Top 5 Key Factors to Keep in Mind When Planning Your Lakshadweep Trip

You have two choices: either fly directly to Agatti for exploration or opt for a cruise that offers a glimpse of various islands, allowing quick stops for exploration. The only drawback is the limited time available to explore these islands.

If you are considering a journey to Lakshadweep inspired by your wonderful experiences in the Andamans, here are five essential considerations

Access:

Lakshadweep boasts its own unique beauty, but it comes with certain restrictions not encountered in the Andamans. Not all islands are easily accessible. To land at Agatti Island, you must obtain a special permit before boarding your flight from Kochi. This permit requires planning at least a month before your journey. Police verification, plus approval from the Lakshadweep authority, is required, which can take more than a week's time. Coordinating with a local agent is necessary for permit acquisition, and some agents include this cost in your package. A helpful tip is to connect with locals on Instagram, as they can assist you in obtaining permits if you wish to explore the island independently.

Food and Drinks:

In contrast to the Andamans, Lakshadweep offers limited food options. While Havelock may have cafes and bars where you can enjoy live music with a glass of wine, Lakshadweep prohibits liquor on its islands. While luxury hotel guests can access a variety of seafood, economy guests are mostly served Tuna fish.

People:

Most of the population on the island is Muslim, and the locals are incredibly helpful. During my morning stroll, I engaged in a one-hour chat with a local resident who had lived there his entire life. Our conversation revealed the perspective that, no matter how beautiful one's current living place may be, there is always a fascination with the greener grass on the other side.

Island Exploration:

While two-wheelers can be rented on Havelock and Neil islands, Agatti is a mesmerizing 7KM stretch with a beautiful ocean view, but there is no facility to rent a two-wheeler due to a shortage of fuel. A helpful tip is to borrow a two-wheeler from your hotel's caretaker to explore the narrow roads lined with palms on both sides.

Water Sports:

Water sports in Agatti can be relatively expensive. It's advisable to bring your own snorkeling kit, as you can find infinity pools with corals and colorful fishes at a shallow depth near any of the nearby beaches. Do not miss a trip to Thinnakara Island, where in the middle of the ocean, you can witness turtles in clear blue water and enjoy a short coral forest view while snorkeling to see the sunken ship.

In conclusion, plan your trip to Lakshadweep not because you loved the Andamans, but if you appreciate serene, less crowded places. If you enjoy interacting with locals and savoring local cuisines, including freshly extracted Toddy (Palm wine), plan your Lakshadweep trip for unforgettable memories