Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep islands are a group of coral islands in the Arabian sea off the eastern coast of the Indian state of Kerala.
Getting there
By ship
There are regular services between Kochi (Cochin) on the mainland and the various islands. Few high speed vessels including 3 double hull catamarans operate for inter-island travel, in addition to the ships that operate our of Kochi. These high speed vessels that operate out of Kavaratti are not designed to operate in bad weather and are frequently canceled.The bigger ships that operate out of Kochi are a safer bet as they are all weather certified.
By air
The only runway on Lakshadweep is at Agati. Most flights operate out of Kochi. There are 2 helicopters operating inter-island flights. Book well in advance for helicopter flights. Flight passengers on connection flights from Agatti get preference for helicopter flights.
Even Indian citizens need a permit to visit Lakshadweep. Tourist permits can be obtained from the Tourism department of the Lakshadweep Administration in Kochi. During my visit in Dec 2013 permits could be obtained only by purchasing only package tours. Residents of Lakshadweep can sponsor friends/family to visit the islands. This is a complicated affair and is best done through travel agents.
Permits issued are island specific. Make sure that the permit is presented to the local police station within 24 after arrival on each island. The permits have to be stamped at the police station on arrival and departure.
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