12 Places That Makes Lakshadweep Better Than Any Other Island Holiday Destination

Lakshadweep, meaning 'a hundred thousand islands' or 'one lakh islands' in literal translation, is a collection of isles scattered like glistening emerald gems in the azure waters of the Arabian Sea. The atolls of Lakshadweep exude a unique charm, leaving people in awe of nature's magnificent masterpiece. The translucent turquoise waves rhythmically caress the white sandy shores, while the swaying palms seem to whisper secrets in the breeze. If you're planning to explore this vibrant marine wonderland soon, take a look at this compilation of the top 12 places to visit in Lakshadweep.

In Lakshadweep, you can immerse yourself in the serene sea waters, snorkel alongside dolphins, observe sea turtles, go kayaking, and discover enchanting coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Here are 10 must-visit places in Lakshadweep that promise to rejuvenate your spirit and foster a profound connection with nature.

# Agatti Islands

Agatti Island, situated in the union territory of Lakshadweep, spans approximately 8 km. With a population of fewer than 8000 locals, this island offers an ideal setting for quality time with friends and family or a much-needed retreat for some 'me time.' The island boasts its own aerodrome, receiving weekly flights from Cochin. A short 15-20 minute ride from the airport leads you to turquoise lagoons and pristine white sands. With minimal human presence, Agatti Island is a tranquil, secluded haven. As you soak in the sun's warmth, indulge in refreshing cold drinks and snacks, shedding the burdens of stress. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local delights like squid, King Prawns, and various fish varieties. Additionally, Agatti Island offers activities such as deep-sea fishing excursions, kayaking, and sea diving.

# Minicoy Islands

Minicoy Island stands out as one of the most coveted tourist destinations in Lakshadweep, attracting a considerable number of visitors seeking enjoyment amid the backdrop of swaying palms and towering coconut trees. As the second-largest island among the Lakshadweep cluster, Minicoy is home to 11 distinct villages and is also known as Maliku Atoll. Situated in the southernmost part of the islands, it bears a striking resemblance to the Maldives. Upon your visit, don't miss the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes from the Lighthouse, a structure constructed during the British era.

Indulge your taste buds with the delectable Fried Tuna Fish and partake in Tuna Fishing expeditions. Popular activities on Minicoy Island include snorkeling and deep-sea diving, offering a rewarding experience as you immerse yourself in the vibrant world of colorful corals. If your visit coincides with a festive season, be sure to catch the traditional dance of the islands – The Lava dance. Local men, adorned in traditional trousers, headgear, white vests, and scarfs tied to the waist, perform this captivating dance to the exhilarating beats of loud drums.

# Bangaram Islands

This uninhabited island in Lakshadweep spans an area of 123 hectares, measuring 0.758 miles in length. It radiates an irresistible charm with its unspoiled waters, sandy shores, swaying palm trees, and verdant coconut groves. The pristine lagoons invite you for a refreshing swim, and the culinary offerings are sure to delight your taste buds. Notably, this is the sole island where you can find and openly enjoy alcohol. However, the availability of alcohol may be scarce during Bangaram Island's off-season. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing.

As night falls, the creamy white shores come alive with the sparkling brilliance of bioluminescent phytoplanktons, transforming Bangaram Island into a paradise-like spectacle.

# Thinnakara Islands

When exploring the Agatti Islands, make sure to include Thinnakara Islands as your next destination. Renowned as one of the top places to visit in Lakshadweep, Thinnakara captivates visitors with its vibrant coral life, tranquil tropical breezes, gentle ocean waves, and serene atmosphere. Situated 17 km away from Agatti Island, this uninhabited island is a perfect retreat, especially for solo travelers. Thinnakara is celebrated for its captivating sunset cruises, kayaking adventures, canoeing experiences, and beach barbecues. The island is also a habitat for various exotic bird species, and waking up to the soothing symphony of their chirping combined with the rhythmic sound of waves is a delightful morning ritual.

# Kavaratti Islands

As the capital of Lakshadweep, Kavaratti naturally draws a considerable influx of tourists during the vacation season. Renowned for its white sand beaches and serene lagoons, the islands are a haven for those seeking tranquil nature walks and relaxation. Many visitors opt to embark on a ship or boat journey from Kochi, making Kavaratti their initial stop before exploring the other islands of Lakshadweep. Adventure enthusiasts will find a plethora of activities on Kavaratti, including dolphin sightings, snorkeling, lagoon cruises, and cultural tours. Moreover, if you're interested in unique architectural styles, Kavaratti is a must-visit destination, boasting mosques with distinctive designs.

# Ujra Mosque

The Ujra Mosque stands out as one of the premier attractions in Lakshadweep, meriting special recognition. This tourist hotspot holds significant spiritual importance, particularly in the capital city, Kavaratti. Locally known as the Mohideen Mosque, it features a distinctive architectural style characterized by four spacious pillars adorned with exquisite carvings supporting a tiled roof, reminiscent of the temple architecture found in Kerala. The mosque serves as a place of meditation and Quranic readings for Muslims who come here seeking spiritual solace.

# Kalpeni Islands

Kalpeni Island emerges as an ideal destination in Lakshadweep for those seeking a tranquil retreat away from the tourist crowds. Notably, foreign visitor permits are not issued here, making the island exclusive to Indian visitors. Given the limited tourist activity, accommodations are scarce, emphasizing the need for advance reservations. Kalpeni offers a range of popular activities, including exploring coral reefs, observing marine life, participating in cultural programs, and engaging in activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Additionally, savoring the delectable cuisine made from fresh catches is a must-not-miss experience on Kalpeni Island.

# Pitti Bird Sanctuary – Pakshipitti

Located at the southernmost tip of the Pitti Bank, which is predominantly submerged underwater, Pakshipitti offers a remarkable experience for visitors to the Pitti Bird Sanctuary. A visit to this sanctuary gives the impression that the entire bird population of the Lakshadweep islands has congregated in one place. With nearly 75 different species of seabirds, you can witness them engaged in their daily activities, including flying, feeding, chirping, all within their natural habitat. It's a spectacular sight you won't want to miss, so be sure to have your binoculars ready! Situated 24 kilometers north of Kavaratti island, the Pitti Bird Sanctuary is part of the township of Kavaratti. What makes this bird sanctuary unique is that the avian species live on a small island, existing together but without intermixing – a fascinating aspect of their coexistence without socialization.

# Marine Museum

The Marine Museum on Kavaratti Island stands as a captivating tourist destination, offering valuable insights into the marine life thriving in the waters of Lakshadweep. The museum showcases a diverse array of water species, corals, and shells found in the ocean and its surroundings. Dominating the center is a sizable shark skeleton enclosed in a glass box, creating a striking display. Visitors can engage with audio presentations providing informative details, including how local villagers adhere to fishing traditions while prioritizing marine life conservation. It proves to be an excellent place to visit in Lakshadweep, especially for families with children.

# Kiltan Island

Kiltan offers a glimpse into the colonial era of Lakshadweep, having served as a pivotal trade link between Ceylon and the Persian shores. This island remains relatively underexplored, ensuring that most tourist attractions are yours to discover, creating a serene atmosphere. Additionally, Kiltan is known for popular activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and diving in the lagoons. It stands out as one of the top places to visit in Lakshadweep, providing an opportunity to explore pristine lagoons and breathtaking coral reefs that remain largely untouched.

# Kadmat Islands

For seafood enthusiasts, Kadmat Island stands out as one of the prime destinations to explore in Lakshadweep. Given that fishing is the primary source of income for the locals, numerous stalls offer a variety of seafood. The recipes are indigenous, presenting spicy, flavorful, and tantalizing versions of familiar dishes. Despite its popularity akin to the capital, Kavaratti, Kadmat Island maintains a crowd-friendly atmosphere, allowing visitors to engage in activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking without feeling overwhelmed.

# Amindivi or Amini Islands

Situated on the northern side of Lakshadweep, Amindivi, or the Amini Islands, is in close proximity to Agatti and Kavaratti. These three islands, often referred to as the 'Big Three' of Andaman, share a remarkable presence. Amindivi is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters, setting it apart from the typical turquoise views found on most other Andaman islands. The breathtaking coral sands offer a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls with loved ones. Notably, Amindivi allows for the consumption of alcohol, providing the perfect setting to enjoy exotic cocktails while soaking up the sun.