The coral islands of
Lakshadweep, a total of 36 of which 10 are inhabited, have in recent
years become one of the country's popular tourist destinations. One
of the very last places in the world where little has changed in
the face of rapid development. The Lakshadweep lies in the Arabian
Sea.
It is surrounded by lagoons and known for their
pristine beauty. Coconut trees abound, the beaches are silver
crescents and the sea is a crystal clear endless blueness. Tourism
is restricted to ensure that the delicate environment is not ecologically
damaged. Only five islands are open for tourism- four to domestic
tourists and one to international tourists. Bangaram, the resort
for international tourist, is otherwise uninhabited. The four islands
that are open for domestic tourism include Kavaratti, the administrative
capital; Kalpeni with its rich coral and marine life; Kadmat with
its very fine beach; and Minicoy which has one of the largest lagoons
in the archipelago. Visitors can arrive here by ship from Kochi,
enjoy a wide range of water sports, explore marine life, and relax .
Lakshadweep has an airstrip Agatti through which it is connected
to Kochi on a flight that originates from Chennai. Ship cruises are
available as packages designed for the tourists. You can go for Scuba
Diving- Laccadives(Kadmat). An eight to ten day course is conducted
by trained instructors and dive masters.
To introduce you to the wonders of life under the
sea, untouched, unspoilt with average visibility of 150ft. All equipment
provided by Laccadives. Swimming skills are mandatory and the minimum
age for diving is 14 years. A doctor's certificate clearing the candidate
to be fit for diving is necessary.
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