Lakshadweep

Currency: Indian Rupees

Official languages: Malayalam

Kolkali and Parichakali are the two popular folk art forms in the Territory. They are an integral part of the cultural milieu except in Minicoy where “LAVA” is the most popular dance form. Some of the folk dances have a resemblance with those in North Eastern India. For marriages “OPPANA” is a common feature, a song sung by a lead singer and followed by a group of women. Picnics are a common leisure activity in Minicoy. The most widely celebrated festivals are Independence Day and Republic Day, Milad – Ul – Nabi, Idulfitr, Bakrid, and Muharram in that order. Interestingly Independence Day and Republic Day are celebrated for days with religious fervor.

Lakshadweep enjoys a pleasant tropical climate with summer temperatures ranging from 22° C to 33° C and winter temperatures from 20° C to 32° C. Southwest monsoons from June to September bring plenty of rainfall to the islands. ... Light cotton tropical clothes are ideal throughout the year.

Citizens of most countries, including the United States, need a visa to visit India which should be arranged in advance. Full details can be found at The Government of India website (http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/). Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa, while some nationalities may get them upon arrival.

Lakshadweep Island can be reached by ships and flights operated from Kochi. For all tourist purposes Kochi is the gate way to Lakshadweep. Agatti and Bangaram islands can be reached by flight from Kochi. Indian Airlines operate flights from Kochi.

Before you leave on your holiday, there are at least four health-related things you should do. Please check the handbook for specifics, but for now, here’s the short list:

Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting.

Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor.

Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)

We recommend avoiding packing any plastic bags in your luggage before flying to Kenya. You should also remove any items purchased at departure airports from their bags before boarding. Double check your luggage before disembarking in Kenya and leave any plastic bags on the plane.

DO'S

Below mentioned are some of the things to be followed during your trip to the islands of Lakshadweep:

Before you are set for the tour, get your reservation confirmed.

If you are habituated of using some special/favorite brand of cosmetics or toiletries and medicines and whatever necessary because you will find only ordinary and usual things on the secluded islands of Lakshadweep.

In case of trouble, consult with the sports representative and avail his services, on board.

DON'T

Here is a list of things that you should not do being in the islands of Lakshadweep, which might be considered as punishable offence.

Do not pollute the environment or the water and do not even litter the land.

Avoid punishable offence like picking up of corals to carry back home as souvenirs.

Except Bangaram all other islands banned drinking of alcohol and intoxicants on the islands. So it is recommended not to drink alcohol in the islands.

Be aware! Carrying of drugs and narcotics is a punishable offence.

Swimming or sunbathing bare is prohibited.

Crossing the boundary of island lagoon is risky! Do not do such activity without consulting your sports authorities or escort.

Plucking of tender coconuts on your own is considered unauthorized, as the coconut palms are privately owned. A fall from the tree can be proved to be risky too.