Though the Lakshadweep archipelago may appear as a few insignificant dots on the map of India, it is, in fact, a sparkling diamond- and emerald-studded jewel adorning India's southwestern frontier. It is one of the few marvels left untouched by the encroaching hands of industrialization and progress.
The white beaches, the lagoons that wash its shores with the coral reefs which enclose it, and finally the deep blue sea-all these are symbiotically linked with each other. And, when all these are added up, Lakshadweep is no longer the tiniest of India's territories but the largest!
Location
While the total area of the 35 islands is a mere 32 sq km and the area of the lagoons enclosed by the coral reef about 700 sq km, the extended sea zone is more than 7,00,000 sq km! This almost makes it the size of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh put together!
Out of the 12 atolls with 35 islands, only one island in each of them is inhabited. All the islands are shaped like a boat with their backs resting on the reef in the east and lagoons washing their shores on the west side. The lagoons are shallow, never more than a couple of meters deep. Just as the sands on the beaches are pure white and sugary, the waters of the lagoons are crystal clear and clean.
Best Time to Visit Lakshadweep
The whit 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 the months of 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.
Tourist Attractions in Lakshadweep
Known for its impressive natural beauty and exotic marine life, Lakshadweep islands have a number of attractions to include on your holiday.
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Agatti Islands – Beautiful coral reefs and vast aquamarine expanse welcome you to the Agatti Islands. Showcasing a perfect confluence of the azure waters, white sand and clear sky, the place is thronged by the visitors to bask in the sunshine.
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Kadmat – Home to a huge lagoon and rich marine life, Kadmat Island steals the limelight for its pristine silvery white beaches.
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Bangaram Island – The Island is an ideal place for the honeymooners. Exciting watersports activities make the island a must-visit destination.
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Kavaratti – Besides the scenic mosques, Karavatti Island boasts of many other tourist attractions as well. From the Marine Museum to Desalination Plant, the island has it all.
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Minicoy Island – Reckoned as one of the best-kept secrets of India, Minicoy Island is nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea. Numerous luxury beach resorts offer sheer tranquility to the solitude seekers. Nature resides here at its best. One of the oldest lighthouses in Lakshadweep stands tall at 300 feet and offers breathtaking views from the top.
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Andretti Island – Adorned with various charms and flaunting the sublime beauty, Andretti Island is a paradise for nature lovers.
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Kalpeni Island – Kalpeni Island pleases the guests with amusing snorkeling opportunities. Relaxing vacations are guaranteed here. White sandy shores with shallow waters are ideal to spend quality time with family and friends.
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Amindivi Islands – The group of islands is well-known for its choir products.
Shopping in Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep islands are mainly popular amid those who love to partake in water activities or who simply wish to have a relaxing vacation. Though shopping in Lakshadweep is not really an amazing experience but still you can get your hand on some wonderful stuff including traditional handicrafts made from coral shells. They make some great memorabilia. Shopping in Lakshadweep is done lovely roadside shops and retails shops, managed by locals.
From classic oysters and coral shells, and coconut shell objects, to wonderful beach handicrafts, the markets in Lakshadweep sell some great variety of knick-knacks.
What to buy In Lakshadweep
Crafts
Collecting souvenirs is one of the best things to do on a vacation. Visit the roadside shops or beach stalls to get your hands on some cool gifts for your loved ones back home. There are seashells, oysters and coral curios, decorative pieces, stylish jewelry and other things. You can buy bracelets, mirrors, armlets, forks, spoons, lamps, and ashtrays etc., made from shells. Fresh water and sea water pearls are also available.
Aquariums
When you are done indulging in water sports, you can take out some time to visit the aquarium stress here to spot the marine life here. You can also buy some amazing aquariums here.
Packaged Food
The place serves some lip-smacking cuisine. You can buy different kinds of biscuits, curried canned fish and tinned tuna.
