Lakshadweep Islands Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

In Sanskrit and Malayalam, the name Lakshadweep means ‘a hundred thousand islands’. The collection of Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi islands are widely termed as "Lakshadweep". And the cluster of over 60 sun-kissed islands lives up to its reputation as a renowned tourist destination in India. Apart from its untouched wilderness and marine life, the small inhabiting villages and absence of developed towns are a fresh experience. It lies nearly 200 to 400 km away from south western coast of India. Kavaratti Island, the administrative capital of this Union Territory, is also the most developed. Sprawling across nearly 32 square kilometers of Land, Lakshadweep possesses approximately 4200 Square Kilometer of Lagoon Area and 20000 square kilometers of territorial water area.

Populated mostly by non-indigenous citizens, this capital has around 52 mosques. Since the island was visited by Muslim Missionaries around 7^th century, most of the islanders are Sunni sect Muslims speaking Malayalam or Mahl. The island was under the control of various rulers like Cholas, Cannanore Kingdom, Tipu Sultan, Arakkal Muslim Rulers, Portuguese, and British Raj, etc. Currently, there are nearly 10 islands which are inhabited.

Kadmat Island is probably the most frequented tourist spot. It is flanked by a huge lagoon on the west.
Water sports are a must to pursue in the islands. Snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, pedal boating, scuba diving, water skiing and yachting are among the prime water sports offered by the tourism sector and can be easily availed.
The ethnicity of the natives is closest to that of Muslim Keralites, and their culture is similarly shared, with minor improvisations. The most readily available and consumed food includes idlis, dosas, rice dishes and seafood with a touch of coconut, which persists as a culinary variant. Consumption of alcohol is a punishable offence in the islands, with the exception of Bengaram.

Fisheries, Tourism, and Desalination are the major occupation of the dwellers of Lakshadweep. These Islands are the Golden Paradise for adventure and sports lovers. Kayaking, canoeing and scuba diving can be organized in islands.

Seashells Resorts, Agatti Island Beach Resorts, Bangaram Island Resorts, etc. offer pleasant stay during your trip to Lakshadweep Island. Sea Sports and Ayurveda Services can be arranged by these resorts.

Shopping souvenirs for dear and near ones will be an important itinerary while planning a trip. Kavaratti is an ideal location for souvenir shopping. Lakshadweep offers exquisite range of sea handicrafts like curios made up of Oysters, seashells and corals. Table lamps, Spoons, Forks etc. which are made up of Tortoise shells and Conch Shells are the amazing piece of craftworks which can be picked from road side stalls while you stroll on beach shores.  Also you can pack some canned tuna; fish curries etc. for your close ones loved to taste them. The Amindivi tribe is known for its handicrafts, made of naturally available shell, oysters and coir.