New Delhi: Lakshadweep, a group of 36 islands off the coast of Kerala, recently witnessed Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating significant projects, including the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection. For those seeking an extraordinary getaway, here’s an essential travel guide to the breathtaking Lakshadweep.
Exploring Lakshadweep: What to See/Do
Lakshadweep allures with its coral reefs, turquoise waters, and tropical charm.
1. Bangaram:A teardrop-shaped island near Agatti and Kavaratti, known for its uninhabited island resort and phosphorescent plankton illuminating the beach at night.
2. Agatti: Boasting one of the most beautiful lagoons in Lakshadweep, Agatti is the only island with an airstrip.
3. Kadmat: An 8 km long island with a shallow lagoon ideal for water sports.
4. Minicoy: Isolated from the main group, it features one of the largest lagoons and a cluster of villages.
5. Kalpeni: Known for its unique storm bank of coral debris along the shorelines.
6. Kavaratti:The administrative headquarters with 52 mosques, including the stunning Ujra mosque.
7. Shipwrecks: Minicoy hosts three large shipwrecks, acting as underwater museums with abundant fish species.
8. Water Sports: Various activities such as kayaking, canoeing, pedal boats, sailboats, wind surfers, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing.
9. Diving: Kadmat, home to the first Laccadives Dive Centre, offers diving courses. Minicoy Dive Centre and Dolphin Dive Centre (Kavaratti) are also excellent options.
Culinary Delights in Lakshadweep
Indulge in the local gastronomic haven with these delicacies:
– Kilanji: A thin crepe-like dish made of rice and eggs, best enjoyed with a sweet coconut milk, banana, and jaggery dish.
– Mus Kavaab:Spicy tuna curry with chili powder, coriander powder, cardamom, sauteed onions, curry leaves, and tomatoes.
– Octopus Fry:Fried octopus.
– Maas Podichathu: Dried tuna mixed with coconut, turmeric powder, onions, and garlic, served with rice.
– Batla Appam: Steamed sweet delicacy made of eggs, flour, sugar, and cardamom, prepared during festivals.
Travel Packages to Lakshadweep
1. Lakshadweep Samudram: A 5-day cruise visiting Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Minicoy by M.V Kavaratti ship. Cost: Diamond Class – ₹37,500 per adult + 5% GST.
2. Swaying Palm Package: A 6-7 day tour to Minicoy, offering accommodation in exclusive A/c cottages on the beachfront.
3. Marine Wealth Awareness Programme: A 4-7 day package to Kadmat, including water sports and marine life exploration.
4. Taratashi Package: Explore Kavaratti with a 4-5 day stay on the island, featuring water sports and a lagoon cruise.
5. Scuba Dive Package:Dive enthusiasts can join PADI Scuba Diving Experience and Course at Dolphin Dive Centre, Kavaratti.
(*For detailed package information, visit [lakshadweep.gov.in](http://lakshadweep.gov.in)*)
Accommodation Options
1. Cottages in Gangaram: Double room at ₹18,000 per person (excluding GST).
2. Tents in Thinnakara: Double room at ₹10,000 per person (excluding GST).
3. Kamat Island Resort: Double room at ₹11,000 per person (excluding GST).
4. Kavaratti Island Resort: Suite room at ₹11,000 per person (excluding GST).
Getting There
– By Air: Reach Lakshadweep by flight or ships from Kochi, the gateway to the archipelago.
– By Ship:Six passenger ships operate between Kochi and Lakshadweep, offering different classes of accommodation.
