Lakshadweep is the tiniest Union Territory of India and is its only coral island chain. This archipelago consists of 36 islands, 12 atolls, 3 reefs and 5 submerged banks. The islands have a total area of 32 sq.kms and the lagoons enclosed by the atolls cover an area of 4200 sq.kms. Its territorial waters extend to 20,000 sq.kms and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to 4,00,000 sq.kms. Only 10 of these islands namely, Agatti, Amini, Andrott, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kiltan and Minicoy are inhabited. Kavaratti is the Administrative Headquarters of the Union Territory. The islands are restricted area and permit from the Administration is required to visit the islands. However permit formalities of bonofied tourist are taken care by the SPORTS.

 

How to reach the islands of Lakshadweep by Air: The Union Territory has an airport in Agatti, which is regularly connected by flights from Kochi (Cochin) the capital of Kerala. Kochi (Cochin) is an international airport and also linked almost all main cities in India.

The flying time between Agatti and Kochi (Cochin) is only one hour and a half. From Agatti you can find helicopter services to reach Kavaratti (an important city in the region) round the year and Bangaram Island in the monsoons.

How to reach the islands of Lakshadweep by Sea: Traveling by ship is also a good option to reach Lakshadweep. A number of passenger ships operate from Kochi (Cochin)to Lakshadweep. The distance can be traveled in nearly 18 to 20 hours. The ships offer a range of accommodation and modern amenities. However, during the monsoons, the ship services remain closed.

Lakshadweep offers you a whole lot of activities. Facilities for Scuba diving, Snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, yachting - add variety to the tourist attractions in Lakshadweep. Glass bottom boats are on the cards and soon going be a big hit among the tourists. Crystal clear water and wealth of marine life ranks the island very high for water sports.

Kavaratti: It has a beautiful calm lagoon and facilities for water sports

Minicoy: Crescent shaped island has one of the largest lagoons in the region. It has a typical Maldivian character.

Kalpeni: The scenic islet is uninhabited but has a huge shallow lagoon.

Agatti: It presents a breathtaking spectacle of coral reefs and an array of coconut palms swaying in sea breeze.

Kadmat: This is an ideal spot for sunbath and water sports.

Bangaram: The teardrop-shaped uninhabited island has superb beaches and beautiful lagoons.