Lakshadweep - The Jewels In The Sea

By Author: Rashmiranjan Patil
Total Articles: 261
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Located in the Laccadive Sea close to the coast of Kerala is a group of 36 islands, Lakshadweep. This group mainly comprises of several small islets, coral atolls and coral reefs. Lakshadweep is India's smallest Union Territory and out of the 36 only 10 are inhabited by a population of 65000 whose main activities include fishing, coconut cultivation and coir twisting.

Meaning 'a thousand islands' in the local language, Lakshadweep comprised of mainly three archipelagos, Lakshadweep, Maldives and Suvadives. Kavaratti, the capital, is the most developed island among all of Lakshadweep islands, being the administrative headquarters of the archipelagos.

The population mainly comprises of Muslims and there are many mosques around including the beautiful Ujra Mosque. The ornate ceiling is carved from a single piece of driftwood and is a stunning work of art.

The lagoon at Kavaratti is very popular for its silvery soft beaches and clear waters that make for a perfect site to view the underwater marine world in a glass-bottomed boat. It is also an ideal place to swim in the gentle waters or indulge in water-sports ...
... adventure. The marine life exhibits at the Marine Aquarium is also very popular.

Kalpeni is the largest lagoon and is visited for the kayaking and boating experience it offers. This lagoon is not only the largest one but is also shallow enough to enjoy water-sports without too much risk.

Minicoy in southern Lakshadweep is similar to the island of Malidves in culture and language. The language spoken here is Mahl, a dialect of Divehi, which is the language of Maldives.

The beautiful island of Kadmat is a much sought after destination for divers from around the world. With a diverse array of marine life, this lagoon is home to several breathtaking dive sites. The lagoon being of equal depth adds to its popularity. This secluded island also has a long shoreline with scenic beaches.

The only uninhabited island that is open to tourists is the Bangaram Island. Popular for its beautiful coral formations and a variety of bright coloured fishes, it is accessible by speed boat from the nearby island of Agatti.

The most important among all these islands is the Agatti Island, which serves as a gateway into the exotic archipelagos of Lakshadweep. It is so because Agatti is the sole island that has an airport in it.

Lakshadweep islands is accessible to only those tourists who have a permit to enter these islands. Although foreign nationals are allowed only in the islands of Kadmat, Bangaram and Agatti, domestic tourists can obtain the permits from Kochi in Kerala.

The weather is pleasant during the months of October to March. Monsoons are very heavy and it is very hot in the summer months.