Lakshadweep is the coral island chain in India.  Lakshadweep islands are atolls, which enclose shallow lagoons. All the islands of the Lakshadweep group except Andrott have a North-South orientation with atoll formations on the Western side due to the action of Southwestern monsoon winds. 

Lakshadweep is one of the worlds most spectacular tropical island systems. Thirty- two sq. km of land spread over 36 islands surrounded by 4200 sq. km of lagoon rich in marine wealth. The precious heritage of ecology and culture is supported by an extremely fragile ecosystem. Committed to the cause of Eco tourism Union Territory of Lakshadweep has consciously followed a middle path between tourism promotion and environmental conservation. The Administration is carefully monitoring the environmental impact of coastal tourism and has taken steps to promote tourism in a way that is consistent with ecological concerns. As an effective strategy to avoid pressure on ecological environment, the efforts to promote tourism have been synchronized with the carrying capacity of the islands.

Location:

8° and 12° North Latitude and 71° and 74° East Longitude. It is 220 to 440 km off the Malabar Coast in Kerala, India.

Climate:

Tropical. 27° C - 32° C

Population

The population is only 60595 as per 2001 census, of which 95% are Muslims. Ethnically they are similar to the people of Kerala. They speak a dialect of Malayalam except in Minicoy where “Mahl” a form of Divehi is spoken.

Languages:

Malayalam & Mahl.

How to get there:

Four all weather ships M.V. Bharatseema ,M.V Tipusultan, M.V Aminidivi and M.V Minicoy operate between Kochi and the islands. Indian Airlines also operate flight from Kochi to Agatti Island every day except sunday.

Boarding & Lodging:

While on a day tour package cruise, you will get Bangaram to the ship at the end of the day. Staying tourists are accommodated in Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Minicoy Agatti and Kadmat. The tourist huts in each island occupy ideal locations on the beach itself. Each hut has one or two twin-bedded bedrooms with attached baths. For Indian/Overseas tourists there is also a holiday resort at Bangaram.

Food:

Spiced coconut-rich Vegetarian & Non vegetarian food. Curried, fried and barbecued fish.

Tourist Season:

October - May for the ship based tour packages. Agatti and Bangaram may be visited throughout the year.

Things to do:

These are basically leisure tours and Sea/Lagoon based tours.There are plenty of opportunities for Scuba diving, Yachting, Pedal boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Snorkeling and sunbathing. One may also visit local houses, Marine museum, LightHouse and a few local industries

Things not to do:

Consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all islands except Bangaram. Picking up Corals is a punishable crime