Lakshadweep is attractive to tourists because of its sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, opportunity for water sports and its hospitable people. Although there are a large number of suitors, the policy of administration is restrictive for a large number to visit Lakshadweep. The tourism policy followed by government is one of care and consideration to the delicate environment of the islands.
Since the land and other resources are limited and carrying capacity of tiny islands is minimal, tourism in Lakshadweep is conducted on a daytime basis; that too based on sea. Domestic tourists are brought by ship and their night halt is arranged in ships itself, making them board from the islands before night. International tourists stay at Bangaram island and are brought by flight from Kochi to Agatti. Agatti being the nearest island to Bangaram which is having an airport.
Lakshadweep map suggests it to be a group of islands in the Laccadive Sea, situated about two hundred and four hundred and forty kilometers off the coast of the south western state of India, Kerala. Lakshadweep means a lakh of islands but there are only thirty six islands. With a total area of thirty two square kilometers, Lakshadweep is the tiniest union territory in India. Lakshadweep homes twelve atolls, three reefs and five submerged banks. The lagoons, reefs and banks of Lakshadweep are very rich in marine species.
Out of thirty six islands in Lakshadweep, only ten are inhabited. They are Agatti, Amini, Andrott, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kiltan and Minicoy.
SPORTS the abbreviated form for society for promotion of Nature tourism and tourism is the nodal agency for promotion of tourism in Lakshadweep. SPORTS has its staff trained in water sports. It also runs restaurants in the tourist islands of Lakshadweep as there is a dearth of restaurants. Private entrepreneurs operate Bangaram Island Resort in Bangaram, Lakshadweep Institute of water sports in Kadamat and the tourist home in Agatti on lease. SPORTS is also part of process by running a tourist home in Kadamat for lease. SPORTS also look after the tourist’s huts in the tourist focal Islands of Kavaratti, Kadmat, Kalpeni and Minicoy. Apart from these huts, three private cottages at Minicoy are operated by local entrepreneurs.
Four all weather ships namely M.V. Bharatseema ,M.V Tipusultan, M.V Aminidivi and M.V Minicoy operate from Kochi to islands. Lakshadweep tours will make necessary arrangements for accessibility. Indian Airlines operate flights from Kochi to Agatti on six weekdays.
Although all islands are blessed with the charm of coral reef, sandy beaches, unpolluted and clear water and hospitable settings, all the islands are not promoted in same way. Some are promoted for diving and water sports and some for tourists to relax and enjoy nature. With the aim of putting less pressure on land the tours are basically sea or lagoon based. There are leisure tours also. 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.
The beaches in Agatti Island are among the more beautiful in India. Agatti holds sugary white beaches, fringed by swaying coconut trees, caressed by soothing winds and holds a spectacular view of sea. Beneath the sea one gets a colorful world full of corals, fishes and turtles.
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