Lakshadweep Holiday Packages from Kochi: Explore the Tropical Paradise

Options for Holiday Packages:

Ship-Based Packages (Primarily Operated by SPORTS - Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports): These are the most common and often more budget-friendly options.

Samudram Package: A popular 5-day/4-night cruise that starts and ends in Kochi. It typically visits three islands: Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Minicoy. You stay onboard the ship and visit the islands during the day. This package includes meals, sightseeing on the islands, and some water sports.
Other Ship-Based Packages: SPORTS may offer variations of the Samudram package with different durations or island combinations. Check their official website for the latest offerings.(Cordelia Cruise)

Stay-on-Island Packages: These packages involve staying at resorts or guesthouses on specific islands. These are generally more expensive and might have limited availability due to the infrastructure and carrying capacity of the islands.

Agatti Island Packages: Agatti has an airport, making it accessible by flight from Kochi. Packages here usually involve staying at the Agatti Island Beach Resort or other smaller accommodations. Activities focus on water sports and exploring the island's beauty.
Bangaram Island Packages: Bangaram is known for its stunning uninhabited beauty and has a resort. Packages here offer a secluded and luxurious experience with a focus on water activities.
Kadmat Island Packages: Kadmat is another island with resort options, popular for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its rich coral reefs.
Other Islands: While Kavaratti and Kalpeni are often visited on day trips with ship-based packages, stay options might be available through local operators, but these can be less formal and require more research.

Top Attractions in Lakshadweep:

Lakshadweep's main attractions revolve around its pristine natural beauty and vibrant marine life:

Unspoiled Beaches and Lagoons: Picture perfect white-sand beaches fringed with swaying palm trees and crystal-clear turquoise lagoons. The shallow lagoons are ideal for swimming and wading.

Water Sports Paradise: Lakshadweep is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Popular activities include:

Snorkeling: Explore the colorful coral reefs and diverse fish species in the shallow lagoons.
Scuba Diving: Discover the deeper underwater world with vibrant corals, sea turtles, and a variety of marine creatures. Kadmat and Bangaram are particularly famous for diving.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through the calm lagoon waters and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Sailing and Yachting: Experience the thrill of sailing in the pristine waters.
Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: A great option for those who want to see the coral reefs without getting wet.

Coral Reefs and Marine Life: Lakshadweep boasts some of the most beautiful and untouched coral reefs in the world, teeming with a fascinating array of marine life.

Uninhabited Islands: Some islands like Bangaram and Pitti (bird sanctuary) are uninhabited, offering a sense of untouched paradise and unique ecological experiences.

Local Culture and Cuisine: Experience the unique blend of Indian and Arab cultures, reflected in the local traditions, music, and delicious seafood-based cuisine.

Lighthouses: Some islands like Minicoy have prominent lighthouses that offer panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean (subject to accessibility).

Islands Accessible to Tourists:

Please note that accessibility to islands can sometimes change based on permits and local regulations. However, the most commonly accessible islands for tourists are:

Agatti: Has the only airport in Lakshadweep accessible by flights from Kochi. Often the entry point for stay-on-island packages to other islands.

Bangaram: An uninhabited island with a resort, known for its stunning beauty and water sports.

Kavaratti: The capital of Lakshadweep, often visited on day trips by ship-based packages. Has some tourist infrastructure.

Kalpeni: Known for its beautiful lagoon and the "Tip Beach." Often part of the ship-based itineraries.

Minicoy: The southernmost island, culturally distinct from the others. Usually included in the Samudram package. Access to certain areas might have specific regulations.

Kadmat: Famous for its long sandy beaches and excellent scuba diving opportunities. Has resort options.

Permits Required:

Visiting Lakshadweep requires permits for both Indian and foreign nationals:

For Indian Nationals:

An Entry Permit is mandatory for all Indian citizens (including those from Kerala) to visit Lakshadweep.
This permit is usually arranged by the representative of RTH World Tour Packages as part of your holiday package.
You will likely need to provide a copy of your ID proof (Aadhar card, Passport, Voter ID, etc.) and passport-sized photographs.
The representative will handle the application process with the Lakshadweep Administration.

For Foreign Nationals:

Foreign nationals require a special permit to visit Lakshadweep, which is more stringent than the permit for Indian citizens.
They need to have a valid passport and Indian visa.
Their access is generally restricted to specific islands, which often include Agatti, Bangaram, and Kadmat. Access to other islands might be granted on a case-by-case basis with special permission.
Foreigners typically need to travel in groups through authorized tour operators who will arrange the necessary permits.
It's crucial for foreign nationals to check the latest permit regulations and accessible islands with their chosen tour operator well in advance of their travel.

Best Time to Visit Lakshadweep:

The best time to plan your Lakshadweep holiday is during the dry season, from October to May.

October to February: Offers pleasant temperatures (around 20°C to 30°C), clear skies, and calm seas, making it ideal for all water sports and island hopping. This is generally considered the peak tourist season.

March to May: The weather remains warm and sunny, with slightly higher humidity. The sea conditions are still generally good for water activities.

It is advisable to avoid visiting Lakshadweep during the monsoon season, from June to September. The seas can be rough, and there might be restrictions on inter-island travel and water sports due to safety concerns.

To book your Lakshadweep holiday package from Kochi, you can contact RTH World Tour Packages specializing in Lakshadweep tourism. SPORTS (under the Lakshadweep Administration)..Make sure to book well in advance, especially during peak season, and ensure all your permits are in order before your travel dates. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful archipelago!