Forget Exotic Foreign Islands: Here’s a Travel Itinerary for Your Lakshadweep Vacation

PM Narendra Modi’s recent visit to these mesmerising islands generated quite a buzz on social media. However, the visit seems to have irked some Maldivian officials to the extent that they had to resort to derogatory remarks, leading to a call to #BoycottMaldives across social media platforms. Following all the unsavoury developments, if you are considering swapping those international flight tickets for inter-state ones, the Maldives of India, Lakshadweep, offers all the thrill minus the exorbitant price tag and jet lag!

Why Lakshadweep Before Anywhere Else?

Picture this: pristine beaches, water so clear you can count the scales on the fish, and coral reefs bursting with colours that put rainbows to shame. Lakshadweep isn't just a beach destination; it's a cultural tapestry woven with coconut palms, ancient mosques, and the gentle lilt of Malayalam.

Being India's smallest Union Territory, Lakshadweep hosts 36 major islands, out of which 10 are inhabited. Kavaratti serves as the capital of the UT with a population of less than one lakh. The islands remain one of the least-explored tourist destinations as tourists need an entry permit to visit the islands. Now, the entire process is online and should not be a hurdle if you are planning a visit.

As many celebrities and influencers join the bandwagon and call upon Indians to dive into the heart of Lakshadweep, we provide you with a quick travel itinerary to help you start planning the trip. While it may not be comprehensive, the listed places can be a handy reference to start exploring the islands where time slows down to the rhythm of crashing waves and swaying palms.

Your 5-Day Lakshadweep Adventure on a Budget

Note: Budget mentioned in the bracket is just an approximation and may vary significantly based on the type of places, modes of transportation, and the season you choose.

Day 1 & 2: Agatti & Bangaram (Rs. 15,000 to Rs 18,000)

Fly to Kochi (Rs. 5,000) and hop on a ferry to Agatti (Rs. 2,000). Check in to a hotel or resort with mesmerising views and necessary amenities (Rs. 6,000) and savour fresh seafood at a local restaurant (Rs. 1,000). Snorkel the coral reefs, picnic on uninhabited islets, and witness the magical sunset (priceless!).

Day 3: Kavaratti & Thinnakara (Rs. 10,000 to Rs 12,000)

Sail to Kavaratti, marvel at the Ujra Mosque, and shop for souvenirs. Take a ferry to Thinnakara, a sandbar paradise, and enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach (Rs. 3,000).

Cruise to Kadmat, get pampered with an Ayurvedic massage (Rs. 2,000) and unleash your inner thrill-seeker with windsurfing (Rs. 1,000). Feast on a Lakshadweep Thali at the a local restaurant (Rs. 500).

Day 5: Agatti & Farewell (Rs. 5,000 to Rs 8,000)

Soak in the last rays on Agatti Beach, pick up some quirky souvenirs, and savour a final seafood lunch at the one of the island’s many iconic food joints (Rs. 1,000). Bid farewell to paradise with a heart full of memories.

Total Budget: Approximately Rs 50,000!

Remember, this is just a glimpse! Scuba dive with manta rays, kayak through mangroves, or simply laze under the palms – Lakshadweep is your oyster. Based on the budget and interest, these enigmatic islands have a lot to offer!

Bonus tips

• Pre-booking ferry tickets and resort stays is essential, especially during the peak season between October and March.
• Don’t forget to carry light cotton clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a hat.
• Lakshadweep is a cash-driven economy, with limited use of digital payment options. So, carry sufficient cash, especially for minor expenses.
• Respect the local culture and dress modestly.
• The island ecosystem is fragile and it is a must that tourists acknowledge this and cause minimal damage by avoiding plastic littering, responsible use of resources etc.

So, what are you waiting for? Go explore, discover paradise, and fall in love with this breathtaking jewel in our backyard! Lakshadweep awaits, whispering promises of turquoise waters, sun-kissed shores, and an experience that will stay with you long after the tan fades.

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Part of this travel guide is drafted with the help of open AI tools and online guides. Please refer to the official government platforms for the latest information, guidelines, and advisories.

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