Lakshadweep consists of 36 islands (10 inhabited and 26 uninhabited) is the smallest Union Territory of India, located in the Arabian Sea. Lakshadweep is famous for its beautiful coral islands, turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches and rich marine biodiversity. The tourism in Lakshadweep is known for water sports, scuba diving, snorkelling and eco-tourism. The ancient mosques and Islamic traditions are also attraction of these islands. Kavaratti city, located at 400 kms from Kochi, is capital and district headquarter of this single district Union Territory. All visitors, including Indians, require permission to visit Lakshadweep through online facility.
Famous Tourist and Religious Sites in Lakshadweep:
- Agatti Island: This island is the main gateway to Lakshadweep because of only airport in this Union Territory. This is famous for its turquoise lagoon, coral reefs and water sports like scuba diving & snorkelling. Agatti Village/Town is the main residential cum commercial center of Agatti Island.
- Kavaratti Island: This island is the capital city, Kavaratti town, of Lakshadweep at 54 kms from Agatti Island. Kavaratti island is famous for beautiful lagoons, marine aquarium and water adventure activities, key attractions are:
- Ujra Mosque: One of the most important religious sites in Lakshadweep out of 52 mosques, known for its carved wooden pillars and Islamic architecture.
- Marine Aquarium and Museum: Displaying vast collection of colourful coral reefs, marine species, sharks & octopuses and underwater biodiversity of the islands.
- Kavaratti Beach: A scenic beach known for sunbathing, swimming and relaxation.
- Water sports Complex: This destination offers a variety of activities to visitors related to water sports.
- Pitti Bird Sanctuary: A protected bird sanctuary known for migratory seabirds and ecological importance.
- Bangaram Island: A stunning uninhabited island at 12 kms from Agatti Island, known for untouched beaches, luxury tourism and deep-sea fishing.
- Thinnakara Island: Another uninhabited coral island at 8 Kms from Agatti island, known for camping, water sports, crystal-clear waters, and marine tourism.
- Minicoy Island: This island, located at 200 kms from Agitti island, is known for its unique culture, tuna fishing and coconut groves. Key attractions in this island inhabited as Minicoy town are:
- Minicoy Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse built during the British period in 1885, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
- Other Attractions: Vast Langoon & Viringili, Tuna Canning Factory, Juma Masjid.
- Kadmat Island: This island, also called Cardamom Island, is popular for long sandy beaches, coral reefs, water sports, marine life and eco-tourism activities. The only inhabited area in this island is Kadmat village.
- Kalpeni Island: Kalpeni Island at 287 Kms from Kochi is famous for lagoons, coral debris beaches, water sports, marine exploration and scenic coastal beauty. Kalpeni village is its main inhabitant area.
- Andrott Island: Andrott Island is the largest island of Lakshadweep inhabited as Andrott town and known for Islamic heritage. Saint Ubaidullah Tomb in this island is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and associated with the spread of Islam in Lakshadweep.
- Amini Island: Amini town is inhabited area of this island famous for its pristine beaches & quiet lagoons, traditional handicrafts made from coral stones and coconut products.