NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Modi’s recent tour to Lakshadweep and the derogatory remarks from Maldivian politicians, who claim the Union Territory is competing with their island nation in regards of tourist attraction, have sparked considerable curosity among travellers eager to explore the region. Travel booking websites report that global search interest in Lakshadweep is currently peaking.
Formed as a Union Territory in 1956, Lakshadweep is India’s smallest UT. Tourists should note this while making a travel plan that not all of its islands are populated, and only a select few are accessible to visitors, requiring special permits.
Comprising a total of 36 islands, 12 atolls, and three reefs, Lakshadweep has only 10 inhabited islands. Among the most sought-after destinations are Minicoy Island, Kalpeni Islands, Kadmat Islands, Bangaram Island, and Thinnakara Island.
Here’s a quick guide
If you are not a native of the islands, you can only enter or stay there if you have a permit issued by the proper authority. This includes both Indian citizens as well as foreigners.
To acquire the permit, the first step involves downloading a clearance certificate and obtaining approval from your local police station by submitting identification documents along with three passport-size photos.
Steps to obtain the permit
Online: The most easy way to obtain a permit is through an online application. By visiting the ePermit portal (https://epermit.utl.gov.in/pages/signup), individuals can create an account, complete the form with necessary details, select their preferred island and travel dates, upload any required documents, and make the necessary payment. The permit is typically delivered via email 15 days prior to the scheduled trip.
Offline: Alternatively, applicants can download the application form from the Lakshadweep Administration website (http://www.lakshadweeptourism.com/contact.html) or acquire it offline from the District Collector’s office in Kavaratti.
Upon obtaining the form, individuals are required to complete it, attach the necessary documents, and submit the application to the Collector’s office. It’s important to note that this offline process may take longer, so planning ahead is advisable.
Reaching the UT
Reaching Lakshadweep, your primary gateway is Kochi, as the Union Territory has just one airport located on Agatti Island. Transportation options include flights and ships from Kochi, Kerala.
After the clearance certificate, the next step involves downloading the entry permit or obtaining it in person from the Lakshadweep administration office situated in Kochi. Upon arrival in Lakshadweep, you must submit this entry permit to the station house officer.
Besides air travel, one can also reach Lakshadweep from Kochi by sea. The journey is served by seven ships: MV Kavaratti, MV Minicoy, MV Amindivi, MV Corals, MV Lagoon, MV Lakshadweep Sea, and MV Arabian Sea.
