The Lakshadweep Islands: India's Arabian Sea Archipelago

The Lakshadweep Islands (formerly Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands) are a union territory of India comprising 36 islands (10 inhabited, 17 uninhabited, 4 newly formed, 5 submerged banks) in the Arabian Sea, 200–440 km off the Malabar Coast (Kerala).

Key Islands

• Kavaratti – Capital, most developed, lagoon, Ujra Mosque, marine aquarium.
• Agatti – Only airport (AGX); stunning lagoon, coral reefs.
• Bangaram – Uninhabited resort island; pristine, bioluminescent plankton.
• Minicoy (Maliku) – Southernmost; distinct Mahl culture, lighthouse, tuna fishing.
• Kadmat – Long lagoon, diving center.
• Kalpeni – Three islets, huge lagoon, coral debris storm ridges.

Ecology & Economy

• Coral Reefs: Fringing reefs, atolls—part of the Chagos-Lakshadweep Ridge.
• Marine Life: 600+ fish species, 78 corals, turtles, dolphins, sharks.
• Fisheries: Tuna (pole-and-line), shark (traditional), sea cucumber.
• Tourism: Restricted (permits required); scuba, snorkel, kayak, yacht.
• Coconut: Copra, coir, vinegar, jaggery—traditional economy.

Access

• Flight: Kochi (COK) → Agatti (AGX) ~1.5 hr (Air India, IndiGo).
• Ship: Kochi → Kavaratti/others ~14–20 hr (seasonal, 5 ships).
• Entry Permit: Required for all non-residents (online via lakshadweep.gov.in).

Lakshadweep = "100,000 islands" in Sanskrit. A fragile, remote, coral paradise under Indian sovereignty.