Kavaratti
The administrative capital, Kavaratti is the most
developed of the islands with the highest percentage of
non-islanders as residents. Fifty two mosques are spread out
over the island, the most beautiful being the Ujra mosque. A
well, within its precincts, is believed to contain water of
curative powers. The Ujra mosque has an ornately carved ceiling,
said to have been carved from a piece of driftwood. Kavaratti
also has an aquarium with several
colourful species of fish.
There is a glass bottom boat for viewing marine life and an array
of remarkable coral formations that provides a background to the
lagoons and the islands within them. Some Water Sports like
Kayaking Canoeing and Snorkeling are available for tourists.
Kalpeni
Kalpeni has three uninhabited satellite islands, all surrounded by an immense lagoon of spectacular beauty. Sunlight on the water causes it to sparkle and flash like a million aquamarines. Koomel, the gently curving bay where the tourist facilities are located, directly overlooks Pitti and Thilakkam, two of the islands. Here you can swim, reef walk, snorkel or use water sports equipment like kayaks, and sail boats. Now the tourist facilities have been augmented and tourists can stay on the island in privately managed huts, depending on the package. This lagoon is specially rich in coral life.
Kadmat
A particularly fine lagoon, of even depth and an endless shoreline, perfect for swimming, makes Kadmat a haven of solitude., The tourist huts are situated some distance away from habitation, with only the splash of the waves to break the silence. During the day, when the beat of the overhead sun becomes too strong, the feathery network of coconut palms provides a canopy throughout the island, through which light dimly filters, green and cool. It is the only island with lagoons on both eastern and western sides. A Water Sports Institute providing water sports facilities has been set up in Kadmat. Accommodation consists of AC and non AC tourist huts aesthetically situated in the coconut palm groves on the beaches. The island is becoming increasingly popular for honeymooners. As a testimony to its Water Sports potential, a Scuba Diving Centre has been set up there.
Minicoy
Furthest from Kavaratti island, 200 Km. away to the south and also nearer to the Maldives, Minicoy has a lighthouse built by the British in 1885. Visitors are allowed up, right to the very top. Words cannot do justice to the incredible size of the lagoon, one of the largest in Lakshadweep, the green of coconut trees, and the mirror-like surface of an inland lake as it nestles in one corner of the island. Minicoy has a culture very different from any other island - dress, language, food, all differ. Minicoy has a cluster of 10 villages, which are called Athiris, each presided over by a Moopan. A walk through the winding lanes of the villages is an indication of the culture here. Minicoy is renowned for its dance tradition: the lava dance is performed on festive occasions. There is a tuna canning factory - signifying its importance in tuna fishing and boat building activity. Privately managed cottages have been built on the isolated beaches and are available for tourists.
Agatti
Agatti has one of the most beautiful lagoons in Lakshadweep. This is where the airport is built. A virtual gateway of Lakshadweep, a 20 bed tourist complex has been set up here. The island will shortly be opened for tourists.
