Are you someone who enjoys golden beaches, warm sunshine, mouth-watering seafood and a lot of adventure? Sure the places situated by the coasts can be a great pick for you. But have you ever considered exploring the islands in India?
India is blessed with immense beauty and natural wealth. But this beauty is not limited to the mainland alone. Equally serene and eye-catching are the islands that add to the wealth of our nation. Since they are situated far from the larger settlements, they give you the perfect break from the monotony of city life. Not just that, some of best adventure sea sports can also be enjoyed best in these isles.
# Havelock Island, AndamanIf it is a list about the beautiful islands of India, there is no better place to begin than the Andaman and Nicobar group. Also known by the name Swaraj Island, Havelock is a part of Ritchie’s archipelago. It is perhaps the most famous island among the group, owing to the gorgeous coral reefs and equally, eye-catching white beaches.
If you are of the adventurous spirit, you may be excited to learn that some of the islands also offer some of the best scuba diving spots. Neil’s island, known for its night views and Astro-tourism opportunities is also easily accessible from here.
# St Mary’s Islands, Karnataka
Known by the locals as the Coconut islands or Thonsepar St Mary’s Islands is a cluster of four isles off the coast of Udipi. Set amidst the azure Arabian Sea, the islands are just an hour’s ferry ride away from the shore. Yet once you reach there, it’s hard to believe that you are still in India and not some famed beach of Maldives.
But the beach view alone is not the main attraction of the island. Equally eye-catching and unique are the rock formations here. In fact, the extraordinary feature of this island group makes it incomparable to any other location in India. The island does have a list of Dos and Don’ts for your own safety. Follow them to avoid any kind of penalty.
# Majuli Island, AssamIf you thought deep seas and oceans are the only places where you can experience an island, then this pick is definitely going to get you thinking. India is not just blessed with beautiful islands off the sea coast, but even the largest riverine island in the world is located in our country. Majuli is known for its sustainable habits along with the gurgling freshwater that surrounds it.
Located in the Brahmaputra River, the island has also earned itself the title of UNESCO world heritage site. The lush green surroundings along with the interesting tribal culture of the place beckon people to visit it from all around the world.
# Pambam Island, Tamil NaduBetter known as the holy city of Rameshwaram, Pamban Island is located right between India and Sri Lanka. It is fabled in the ancient texts that Lord Rama had built a stone bridge here to reach across the sea and rescue his wife Sita from Lanka. Each year, thousands of tourists flock here to visit the various temples located around the city.
But if you think that the island’s offerings are for the pilgrims alone, then you just have to go through the list of attractions here to change that notion. From a cyclone wrecked town to golden beaches and eye-catching views, there is enough to cater to the varied interests of people. The train line that connects Rameshwaram to the mainland is an equally eye-catching engineering wonder and a sight to behold.
# Munroe Island, KeralaLocated in the famed backwaters of Kerela, Munroe Island is a cluster of eight smaller islands separated only by narrow water channels. If you are looking for a get away from the bustling city life, this is the perfect pick for you. Surrounded by nature’s serenity on all sides, these islands give you the opportunity to reconnect with your roots.
The islands are also famed for the renowned boat races that take place during the Onam festival. In case you are taken aback by the English name of the place, you may be interested to learn that it was named after Colonel John Munroe, who was the Resident colonel of the erstwhile state of Travancore.
# Lakshadweep IslandsEasily accessible from Kochi, Lakshadeep Islands are the second largest group of islands in India after Andaman and Nicobar. A total of thirty-six islands form the cluster here. However, only ten of them are actually inhabited by people. If you have a quiet holiday by the beaches in mind, this can be a good pick for you. It is also popular among the islands in India for honeymoon.