Lakshadweep, a paradise nestled in the Arabian Sea 400 km west of Kerala’s coast, beckons with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s India’s smallest union territory, with only 10 of its 36 islands inhabited and just 5 accessible to tourists.
Planning Your Lakshadweep Trip:
Reaching Paradise:
- Flights: Lakshadweep has only one airport on Agatti Island. Book flights from your city to Kochi, and then take the daily AIR INDIA flight to Agatti (be prepared to book months in advance!). Speedboats will ferry you to your chosen island from Agatti.
- Cruises: Several government and luxury cruise ships offer exciting journeys from Kochi, Mumbai, and other locations to Lakshadweep.
Essential Permits:
Lakshadweep strictly regulates tourism. You’ll need a permit regardless of nationality, obtainable through authorized SPORTS agents in Kochi (Lakshadweep Tourism’s official body).
Things to Do in Lakshadweep:
- Water Sports: Lakshadweep is a water sports haven. Indulge in scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, kayaking, sailing, and more!
- Explore the Coral Reefs: Witness the mesmerizing underwater world teeming with marine life. Remember, collecting corals is strictly prohibited.
- Beach Bliss: Soak up the sun, build sandcastles, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Explore nearby islands like Bangaram, Thinnakara, Parali, and Kalpitty.
- Cultural Delights: Visit Kavaratti, the capital, with its charming Ujra Mosque, Lighthouse, and Broken Ship Point. Explore the island by bike or rent a scooter.
Accommodation:
Lakshadweep offers eco-friendly cottages, resorts, and homestays on Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Minicoy, Kadmat, and Bangaram. Government lodges provide budget-friendly options. Most accommodations boast stunning sea views.
- Agatti: Inhabited with basic stay options.
- Bangaram: The most luxurious island with air-conditioned beach cottages, hot water, and buffet meals (alcohol is the only exception to the no-a-la-carte rule here).
- Thinnakara: Offers basic tent-style accommodation with coolers but no AC or hot water.
- Kadmat: SPORTS resort provides accommodation, but limited boat services require a minimum two-night stay.
- Kavaratti: Offers air-conditioned suites with meals included. Similar to Kadmat, limited boat services necessitate a minimum two-night stay.
Budgeting Your Trip:
Lakshadweep tours range from ₹30,000 to ₹40,000 per person for 5 days, covering permits, flights, accommodation, and boat transfers. Flights from Kochi to Agatti are fixed at around ₹5,000 (one way).
Accommodation Costs (per night):
- Bangaram: ₹10,000-₹15,000
- Thinnakara: ₹10,000
- Kadmat: ₹5,000-₹10,000
- Kavaratti: ₹9,000
- Kalpeni: ₹2,000-₹3,000
- Minicoy: ₹7,000-₹9,000
Boat Transfers (round trip):
- Agatti to Bangaram: ₹4,000
- Bangaram to Thinnakara: ₹1,000
- Agatti to Kadmat (Mon, Wed, Fri only): ₹8,000
- Agatti to Kavaratti (Mon, Wed, Fri only): ₹8,000
- Kochi/Calicut to Kalpeni: ₹8,000
- Kochi/Mangalore to Minicoy: ₹7,500
Additional Costs:
- Water sports activities (extra charges)
Lakshadweep on a Budget:
Consider cruise packages for a more affordable option (around ₹25,000-₹30,000 per person for 5 days/4 nights), including permits, transfers, and some island hopping.
Important Reminders:
- Permits are mandatory.
- Alcohol is strictly prohibited.
- Carry cash for water sports and resorts (limited ATM availability).
- Dress modestly on inhabited islands, respecting local customs.
- Avoid removing corals.
- Internet connectivity is unreliable.
- Only BSNL and Airtel have network coverage.
- Book flights only after finalizing your package.
- Limited flight options (AIR INDIA, Kochi to Agatti,