Lakshadweep Unveiled: Hidden Paradises, Unexpected Things, and Travel Tips You Must Know!
Lakshadweep, as the name suggests, is a group of islands comprising a total of 36 islands. Among these, 10 islands are inhabited, meaning people live on them, while 17 islands are uninhabited, with no permanent residents. Additionally, 4 islands have recently emerged, forming small, newly created landmasses, and 5 are submerged islands that remain hidden beneath the sea.
Out of the 36 islands, 35 are clustered together in one region, with the exception of Minicoy Island, located in the extreme south. This island is separated from the rest of Lakshadweep and lies close to the northernmost island of the Maldives. In fact, Minicoy is so close to the Maldives that if you travel by boat, you can reach it in about one to one and a half hours.
Minicoy’s proximity to the Maldives makes it distinct, with waters often associated with the stunning beauty of both island nations. Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory, derives its name from Sanskrit and Malayalam, meaning “100,000 islands.”
This stunning archipelago is celebrated for its crystal-clear blue waters, pristine white sands, and vibrant coral reefs. The islands are renowned for their breathtaking natural beauty, offering a unique blend of tranquility and adventure, making them a perfect destination for nature lovers and travelers seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Tourist Access in Lakshadweep
Tourists are not allowed to visit all 10 inhabited islands of Lakshadweep. Out of these, only six islands are open to visitors:
1. Agatti Island
Places to visit in Agatti include the lighthouse and North Beach.
2. Bangaram Island
Bangaram Island is a premium destination that can be a bit costly, but it offers many water activities.
3. Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti Island is the capital of Lakshadweep. Here, you can visit the headquarters, explore beautiful beaches, and enjoy unique views.
4. Kadmat Island
Kadmat Island offers various activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating.
5. Kalpeni Island
Kalpeni Island is very peaceful and beautiful, with water activities available. There is also a small government T-shirt factory where you can buy shirts for friends and family.
6. Minicoy Island
Minicoy Island is the southernmost island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, covering an area of 4.8 square kilometers. You can explore 10 villages here, and the beach is the most beautiful you have ever seen, making it one of the most visited islands in Lakshadweep.
The remaining islands are restricted for tourism, primarily to protect the local tribes and their way of life. As a result, tourists cannot visit those protected areas.
Language
In Lakshadweep, English and Hindi are widely understood, making it easy for tourists to communicate. The local language spoken here is Malayalam, which is due to the islands’ proximity to Kerala. If you are familiar with Malayalam, you can easily converse with the locals as well.
Climate Conditions
The climate in Lakshadweep is quite similar to that of the Maldives. The temperature varies throughout the year, with the maximum reaching up to 35°C in the month of June. In winter, the minimum temperature is around 25°C, even during the colder months of December and January.
Unlike many places where temperatures drop significantly in winter, the temperature in Lakshadweep remains mild, typically ranging between 25°C and 28°C during the cooler months. It never dips below this range, even in December and January.
Since Lakshadweep is a coastal region, this pleasant temperature is maintained throughout the year. If you’re visiting during the winter months, there’s no need to pack thick sweaters or jackets, as the weather stays comfortably warm.
Best Season to Visit Lakshadweep
The best season to visit Lakshadweep is from October to February. If you’re wondering which months are ideal, November, December, January, and even February are perfect for a visit. During this time, the weather is pleasant, making it an excellent time to explore the islands.
Avoid visiting during the monsoon season, which lasts from mid-June to mid-September, as it can bring heavy rains and rough seas. Also, peak summer, from March to June, can be quite hot. Therefore, the most comfortable and enjoyable time to visit is between October and February.
Mobile Network in Lakshadweep
One important thing to note when visiting Lakshadweep is the availability of mobile networks. The most reliable service provider in the region is BSNL. If you have a BSNL SIM card or know someone who does, it’s highly recommended to use it while touring the islands, as other networks may not provide strong or consistent coverage. Keeping a BSNL SIM in your mobile will ensure better connectivity during your stay in Lakshadweep.
ATM and Currency in Lakshadweep
When it comes to withdrawing money in Lakshadweep, there’s no need to worry about currency exchange as it’s a part of India. Indian currency (INR) is used everywhere on the islands.
ATMs are available on the major islands such as Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Minicoy, so withdrawing money won’t be an issue. However, it’s recommended to carry sufficient cash with you rather than relying solely on UPI payments, as the network can be unreliable at times. Even in hotels, Wi-Fi may be poor, which can make digital transactions difficult. If you run out of cash, you can always withdraw from one of the ATMs available on these islands.
Population of Lakshadweep
According to the 2023 census, the total population of Lakshadweep is approximately 68,500, with a range between 60,000 to 70,000 residents.
Main Sources of Income
The primary source of income for the people of Lakshadweep is fishing, followed by tourism, and then coconut farming along with other sea-related products.
Alcohol Restrictions
It’s important to note that alcohol is not permitted in Lakshadweep. If you’re planning to visit, be aware that you won’t be able to consume alcohol on the islands.
Amazing Facts about Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is an intriguing group of islands with some unique features. One notable fact is that all goods, including fuel, are exported from Kochi. While residents do own vehicles, obtaining petrol is not as straightforward as it is on the mainland. Here’s how it works:
•Petrol Card System: Residents require a Petrol Card—similar to an Aadhar card or ration card—to purchase petrol. This card is issued by the local society.
•Monthly Limit: Each household can buy a maximum of 10 liters of petrol per month.
•Purchase Schedule: The petrol is sold in two installments: 5 liters every 15 days. This means that residents must plan their usage carefully.
•No Card, No Petrol: It is essential to have a Petrol Card, as purchasing petrol without it is not permitted.
This system is in place to manage the limited resources available on the islands, ensuring that the fuel supply is sustainable for the local population.
How to reach Lakshadweep
There are two main ways to reach Lakshadweep: by ship or by flight.
By Flight
To travel by flight, you first need to reach Kochi, as flights to Lakshadweep operate only from Kochi. Currently, the only airline that offers flights to Lakshadweep is Alliance Air (formerly Air India). Other major airlines like IndiGo or Air India may soon begin operating flights to Lakshadweep. As of now, flights are exclusively available from Kochi, but flights from cities like Bangalore and Mumbai may start soon.
Regarding the cost, if you book your tickets one to two months in advance, a one-way ticket for an adult typically costs between ₹5,500 and ₹6,000.
The airport in Lakshadweep is located in Agatti, not in Bangaram as some people mistakenly believe. While Bangaram has a helipad for helicopter services, there is no runway. After landing in Agatti, you can travel to other islands by ship, small boats, or speed boats.
By Ship
The second mode of travel to Lakshadweep is by ship, and like flights, ships also depart from Kochi. You can book your ship tickets either through a tour agent or by visiting the official website www.lakport.utl.gov.in. On this website, you’ll find the complete ship schedules and can make bookings online.
There are different classes available on the ships:
•First Class
•Second Class
•Ladies Class (reserved exclusively for women)
•Bunk Class (the most affordable category)
Each class has its own pricing, and the cost also varies based on the route and ship. There are around six or seven major ships that operate between Kochi and Lakshadweep, but these are not cruise ships; they are motor vessels (MV), meaning they are functional, passenger-carrying vessels rather than luxury liners.
The journey from Kochi to any island in Lakshadweep typically takes around 18 to 20 hours, depending on the route and weather conditions.
Permit for Lakshadweep
If you’re planning to visit Lakshadweep, one important thing to remember is that you need a permit to enter the islands. There are three ways to obtain this permit:
1.Offline Mode: You can apply for a permit by filling out the required forms and submitting the necessary documents. This can be done at a counter in Kochi, where you’ll receive a hard copy of the permit.
2.Through Authorized Tour Agents: You can obtain the permit via an authorized tour agent. The agent will collect your documents and handle the process for you, making it a hassle-free option.
3.Online Portal: You can apply for the permit online at www.epermit.utl.gov.in. After signing up and submitting the required documents, you’ll receive your permit via email 15 days before your travel.
Required Documents:
•If you’re a resident of Lakshadweep, you’ll need a sponsorship letter from someone residing in Lakshadweep, which includes an official stamp and seal.
•Alternatively, if you’re not a resident, you can provide a police clearance certificate from your local area. Either one of these documents is necessary to process your permit.
If you have acquaintances or are staying at a hotel, it is advisable to coordinate with them to obtain the necessary sponsorship. For others, the police clearance certificate is the way to go.
For an easier process, you can contact authorized agents through www.samudram.utl.gov.in, where you’ll find a complete list of authorized agents across India. They can assist with permits, package bookings, and hotel reservations.
Permit Cost:
•The official permit fee is ₹50, with an additional ₹200 in extra charges, bringing the total cost to ₹250.
•Agents may charge a bit more, so it’s a good idea to negotiate with them beforehand.
Without this permit, you cannot visit Lakshadweep, so make sure to apply in advance.
For further details, check out the government website or contact authorized agents in your city.
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