Explore Kavaratti Island - A Pristine Paradise in Lakshadweep
Kavaratti Island is a beautiful island of white sand beaches, bordering turquoise-blue waters. It is also the capital of the Union Territory Lakshadweep. Every year tourists from mainland India and abroad visit the island for its exotic views and calm ambiance.
The island is known to be one of the most developed islands of the Lakshadweep Archipelago. An interesting fact about the island is that it is home to as many as 52 mosques that are spread in its roughly 5 square kilometers of area.
Another noteworthy point about this island is that it serves as a significant navy base for the Indian Navy. Recently, the island also got selected among the 100 cities that will be developed under Prime Minister’s Smart Cities Mission.
Best Time to Visit Kavaratti Island 2025
And if you’re planning to visit here, months between August and March are considered the best time to visit Kavaratti Island. Being surrounded by the sea, the weather remains moderate throughout the year but the summer season can ruin the fun with its hot and humid weather conditions. So, it is ideal if you skip summer.
History of Kavaratti Island
Not much has been documented about the history of the island. Locals claim that the island served as a breakpoint for voyagers to relax in the journey to India and surrounding countries. Besides that, the mosques that are located here are claimed to be built in the 17th century by the invaders who resided on the island for some time.
After India’s independence, Kavaratti Island developed as a popular tourist destination for beach lovers and water sport enthusiasts. Now, the lagoon along the shore of Kavaratti Island lends a great space for water activities like snorkeling, swimming, and exploring coral reefs.
Geography and Climate
Located approximately 404 kilometers off the coast of Kochi, Kerala, Kavaratti spans about 5.6 kilometers in length and 1.2 kilometers in width. The island features a shallow lagoon on its western side, lined with coconut palms and coral reefs. The climate is tropical, with temperatures ranging between 25°C and 35°C throughout the year. The monsoon season typically extends from late May to early November, bringing the majority of the island's annual rainfall.
Major Attractions of Kavaratti Island, Lakshadweep
1. Ujra Mosque
This 17th-century mosque is believed to be constructed by Sheikh Mohammad Kasim. The place is visited by local people for prayers. The grave of Mohammad Kasim is within the mosque. For tourists, it is always one of the best places to visit on Kavaratti Island.
2. Water Sports
If you pick up any Kavaratti Island travel guide, you’ll see the mention of lots of fun water activities. Kavaratti Island is immensely popular among tourists for myriads of water adventure sports. Tourists can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottomed boat rides, surfing, and more on the island.
3. Kavaratti Marine Aquarium
The aquarium is counted among the best places to visit on Kavaratti Island. It has coral reefs and fish specimens along with many species of fishes on the display. One can enhance one’s knowledge about the underwater world by visiting this intriguing place.
Activities in Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti's calm and crystal-clear waters provide excellent opportunities for water sports. Visitors can indulge in scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and kayaking. The island's coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish and other marine creatures, offer unforgettable underwater experiences.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its natural allure, Kavaratti is rich in culture. The numerous mosques scattered across the island reflect its deep-rooted Islamic heritage. The local community is known for its hospitality, and engaging with residents provides a deeper understanding of their traditions and way of life.
Accommodation and Accessibility
Several government-run and private accommodations cater to tourists, offering comfortable stays with stunning views of the sea. The island is accessible by sea from Kochi, with regular ship services connecting it to the mainland.
How to Reach Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti Island is located in Lakshadweep Archipelago and is surrounded by the Arabian sea from all sides hence one can only reach the island by two means either by water or by air.
By Water
Tourists can reach Kavaratti Island by several passenger ships that run between Cochin and Lakshadweep. Some common ships are MV Minicoy, MV Bharat Seema, MV Amindivi, MV Arabia Sea, MV Kavaratti, and MV Tippu Sultan. The trip usually takes 15 to 20 hours to reach Lakshadweep.
By Air
Agatti Airport (AGX) on Agatti Island is the nearest to Kavaratti Island. From there, one can take the helicopter service or boat service to reach Kavaratti Island.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Agatti Island
Conclusion
Kavaratti Island seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the unspoiled charm of Lakshadweep. Whether you're an adventure seeker or someone in search of tranquility, Kavaratti promises an enriching experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Agatti Island
Q. Where is Agatti Island located?
A. Agatti Island is located in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep in India.
Q. What are the popular attractions on Agatti Island?
A. Some famous attractions on Agatti Island include Agatti Beach, the coral reefs, and the lighthouse.
Q. What is the best time to visit Kavaratti?
A. The ideal time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and sea conditions are favorable for water sports and other activities.
Q. What is the local cuisine like on Kavaratti?
A. The cuisine primarily features Malabar dishes, including spicy tuna fish, chicken, and sweet potato.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner.
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