Lakshadweep Guide – A Guide for you to plan your Lakshadweep Tour Soon

Lakshadweep is a group of 36 islands. These islands are spread across the Arabian Sea. Even though it was one of the lesser-known destinations, now it has reached a lot of people. With its white sandy beaches, coral reefs, clear waters and unique culture, this group of islands offers an untouched and serene getaway. If you love nature and even if you are an adventure seeker, Lakshadweep has a lot to satiate you. This Lakshadweep guide aims to provide a lot of information to help plan a trip to these islands.

Planning a trip to Lakshadweep, one of the best travel destinations for couples in India needs a lot of planning and preparation. This is because of the remote location of the islands. Also, some access restrictions apply. The group of islands follow unique tourism regulations as well. Let us start this Lakshadweep Guide by throwing some light on its history:

History of Lakshadweep

The history of these islands is associated with cultural exchange and maritime trade. The earliest explorers of these islands are known to have reached here by 1500 BC. However, the recorded history of these islands dates back to the 7^th century. This was the time when Islam was introduced by Arab traders, who visited this region.

These islands were under the rule of different dynasties including the Cheras and Cholas before they came under the influence of the Portuguese. This happened during the 16^th Century.  In 1799, these islands came under the British Empire. Even though India got its independence in 1947, Lakshadweep became part of Independent India only in 1956. Due to its unique biodiversity and culture, this region continues to be a Union Territory and not a state.

The rich history of Lakshadweep continued to evolve. This happened only after its integration into India. Due to its strategic location close to the Arabian Sea, during British Rule, it was administered by the Colonial government. After these islands became part of India, Kavaratti was declared its capital.

Over many decades and centuries, these islands experienced a combination of colonial, Arab and Indian influences. This happened particularly in its architecture, language and culture. Islam became the predominant religion in this region from the 7^th century as the religion was introduced by Legendary Saint Ubaidullah. The islands thrived initially on coconut cultivation and fishing. However, later tourism also started generating revenue. Now, Lakshadweep tourism remains the key to the economy of these islands.

How to Reach Lakshadweep?

You might be travelling from Bangalore, Mumbai or Delhi. You can travel by different means like flight, train or bus to reach Lakshadweep. In this Lakshadweep guide, I would like to share how to reach these islands from three major Indian cities:

Bangalore

Lakshadweep is located more than 600 km away from Bangalore. The quickest mode of transportation to reach Lakshadweep from Bangalore is by flight. When you choose this mode, you can reach the islands within 2 hours.

In case you are particular about affordable means of transportation, you travel from Bangalore to Cochin by train. Then, from Cochin, you can take a flight to reach Lakshadweep. In this way, you can reach Lakshadweep within around 10 hours. Here are some options to travel from Bangalore to Lakshadweep:

• Flight from Bangalore to Lakshadweep
• Flight from Bangalore to Calicut and again a flight to Lakshadweep from Calicut
• Travelling by train from Bangalore to Calicut and then a flight from Calicut to Lakshadweep
• Bangalore to Calicut by bus and then by flight from Calicut to reach Lakshadweep
• From Bangalore to Malappuram by flight and again a flight from Malappuram to Lakshadweep
• By car from Bangalore to Malappuram and a flight to Lakshadweep from Malappuram
• Flight to Cochin from Bangalore and again a flight from Cochin to Lakshadweep
• Train to Cochin from Bangalore and flight from Cochin to Lakshadweep
• Bus to Cochin from Bangalore and flight from Cochin to Lakshadweep
• Flight from Bangalore to Thalassery, flight from Thalassery to Malappuram and again a flight from Malappuram to Lakshadweep.

Irrespective of the mode you choose, make sure to book your tickets in advance. When you book flights early, you can save money as well.

Mumbai

Mumbai is more than 1000 km away from Lakshadweep. If you would like to reach Lakshadweep quickly from Mumbai, you can take a flight via Goa. This journey will take around 4 hours. If you are looking for an affordable mode of transportation, you can take a train to reach Goa. From Goa, you can take a flight to reach Lakshadweep. Here are some travelling options:

There are no direct flights from Mumbai to Lakshadweep. So, you will have to break the trip. Here are a few options available:

• Travel by flight from Mumbai to Goa. From Goa, you can take a flight again to reach Lakshadweep
• You can travel to Goa by train from Mumbai. Then, you can travel by a flight to reach Lakshadweep from Goa.
• You can also travel from Mumbai to Pune either by flight, train or bus. Then, from Pune, you can fly to Goa. From Goa, again you can fly to Lakshadweep.
• Instead of Pune, you can also choose to reach Navi Mumbai. From Navi Mumbai, you can reach Goa by flight and then Lakshadweep by flight from Goa.
• You can also travel from Mumbai to Kolhapur. From Kolhapur, you can take a flight to Goa. From Goa, again, take a flight to reach Lakshadweep
• Travel from Mumbai to Calicut by flight. Again, take a flight from Calicut to Lakshadweep.

Delhi

Similar to Mumbai, there are no direct flights from Delhi to Lakshadweep. So, you have no other option than splitting your trip into two or three parts. Here are a few options.

Delhi is located at a distance of more than 2100 km from Lakshadweep. As there is no direct flight from the Indian capital, you can choose one of these options based on your convenience and travel budget:

• From Delhi you can take a flight to Bangalore. From Bangalore, you can again take a flight to reach Lakshadweep. There is no direct flight service from Delhi to Lakshadweep.
• Instead of Bangalore, you can also reach Goa by flight from Delhi. From there, you can take another flight to reach Lakshadweep.
• The third option is to travel to Cochin by flight from Delhi. You can take another flight from Cochin to reach Lakshadweep.
• You can also travel in the same way via Calicut or Malappuram
• If you cannot find direct flights to Bangalore from Delhi, you can take flights to Hyderabad or Indore. From these cities, you can reach Bangalore by flight. Then, again a flight to Lakshadweep.
• Otherwise, you can travel by flight to Pune, Raipur or Ahmedabad. From these cities, you can take flights to Bangalore. From Bangalore, you can take direct flights to Lakshadweep.

Key Attractions and Things to Do in Lakshadweep

Key Attractions in Lakshadweep

As mentioned earlier in this Lakshadweep guide, Lakshadweep is a combination of islands. Here are a few islands, you can visit when you are at Lakshadweep:

Kalpeni Island

This island is popular for its attractive coral reefs and lagoons. If you love beach walks and water sports, you should not miss out on visiting this island. You can expect a quiet retreat when you visit this island as it is less commercialized comparatively.

Minicoy Island

This island in Lakshadweep is known for its distinct culture. This is due to its proximity to the Maldives. It is popular for its historical lighthouse, tuna fishing and traditional dance. From the lighthouse, you can get stunning panoramic views.

Kadmat Island

Kadmat is popular for its long stretches of sandy beaches and water sports. If you love adventure sports, you will love this island for sure. This island is popular for its diving and snorkelling opportunities. Also, you can participate in kayaking and windsurfing when you are at Kadmat Island.

Bangaram Island

Bangaram is a must-visit for those looking for a tropical paradise. It is popular for its coral reefs, coconut palms and lagoons. If you wish to get a luxurious experience, this island has a lot of resorts to bring you this comfort.

Agatti Island

Agatii is popular for its attractive coral reefs. It is the entry point for other islands in Lakshadweep. When you are on this island, you can enjoy kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling. Even though this island is small compared to other islands in Lakshadweep, it offers clear waters and picturesque beaches.

You can take boat trips to travel from one island to another in Lakshadweep. You can find many boat operators on each island, who can help you reach and explore the other islands in Lakshadweep.

Things To Do in Lakshadweep

For marine adventures and water sports, Lakshadweep is a haven. As you wish to learn about the things to do in Lakshadweep, I share the activities you can do in this Lakshadweep guide:

Get Cultural Experiences

Many of us think of beach and water activities when talking about Lakshadweep. But, when you are on these islands, make sure to immerse yourself in the local culture. You can do this by attending traditional dance performances. Otherwise, visiting places like Minicoy Lighthouse will help you explore the island’s history.

Island Hopping and Beach Walks

Lakshadweep Island is popular for its uncrowded beaches and miles of pristine waters. So, one of the best things you can do when you are in Lakshadweep is to take long walks on beach sand, take sunbathe or just relax watching the beauty of the ocean. Yet another popular activity on these islands is island hopping.

Island hopping trips are organised by many trip organizers in Lakshadweep. These trips will let you explore multiple islands of Lakshadweep on a single day.

Fishing

Lakshadweep is popular for the wide range of fishing opportunities offered. Many resorts on the islands arrange sportfishing expeditions for guests. Otherwise, you can also join local fishermen to catch fish.

The other popular activities in Lakshadweep include canoeing, kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving. You can find schools that are dedicated to teaching these activities even for first-timers like you and me.

Best Time and Season To Visit Lakshadweep

The winter season between October and March is the best time to visit Lakshadweep Island. You will enjoy your Lakshadweep tour during this season well. The reason is that the climate during this season will be pleasant. The days during this season are generally pleasant. Also, evenings in this season are breezy. The average temperature in this season ranges between 27 and 32 degrees Celsius.

How Long To Spend in Lakshadweep?

Some people say that you can dedicate 4-6 days to your Lakshadweep tour. However, some recommend opting for a 7-day trip. With 7 days, you can immerse yourself in the marine life, coral reefs and beaches of the island.

Best Restaurants and Cafes Around Lakshadweep Island

If you love seafood, you can find the best restaurants on the island that serve tasty seafood. Here is the name of a few restaurants and cafes in Lakshadweep:

• Seaside Splendor Café
• Coral Reef Restaurant
• Lagoon View Café
• Sunset Paradise Restaurant
• Island Breeze Café
• Palm Grove Restaurant
• Ocean Delight Café
• Merine Drive Restaurant
• Blue Lagoon Café
• Spice Island Restaurant
• Beachfront Bliss Café
• Island Feast Restaurant
• Tropical Breeze Café
• Fisherman’s Cove Restaurant
• Oceanfront dining

Lakshadweep Itinerary

In this Lakshadweep guide, I would like to share my detailed 7-day Lakshadweep itinerary. According to this itinerary, here is how your 7 days in Lakshadweep Island will look like:

• Day 1 – Reach Agatti islands
• Day 2 – Travel to Bangaram Islands
• Day 3 – Explore Bangaram Islands
• Day 4- Travel to Kavaratti
• Day 5- Water activities at Kavaratti
• Day 6- Travel to Thinnakara
• Day 7 – Departure

Conclusion

In short, with the growth of Lakshadweep tourism, I should share that you can get the best experience at Lakshadweep. So, pack your bags and get ready for a unique enjoyable experience.

FAQ

1. Are There Any Travel Restrictions in Lakshadweep?

Yes, Lakshadweep has 36 islands. However, tourists are allowed only to 10 of them.

2. Is Any Permit Needed to Enter Lakshadweep?

Yes, Lakshadweep is a restricted area. However, obtaining permits is easy for Indians compared to foreign nationals. With a valid ID Proof, you can apply for the permit through Lakshadweep Administration. Even, a registered travel agency can help you easily obtain the necessary permits.