Situated 406 km off the Malabar coast, the archipelago of Lakshadweep remains a hidden gem, adorned with pristine beaches and renowned as one of India’s five coral reef destinations. Despite its breathtaking views, cultural richness, and the National Ecotourism Award it received in 1997, Lakshadweep has often been a road less travelled. However, recent trends indicate a significant surge in interest, with leading online travel platform MakeMyTrip reporting a staggering 3400% increase in on-platform searches, spurred by none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the islands.
Travel Logistics
For those enticed by the allure of Lakshadweep, the journey involves ships or flights from Kochi. Seven passenger ships operate between Kochi and the islands, with a travel time of 14-18 hours and ticket prices ranging from Rs 2,200 to Rs 7,500 per person. Alternatively, a more expedient option is to opt for a flight from Cochin International Airport to Agatti Airport, the only airstrip in Lakshadweep. Operated by Alliance Air, this 1 hr 25 min flight costs approximately Rs 5,500.
Entry Permits and Visitor Regulations
Irrespective of the chosen mode of transportation, an entry permit is mandatory for both Indian and foreign visitors. Indians can explore all islands, while foreigners are restricted to specific ones with requisite permissions. These permits can be conveniently obtained through the ePermit portal, requiring details such as name, address, date and place of birth, preferred islands to visit, and travel dates.
Ideal Time to Visit
Lakshadweep offers an ideal climate for exploration between October and February, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius. March to May witnesses warmer weather, while June to September is considered off-season due to heavy rainfall, making travel across the islands challenging.
Accommodations and Future Developments
Out of the 36 islands, only 10 are inhabited, limiting accommodation options to local beach resorts. However, recent developments hint at a potential shift, with the Tata Group announcing plans to establish two Taj-branded hotels on Suheli and Kadmat islands by 2026, reflecting a growing interest in luxury offerings.
Island Highlights
Each of Lakshadweep’s islands boasts unique attractions. Andrott stands out for its ancient Buddhist archaeology, while Agatti, the only island with an airport, offers sunbathing, water activities, and mesmerising lagoons. Minicoy’s silver sand beaches and excellent scuba diving opportunities, Kavaratti’s mosques and marine museum, and Kadmat’s emergence as a water sports hub contribute to the diverse experiences Lakshadweep offers.
In essence, Lakshadweep beckons as an unexplored paradise, and as interest surges, the islands prepare to welcome a new wave of travellers seeking the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure.
