do in Lakshadweep is snorkelling. This exhilarating activity takes you underwater to witness the vibrant coral reefs and marine life in Lakshadweep. There are plenty of centres where you can book snorkelling in Lakshadweep but when it comes to which island is the best, we would suggest you to head to Kavaratti, Thinnakara, and Bangaram islands for the perfect experience. These locations are famous for their stunning coral reefs.

Note that anyone above 10 years can do snorkelling in Lakshadweep under expert’s supervision. The gear is provided by the tour operators and the activity lasts for 30-45 minutes.

Scuba Diving

If you love adrenaline-pumping thrill, then scuba diving in Lakshadweep should definitely be on your bucket list. Unlike snorkelling, scuba diving takes you deep into the sea to see the untamed waters and swim amidst unique fishes, plants, coral reefs, and even shipwrecks!

The best places for scuba diving in Lakshadweep are Agatti Island, Bangaram Island, Minicoy and Kavaratti Islands. All these islands are known for magnificent coral reefs and the mighty sea. Scuba diving in Kavaratti also takes you to explore caves underwater to make the whole experience even more thrilling.

Fishing And Kite Surfing

Fishing

Fishing in Lakshadweep is not just a source of income but also a fun activity that tourists love to take a part in. You can book a fishing tour where they teach you different forms of fishing such as deep sea fishing, recreational fishing and kayak fishing. Some people also try night lagoon fishing and learn the tricks from local fishermen. You can catch sport fish like Tuna, Kingfish, Barracuda, Shark, Snappers, Bonefish, Stonefish, wahoo to name a few.

One of the most popular spots for fishing in Lakshadweep is Kadmat island which you can reach through a short helicopter ride from Agatti island. Some private resorts also offer fishing as a part of their package. This means, all you need to do is enjoy the sport and the other things will be taken care by the resort.

Kite Surfing

Kite surfing in Lakshadweep is an adventure sport you can’t miss. This one takes you on a whirlwind where you feel like flying the azure waters. For this, you can visit any island since all of them offer amazing views and perfect conditions. But if you want to hit the popular places, Kadmat Island is the best place to do kite surfing in Lakshadweep.

Just make sure you practice staying steady, even amidst strong winds to enjoy the sport. You will get dedicated instructors who will ensure that you feel comfortable and safe.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Canoeing

If you have added Minicoy Island to your Lakshadweep itinerary, you should definitely try canoeing. In this incredible beautiful experience, you glide through the serene lagoons in a traditional canoe. And since the water at Minicoy Island is calm and the surroundings are picturesque, it is the ideal spot for canoeing. Plus, the depth of water is also hardly 2 to 3 meters. This means beginners and non-swimmers don’t feel afraid.

This is a great option for those who are interested in water sports but are not comfortable with the adventure that comes with snorkelling or surfing. This activity may seem a bit difficult in the beginning but once you gain the confidence, it’s quite easy and safe. You can also ask the guide to sit with you in case you are afraid.

Kayaking

Just like canoeing, kayaking is also quite popular Lakshadweep’s things to do. You can paddle your way through the scenic beauty of Kadmat Island. The calm and shallow waters surrounding the island provide a perfect setting for kayaking, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

If you want a different experience, try kayaking in Pitti Bird Sanctuary. Here, you can kayak through the sanctuary while also spotting diverse bird species. Just make sure you have all the permits since this is a protected area and you will need special permissions to enter the sanctuary. v Glass-bottomed boat ride

One of the most unique and latest things to do in Lakshadweep is glass-bottomed boat ride. As the name suggests, you get the chance to explore the waters of Lakshadweep on a boat with a glass bottom so that you can get a glimpse of the marine beauties.

This is a great activity for people who can’t swim or are afraid of water. From the glass bottom, you can see the stunning views of the marine creatures including colourful reefs, colourful fishes, aquatic vegetation, other aquatic animals and many more.

Island Hopping and Enjoy Nightlife

Island Hopping

Those who want to visit most of the islands in Lakshadweep in less time would love island hopping. You can hire boats that will take you to the stunning islands. Usually, such tours cover three to four islands. The most famous ones are Agatti, Bangaram, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kadmat, Minicoy, and Thinkarra islands.

If you want a more lavish and extended tour, book a five-day cruise to visit the islands via ship.

Enjoy Nightlife

Lakshadweep is not just about water activities; you can also feel the thrill of night at the cafes and restaurants. While the nightlife isn’t as buzzing as in Goa, you can enjoy amazing drinks, dine at barbeque, and see folk dance performances.

To make the most of your nightlife, we would suggest you to head to Bangaram Island or Agatti Islands. Or if you have booked a luxurious resort, they also arrange different activity along with dinner to enhance your experience. In these tours, you will have to stay on boat at night while you explore the islands in the day.

Shopping

Shopping is also one of the best things to do in Lakshadweep. Here, you can find handicraft items made out of corals, oysters, shells, and coconut coir. From jewellery to home décor items, there is a large variety to choose from. You can also buy handmade sarees from Fibre Factor in Kavaratti.

Day, 1,2 and 3

A trip to Lakshadweep can be long and exciting as there are lot of places to explore and things to do in Lakshadweep.

Below, we have created a general Lakshadweep itinerary for 7 days. Read and change as per your plans and budget:?

Day 1: Arrival in Agatti

Arrive at Agatti Island, the gateway to Lakshadweep.
Check into your accommodation and relax.
Enjoy a leisurely evening on the beach.

Day 2: Agatti Exploration

Explore Agatti's coral reefs by snorkelling or diving.
Visit the Agatti Island Beach for a relaxing day.
Take a stroll in the local markets to experience the island culture.

Day 3: Transfer to Kavaratti

Travel to Kavaratti, the capital of Lakshadweep.
Check-in to your accommodation.
Visit Kavaratti's Ujra Mosque and take a walk around the town.

Day 4, 5, 6 and 7

Day 4: Kavaratti Water Activities

Snorkel or dive in the clear waters of Kavaratti.
Visit the Marine Aquarium and Museum.
Relax on Kavaratti's beautiful sandy beaches.

Day 5: Thinnakara Excursion

Take a boat trip to Thinnakara Island.
Enjoy the pristine beaches and indulge in water activities like snorkelling or dive sea diving.
Explore the coral reefs and marine life around the island.

Day 6: Bangaram Island

Travel to Bangaram Island, known for its stunning coral formations.
Relax on the white sandy beaches or visit the nearby Pitti Bird Sanctuary in Kalpeni Island.
Engage in water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, or scuba diving.

Day 7: Leisure Day and Departure

Spend a leisurely day exploring the local markets or relaxing on the beach.
Depart from Lakshadweep with beautiful memories.

If you don’t have much time, we would suggest you to go for a Lakshadweep itinerary for 5 days. You can also explore other islands by booking a cruise that’ll cover them without any hassle.

Top Suggested Accommodation in Lakshadweep

For a truly magical and comfortable trip to Lakshadweep, you ought to book the best places to stay in Lakshadweep. Since the islands in Lakshadweep are small and the entry is restricted, the number of hotels and resorts are limited. So, make sure you book in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

To help you make the right choice, we have jotted down some places to stay in Lakshadweep based on their ratings. You can select them as per your budget and needs. Let’s get started!

Top 5-Star Hotels In Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is mostly considered a luxury escape where couples and family go for a peaceful retreat. This means, you can find plenty of resorts and hotels that ooze opulence and magnificence. A few of the best ones are:

Bangaram Island Resort
The Lalit Resort & Spa
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
Seashells Resort Agatti
J Resort

Top 4-Star Hotels In Lakshadweep

Finding a 4-star hotel in Lakshadweep is also easy. Here is a list to make it even easier for you:

Coraline Beach Resort
The Kadmat Beach Resort
Agatti Island Beach Resort
Coral Beach Resort
Kavaratti Island Beach Resort
Turtle Nest Resort

Best Budget Hotels in Lakshadweep

Best Budget Hotels in Lakshadweep

Minicoy Island Beach Resort
Kasims Beach Villa
Turtle Nest Resort
White Pearl Beach Hotel

In addition to ratings, you can also make a decision based on the best area to stay in Lakshadweep. For instance, if you are visiting for the first time, then Agatti is the best island to stay in Lakshadweep as it hosts plenty of attractions, hotels, and restaurants. Plus, this is the only island which hosts flights from India and other international countries. Agatti Island is also well connected to other islands like Kalpeni, Kavaratti, and Bangaram.

Similarly, you can pick hotels based on who you are going with. There are wide range of options available if you are looking either for the best hotels in Lakshadweep for families or for couples.? Overall, it is good to determine what you wish to do and your budget before picking a hotel.

Famous Places To Eat in Lakshadweep

Good food makes a trip even better. So when it Lakshadweep, don’t forget to try out the local dishes at the best restaurants. All islands in Lakshadweep have their fair share of restaurants where you can find not just local dishes but also cuisines from all over the world.

We have listed below some of the best restaurants in Lakshadweep based on their specialities. Read and get ready to try all these best places to eat in Lakshadweep:

Top Restaurants in Lakshadweep You Must Visit

Heavens Treat Beach Restaurant
Ukka's Beach Restaurant
Z Corner
Agatti Island Beach Resort Restaurant
Bangaram Island Resort Restaurant

Top Restaurants in Lakshadweep For Sea Food

Coral Reef Restaurant
Lagoon Restaurant
Island Breeze Restaurant
SeaShells Restaurant

Top Restaurants in Lakshadweep For Vegetarians

Sea Line Restaurant
Ocean Breeze
Green Leaf Café
Veggie Delight

Best Cafes in Lakshadweep

Cafe de Saina (Kavaratti Island)
Island Coffee House
Coral Café:
Blue Lagoon Café
Cafe Arabian Sea

How To Reach Lakshadweep?

Travellers can reach Lakshadweep either via ship or flights. If you wish to know how to reach Lakshadweep from Delhi or some city other than Kochi, we would suggest you to take direct flight to Kochi or a train and then follow the route we are going to mention below:

Lakshadweep By Flight: Lakshadweep has only one airport in Agatti Island that hosts direct flights from Kochi. There are several Indian airlines that operate on a daily basis. The flight takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Agatti from where you take boats or helicopters to reach other islands in Lakshadweep. Tourists from other countries are also required to first reach Kochi and then take a flight to reach Lakshadweep.

Lakshadweep By Ship: There are several cruise ships that reach Lakshadweep from Kochi, Beypore, Mangalore, Mumbai, and Goa. So if you wanted to know how to reach Lakshadweep from Mumbai, this might be an exciting way. A cruise trip to Lakshadweep also takes you to some of the most popular islands in Lakshadweep like Minicoy, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Kadmat. But these luxurious trips can be long and costly. Some ships take 14-18 hours to reach Lakshadweep from Kochi. A few of the famous ships from Kochi are called MV Minicoy, MV Amindivi, MV Bharat Seema and MV Tipu Sultan.

Important Note: Lakshadweep is not open to all and the Indian government has several restrictions. Thus, before you plan a trip to Lakshadweep, make sure you apply for a permit in Kochi. The permit is issued by Lakshadweep administration after which you will require a clearance certificate and then get it cleared by a local police station. Make sure you attach the identification documents and then three passport-size photos. Upon reaching Lakshadweep, you will have to show your entry permit and clearance certificate to finally enter the island.

Take a Quiz

Can't finish the course?