Lakshadweep is the sole coral reef chain in India. Located in the Arabian Sea off the west coast, it is an archipelago comprising of 36 islands, 12 atolls, 3 reefs and 5 submerged banks in the sea. However, only ten islands out of the total are inhabited. More than 90 percent of the population on the islands is Muslim and primarily speak Malayalam. Truly a travel and tourism paradise for the visitors, Lakshadweep offers untouched beaches, flora and fauna. The islands present a perfect blend of sun, sand and surf; making the tourists lose themselves completely in the innate natural beauty. The vast expanse of silvery sand lined with coconut trees and splashed by scintillating waters are enough to provide an unforgettable experience.

Tourist Attractions

Lakshadweep has a wealth of tourist places to offer in the form of exotic islands. Kavaratti Island is the most developed islands of all. It is the Headquarter of Union Territory Administration. The island houses fifty two mosques, out of which Ujra mosque is the most beautiful one. There is a well near the mosque, which is said to have curative powers. The marine aquarium on the island is a must visit for aquatic life lovers. It is an ideal spot for water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, wind surfing, etc.

Those who do not know swimming, they can see the underwater marine life through glass bottomed boats. Agatti is another important island, which is directly connected to Indian mainland by air. Its lagoon has abundant multicolored coral fishes. It is also one of the few islands in the agglomeration, which gets ample amount of fishes, making fishing as its prime occupation. The temperature of this island is hot as compared to others. Water sports can also be enjoyed here.

Secluded from the island group, lies Minicoy, which is the second largest island. It is an important tuna fishing center and offers one of the largest lagoon. It even has the oldest light house, which was constructed in 1885. It has a proper village system called 'Avah' and the spoken language here is 'Mahl'. Lying very close to Agatti and Kavaratti, Bangaram is a small tear shaped island. It is the only uninhabited island, open for tourists. As a result, the innate unscathed beauty of the place is simple enchanting.

The tranquility at the island gives an opportunity to experience the wonders of nature in the form of pristine waters, coconut groves, colorful fish, porcupines, parrots, pufferfish, hermit crabs and sea birds. Another island known for its scenic beauty is Kalpeni. Its unique feature is the storm of black debris on it shore. It is believed to be the outcome of a storm. It is also acclaimed to be progressive as the girls of the island were the first to go school. Ideal for sun baths and water sports, Kadmat Island has a shallow lagoon. Sports like kayaks, pedal boats, sailing yachts, skiing boats, etc can be enjoyed. The scuba diving centre here is quite popular amongst the tourists.

How to Reach
By Air: Lakshwadeep has its own airport known as Agatti Airport. It is connected to mainland only by Cochin International Airport, which operates flights, six days a week. From Cochin, tourists can further take flights for their various domestic and selected international destinations.

By Ship: There are four passenger ships, which operate between Lakshwadeep and Cochin, namely, MV Tippu Sultan, MV Bharat Seema, MV Amindivi and MV Minicoy. The journey onboard takes around 14 to 20 hours.