Lakshadweep

• Capital: Kavaratti
• Population: 0.06 million
• Area: 32 sq. km
• Language: Malayalam
• Best Season: October to May
• Weather: Summers 23°- 32°C. Winters 20°-29°C.

Places to See Around

Kadmat Island Kavaratti The Lighthouse Kalpeni Ujra Mosque Scuba Diving Kavaratti-Island Golden Jubilee Museum Minicoy Juma Masjid Lighthouse Juma Mosque Bitra Island Kavaratti Island Marine Aquarium Lighthouse Kavaratti Island Lagoon Chetlat Island Lighthouse Jumaat Mosque

Lakshadweep is one of the worlds most spectacular tropical island systems. Thirty- two sq. km of land spread over 36 islands surrounded by 4200 sq. km of lagoon rich in marine wealth. The precious heritage of ecology and culture is supported by an extremely fragile ecosystem. Committed to the cause of Eco tourism Union Territory of Lakshadweep has consciously followed a middle path between tourism promotion and environmental conservation. The Administration is carefully monitoring the environmental impact of coastal tourism and has taken steps to promote tourism in a way that is consistent with ecological concerns. As an effective strategy to avoid pressure on ecological environment, the efforts to promote tourism have been synchronized with the carrying capacity of the islands.

 

A Union Territory of India, Lakshadweep is a group of about 36 islands with a total land area of 32 square kilometers scattered over 30,000 square miles of the Arabian Sea. Representing the rich biodiversity of the region, the various facts on it enables one to amass a wide gamut of cohesive and coherent knowledge about Lakshadweep. Blessed with an unparalleled natural beauty, the exotic coral reef island of the union territory is an interesting blend of scenic beauty coupled with modern infrastructural facilities that draw several tourists across the globe.

A large conglomerate of 36 exotic islands that represent a variety of biological species, the beautiful island of Lakshadweep casts a magical spell on the tourist with its bewitching beauty. The capital Kavaratti, is endowed with the bounty of nature. The golden sandy beaches, crystal clear water of the Arabian Sea and the tall coconut trees bordering the shores of the deep blue sea of Kavaratti captures the imagination of the poet.

Lakshadweep is easily accessible by air or water. Equipped with excellent infrastructural facilities, the coral reef island of Lakshsadweep extends a warm welcome to all the visitors.It provides the tourists with a plethora of water sports that enables them to explore their latent potentialities and sportsman spirit. It is generally believed that the first settlement on these islands was made by Cheraman Perumal, the last king of Kerala, as a result of shipwreck on the stormy Arabian seas. But the historical record shows that, around the 7th century, a Muslim saint was shipwrecked on the island of Amini. He converted the inhabitants here to Islam, despite initial opposition. After many difficulties he was able to carry out his mission, and to this day, the people follow Islam. Although the sovereignty remained in the hands of the Hindu Raja of Chirakkal, it eventually passed to the Ali Raja of Cannanore (Kannur) in the 16th century, the only Muslim royal family of Kerala, and later, in 1783 to Tipu Sultan. Following the defeat of Tipu Sultan by the British, at Srirangapattanam in 1799, the islands were annexed by the East India Company. It remained with the British until Independence, when it was made a Union territory of the Indian Union in 1956.

 

Tourism in Lakshadweep is the fastest growing industry, which is playing a vital role in generating income, employment and over all development of islands. Lakshadweep tourism is mainly nature based which includes pristine beaches, rich flora and fauna, and marine life. These beautiful islands allure thousands of tourists every year from various parts of the world. For the promotion of tourism in Lakshadweep, the tourism department of Lakshadweep has come up with various plans, which include construction of hotels, development of infrastructure, conservation of heritage monuments and development of new tourist destinations. Lakshadweep tourism offices are located at various cities of the country, which provide travel related information about Lakshadweep. The official website of Lakshadweep tourism gives out ample information about this beautiful destination. Besides, Lakshadweep Tourism Board also offers exclusive holiday packages to different Islands of Lakshadweep, which include transfers, comfortable accommodation, all meals, and sightseeing and water sports activities. Tourists can also avail specialized Lakshadweep tourism guides at any of the islands.