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Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep Best Visit Time

Best Time to Visit:

Summer:

Winter:

Monsoon:

Introduction
Lakshadweep, India's smallest union territory, is made up of a collection of islands. The name means "one hundred thousand islands." Just about ten are populated by humans, while the rest are used for coconut plantations, tourism, fish hatcheries, and a variety of other purposes. It is home to some of India's most stunning and tropical islands and beaches, formerly known as the Laccadive Islands.
 
Lakshadweep is an archipelago of islands nestled in the endless Arabian Sea, built on ancient volcanic formations. The islands have a rich ecological and cultural heritage. The Islands' coral reef is a rare attraction, making it a pristine leisure spot to return to. The beautiful and unspoiled beaches will take your breath away.
 
Lakshadweep is known for its lush green scenery, incredible marine life, soft silvery beaches, and water sports, making it an appealing holiday destination for nature lovers. Snow white coral sands surround each island. The islands' natural beauty is enhanced by the crystal blue water and abundant marine life. The islands appear to be emeralds against the vast expanse of the blue sea.
 
One can either participate in exciting water sports or relax on the beach and enjoy the natural beauty. The key draw in this archipelago is scuba diving. There is a special diving institute there that will help you have a fantastic scuba diving experience.
 
All tourists must obtain a permit to visit Lakshadweep, which is usually accessed from Kochi (Kerala) (including Indians). Indians are allowed to visit all islands after obtaining a permit; however, foreigners are only allowed to visit Agatti, Bangaram, and Kadmat Islands after obtaining a permit. Permits can be collected directly from Kochi.
 
Traditions and Culture
The Lakshadweep community has a diverse culture. There are many customs and rituals to be found here. Lakshadweep's diverse traditions and cultural activities contribute to the island's overall appeal. The people of Lakshadweep are considered to follow a variety of religious practises that were once advocated by Saint Ubaidullah, who is credited with spreading Islam to Lakshadweep.
 
The original inhabitants of Lakshadweep were Hindus who migrated from Kerala's Malabar coast in the 7th century and converted to Islam. To a large degree, the culture of Lakshadweep is close to that of Kerala. Its close proximity to Kerala, as well as its influence, can be seen in the cultural practises of those who live on the islands.
 
The people who live on this island speak like the people of Kerala, with a combination of Indian and Arabic in their dialect. People in Lakshadweep only speak Malayalam, but in the Minicoy district, people speak a form of Dhivehi called Mahl. Also spoken is Jeseri (Dweep Bhasha).
 
The Koyas, Malmis, Melacheris, Aminidivis, and Manikfanss are some of the most famous tribes on the Lakshadweep islands. These five big tribes have had a significant impact on Lakshadweep's history. The Aminidivis are thought to have been the first to settle on the islands. The Koya tribe used to own the land, and the Malmis tribe used to work for them. Melacheries used to be mostly made up of members of the working class or labour community.
 
Other than Minicoy, the tribal men of this coastal land dress in a white or coloured lungi, which is a rectangular piece of fabric with its edges stitched together. A shirt is worn over lingo by the younger generation. Lakshadweep women wear kachi, which is identical to lungi but has unstitched edges. Kachi is either black or white in colour, with black borders. A long-sleeved jacket is the most common option for women. The jacket's front is very colourful and embroidered. Thattam is a long scarf that covers the head and shoulders and is worn as a headdress. A silver thread is tied around the waist of both men and women.
 
Tuna, coir, vinegar, jaggery, and copra are the main industries on the islands. Since coconut is the only crop grown in the region, their livelihood is largely dependent on it. Fishing is another critical aspect of the Lakshadweep way of life. Lakshadweep's handicrafts are also well-known around the world. Coir, corals, shells and oysters, etc. are used by island artisans to make attractive jewellery and decorative pieces.
 
Fair and Festivals

Fairs and Festivals of Lakshadweep:

Many important festivals are held in Lakshadweep, each of which showcases the natives' rich and long-standing culture. Even a tourist visiting Lakshadweep for quiet and peaceful vacations cannot resist taking part in the enthralling celebrations. Here are some of the major ones:

  • Eid-ul-Fitr: Eid-ul-Fitr is one of the most important festivals here. With the arrival of the new moon and the end of Ramadan, a month of intense fasting, Eid-ul-Fitr heralds the arrival of local food, good wishes, and people dressed in new clothes. The day begins with some intense prayer in the mosque, accompanied by greetings and a symbolic exchange of different dishes and gifts.
  • Milad ul Nabi: Milad-Ul-Nabi, also known as Mawlid in Lakshadweep, commemorates Prophet Mohammad's birthday (the last Prophet of Islam). According to the Islamic calendar, it is observed on the 12th day of the third month (Rabi-Ul-Awwal). He was born in 571 AD, according to legend. On this day, Prophet Mohammad also passed away. On this day, religious meetings are held in various parts of Lakshadweep.
  • Bakri-Eid: Bakri-Eid marks the completion of Muslim pilgrims' holy journey to Mecca. The day commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's sacrifice. It is commemorated to honour his son's life sacrifice in order to demonstrate his love. Even the Almighty is said to have asked Prophet Ibrahim to give Ismail, his son, as a sign of his devotion.
  • Muharram: Muharram is observed in a grand manner since it is supported by a large number of Muslims. According to legend, Hazrat Imam Hussein, the great prophet's grandson, and his family were slaughtered mercilessly in Karbala, Iraq. The main explanation for the celebration revolves around this disaster, but despite the fact that it is a tragic festival at first, devotees and followers make a positive example of it and keep it going.
 
Must Visit Place

Must Visiting Places in Lakshadweep:

From clean beaches and well-managed resorts to lush greenery and calm vibes, the islands have a lot to offer. The highlight, however, are the various water sports and diving activities available to you. These top tourist attractions in Lakshadweep are not to be missed:

  1. Agatti Islands- The Lakshadweep group of islands in India includes the Agatti Islands, which are considered a gem. The island is located on one of the coral isles of the Lakshadweep islands and is one of the few inhabited islands in the Lakshadweep group. You can walk around the island or hire a two-wheeler to get around.
  2. Minicoy Islands- Minicoy, also known as Maliku in the local community, is a crescent-shaped island known for its stunning lagoons, coral reefs, and densely planted coconut trees. Minicoy, located on the Union Territory's southernmost flank, is probably the most unusual place to explore. Its history, which is a blend of Maldivian and South Indian, sets it apart from the other atolls.
  3. Kadmat Island- Kadmat Island is a lovely coral island that stretches for 9.3 kilometres and has a coral reef and seagrass ecosystem as well as warm silvery beaches. Non-Indians are welcome to visit this Lakshadweep island, which offers a variety of water sports. Marine turtles that nest on the islands contribute to the conservation and protection of marine life on Kadmat Island. From Agatti to Kadmat, there is a cruise facility which is highly recommended for its beautiful and picture perfect scenery.
  4. Kavaratti Island- This island is one of the best places to visit in Lakshadweep because of its white sand and breathtaking sunsets. The amount of greenery and plantations in this tranquil lagoon is shocking. Kavaratti is the capital and a  great place to visit if you enjoy nature. Hundreds of international tourists visit the city each year to simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
  5. Bangaram Island- Bangaram Island is the perfect place for a relaxed life, where a Van Gogh masterpiece or a Hemingway classic could be created. Except for occasional tourists from the nearby island, the pristine island is uninhabited; Agatti- It provides utmost privacy and an unparalleled sense of well-being to soul-searching travellers. Bangaram Island provides a diverse range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling, etc.
  6. Kalpeni Island- Kalpeni is known for its stunning lagoon that surrounds the island and is abundant in coral life. Kalpeni Islands, also known as Koefaini, are a group of three islands that make up one of Lakshadweep's most beautiful areas. The Kalpeni islands are made up of three islands: Cheriyam, Pitti, and Tillakkam. This is also an excellent location for water sports such as Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Reef walking, canoeing, kayaking and sailing yachts.
  7. Pitti Bird Sanctuary- You can take a smaller boat to Pitti Island when staying on Kalpeni Island. This is a small, isolated island in the middle of nowhere. The island is beautiful and uncluttered. This dead coral island is a fantastic snorkelling spot where you can see some of the most unique marine life. Please make sure of all of your permits & reservations before going.
  8. Kiltan Island- This island is well-known for its many colonial landmarks and is easily accessible from Mangalore's seaport. The city served as a crossroads for trade between Ceylon and the Persian Gulf. This location is 52 kilometres away from Amini's main island. Many of Lakshadweep's spectacular reefs and lagoons can be found on the island.
 

 

Cuisine
Since Kerala is so close to Lakshadweep, the flavours, ingredients, and style of Kerala's cuisine and food have a major impact on the food and cuisines here. To a large degree, the island's menu is defined by seafood and coconut preparation.
 
Some worth trying dishes are:
  • Mus Kavab: Mus Kavaab is one of the island's most famous dishes. It is made with boneless mus (fish) that has been marinated in a paste of coconut, turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, cardamoms, and cloves. Following that, these chunks are fried with onions, tomato, and curry leaves.
  • Fish Fritters: This is one of Lakshadweep's most famous side dishes. Cut the boneless fish into cube shapes, after dipping it in a paste of gramme flour, chilly powder, turmeric, and salt, it must be deep-fried with salt. This is commonly eaten with a tangier tomato sauce.
  • Maasi Podichath: It's also a one-of-a-kind dish made entirely of fish, but this one has a twist: it's made with dry tuna. In local dialect, Maasu refers to dried tuna. Maasu Podichath is made by chopping one or two dried fish into fine pieces and mixing them with grated coconut, chopped onion, garlic, turmeric powder, and a few other ingredients. This mixture is then served with rice or roti.
  • Fish Tikka: Fish tikka is a must-try for seafood lovers. And it's a fantastic delicacy in Lakshadweep. The fish is washed and cleaned under running water before being marinated with spices such as chilli, ginger, garlic, and cloves, as well as salt. It is then prepared for grilling in a tandoor or on a griller and served hot to satisfy your taste buds.
 
FAQ’s

The capital of Lakshadweep is Kavaratti. It is famous for its tourist destinations, calm lagoons, and beaches.

The most commonly spoken languages in Kavaratti are Malayalam, Mahl, and English.

Lakshadweep is only reachable via air route. Air India operates daily flights from Kochi to Agatti, the Lakshadweep Administration runs ships which run on regular routes to other islands that are accessible and can be reached by the ships.

September to February is the best time to visit Lakshadeep when the temperature ranges between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.

Lakshadeep is famous for exotic islands, stunning beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere. Every island has a unique mix of tourist attractions despite being equally magical and gorgeous. Some islands are famous for diving and water sports, while others only offer the allure of idleness.

The cuisine of Lakshadweep has a Keralan touch and mainly comprises of sea food and coconut preparations. The fish served here is fried or barbecued, including a variety of sea foods, along with which Lakshadweep restaurants also serve Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Korean cuisines.

There are many beach resorts in Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Minicoy, Kadmat. Another option is to take the Bangaram Samudaram Package, which includes a stay on the ship MV Kavaratti and visits to the three islands of Minicoy, Kalpeni, and Kavaratti.

The main Lakshadweep island attractions are Kavaratti Islands, and Kalpeni Island. You can view all of the Lakshadweep Islands attractions. There are some uninhabited islands which still exists is the Lakshadweep group, which is encircled by stunning shallow lagoons. Water sports like scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, and parasailing are available, and are an adventure in these islands.

Most of the tourist visiting places can be covered in three to four days.

Tour Itineraries