Beach in Lashawadeep Island

Lakshadweep islands scattered on the clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea,off the western coast of india is a group of coral islands of unparalleled beauty. The Lakshadweep islands (laccadives) are a geographical extension of the Maldive Islands chain. Lakshadweep which means a hundred thousands Islands is an archipelago consisting of 36 Islands, 12 atolls, 3 reefs and 5 submerged banks in Arabian sea. These emeralds islands, rich in greenery and fringed by silver beaches.

Agatti Island situated at 10o51' north latitude and 72o11' east latitude Agatti Island is 6 kms long and 1000 meters wide at the broadest point. It possesses a singularly beautiful lagoon on the western side. The sea around the island offers excellent scope for water sports and fishing. Coral growths and multi coloured coral fishes are abound in its lagoons.

Amini Island about 3 kms long and 1.6 kms wide Amini Island is is situated at 11o7' north latitude and 72o44' east longitude. Since 1799 the island had been under the British and was the seat of the Monegar, the officer in whom was vested all revenue and judicial functions. Amini still retains its importance as the seat of the Tehsildar for the Aminidivi group of islands. Vasco da Gama visited the island on his second voyage and noted the superior quality of coir prepared by the islanders.

Andrott Island lies 198 kms from Kozhikode, Andrott is situated at 10o49' North Latitude and 73o41' east longitude. This island was the first in the territory to embrace Islam enbloc and retains the religious leadership. The Saint Ubaidullah who is believed to have converted the islands into Islam died here and his tomb still remains in the Jumah mosque. As a mark of respect to the saint the island vessels passing the island repeat the Fathiha.

Bangaram Island one of the finest tourist spot, with its idyllic palm grove and the smooth sands caressed by the mulitcoloured sea waves it is developing into a tourist place of international fame. Located 459 kms from Cochin Bangaram is situated at 10o56' north latitude and 72o17' east longitude. The island is a favourite fishing and turtle hunting ground of the Agatti people.

Chetlat Island about 1200 metres in length and 400 metres in breadth covering an area of 255 acres and looks like an upturned boat. Situated at 11o41' north latitude and 72o43' east longitude Chetlat belongs to Aminidivi group of islands. The world famous fish Tuna particularly the skip jack variety is found in large shoals in the deep seas around Chetlat. Whales and tortoises are also found in the vicinity of the island.