Lakshadweep Travel Guide

Location
Snuggled up at 220 - 240 km off the Malabar Coast, the Lakshadweep comprises of 4,200 sq km of lagoon and 36 islands. The islands remain fringed by snow-white coral sands, resembling emeralds against the vast expanse of azure sea. The lagoons harbour a rich variety of flora and fauna, pulling in a large number of vacationers and nature freaks from all across the globe.


Climate of Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep experiences a tropical climate. An increase in temperature is noticed as one moves from south to north. April and May are the hottest months of the year, with the maximum temperature recording 35 degrees centigrade. Humidity measures 70 - 75%. There is no diversity in the climatic conditions. The southwest monsoon brings rainfall from June to October. The average rainfall records 10 - 40 mm. The warm and pleasant weather makes it a round the year destination. However, the ideal time to visit is from October to April.

Accessibility
Ship, helicopter, passenger planes and passenger vessels connect the islands to the mainland. Agatti and Bangaram can be accessed by air from the Kochi Airport. The other islands, however, can be reached by ship from Kochi.

Culture of Lakshadweep
Kolkali and Parichakali are the two most popular art forms here. The island of Minicoy is known for its famous Lava dance. Chief festivals include Id-ul-Fitr, Id-ul-Azha, Milad- un-Nabi and Muharram.
Dresses of the women are as colourful as the Lakshadweep sunsets. Ladies wear a Kachi with a silver waist belt round the waist. The silk Kachi covers the body below the waist while the upper part is covered with a skin-hugging embroidered jacket. A colurful scarf called 'Thattam' covers the head. Men can be seen wearing lungis. In Minicoy, however, jeans are liked by the youths.

Places of Interest in Lakshadweep
» Agatti
459 km from Cochin, Agatti presents a rich marine life in its lagoons. There are interesting coral growths and multi-hued coral fishes to be found. Fishing forms the base of economy here. Agatti offers a well furnished resort that remains open throughout the year. One of the most attracting features of the resort is the water sports facilities. One can also find a medical centre that is run by qualified and experienced doctors. Agatti can be reached by air from Cochin and Goa.

» Bangaram
Bangaram is also located at a distance of 459 km from Cochin. The stunningly beautiful island is unoccupied. Here, the magical blend of sun, sand and surf offers a never-forgetting experience to visitors. The blue lagoon and the glistening coral reef are truly heart winning. Water activities abound and the resort offers a multi cuisine restaurant alongwith a well-stocked bar. It's truly a place to be.

» Minicoy
Lying at a distance of 398 km from Cochin, Minicoy is the southernmost island of the Lakshadweep archipelago. The island differs from its counterparts in terms of systematic arrangement of its villages. The Light House, built in 1885, is a key attraction here. Apart from that, one can visit the villages and the popular tuna canning factory. Water activities can also be enjoyed here.

» Kadmat
The Kadmat island lies at a distance of 407 km from Cochin. An idyllic holiday destination, the island has a large lagoon abounding in coral growth. To indulge oneself are a number of adventurous water sports that are the stellar attraction here. The island also houses a scuba diving centre that is much popular with tourists.


Water Sports
Indulging in water sports at Lakshadweep is an experience of a lifetime. The resorts offer high quality equipments of international standards including kayaks, skiing boats, sailing yachts, snorkels, glass-bottomed boats etc. All these water sports crafts are available on hire. The Scuba Diving Centre at Kadmat and the Dolphin Dive Centre at Kavaratti are a huge draw for water sports enthusiasts. To enjoy are numerous adventures like swimming, snorkelling, deep sea fishing, pedal boating, sailing, kayaking etc.