A JOURNEY TO A HIDDEN GEM OF INDIA – LAKSHADWEEP

Here’s an interesting fact about Lakshadweep: The beautiful and scenic Archipelago of Lakshadweep Islands which is cut off from Mainland India was part of the Madras presidency at the time of independence. By virtue of this simple fact, Lakshadweep became part of India. However Lakshadweep had a Muslim majority population at the time as it does even today. This was reason enough for Pakistan to stake a claim for/capture the islands by force just like J&K.

Sardar Patel anticipated that Pakistan would most definitely look to capture the islands and was alert to the possibility. He dispatched naval troops to the Islands to hoist the Indian flag and guard its shores from any possible invasion. Sure enough, few hours after the Indian forces had hoisted the Indian flag, vessels of the Royal Pakistan Navy were seen on their way to Lakshadweep. Seeing the presence of the Indian flag and the navy they had no option but to return to their base in Karachi.

Lakshadweep, comprising of 36 islands out of which only 10 are inhabited is the most underrated and hidden paradise in India, thanks to the erstwhile tedious procedure to get the permit to enter the island and limited connectivity. But in the recent times, Indian Government is trying hard to simplify the process enter the island and develop these islands into a major tourist destination. But before this happens, you should plan a trip to these unexplored islands and white sand beaches of Lakshadweep.

One thing to note is that you will be needing help of a tour operator for permit and to book Bangaram island resort, the only island in Lakshadweep with deep white sand beaches and utmost privacy.

We planned our trip with India Trotter (Whats app: 82967 01596). We found them to be extremely active and professional and all our queries were answered to every detail with no hurry to book the package. We booked with them just 3 days before our departure and got the best deal. We interacted with other guests in Lakshadweep and they had booked their packages at much higher rates than us. We highly recommend them for your Lakshadweep voyage.

Use coupon “Travelbuddy” for some discounts.

Things to keep in mind while planning to Lakshadweep:

Peak season: Dec to Feb

Warmest: March and April

Monsoon: May to Sep (Resorts can only be reached by Helicopter)

Cost (in peak season): INR 70-80k, ex Delhi (including flights and resorts and water activities) for 3 nights, 4 days package) for a couple.

• Permit to enter: Every tourist entering Lakshadweep must be in possession of a permit issued by the administration. You just need a copy of Aadhaar and the tour operator will arrange it for you. In case you plan to do it yourself, you can try mailing the Lakshadweep administration on their address mentioned on their website, but we got to know that the replies are highly delayed and sometimes even not replied to.

• Confirmed booking at Bangaram Island Resort: There is only 1 luxurious resort (serves alcohol) in Lakshadweep and that too is a Government property. Again you need to book it beforehand in the same manner as described above. Rates for peak season (Dec-Mar) are generally in the range of 15k per night, inclusive of all meals and airport transfers by cab and ferry.

• Flights: To reach Agatti, the only airport in Lakshadweep, there is only 1 daily flight from Kochi operated by Air India and the fares are almost in the range of 6k. So you need to plan to reach Kochi the night before to take the morning flight to Kochi.

• RT-PCR covid report: As on date, a negative RT-PCR is mandatory conducted within 48 hrs of your departure to Agatti.

Islands which can be visited (With availability of resorts)

• Bangaram island: This island is often referred to as Paradise of Lakshadweep and one of the best places to visit, as it is filled with ample white sand all around for lazy folks to chill around and have numerous adventure activities for the thrill seeker. It is one of the most picturesque places we have ever been to. Also, this is the only island where sale and consumption of alcohol is permitted.

Must try activities: Kayaking, Shipwreck Snorkelling, Coral garden snorkelling, crossing the sea to reach the sand bank and the best sunsets ever.

• Agatti island: This is the most easy island to reach to as it has an airport and hence technically the gateway to all other islands in Lakshadweep. However, there are limited homestays and online booking is not available. So one need to book it upon reaching itself.

• Thinnakara island: This island is a boat trip away from Bangaram island and just as serene and peaceful as Bangaram itself. Earlier there was a resort on this island but that has now been closed, so just some locals live on the island. A great island to spend a sunny afternoon on empty beaches.

• Kavaratti: This island is the capital of Lakshadweep famous for its pristine white sand beaches, favoured by tourists for sun bathing. There are a number of hotels and resorts which have opened up here but again one needs to get in touch with a tour operator for bookings. Do remember, since it is the capital, it is also one of the most crowded island in the Union Territory.

There are certain other islands also such as Minicoy, Kadmat, Kiltan etc. which are suitable for day excursions only.

Before heading on your next trip to Maldives, do consider Lakshadweep for a much calmer, cheaper and unexplored lagoons, beaches, palm trees and coconuts.

Bon Voyage!

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