The Lakshadweep Islands are not visited by many people, but they are incredibly beautiful and peaceful places in India. There are 36 islands, 12 atolls, and three reefs in total, but only 10 of these islands have people living on them.
If you want a unique vacation in a peaceful and remote location away from the busy cities, consider visiting Lakshadweep. Here’s a brief guide to this beautiful island destination.
02. The Union Territory
Lakshadweep is one of India’s eight Union Territories. It became a Union Territory in 1956.
03. Island destination
Out of the 36 islands, only 10 are populated. The most popular places to visit are Minicoy Island, Kalpeni Islands, Kadmat Islands, Bangaram Island, and Thinnakara Island.
04. How to reach Lakshadweep?
You can only get to Lakshadweep through Kochi. Flights and ships from Kochi, Kerala, go to Lakshadweep. Air India has flights to Lakshadweep six days a week.
05. Access to Lakshadweep
To visit Lakshadweep, you need permission from the Lakshadweep Administration in Kochi. Here’s how to get it:
- Download a clearance certificate.
- Take it to your local police station for approval.
- Attach your identification documents and three passport-size photos.
Once you complete these steps, you can apply for the permit to enter Lakshadweep.
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06. Head to Kochi
After you get the clearance certificate, you must either download the entry permit or pick it up in person from the Lakshadweep Administration office at Willingdon Island, Kochi. When you arrive in Lakshadweep, you need to give this entry permit to the station house officer there.
07. Pack light
If you are flying, pack light. Aircrafts are small and they have limited capacity.
08. Sail to Lakshadweep
Seven ships, namely MV Kavaratti, MV Minicoy, MV Amindivi, MV Corals, MV Lagoon, MV Lakshadweep Sea, and MV Arabian Sea, operate between Kochi and Lakshadweep.
Best Time to Visit
The white sandy coastlines, abundant scenic charm and tranquil surroundings make Lakshadweep a popular family as well as honeymooning destination. It is visited by tourists from all around the globe. The best time to visit Lakshadweep is between September and May, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for water sports activities. The temperature remains between 22°C to 36°C and one can partake in adventures like surfing, swimming, canoeing, snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, kayaking and so on.
After the summer months, monsoon rains between June and August, make the place even greener. The peak season in Lakshadweep is from December to February.