Kavaratti Island- Nature’s Haven in the Indian Ocean
Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti Island is the capital of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, which is situated in the Arabian Sea, off the southwestern coast of India. It is one of the inhabited islands among the 36 islands in the Lakshadweep archipelago. Kavaratti is renowned for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise lagoons, making it a popular tourist destination. The island of Kavaratti lies 360 km off the coast of the state of Kerala. It has an average elevation of 0 meters. The closest island is the uninhabited Pitti islet, located 24 km north of Kavaratti. The inhabited island of Agatti lies 54 km to the NW. Kochi is the closest major city on the Indian mainland at a distance of 404 km.
Karavatti has been selected as one of the hundred Indian cities to be developed as a smart city under PM Narendra Modi’s flagship Smart Cities Mission. The maximum length of the island is 5.8 km and the width is 1.6 km. It has a lagoon having a length of about 6 km and an area of 4.96 sq km.
Lakshadweep, Kavaratti has warm sandy beaches where tourists can unwind. Though the beaches are narrow, the lagoons around Kavratti are fabulous with starfish, anemones, sea cucumbers, countless multi-hued fishes, and astounding corals. Located west of the Island the lagoon is best suited for swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, and canoeing. To the South of the Island lies Chicken Neck Point which is a fantastic place for water sports including scuba diving and snorkeling. A glass-bottom boat ride offers tourists an opportunity to view the rich marine life and an array of extraordinary corals.
The island is relatively small, covering an area of about 3.93 square kilometers, and it is densely populated compared to other islands in Lakshadweep. The local population primarily consists of Malayalis, who are ethnically and culturally linked to Kerala, the neighboring state.
Kavaratti Island Tourism
Kavaratti Island offers a serene and picturesque setting that attracts tourists seeking natural beauty, water sports, and cultural experiences. Kavaratti boasts pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Tourists can enjoy leisurely walks along the coastline, sunbathe on the beaches, and take in breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
Water Sports-Kavaratti Island is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. The island’s rich marine life and coral reefs offer memorable underwater experiences.
Marine Life and Coral Reefs- The island is renowned for its diverse marine ecosystem, making it a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers. Tourists can explore colorful coral reefs teeming with fish, turtles, rays, and other marine creatures.
Cultural Heritage- The Island has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Arab and Indian traditions. Tourists can visit mosques, experience local festivals, and explore the unique architecture and craftsmanship of the island’s buildings and monuments.
Local Cuisine- Visitors to Kavaratti can savor delicious seafood delicacies and traditional Indian and Malabar cuisine. Freshly caught fish, coconut-based dishes, and local specialties are popular among tourists.
Lagoon Cruises- Boat tours and lagoon cruises are popular tourist activities in Kavaratti. Tourists can explore the island’s pristine lagoons, visit neighboring uninhabited islands, and enjoy scenic sunset cruises.
Adventure and Eco-Tourism- Kavaratti offers opportunities for adventure and eco-tourism activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and nature walks. Tourists can discover the island’s rich biodiversity and explore its lush tropical landscapes.
Also read- Secrets of the Coral Isles- Agatti Island Lakshadweep
Kavaratti Island beach resort Lakshadweep
Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep offers several accommodations for tourists, including beach resorts. These resorts typically provide a range of amenities and services catering to travelers seeking a comfortable and relaxing stay amidst the natural beauty of the island. One of the well-known resorts on Kavaratti Island is the ‘Kavaratti Island Beach Resort’. The resort is likely situated in a picturesque location, offering stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery.
The resort typically provides various accommodation options, from comfortable rooms to cottages or villas. These accommodations are often designed to blend with the natural surroundings and provide modern amenities for guests. Kavaratti Island Beach Resort is likely to have dining facilities offering a variety of cuisine, including local specialties featuring fresh seafood and traditional Indian dishes.
Recreational Activities-The resort may offer a range of recreational activities for guests, including water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and boat excursions to nearby islands. Additionally, facilities for indoor and outdoor games, as well as cultural performances, may also be available.
Kavaratti Island Resort
Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep offers a few resort options for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of the island. One of the well-known resorts on Island is the Kavaratti Beach Resort. The resort is likely situated in a picturesque location, offering stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.
The resort typically provides various types of accommodation options, including cottages or villas, designed to blend with the natural environment. These accommodations usually come equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. Kavaratti Island Beach Resort likely offers dining facilities serving a variety of cuisines, including local specialties featuring fresh seafood and traditional Indian dishes.
Hotels on Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep offers limited hotel options compared to larger tourist destinations. However, a few accommodations are available for visitors looking to explore the island’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Here are some general types of accommodations you might find on Kavaratti Island.
Government Guest Houses
The Lakshadweep administration operates government guest houses on the Island. These guest houses provide basic amenities and are often affordable options for travelers.
Private Guest Houses and Homestays
Some residents on Kavaratti Island offer guesthouse accommodations or homestays for tourists. These options may provide a more intimate experience of the island’s culture and lifestyle.
Resorts
There may be a few resorts on the Island offering comfortable accommodations, dining facilities, and recreational activities for guests. These resorts often cater to tourists looking for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Beach Huts and Cottages
Some accommodations on Kavaratti Island may include beach huts or cottages situated close to the shoreline, providing guests with easy access to the beach and stunning ocean views.
Houseboats
Visitors may also have the option to stay in houseboats anchored near Kavaratti Island, offering a unique and memorable experience of living on the water.
Things to do on Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti Island, part of the Lakshadweep archipelago in the Arabian Sea, offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy its natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and cultural heritage. Here are some things to do on Kavaratti Island.
Snorkeling
Explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life by snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters surrounding Kavaratti Island. Many tour operators offer snorkeling trips and equipment rental for visitors.
Scuba Diving
Experience the breathtaking underwater world of Kavaratti by scuba diving. Certified divers can explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine species, and discover underwater caves and rock formations.
Beach Activities
Relax and soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of the Island. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and building sandcastles with family and friends.
Glass-Bottom Boat Rides
Take a glass-bottom boat ride to observe the mesmerizing marine life and coral reefs without getting wet. These guided tours offer an opportunity to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures through the transparent bottom of the boat.
Island Hopping
Explore the neighboring uninhabited islands and atolls surrounding Kavaratti through island-hopping tours. Visit picturesque islands, enjoy picnics on secluded beaches, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the archipelago.
Visit Ujra Mosque
Discover the cultural heritage of Kavaratti by visiting Ujra Mosque, a prominent landmark and religious site on the island. Admire the elegant architecture, intricate woodwork, and serene atmosphere of this historic mosque.
Lagoon Cruises
Embark on a leisurely lagoon cruise around the Island to admire its scenic coastline, mangrove forests, and serene lagoons. Enjoy sunset cruises, dolphin-watching excursions, and birdwatching tours for a memorable experience.
Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of Kavaratti by attending cultural performances, festivals, and events. Explore the handicraft markets, interact with the friendly locals, and sample delicious Malabar cuisine.
Relaxation and Wellness
Unwind and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul at the luxury spas and wellness centers on Kavaratti Island. Treat yourself to relaxing massages, Ayurvedic treatments, and yoga sessions amidst the tranquil surroundings of the island.
How to reach Kavaratti Island
The nearest airport to Kavaratti Island is Agatti Airport, which is located on Agatti Island, approximately 54 kilometers southwest of Kavaratti. From mainland India, you can fly to Agatti Airport from Cochin International Airport (COK) in Kerala. Flights to Agatti are operated by airlines such as Air India and SpiceJet. The flight duration from Cochin to Agatti is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the airline and flight schedule.
By Sea-
After arriving at Agatti Airport, travelers need to take a ferry or a speedboat to reach Kavaratti Island. The sea journey from Agatti to Kavaratti takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on weather conditions and the type of vessel.
The Lakshadweep administration operates regular ferry and speedboat services between Agatti and Kavaratti. It’s advisable to check the ferry schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The sea voyage offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding islands, making it a memorable part of the journey to Kavaratti.
Permit Requirements-
Travelers planning to visit the Island require entry permits issued by the Lakshadweep Administration. These permits are usually arranged through authorized tour operators or travel agents. Foreign nationals also need to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP) in addition to the entry permit for visiting Lakshadweep.
Flights to Kavaratti island
Kavaratti Island does not have an airport. The nearest airport to Kavaratti Island is Agatti Airport, which is located on Agatti Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago. From Agatti Airport, travelers can reach the Island by taking a ferry or speedboat.
