Island
The archipelago of Lakshadweep, the smallest Union Territory in India with 12 atolls, three reefs, and five submerged banks, is quite small. A single-district Union Territory encompassing 32 Sq. The island ranges from ten inhabited islands to 17 uninhabited islets, four newly formed islets, and five submerged reefs, all within a km-long span. Kavaratti, Agatti, and Amini are among the inhabited islands, along with Kadmat (or Kakao), Kiltan which is one of the largest in Tibet, Chetlat having around 1,600 inhabitants, Bitra which was the first Indian settlement in Southeast Asia, Kalpeni since 2000, and Minicoy situated on the western coast. The population of Bitra is the tiniest among them, with only 271 individuals (Census 2011). Bangaram, an uninhabited island, has a population of 61 persons and was counted during the 2011 census.
It lies between the latitudes of 8° – 12° 13′′ North and 71°-74° East, 220 to 440 Km away. In the Arabian Sea, far from Kochi’s coastal city in Kerala. The lagoon’s land area is roughly 4,200 sq. A total area of 20,000 sq. is located in km. About 4 lakh Sq. is located within territorial waters in km2. Miles covered: Lakshadweep is a vast expanse of land that falls under the economic zone.
According to the 2011 Census, Lakshadweep has a population of 64429 individuals. Over 93% of the native population are Muslims, with most of them being affiliated with the Shafi School, a Sunni Sect. All the islands, except for Minicoy, have speakers of Malayalam (which is written in a Divehi script) which is also spoken in Maldives. The Scheduled Tribes refer to the indigenous population as they are economically and socially backward. Those who reside in Lakshadweep and have both of their parents born on these islands are considered Scheduled Tribes under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduledube (modification orders) list of 1956. The absence of Scheduled Castes is notable in this Union Territory.
The primary occupations of the people include fishing, coconut farming, and spinning coirs. The tourism sector is a new frontier.
1. Agatti
Located to the west of Kavaratti Island, the Agatti is situated 459 km (248 nautical miles) from Kochi. With an area of 3, it is situated between latitudes 10o 48′ and 10° 53′ N and longitudes 72o 09′ & 7O 13’10. The maximum length is 10 km while the width measures 84 sq km. A long tail on the south leads to a north-easterly and south-westerlies orientation. The lagoon encloses the 17-acre island. An area of 50 square kilometers.
Multicolored coral fishes and coral growths are abundant in the lagoons of Agatti. Fishing is the primary industry in Agatti, and it is likely the only island that gets an excess of fish besides Minicoy. Coir and Copra are the main industries that compete with Fishing. Agatti, the AirPort stopover from Cochin on the way to Bangaram, is visible in the northern direction.
Climate
Agatti has a climate that is comparable to the one in Kerala. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea.
2. Amini
Positioned between Kavaratti Island to the south and Kadmat Island, Amini Island is 407 km (220 nautical miles) away from Kochi. An oval island is the size of this one. The longest point is 2. 70 km. With a land area of 2, it is situated between latitudes 11o 06′ and 11° 08′ N, and longitudes 72o 42′ to 72O 45′ E. 1 km2 of lagoon An area of 50 square kilometers. A depression in the center of an oval island that is 2-3 m above sea level.
The construction process employs corals and sandstone. This area is home to skilled artisans who are recognized for crafting walking sticks made of tortoise shells and coconut shells. It is also renowned for its stone engravers and rich folk song heritage.
Climate
Like Kerala, Amini has a similar climate. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea. The lagoon is kept peaceful because of the reef.
3. Andrott
Andrott Island is the biggest, with an area of 4. 4 km2 or 90 sq km. A width of 66 km extends until 1. 43 km long. Positioned between latitudes 10° 48′ and 10EO 50′ N and longitudes 73° 38’ and 74° 42′ E, it lies in an east-west direction. It is situated 119 km (64 nautical miles) from Kavaratti and 293 km (295 nautical miles) away from Kochi. This is the only island that has a tiny lagoon.
Unlike other north-south-facing islands, Andrott is the closest island to the mainland and has an east-west orientation. Lakshadweep’ is the largest island in it. The island’s lush vegetation, primarily consisting of coconut groves, enhances its attractiveness. ISLAM was adopted by the first island. The tomb of Saint Ubaidullah, who is believed to have converted the people of the islands to Islam, can still be seen in the Juma at the Mosque. Here, religious preachers are highly respected. Apart from Minicoy and Agatti, the fishing industry is also well-developed. The island’s primary exports are cocoa and copra.
Climate
The climate in Andrott is akin to that of Kerala. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea. The lagoon is kept peaceful because of the reef.
4. Bangaram
A breathtakingly beautiful island in Lakshadweep. There are no inhabitants in BANGARAM. A shallow lagoon is enclosed by a coral reef. It is recognized as one of the premier entryways in the world. The combination of sun, sand, and surf is spellbinding for the visitor. Crystal-clear water guarantees complete privacy and comfort. The shimmering coral reef and blue lagoon serve as a mirage to the soul-soothing voyager. The place would be a canvas for Hemingway to craft if not for Van Goph. The muse’s influence may lead to creative creation. BANGARAM’s 120 acres of lush coconut groves are home to exquisite fish, birds, parrots, pufferfish, hermit crabs, and sea birds. Diverse activities such as scuba diving, beach volleyball, swimming, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing are available. Within the resort, there are 60 beach cottages that offer a range of delectable dishes from different regions. The bar is fully furnished. BANGARAM can be reached from AGATTI, which is also connected to Cochin for direct metro connections.
5. Bitra
Bitra Island is the tiniest inhabited island in the territory with a land area of 0. An area of 105 square kilometers. Does there exist a 0? The total length of this object is 0. 28 km at the maximum altitude. The location of this place is 483 km (261 nautical miles) away from Kochi. The position of the island is at 11° 36′ N I and 72° 11′ E longitude. With a lagoon area of 45, the land is small in size. The area covered is 61 sq km.
The territory’s tiniest inhabited island is BITRA. Until 1835, BITRA was the location where KILTAN and CHETLAT people were known to hunt various sea birds. Here lies a small shrine for Malik Mulla, an old Arab Saint who is said to have been buried. Other islands also visit the shrine as a pilgrimage site. The first permanent settler at BITRA, who was a woman from CHETLAT and her son, set up solitary accommodation with her around 1945.
Climate
Bitra’s climate is akin to that of Kerala. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea. The lagoon is kept peaceful because of the reef.
6. Chetlat
The Chetlat Island can be found north of Amini by 56 km and south of Kochi by 432 km (233 nautical miles). Positioned between 11° 41′ and 11EO 43′ N latitude, and 72° 51′ to 42OO E longitude, it occupies an area of 1. An area of 40 square kilometers. The eastern side of the island is characterized by a wide coral delta belt that forms due to storms and extends to the entire southern end.
CHETLAT is the most northern island. Here, the people are in charge of their dessert-making. Coconuts are not well-groomed and earn little money. Mats and coconut leaf weaving are the two industries that make use of this time. In the 16th century, however, the island suffered greatly from the Portuguese. The Amindivi islanders’ boat-building industry thrived in the early 1900s, with all the necessary vessels being constructed here.
Climate
Chettat’s climate is akin to that of Kerala. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea.
7. Kadmat
Kadmat Island is a narrow and lengthy island. The value is 0 though. The widest point is 57 km in width and the longest is 11 km. It is located at latitude 11° 10′ -11° 16′ N and longitude 72° 45′ +72° 48′ E, with an area of 3 km. 20 square kilometers. This is a 407 km (220 nautical mil) island, situated between Amini Island in the south and Chetlat Island to the north of Kochi.
A lagoon can be found on the western side, spanning around 2 km at its widest point, with an overall area of 37. Sq. km. With an elevation of 2 to 3 m in the east and 2 or 4 mm in the west, the island is flat. The western side of the island is marked by a high sand ridge and deposited deposits on the southern side, which give rise to undulations. The northern side is flat.
Kadmath’s maximum width is 550 meters, while its longest span is 8 Km. A narrow lagoon to the east and a beautiful shallow lagoon to the west make it an ideal place for water sports. At the southern end, you can find long sandy beaches and small sand banks ideal for sunbathing. Kadmath is famous for its coconut palm groves that provide a picturesque setting for tourists’ huts. It is the ideal destination for a real vacation that separates you from the madness, and bustle of city life. The Marine Wealth Awareness Programme tour lasts 6 days and you can expect to learn how to disembark on the island around noon, which is a crucial moment.
The sea breeze and moonlit beach provide a perfect break for 3 days. Boats that are hired for water sports, including kayaks, pedal boats, and sailing yachts as well as skiing boats (e.g. The island’s scuba diving center has become a popular spot for water-sport enthusiasts.
Climate
Like Kerala, Kadmat has a climate. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea. The lagoon is kept peaceful because of the reef.
8. Kalpeni
Kalpeni Island is situated between latitudes 10° 03′ and 10 07′ N and longitudes 73° 37′&39′ E, and its area is 2. An area of 79 sq km. The Island is situated 287 km (155 nautical miles) from Kochi and to the southeast of Kavaratti Island, halfway between Andrott and Minicoy. It is home to a massive lagoon that measures about 2. At its maximum extent, 8 km. The Island lies in a north-south orientation.
Located sixty kilometers from Androth, the Kalpeni island is one of the most beautiful islands in Lakshadweep. Kalpeni, a significant tourist spot, provides visitors with an excellent chance to showcase their sportsmanship and abilities in various water sports.
Kalpeni islands offer a diverse range of thrilling water activities for those seeking a fusion of excitement and thrill-seeking. The Kalpeni islands, which combine traditional culture with modern infrastructure, are a prime example of the island’s natural and scenic beauty.
The Kalpeni island’s diverse ecology is characterized by a rich variety of flora and fauna, as well as some unique species of plants, animals, or waterfowl. Guests are spellbound by the stunning natural beauty of Kalpeni Island, its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. Stunning: The picturesque scenery of the Kalpeni islands also captures the poet’s heart.
The indigenous people on Kalpeni Island strictly follow social norms and codes of conduct. On the island of Kalpeni, people live in relative peace. The Sarongs, a traditional wrap-around skirt style, are worn by women in the Kalpeni island to signify their cultural heritage. Kalpeni island’s Kolkali and Parichakkalis showcase the artistic talent of its native inhabitants through their beautiful and vibrant folk dances.
Located 63 km south of Androth, Kalpeni is the most southeasterly of the Cannanore Islands. Two main islands form the eastern side of an elongated atoll formation. Kalpeni, located on the southern island, is the biggest of both. An area of 28 km2. In the north, Cheriyam is a small island that measures 46 ha. Kalpeni has several small islets on the lagoon side.
Climate
The weather in Kalpeni and Kerala is comparable. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea. The lagoon is kept peaceful because of the reef.
9. Kavaratti
Kavaratti is the capital of the Union Territory Lakshadweep in India. At a distance of 360 kilometers, Kavaratti Island is situated along the coast of Kerala. Positioned at 57°N 72. At 64°E orientation. The nearest major city on the Indian mainland is at 404 km (218 mi). The lagoon’s size is 3 ha. An area of 46 square mi. Karavatti is one of the hundred Indian cities chosen to become a smart city under PM Narendra Modi’s Smart Cities Mission.
Kavaratti Island serves as the capital of Lakshadweep Union Territory. The island lies 404 km (218 nautical miles) from Kochi, between Agatti Island to the west and Andrott Island to the east. It has an area of 4. An area of 22 square kilometers. There is no island bigger than 5. The length of 8 km is equal to 1. 6 km. With an area of 4, the lagoon spans around 6 km in length. An area of 96 square kilometers.
The island’s elevation is between 2 and 5 m above the mean sea level on the western side and 2 to 3 mm on either side of the eastern side. It can be found at the heart of Lakshadweep. Oddly a small lake lies at the northern end of Kavaratti. With an area of slightly more than 4 sq km, the island boasts the highest percentage of non-iconic residents.
Like Lakshadweep’s other islands, Kavaratti has warm sandy beaches that are ideal for tourists to unwind on. The lagoons near Kavratti are adorned with starfish, anemones, sea cucumbers, numerous multi-colored fish species, and stunning corals. The lagoon situated to the west of the Island is ideal for activities such as swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, and canoeing. To the south of the Island lies Chicken Neck Point, an excellent location for water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling. Visitors can enjoy a glass bottom boat ride that showcases the diverse range of marine life and remarkable corals.
Kavaratti is the most populous mosque in Lakshadweep. Jamnath, hidden, and Ujra are among the top-rated mosques among the 52. With the largest tank of any mosque on the islands, the Jamnath mosque is a massive structure. To the north-west of Kavaratti lies the Mohidden Mosque, an old mosque. One of the oldest and most remarkable is the Ujra mosque, which was erected by Sheikh Mohammad Kasim. It is believed that the ceiling of this 17th-century edifice was crafted from driftwood and has an ornate design.
Its pillars are also intricately carved. Its main prayer hall is off-limits to women. The islanders worship in the mosque, where the grave of Sheikh Mohammad Kasim is situated. The mosque has a well that holds healing water in its precincts. Several blocks from the Ujra Mosque, there is an aquarium and museum. Diverse fish varieties of color can be found in the aquarium.
A large glass compartment houses a small shark that shares space with sea cucumbers, octopuses, and fish schools, but not many anemones. Glass jars filled with various types of fish and unusual shells are on display in the museum. Located next to the museum, the Dolphin Dive Centre offers various PADI programs for both amateur and professional divers. PADI, the world’s largest leisure diving organization, provides instruction to skilled divers on all types of water sports.
Accommodation near the jetty is also available in Kavaratti. A few tourist huts come with a bathroom and balcony. Tourists can enjoy a buffet that typically serves Malagasy dishes such as spicy tuna fish, chicken tenders, and sweet potato. Lakshadweep Tourism Department has created Coral Reef and Taratashi packages that include Kavaratti.
Climate
Like Kerala, the climate in Kavaratti is temperate. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea. The lagoon is kept peaceful because of the reef.
10. Kiltan
The island of Kiltan is situated at a distance of 2 km from Amini Island, lying between 11° 28′ and 11′′ 30′ N latitude and 72° 59′ to 73° 01′ E longitude. 20 square kilometers. It consists of 3. 4 km in length and 0. The width at the widest point is 6 km. High storm beaches are present on the northern and southern edges of the island. This island lies 394 km (213 nautical miles) from Kochi. Its lagoon area measures 1. An area of 76 sq km.
At a distance of 51 km, KILTAN is situated. The international trade route between the Persian Gulf and Sri Lanka lies to the north-east of AMINI. The island’s north and south ends intersected by a high-altitude storm beach. The island’s vegetation is dense and thriving. During the warmer summer nights in KILTAN, it is common for people to sleep on the beaches or outside their homes. The folk dances of KILTAN are a treasure trove.
Climate
Kiltan’s climate bears resemblance to that of Kerala. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea.
11. Minicoy
Located between 8° 15′ and 8EO 20′ N latitude and 73° 01′ undulating longitude, Minicoy Island is the southernmost of Lakshadweep and has an area of 4. The area of 80 sq km. The island is situated near the 9 0 Channel, which is one of the busiest shipping routes, and is approximately 130 km away from the northernmost island of Maldives. A vast lagoon can be found on the western side, spanning about 6 km and intersecting with two entrances to the west and northernmost areas. There are 30 parts to the lagoon. The area is covered by 60 sq km. The island’s western side is about 2 m above the mean sea level, while the eastern side measures between 3 to 4 mm.
One of the island’s oldest homes, Light, was built in 1885. The journey will take you to remote villages, a canning factory for tuna, the lighthouse, and stretches of road paved with coconut trees on both sides. The beaches provide access to bathing huts, change rooms, and options for activities like swimming, walking, pedal boats, kayaking, or sailing. We offer these on rent. The tourists have been given three tourist cottages and one 20-bed tourist home. Coral Reef and Swaying Palm packages encompass this island.
Culture
The southernmost island of Lakshadweep, which is the second largest, has a crescent-shaped shape and one of the largest lagoons. On the southern side, there is a small islet known as Viringli. Minicoy’s culture distinguishes it from the Northern group of islands. Thuraakunu Island in the Maldives is the nearest land to Minicoy, which is located about 100 km southward across the Vangaaru Channel.
The island is renowned for its meticulously selected villages, which are called ‘Avah’. The community’s existence is centered around a particular internal organization, led by Moopan, within each Avah. Every Village has its own village house. The island has 10 villages, namely Bada, Aoumagu, Boduathiri, Rammedu, and Sedivalu in the southern region, and Funhilol, Kudehi with their capital Feline Kaur, Falessery on the northern side. A Bodukaka and a Bodudatha are in charge of each village, with the assistance of supplementary Bodurakakas. Bodukaka is responsible for managing the village’s internal affairs while it oversees external matters. At the village house, the assembly of villagers is held. The income of a village comes from fishing boats, country crafts, and coconut trees. Commonly held feasts are organized at the village house during Eid and other festive occasions.
Houses, arranged in streets, have their own private spaces. The people’s desire for organization and color is evident in their keeping them tidy. The houses are all furnished with a wooden swing coat that is painted in various colors. People have a preference for various colors, such as the intricately designed tabletops on their houses, or the fishing boats and racing dhonis found on nearby islands. The people have an art of painting boats in different colors, known as boat modeling.
Folk dances such as ‘Lava’, thaara’ (Theni), dian (Dandi) and fruth (Fuli). also known as ‘Bandya’ by Minicoy. The colorful and refined ‘Jahadhoni’ race boat is utilized for racing, greeting dignitaries, and hosting the Viringili/Raggan picnic every year.
Languages
The languages spoken are Hindi, English, Malayalam, and Mahal
Climate
The climate in Minicoy is akin to that of Kerala. The months of March to May are the warmest. Temperatures typically range from 25oC to 35o C and humidity is 70 -76 percent throughout the year. The yearly rainfall average is 1600 mm. This location experiences monsoon from May 15th to September 15TH. During the monsoon, the mercury temperature rises to 27-30 degrees. Boats cannot be left outside the lagoon during the monsoon season due to the rough sea. The lagoon is kept peaceful because of the reef.
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