Unexplored Gems: Top 10 Hidden Islands In Lakshadweep

Girl watching Lakshadweep sea view

Friday, March 29, 2024

Lakshadweep Islands India is a hidden paradise located in the azure waters of the Arabian Sea. The tropical destination boasts of turquoise shorelines and crystal-clear lagoons, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway with your family and friends. The name Lakshadweep means “one hundred thousand islands” in both Malayalam and Sanskrit

Comprising 36 breathtaking coral atolls and pristine islands, Lakshadweep is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The islands in Lakshadweep welcome tourists with crystal clear lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and ivory-white sandy beaches. The tranquillity of Lakshadweep is further enhanced by its lush coconut groves, swaying palms, and turquoise lagoons, which evoke a sense of serenity.

Whether you seek adventure, cultural exploration, or simply a peaceful retreat, the Lakshadweep Islands India has something to offer every traveller. Join us as we explore the top 10 hidden islands in Lakshadweep and plan your perfect vacation.

Tourism in Lakshadweep

Relax on White Sand Beaches in Lakshadweep

Due to its remote and scenic allure, Lakshadweep Islands India has been a popular vacation spot for Indians since 1974, generating significant revenue. The government is actively promoting tourism as a means of income, particularly in Bangaram and Kadmat Island.

Bangaram Island is expected to become a major destination for international tourism. The island boasts abundant marine life and offers various water sports activities like scuba diving, windsurfing, swimming, surfing, kayaking, water skiing, sportfishing, yachting, and night sea journeys.

The administration has also proposed setting up two customs clearance offices to facilitate direct entry for tourists, which is expected to boost tourism in the region significantly.

Top 10 Hidden Islands in Lakshadweep

When planning your trip to Lakshadweep, don’t compromise on the wonderful experience. Here are a few islands in Lakshadweep to consider when planning your travel!

1. Agatti Island

Agatti Island

Agatti Island, situated on a coral atoll in the Lakshadweep Islands India, is a 7.6 km long island known for its remote and pristine beauty. With a population in the hundreds, it offers a sense of seclusion unparalleled in the Indian region. Accessible by sea route from Kochi or via the Agatti Aerodrome, the island’s only airport, Agatti Island is a haven for travellers seeking clear waters and white sand beaches. It is a popular destination for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, sailing, glass-bottom boat rides, water skiing, and kayaking.

The island’s main attraction is its simplicity and affordability. Agatti Island is a perfect retreat for those looking for a peaceful and remote escape away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist destinations. It offers a unique and unspoiled natural environment to explore and enjoy.

2. Minicoy Island

Minicoy Island

Minicoy Island is a highly sought-after tourist destination in Lakshadweep. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. As the second largest island in the Lakshadweep cluster, it boasts 11 unique villages and is often called Maliku Atoll. Situated in the southernmost region of the islands in Lakshadweep, it resembles the Maldives. Visitors are captivated by the swaying palms, tall coconut trees, and the breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes from the British-built Lighthouse.

When visiting Minicoy Island, do not miss the opportunity to indulge in delicious Fried Tuna Fish and partake in Tuna Fishing expeditions. Snorkelling and deep-sea diving are popular activities, offering an enriching experience as you swim among colourful corals. If your visit coincides with a festive season, be sure to witness the traditional dance performed by local men in traditional attire, accompanied by exhilarating drum beats. Minicoy Island offers a perfect blend of natural splendour and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a unique and memorable experience.

3. Kadmat Island

Kadmat Island

Kadmat Island is a perfect getaway in Lakshadweep, known for its white beaches with a silver tinge, stunning lagoon, and azure waters. This one of the beautiful Lakshadweep Islands India, scarcely populated with only one village, is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic retreat. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful time on the seashore, walk hand in hand, witness mesmerizing sunsets, and more. The island is home to abundant marine life, making fishing the main occupation of the locals.

Kadmat Island is also a haven for marine turtles, offering an ideal setting for water sports due to its shallow waters. Visitors can engage in activities such as scuba diving, kayaking, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, and boating. The best time to visit is from October to April, and the ideal duration is 1 to 2 days. Kadmat Island’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for couples and nature enthusiasts alike.

4. Bangaram Island

Bangaram Island

Bangaram Island, situated in the pristine blue waters of the Indian Ocean, is a captivating destination in Lakshadweep. The island boasts unspoiled beaches and vibrant coral reefs, offering a delightful experience for travellers. Visitors can stroll around the entire island, swim among beautiful fishes, observe stingrays, befriend dolphins, watch turtles leisurely moving on the shore or underwater, and marvel at the brilliant colours of the coral reefs. This enchanting island, also known as Bunnagara in the local language, is considered one of the least explored parts of the Lakshadweep Islands India.

Covering an area of 1.234 sq. km, Bangaram Island is the largest in the region, featuring a beautiful tidal lagoon. With a population of only 10 and just one beach resort, the Bangaram Island Beach Resort is an ideal destination for those seeking complete seclusion from the fast-paced world. The resort, established in 1974, became more accessible to tourists after the launch of the Agatti Aerodrome and increased commercial flights from Kochi. The Government of India is actively promoting tourism on the island, aiming for it to become a significant destination for international tourism.

The island’s residents are the ones who work at the resort, which is open to tourists. The small area and low population provide a sense of being on a private island. The sunrises and sunsets, set against the sparkling beach, are a visual treat, and a range of activities make the stay worthwhile. Whether you engage in activities or simply laze around, the tranquil beach of Bangaram Island should be on your bucket list.

5. Kavaratti Island

Kavaratti Island

Kavaratti Island is one of the must-visit islands in Lakshadweep, known for being the most developed island in the region. With 12 atolls and three coral reefs, it boasts stunning natural beauty. The island is home to numerous mosques, including the Ujra Mosque, where the water in the nearby well is believed to have healing powers. The calm atmosphere of the lagoon is enchanting, making visitors want to spend more time in this magical place. Whether relaxing on the beach or engaging in adventures, Kavaratti Island offers something for everyone. It has been selected as one of the places slated to become a smart city shortly.

The best time to visit one of these beautiful islands in Lakshadweep is from August to March, and the ideal duration for a visit is 2 to 3 days. The island’s attractions include the Kavaratti Marine Museum and the Ujra Mosque. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing, boating, kayaking, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

6. Kalpeni Island

Kalpeni Island

Kalpeni Island, part of the Lakshadweep archipelago, is unique for its huge coral debris. Apart from its natural beauty and mesmerising seashore, the island stands out for its socially progressive society. It was the first island in Lakshadweep to send girls to school at a time when girl’s education was stigmatized. Visitors can reach the island via ship and explore its attractions, including the Pitti Bird Sanctuary, Kadmat Island, Agatti Island, and Bangaram Atoll.

The best time to visit Kalpeni Island is from September to February, and the ideal duration for a visit is 1 to 2 days. Activities on the island include snorkelling, yacht sailing, canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving, and reef walking.

7. Pitti Island

Pitti Island, also known as Pakshipitti, is a small uninhabited coral islet in Lakshadweep, India. It’s named “Pakshipitti” because “pakshi” means “bird” in the local language. This island has been declared a Bird Sanctuary to protect the birds and their nesting grounds. Kavaratti Island surrounds it to the north, Agatti Island to the east, and Amini Island to the southwest.

The island is small, about 300 by 200 meters, and lacks vegetation and anchorage points. It’s an important nesting place for birds like the Sooty Tern, Greater Crested Tern, and the Brown Noddy. It’s also a significant breeding place for sea turtles. Humans don’t live on Pitti Island to avoid disturbing the birds and their nesting activities.

8. Bitra Island

Bitra Island, one of the least inhabited islands in Lakshadweep, has a fascinating history. It all began with a woman who came and settled here, making the island’s first occupation. This small island is surrounded by shrubs, woods, and coconut trees, creating a serene atmosphere.

Bitra island is known for two main attractions. Firstly, it boasts the largest lagoons in all of Lakshadweep. Secondly, the shrine of Malik Mulla holds historical significance, as it is believed to be his burial ground. In addition to these attractions, visitors can enjoy bird watching, diving, snorkelling, and other activities amidst beautiful waters and colourful fishes. Bitra Island offers solitude and natural beauty, making it a unique Lakshadweep destination to include in your India tour packages.

9. Chetlat Island

Chetlat Island, a coral island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, is 37 km northwest of Kiltan Island. It is one of the most populated islands in Lakshadweep. The island is home to various animals and birds, and the surrounding waters are abundant with fish, with tuna being the most common. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful vacation, taking leisurely walks on pristine shorelines and relaxing amidst lush coconut tree gardens.

Tuna, the Chetlat Island‘s staple, is prepared with various ingredients, offering a delightful culinary experience. Chetlat Island’s unique blend of land and sea, a beautiful lagoon, and abundant coconut and palm trees make it a sought-after destination in Lakshadweep. The island features a small jetty on the west coast and a helipad on the south point, making it accessible for tourists visiting Lakshadweep Island.

10. Andrott Island

Andrott Island, one of the largest islands in the Lakshadweep archipelago, is in the Arabian Sea. Covering an area of 4.90 sq. km, it stretches between latitude and longitude, with a maximum width of 1.43 km and length of 4.66 km. This oval-shaped island, also known as Divanduru in French, is characterised by a depression at its centre and is only 2-3 m above sea level.

Andrott Island is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. One of the hidden Lakshadweep Islands India, it features a small reef area and is home to the famous Jumaat mosque. The island’s tropical climate and lush greenery, including thick coconut groves and palm trees, make it a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy water sports and witness marine creatures like octopuses during neap tides. The primary languages spoken here are Mahl, Malayalam, and English. Andrott Island offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, historical intrigue, and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation experience.

As you plan your visit to the enchanting Lakshadweep Islands, India, consider the diverse experiences awaiting you. From the culturally rich Minicoy Island to the serene Kalpeni Island, each destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

Whether you are drawn to the historical significance of Andrott Island or the tropical fantasy of Chetlat Island, there is something about Lakshadweep Island for every traveller. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a rejuvenating escape, these islands in Lakshadweep beckons with their beauty and cultural richness.

When it comes to planning your trip, consider the services offered by SOTC, a leading travel company known for curating exceptional vacation experiences. They provide Lakshadweep tour packages tailored to suit various preferences.

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