Posted by: Rupali
Renowned for its lush green landscapes, pristine beaches, and well-preserved ecology, the beautiful archipelago of Lakshadweep is among the smallest union territories in India, made up of 36 gorgeous islands and around 12 atolls. The best places to visit in Lakshadweep include 3 spectacular reefs and 5 submerged banks, making it a top-spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Since there are endless tourist attractions in Lakshadweep, narrowing the list down to the top 10 can help first-timers have a more enjoyable vacation amid abundant greenery, luxury resorts, sparkling beaches, and ample water sports ops.
Curated List of 10 Tourist Places in Lakshadweep
The ensuing list covers every possible detail about the topmost tourist places in Lakshadweep, helping you pick one that best suits your interests. If you have the time, visit multiple best Lakshadweep places to see, making your getaway well-rounded, whether with family, as a couple, or on a solo adventure. So, browse the list and start packing away!
1. Minicoy
Also called Miliku, this is among the most prime Lakshadweep tourist spots. A central hub to tour all sister islands in the archipelago, Minicoy boasts an impressive 300-foot-tall lighthouse, one of the largest lagoons, traditional villages, colorful race boats, and a ton of water sports ops. It's also one of the best places to visit in Lakshadweep in December, thanks to the pleasant weather and an unmatched tranquil ambiance. The crescent-shaped island offers the ideal romantic beach escape or a fun family-friendly break with a ton of shimmering shorelines.
Ideal Duration : 2 Days
Things to Do : Boating, hiking, relaxation, and cuisine
Best for : Families and Groups
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport to Minicoy is at Agatti Island, which takes an average of 45-minute travel via helicopter, and around 8 hours by sea.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to the island from the other Lakshadweep destinations.
By Road : There are no roads connecting Minicoy, as it's an island that's part of an archipelago.
2. Kavaratti
It's not just another of the top Lakshadweep tourist places, but also the excellently developed capital of this fantastic union territory. Kavaratti Island boasts stark-white sands with scenic sunset views, lush green plantations, and the stunning Dolphin Dive Center. Tourists will also love exploring the marine aquarium here, which is one of the top Lakshadweep places to see, home to countless exotic specimens. Moreover, the island also has around 52 mosques spread out in different regions, with the star attraction being the Ujra Mosque.
Ideal Duration : 2 to 3 Days
Things to Do : Beach break, nature walks, and sunset photography
Best for : Families and Solo Travelers
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport to Kavaratti Island is at Agatti, which can take around 15 minutes via helicopter and about 3 hours via sea.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to Kavaratti from any of the other destinations.
By Road : There are no direct roads linking the beautiful island from the mainland.
3. Kadmat
A beautiful coral island with vibrant marine life, Kadmat is also fondly called Cardamom Island. Its scarce population makes it one of the best places to visit in Lakshadweep for a quiet getaway. It's also great for deep-sea diving, wherein you can spot sharks, rays, and several other intriguing varieties of marine life. Include this scenic island in your Lakshadweep tourism package even if you're uncomfortable with diving, as there are opportunities to catch sight of colorful marine life via glass-bottomed boats.
Ideal Duration : 2 Days
Things to Do : Sunbathing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and exploring marine life
Best for : Adventure and Romantic Escapes
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport to Kadmat is at Agatti Island.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to the region from the islands.
By Road : There are no direct roads linking Kadmat to other Lakshadweep areas as it's an island.
4. Marine Museum
One of the best Lakshadweep tourist spots located in the capital, Kavaratti Island, the museum is home to a ton of fascinating underwater species, educating scores of visitors about the significance of aquatic life. The impressive shark skeleton is among the topmost attractions at the museum, enthralling kids and adults alike. Each exhibit is accompanied by interactive panels, informative displays, and audiovisual presentations, each providing a detailed insight into the ecology, biology, and conservation of the endemic marine life.
Ideal Duration : 1 to 2 Hours
Things to Do : Spot exotic marine life and learn about different species
Best for : Families with kids
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport to Kavaratti Island is at Agatti, which can take around 15 minutes via helicopter and about 3 hours via sea.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to Kavaratti from any of the other destinations.
By Road : There are no direct roads linking the beautiful island from the mainland.
5. Bangaram Atoll
The small but scenic teardrop-shaped island is among the best places to visit in Lakshadweep for couples and groups of adults. Besides offering thrilling nature and adventure activities, it's the only place alcohol is permitted in Lakshadweep. The crystalline cobalt waters come aglow with bioluminescent plankton at night, with many washing ashore and lighting up the soft coral sands with a velvety blue glow. Visitors can explore the nearby islands of Parali and Thinnakara, both enclosed by the same lagoon and also among the top sightseeing places in Lakshadweep.
Ideal Duration : 2 Days
Things to Do : Hiking, sunbathing, and snorkeling
Best for : Couples and Groups
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport to Bangaram atoll is at Agatti Island.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to the region from the island.
By Road : There are no direct roads connecting to Bangaram from any other part of the archipelago.
6. Kalpeni
Forming a single atoll along with the uninhabited island of Cheriyam and two small islets of Pitti and Thilakkam, Kalpeni is among the most socially progressive tourist places in Lakshadweep. It is here that girls were first sent to school back when women's education was still taboo. Another outstanding feature ranking it among the most fascinating sightseeing places in Lakshadweep is a massive storm bank of coral debris along its southeastern shoreline, believed to have resulted from a violent storm during the 1840s. The beautiful island has two bathing huts with changing rooms, and offers snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, reef walking, swimming, and pedal boating opportunities.
Ideal Duration : 3 Days
Things to Do : Stroll along beaches, explore secluded coves, and relish fresh seafood
Best for : Solitude seekers
How to Reach :
By Air : The closest airport to Kalpeni is at Agatti Island, and it can take about 15 minutes to reach via helicopter and around 3 hours in a vessel.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to Kalpeni.
By Road : No direct roads connect the island to the rest of Lakshadweep.
7. Pitti Bird Sanctuary
Spotting beautiful endemic birds is among the most fantastic things to do in Lakshadweep. Also known as Pakshipitti, Pitti Bird Sanctuary can help you do just that! Take one look at Lakshadweep tourist places photos of this region and you'll know how amazing your trip can be. Located in the middle of nowhere, the small, secluded island is home to the most indigenous marine life, and the only sanctuary for beautiful birds in Lakshadweep. It's home to around 75 seabird species, including the sooty tern, brown noddy, and the greater crested tern.
Ideal Duration : 2.5 to 3 Hours
Things to Do : Birdwatch
Best for : Adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport to Pitti Bird Sanctuary is at Agatti Island, about 37 kilometers away. It is a short ferry ride away from Kalpeni or Kavaratti.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to the sanctuary.
By Road : There are no direct roads connecting the sanctuary to other parts of Lakshadweep.
8. Amini Beach
The popular beach on the oval-shaped Amini island is among the topmost tourist attractions in Lakshadweep for marine life and water sports lovers. It's home to a vibrant and mesmerizing coral reef about 0.3 to 0.6 kilometers wide, making it a top scuba diving spot. You can kayak if you don't feel like getting into the water, or relax by the shoreline and bask in the sun. You can also explore the local coral handicrafts industry, interact with artisans, attend workshops, and buy some truly unique coral-centric souvenirs.
Ideal Duration : 7 to 8 Hours
Things to Do : Scuba diving, snorkeling, reef walking, and swimming
Best for : Water sports enthusiasts
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport to Amini Island is at Agatti Island.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to Amini from anywhere.
By Road : Direct road access to the island is not possible.
9. Agatti
Home to the only airstrip in the archipelago and one of the most spectacular lagoons, Agatti Island is among the top tourist places in Lakshadweep. The lagoon beach is only a 20-minute drive away from the airport, and is a hit with families, couples, and groups alike. Don't forget to sample the smoked or dried Tuna! There are ample delicious alternatives for vegetarians. The fabulous coral reefs and multicolored fish abounding in its lagoons make this island a top Lakshadweep tourist spot for scuba diving.
Ideal Duration : 3 Days
Things to Do : Fishing, scuba diving, canoeing, snorkeling, kite surfing, and sunbathing
Best for : Families, Couples, and Groups
How to Reach :
By Air : There is an airport at Agatti Island, connected to Kochi and Bengaluru with direct flights.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to Agatti Island.
By Road : There are no direct roads connecting Agatti to any other part of Lakshadweep.
10. Andrott
Also called Andretti Island, this is the largest island in the archipelago, and one of the most fascinating tourist attractions in Lakshadweep. It has a rich marine life, allowing tourists the chance to spot sea turtles, octopuses, and much more. Lush coconut groves form part of its thick and rich vegetation, elevating its untouched beauty along with a small but panoramic lagoon area. Andrott is also among the best Lakshadweep historical places, famed for its ancient Buddhist ruins and the tomb of Saint Ubaidullah.
Ideal Duration : 12 Hours to 1 Day
Things to Do : Spot marine life, explore Buddhist ruins, visit Jumaat Mosque, and see the famous lighthouse
Best for : History buffs
How to Reach :
By Air : The closest airport to Andrott is at Agatti Island, from where you can take a ferry ride.
By Train : There is no rail connectivity to Andrott.
By Road : No direct roads are available to the island from anywhere.
How to Reach Lakshadweep
Kochi, Kerala, is a pivotal gateway to this impressive archipelago, making it possible for you to access all the best places to visit in Lakshadweep. As such, you can reach the island via ships and flights operated from Kochi regularly.
How to Reach Lakshadweep by Air :
Agatti Island is home to the only Lakshadweep airport, its airstrip welcoming regular flights from Kochi operated by several reputable airlines.
The flight from Cochin International Airport (COK) to the Agatti Aerodrome (AGX) takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Boats are available to Kadmat and Kavaratti from Agatti Island during October to May peak travel season.
Travelers can opt for helicopter transfer from Agatti to Kavaratti, operational during the monsoon season as well, subject to helicopter availability.
How to Reach Lakshadweep by Ship :
You can travel via ship from Kochi to Lakshadweep without any hassles.
There are 7 passenger ships serving sea routes between Cochin and Lakshadweep: MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea, MV Lagoon, MV Corals, MV Amindivi, and MV Minicoy./p>
The journey can take around 14 to 20 hours, depending on the island you're headed toward.
The ships offer various accommodation classes, such as A/C First Class with two-berth cabins, A/C Second Class with four-berth cabins, and Bunk/Push Back Class with A/C seating.
MV Minicoy and MV Amindivi vessels offer cozy A/C seating suitable for a night's journey.
High-speed vessels are operational between islands during fair season.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How much will a Lakshadweep trip cost?
- A: On average, a 3 to 4-night Lakshadweep tourism package could cost you around INR 24,000 onward. This time period should be enough to visit most of the top places in Lakshadweep. However, the actual cost of your Lakshadweep vacation will depend on the length of your stay, number of travelers, travel season, and the agency you book with.
- Q: Why is Lakshadweep famous for tourism?
- A: Lakshadweep is celebrated for its exotic white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, lush vegetation, stunning coral reefs, and unmatched tranquility. Inevitably, it's a great spot for snorkeling, reef walking, scuba diving, canoeing, and island hopping. It also has a rich past, with top Lakshadweep historical places including the Fallessery Elephant's Bath, the tomb of Saint Ubaidullah, and ancient Buddhist ruins in Andrott.
- Q: How many islands are there in Lakshadweep?
- A: The gorgeous archipelago of Lakshadweep is made up of 36 islands and around 12 atolls, each unique in its way. Primarily an excellent beach destination, there are countless best places to visit in Lakshadweep for families, couples, and groups alike.
- Q: How can you travel to Lakshadweep Island?
- A: When you book a Lakshadweep tourism package, you have the option to fly to Agatti Island (with the only Lakshadweep airport) from Cochin International Airport (COK). Alternatively, you can embark on any of the 7 passenger ships that serve sea routes between Kochi and Lakshadweep.
- Q: What is the best time to visit Lakshadweep?
- A:Ideally, the best time to visit Lakshadweep is between October and March, when the temperatures are a pleasant 27°C to 32°C. Summer (March to May) can also be a great time to explore Lakshadweep tourist places, besides enjoying an all-out beach getaway.
- Q: Which is the most beautiful island in Lakshadweep?
- A: Many claim Minicoy Island is among the most stunning tourist places in Lakshadweep, owing to its 300-foot-tall lighthouse, traditional villages, and ample water sports. Agatti comes highly recommended as well, primarily thanks to its cluster of attractions, classy infrastructure, and scenic beaches. Kadmat, Kalpeni, and Pitti Bird Sanctuary are worth visiting, too.
- Q: What are the top 5 famous tourist places of Lakshadweep?
- A: The most amazing and unmissable tourist attractions in Lakshadweep include the Marine Aquarium and Museum, Pitti Bird Sanctuary, Amini Beach, Ujra Mosque, and the Lagoon Beach. The Lakshadweep Surf Club, Kalpeni Island, and Bangaram Island are also worth exploring.
- Q: Is Lakshadweep good for a honeymoon?
- A: Yes, it is. Besides exploring a ton of tourist places in Lakshadweep, honeymooners can stay in panoramic resorts, unwind on pristine beaches, scuba dive to spot marine life, reef walk, and relish delicious seafood. With a hint of adventure and perfect relaxation, each island is more beautiful than the next, and most cities are ideal for a week-long honeymoon trip.
- Q: Is alcohol permitted in Lakshadweep?
- According to official authorities, Bangaram Island is the only Lakshadweep tourist spot where the sale and consumption of alcohol is permitted.
