Presenting overwhelming stretches of nature-kissed scenery, Kavaratti Island is the capital of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep Islands. No wonder, it is the most sought after tourist attraction in Lakshadweep. Lovely lagoons and snow-white sands make Kavaratti a paradise for beach lovers. Outlined by coconut trees, the beaches draw thousands of vacationers from far and wide. There are abundant coconut groves that support Kavaratti’s coir industry. Fishing is another major occupation of the islands.
For those, who are planning to explore the pristine beauty of this island, we bring you this carefully compiled travel guide. This guide will help you plan a fulfilling vacay to the charismatic Kavaratti.
Why visit Kavaratti Island?
Spanning across an area of 3.93 sqm km, the island rises amidst the Arabian Sea. It is home to 12 atolls, five submerged banks, and three coral reefs. As Lakshadweep Islands are formed of coral reefs, you can watch coral reef formations only at these islands, to which Kavaratti is the gateway. Additionally, here you will get to indulge in myriad water sports and amazing places to visit. Its endless lagoons and untouched beach beauty will keep you captivated. This capital city is also chosen to be transformed into a smart city in the years to come.
Places to Visit in Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti welcomes offbeat travelers as it doesn’t house regular tourist attractions. Among the few notable places to visit in Kavaratti, there are mainly marine sites and mosques. Kavaratti marine aquarium, Urja mosque, Ajara and Jamnath Mosque, and Desalination Plant (India’s first low-temperature desalination plant) are among the sightseeing attractions in Kavaratti. Tourists can also visit Agatti, Kadmat, and Bangaram Islands nearby to enjoy their holiday the most.
Things to do in Kavaratti Island
Being an island, Kavaratti has no dearth of water activities to indulge in. Vacationers can enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride to view the marvelous marine life as well as colorful coral reefs. Those in love with the adrenaline rush can choose from myriad water activities. Some of the fulfilling water delights with which water babies can treat themselves are scuba diving, windsurfing, jet skiing, water skiing, kayaking, snorkeling, parasailing, water bikes, and motorboat rides.
Best time to visit Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti experiences a tropical monsoon climate all through the year. However, the best time to visit Kavaratti is from August to March. From then on till May, Kavaratti is the hottest, ranging temperature between 25-35°Celcius. Monsoons bring heavy showers as much as nearly 1600 mm!
How to reach Kavaratti Island
Kavaratti doesn’t have an airport. The nearest airport is on Agatti Island, just 58 km away. And the nearest city on the Indian mainland is Kochi. Regular flights are operated between Kochi and Agatti. Once you reach Agatti, you have to sail through the sea in a yacht or boat to reach Kavaratti. Alternatively, you can take a cruise directly from Kochi to Kavaratti. It is an overnight cruise. You can also reach Kavaratti by helicopters from Agatti Island.
Accommodation in Kavaratti Island
As far as places to stay in Kavaratti are concerned, there are enough that are located in proximity to several lagoons and sea. Thereby, you not only indulge in a comfortable stay but also soak in the scenic views from your room window. To enjoy avant-garde luxurious accommodation, stay onboard the MV Tipu Sultan. There are other ships as well that offer varied accommodation classes. Replete with an upper-deck promenade, snack bars and cafeteria, and entertainment zone; these ships prove to be tasteful lodging options for tourists.
Where to Eat in Kavaratti Island
There are quite some places to eat in Kavaratti and savor authentic flavors. Café de Saina is a premium restaurant here that serves north Indian delights and seafood as well as Chinese, Italian, and continental cuisines. Heavens Treat Beach Restaurant serves multi-culinary treats for a sumptuous dinner with refreshing coconut water. Restaurant Z Corner is meant for budget diners and offers seafood, continental, and Chinese fare. Akshaya Mess and Food Court is no less and serves delectable continental and authentic local flavors.
Shopping in Kavaratti Island
You can buy home souvenirs from various markets here. Among the must-visit markets are China Bazar Kavaratti (candles, seashells, electronics, toiletries, and makeup items), Fiber factory (clothes made of locally woven fabrics such as sarees), and Muhammad Musthafa Supermarket (grocery and beachfront items).
