Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LAKSHADWEEP
POP 64,500
Comprising a string of 36 palm-covered, white-sand-skirted coral islands 300km off the
coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep is as stunning as it is isolated. Only 10 of these islands are
inhabited, mostly with Sunni Muslim fishermen, and foreigners are only allowed to stay on
a few of these. With fishing and coir production the main sources of income, local life on
the islands remains highly traditional, and a caste system divides the islanders between
Koya (land owners), Malmi (sailors) and Melachery (farmers).
The real attraction of the islands lies under the water: the 4200 sq km of pristine ar-
chipelago lagoons, unspoiled coral reefs and warm waters are a magnet for flipper-toting
travellers and divers alike.
Lakshadweep can only be visited on a prearranged package trip. At the time of research,
only the resorts on Kadmat and Minicoy islands were open to tourists - most visits to the
islands are boat-based packages which include a cruise from Kochi, island visits, waters-
ports, diving and nights spent on board the boat. Packages include permits and meals, and
can be arranged through SPORTS.
DIVING
Lakshadweep is a diver's dream, with excellent visibility and an embarrassment of marine life living on undis-
turbed coral reefs. The best time to dive is between November and mid-May when the seas are calm and visibility
is 20m to 40m.
Dive Lakshadweep
( 94460 55972;
http://divelakshadweep.com
;
Agatti Island; single dive ?3000, PADI
open water course ?24,000) is based on Agatti Island and offers a variety of PADI courses and dive packages, in-
cluding Discover Scuba (?1700) dives for beginners. Unfortunately, at the time of writing foreigners were not per-
mitted on Agatti Island and not able to use this outfit under a dispute with Lakshadweep administration, but this
situation is likely to change.
Information
SPORTS
(Society for the Promotion of Recreational Tourism & Sports;
9495984001, 04842668387;
10am-5pm Mon-Sat)
is the main organisation
www.lakshadweeptourism.com
;
IG Rd, Willingdon Island;
for tourist information and package tours.
PERMITS
