Lakshadweep Ocean Islands - Bangaram Islands and Minicoy

Rita and Sandeep Arya went to this idyllic archipelago for their honeymoon. They enjoyed a romantic week of sun-bathing, swimming, and water sports such as snorkeling, sailing in glass-bottomed boats and other exciting activities.

Lakshadweep means 'a hundred thousand islands'. In reality, there are only 36 islands in this archipelago, spread over an area of 32 sq. km. It is the smallest Union Territory of India and only ten of the islands have population living on them - among the larger ones are Agatti, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, and Minicoy.

BANGARAM ISLANDS

This is a tourist paradise, and is the only island that allows foreigners. It has calm placid lagoons, bordered by soft white-sand beaches. Scuba diving, swimming, sun-bathing, and exploring the coral reefs keep you occupied the entire day. You can see shoals of colourful tropical fish, beautiful coral formations, a variety of other underwater creatures such as octopus, rays, starfish, sea anemones and crabs. On the water's surface you can see turtles and dolphins. This island has the more up-market resorts, but it might be worth paying for the exclusivity and peaceful atmosphere.

KAVARATTI ISLANDS

These islands have the administrative headquarters and the homes of many of the local people. The tourism infrastructure is well-developed here, although you might miss the peace and quiet. There is a choice of water sports facilities, hotels and restaurants. The beaches are beautiful with white sands and turquoise lagoons.

AGATTI ISLAND

This is the island which has the only airport of Lakshdweep. You can make this your base and make day trips to the other scenic islands such as Bangaram, Parali I and II, and Tinnakara.

KADMAT ISLAND, KALPENI ISLAND

This island has the Water Sports Institute and the Lacadives Diving School. You can utilize the facilities of both these institutes for snorkeling and scuba diving, under the supervision of trained guides. Visit the Kalpeni Island for it enormous and shallow lagoon with the largest variety of coral reefs.

MINICOY ISLAND

You can see the villages of the local people in this island and experience their rich culture and heritage. This island also has a large stretch of mangrove and a wide and peaceful beach and lagoon. An old lighthouse built by the British gives you panoramic views of the archipelago.