Lakshadweep, which literally translates to "one hundred thousand islands," is one of nature's greatest gifts to humankind. The beautiful, undeveloped beaches will take your breath away. It's the ideal place to get away from your stressful schedules and the clamor of overcrowding cities. Lakshadweep is India's smallest union territory, made up of several islands. Only about ten are inhabited by people, while the rest are u...
Lakshadweep, which literally translates to "one hundred thousand islands," is one of nature's greatest gifts to humankind. The beautiful, undeveloped beaches will take your breath away. It's the ideal place to get away from your stressful schedules and the clamor of overcrowding cities. Lakshadweep is India's smallest union territory, made up of several islands. Only about ten are inhabited by people, while the rest are utilized for coconut plantations, tourism, fish hatcheries, and a variety of other industries. The Indian Ocean island of Lakshadweep is brimming with adventure. You can either participate in thrilling water activities or relax on the beach and take in the scenery. In this archipelago, scuba diving is the most popular activity. There is a special diving institute there that will help you have a fantastic scuba diving adventure. There are several hotels and resorts to choose from, all of which are built under the supervision of the Indian government.
Ancient History of Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep's exact history is unknown, and it is based on numerous legends and local customs. Legend has it that the earliest settlers on these islands lived during the Cheraman Perumal period. The Cheras supposedly controlled the islands, according to the Sangam Patirruppattu. Kalpeni, Andrott, Kavaratti, Agatti, and Amini are the islands with the most history. Buddhism ruled in Lakshadweep throughout the 5th and 6th centuries, according to archaeological evidence. In 661 CE, an Arab named Ubaidulla brought Islam to the Lakshadweep Islands. During the 11th century, the island was ruled by the Late Cholas, who were followed by the Kingdom of Cannanore. During the 16th century, the Portuguese governed the oceans from Ormuz to the Malabar Coast and down to Ceylon. In 1498, they conquered the island of Lakshadweep. Until 1545, Lakshadweep was governed by the Portuguese. In the seventeenth century, the Kannur Ali Rajahs governed the islands. Tipu Sultan eventually took control of the Amindivi group of islands. They handed it over to the British administration and were sent to South Canara after the Third Anglo-Mysore War. The Malabar area of the Madras Presidency was assigned to the remaining islands.
Culture and Tradition of Lakshaweep
The Islamic culture has a strong influence on both music and dance in Lakshadweep. Because it is so close to Kerala, the culture of this union territory is very similar to Kerala's. Some of the prominent dance genres seen at weddings and festivals include Parichakali, Kolkali, Lava, and Opana. The genuine core of the culture can be shown at key family events such as childbirth, marriage, and ear-boring. Traditional tribal dancing and folk music are examples of Lakshadweep's colorful culture. Coir, corals, shells, and oysters are expertly made into decorations, jewelry, and ornamental items that can be purchased at beachside handicraft shops and street markets. Lakshadweep cuisine is influenced by Kerala cuisine, as coconuts and fish are plentiful in both places. Lakshadweep's cuisine, on the other hand, is distinct. The meal is noted for its unique flavors, which are acidic and spicy.
Things to do when in Lakshadweep
- Kitesurfing in Kadmat Island - Kitesurfing is an exciting water sport adventure that can be enjoyed in Lakshadweep. Kitesurfing is a popular activity on Kadmat Island and other nearby islands. Kadmat Island is a great place to learn to surf and then go deeper with your kite. Once you've mastered it, you'll find that the experience will be a lot more enjoyable.
- Scuba diving in Kalpeni Island - An entirely other experience. Hundreds of beautiful corals line the shores of Kalpeni Island, making your dive truly breathtaking. The seas are also teeming with a diverse array of unusual fish. There are around two thousand different species, according to some specialists! Under the water, there are also amazing turtles to be found. Some expert driving instructors will make you feel at ease and will train you long before the actual dive, ensuring that your entire experience is unforgettable.
- Canoeing at Minicoy Island -Among the several adventure water activities available in Lakshadweep, canoeing is a breathtakingly gorgeous experience. Minicoy Island is one of the best canoeing spots in Lakshadweep. The shallow waters of Minicoy make it an ideal spot for canoeing, and even beginners may enjoy the activity.
- Parasailing - Parasailing is one of the most thrilling sports available in Lakshadweep, and it can be done in a variety of locations. You will be set sail in the air via steam and jet boats, and the experience will be unlike any other. Parasailing above the clear waters will give you a great adrenaline rush and an experience you will never forget, in addition to giving you a 360-degree bird's eye perspective of the sand and the sea.
- Luxury Yacht Cruise - A luxury yacht cruise through the Lakshadweep Islands is a fantastic idea. Sailing amid azure blue seas and lovely white sands will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Tourists can also spot some strange fish and turtles while you're out there. In terms of delivering a surge of excitement and adventure, this is one of the most pristine things to do in Lakshadweep.
Places to visit in Lakshadweep
- Minicoy Island - Minicoy, also known as Maliku in the local language, is one of India's best-kept secrets. It is one of the 36 small islets in the Lakshadweep group of islands. It is situated in the wide Arabian Sea, only 398 kilometers (215 nautical miles) from Cochin's coastline. The small island, which covers a total area of 4.801 square kilometers, is famous for its brilliant coral reefs, charming white-sand beaches, and the endless ocean's freshwater.
- Agatti Islands - The Agatti Islands, part of India's Lakshadweep group of islands, are regarded as another gem. The island is located on one of the Lakshadweep group's coral isles, and it is one of the few inhabited islands in the group. The island can be explored on foot, or a two-wheeler can be rented for transportation. Natural greenery and stunning geographic structures abound in every area of the island. Agatti Island is a picturesque 8-kilometer-long island with a population of 8000 people.
- Kavaratti Islands - This island offers wonderful white coral-sand beaches, tranquil and relaxing lagoons, and vast greenery, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions. This island, like all the others in the area, is a haven for nature lovers! Any traveler will never forget the dancing coconut leaves, the salty ocean smell, and the sound of the waves.
- Bangaram Islands - Bangaram Island is a lovely small island in India's Union Territory of Lakshadweep. Bangaram Island is the largest island in the region's chain of islands (also known as an atoll) with a lovely lagoon, covering an area of 1.234 km2. It is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to withdraw completely from the fast-paced world, as it has a population of only ten people and only one beach resort.
- Kadmat Island - Kadmat Island, which stretches for 9.3 kilometers and is part of the Amindivi subgroup of islands in the Lakshadweep archipelago, is a beautiful island. Kadmat Island is a traveler's paradise, with silvery white beaches, sun-kissed shoreline, magnificent blue lagoons, azure blue oceans, and vibrant coral reefs. Marine turtles, which live and breed on the island, have made it their home. Aside from that, the island only has one inhabited settlement, Kadmat, where fishing is the main source of income.
- Marine museum - The Marine Museum, which is located in Kavaratti, displays a variety of marine-related items and promotes the use of marine goods and their preservation. The museum's aquarium is particularly noteworthy, as it houses a number of the most remarkable kinds of marine fish and other aquatic animals. The ornamental fishes and aquatic species are really attractive, and it is a wonderful sight to view them.
How to reach?
- By Air - Agatti Aerodrome is Lakshadweep Is only domestic airport, with frequent flights from Cochin International Airport, which is currently Lakshadweep's only linked airport, and Indian Airlines, the only flight operator.
- By Waterways - Because Lakshadweep is an island 300 kilometers off the coast of Kerala, there is no transport service. There is, however, maritime connectivity between Cochin and Lakshadweep, with seven passenger ships operating between the two islands.