Lakshadweep Tourism
Lakshadweep is a group of 36 coral islands located in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. However, reaching Lakshadweep can be a bit tricky, and it’s essential to know the different modes of transportation available to get there. To ensure a successful journey, it’s important to plan ahead and research the different options available for transportation to the Lakshadweep Islands.
How to Reach Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is a tropical paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. However, reaching Lakshadweep can be a bit tricky, and it’s essential to know the different modes of transportation available to get there.
By Trains:
| Top Indian City | Train Options For Lakshadweep |
|---|---|
| Lakshadweep from Delhi | Himsagar Express (New Delhi – Ernakulam), Nizamuddin – Mangala Lakshadweep Express, Thiruvananthapuram Rajdhani, Kerala Express, Millennium Express |
| Lakshadweep from Mumbai | Chennai Central – Alappuzha Express, Mangalore Central – Mangalore Express, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus – Thiruvananthapuram Express |
| Lakshadweep from Chennai | Chennai Central – Alappuzha Express, Chennai Central – Kanyakumari Express, Chennai Central – Thiruvananthapuram Express |
| Lakshadweep from Kolkata | Howrah Junction – Thiruvananthapuram Express, Yesvantpur – Chennai Central Express, Shalimar – Chennai Central Express |
| Lakshadweep from Bangalore | Yesvantpur – Thiruvananthapuram Express,Yesvantpur – Chennai Central Express, Mysore – Ernakulam Express |
Unfortunately, there is no direct train to Lakshadweep. However, various trains operate from Delhi to Ernakulam, including the Himsagar Express (New Delhi to Ernakulam), Nizamuddin to Mangala Lakshadweep Express, Thiruvananthapuram Rajdhani, Kerala Express, and Millennium Express.
From Ernakulam, you can take a passenger ship to Lakshadweep. Seven passenger ships – MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea, MV Lagoon, MV Corals, MV Amindivi, and MV Minicoy operate between Cochin and Lakshadweep islands. The passage takes 14 to 18 hours depending on the island chosen for the journey.
The ships offer different classes of accommodation: A/C First Class with two-berth cabins, A/C Second Class with four-berth cabins, and push-back/Bunk Class with A/C seating. A doctor is available on call on board. MV Amindivi and MV Minicoy also offer comfortable A/C seating ideal for a night’s journey. During the fair season, high-speed vessels operate between islands.
Also Read: Train Ticket Par Paise Bachane Ke Awesome Tips!
By Air :
Agatti Island is the only airport in Lakshadweep, and it is well-connected to major cities in India such as Kochi, Bangalore, and Chennai. Indian Airlines operates regular flights to Agatti Island from these cities. The duration of the flight varies depending on the departure city, but it usually takes around 2-3 hours.
By Sea(Ship):
Lakshadweep is also accessible by sea, and there are regular passenger ships that operate between Kochi and Lakshadweep. The journey takes around 14-18 hours, depending on the island you choose to visit. The ships offer different classes of accommodation, including A/C First Class with two-berth cabins, A/C Second Class with four-berth cabins, and push-back/Bunk Class with A/C seating.
Lakshadweep Permits for Indian and Foreign Travelers:
Visitors to Lakshadweep require a permit to enter the islands. The permit can be obtained online through the ePermit portal. Indian citizens need to apply online at least 45 days in advance, submitting documents like a police clearance certificate and ID proofs. Foreign nationals require a valid Indian visa and permission from the Lakshadweep Administration.
Culture and Cuisine of Lakshadweep Islands:
Lakshadweep has a rich cultural heritage. The people of Lakshadweep celebrate many folk festivals by performing the popular dance form Lava. The cuisine of Lakshadweep is a delightful combination of seafood, coconut, and traditional flavours. The island’s culinary heritage reflects the availability of local ingredients and the cultural influences of the region. Whether it’s a simple fish curry or a festive biryani, the cuisine of Lakshadweep showcases the richness of coastal flavours and the unique culinary traditions of the islands.
Activities To Do in Lakshadweep:
Lakshadweep offers a plethora of activities for tourists to indulge in. From snorkelling and scuba diving to hiking and cycling, Lakshadweep has something for everyone. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles and whales. Some of the popular activities include:
- Snorkelling at Agatti Island: Dive into the mesmerizing underwater world of Agatti Island and witness the vibrant marine life through the exhilarating activity of snorkelling.
- Scuba diving at Kalpeni Island: Embark on an underwater adventure at Kalpeni Island by indulging in scuba diving, where you can explore the rich and diverse marine ecosystems beneath the surface.
- Exploring architectural wonders at Kalpeni Island: Uncover the cultural and architectural marvels of Kalpeni Island, offering a unique blend of history and beauty for those fascinated by splendid structures.
- Canoeing at Minicoy Island: Navigate the pristine waters surrounding Minicoy Island with the thrilling activity of canoeing, providing a picturesque and peaceful experience amid the island’s natural splendor.
- Fishing at Kadmat Island: Experience the thrill of fishing in the abundant waters around Kadmat Island, where you can engage in this timeless and rewarding activity amidst the scenic landscapes of Lakshadweep.
Best Time to Visit Lakshadweep:
The best time to visit Lakshadweep is between October and May when the weather is cool and pleasant. During these months, the days are usually pleasant, and evenings are breezy. The average temperature ranges between 27-32 degrees Celsius. The monsoon months of June to August experience high temperatures and heavy rainfall followed by high humidity, hence a lot of activities are shut down.
Lakshadweep is a beautiful destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exciting activities. Although there is no direct train to Lakshadweep, you can take a train to Ernakulam and then a passenger ship to Lakshadweep.
Zoop India can help make your train journey comfortable and hassle-free by delivering delicious meals to your seat/berth. We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on how to reach Lakshadweep by train, the food delivery services offered by Zoop India, and the cultural heritage of the place. We encourage you to visit Lakshadweep and experience the beauty of this tropical paradise.
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