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Lakshadweep Islands have been getting traction for adventure enthusiasts and tourists with the recent visit of PM Narendra Modi. On January 2 and 3, Shri Narendra Modi visited Lakshadweep to inaugurate the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fiber Connection. Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for the renovation of a primary healthcare facility and five model Anganwadi centers, dedicating several projects to the nation.
Lakshadweep, consisting of 36 islands, is renowned for its sun-kissed beaches and verdant landscapes. In Malayalam and Sanskrit, Lakshadweep translates to ‘a hundred thousand islands.’Covering a combined area of 32 sq km, the islands of Lakshadweep are dispersed in the emerald Arabian Sea, 220 to 440 km from the coastal city of Kochi in Kerala. Kavaratti serves as both the capital and principal town of this Union Territory. The mystique of Lakshadweep is heightened by its natural landscapes, sandy beaches, rich flora and fauna, and the absence of a hectic lifestyle. The entry to Lakshadweep islands is restricted. One requires an entry permit issued by Lakshadweep Administration to visit these islands.
Quick facts about Lakshadweep
The absence of aboriginal inhabitants on the islands has led to varied historical theories. Archaeological evidence suggests human settlement around 1500 BCE, with Buddhist influences during the 6th century BC. The islands were known to sailors from the first century CE, and references in Sangam Patirruppattu mention Chera control. Local legends tie the first settlement to the era of Cheraman Perumal, the last Chera king. Amini, Kalpeni, Andrott, Kavaratti, and Agatti are the oldest inhabited islands.
India’s smallest Union Territory Lakshadweep is an archipelago consisting of 36 islands with an area of 32 sq km. It is a uni-district Union Territory and comprises of 12 atolls, three reefs, five submerged banks and ten inhabited islands.
The entry to Lakshadweep islands is restricted. One requires an entry permit issued by Lakshadweep Administration to visit these islands. For more info, visit official website https://lakshadweep.gov.in/
Key Tourist Attractions
- Agatti Island: Agatti boasts one of Lakshadweep’s most stunning lagoons, and it is on this island that the airport is constructed. As an aircraft descends for landing, passengers are treated to a breathtaking sight of the airstrip on the island. Agatti serves as the virtual gateway to the Lakshadweep islands.
- Minicoy Island: Ranking as the second-largest and southernmost island in Lakshadweep, it takes on a crescent shape and boasts one of the most expansive lagoons. The island’s primary allure lies in its meticulously organized villages, referred to as ‘Avah.’ Each Avah is internally structured and led by a Moopan, serving as the focal point around which the community’s life revolves. Each village possesses its own designated village house.
- Kalpeni Island : Kalpeni Islands offer an ideal mix of adventure and fun through various water sports, blending natural beauty, traditional culture, and modern amenities. The diverse ecology of Kalpeni includes rare flora, fauna, golden beaches, clear Arabian Sea waters, and enchanting coral reefs, captivating tourists and inspiring poets.
Photo by Rajesh KP on Unsplash
Controversial remarks by Maldives politician
A Maldivian politician, Zahid Rameez of the Progressive Party of Maldives Senate, stirred controversy with a tweet criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep. Rameez mocked the beaches of Lakshadweep and raised doubts about whether India’s Union Territory could rival the services offered by the Maldives. He wrote, “The move is great. However, the idea of competing with us is delusional. How can they provide the service we offer? How can they be so clean? The permanent smell in the rooms will be the biggest downfall.”
If you are planning to travel, explore, and create cherished memories in the upcoming months, do check out our article below:
