10 Facts About Lakshadweep

India is a land of stunning diversity—from the Himalayas in the north to the tranquil oceans in the south. Among its lesser-known jewels lies Lakshadweep, a cluster of serene islands tucked away in the Arabian Sea. Though it is India’s smallest Union Territory, Lakshadweep is big on beauty, biodiversity, and cultural uniqueness.

Lets explore the 10 interesting facts about Lakshadweep, blending its history, geography, culture, and modern significance into one compelling journey.

1. India’s Smallest Union Territory

Lakshadweep, meaning “a hundred thousand islands” in Sanskrit, is actually made up of 36 islands, out of which only 10 are inhabited. Covering a total area of just 32 square kilometers, Lakshadweep is the smallest Union Territory of India in terms of both area and population (around 65,000 as per 2011 Census).

Despite its small size, it plays an important role in India’s maritime presence in the Arabian Sea.

2. Coral Atolls and No Mountains or Rivers

Lakshadweep is unique because it’s entirely made up of coral atolls, reefs, and sandbanks. Unlike other Indian states or UTs:

• It has no mountains, rivers, or hills
• The islands are flat and low-lying, rarely rising more than 1–2 meters above sea level

These islands were formed by coral polyps, making Lakshadweep one of the few atoll-based territories in the world. Some major inhabited islands include Agatti, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Minicoy, and Amini.

3. Only One Airport and Limited Access

Due to its remote location and ecological sensitivity, Lakshadweep has limited transportation access:

• The Agatti Island Airport is the only airstrip, with flights mostly from Kochi (Kerala)
• Ships and boats are the primary mode of travel between islands
• Foreigners need special permission, and Indian tourists also require entry permits, which can be obtained online or through Lakshadweep tourism offices

This controlled tourism helps protect its fragile environment.

4. The Capital is Kavaratti

Kavaratti is the administrative capital of Lakshadweep. It is one of the most developed islands with facilities like:

• Government buildings and guesthouses
• A desalination plant for drinking water
• The famous Ujra Mosque, known for its beautiful architecture and woodwork

The island also has a Marine Aquarium and beaches ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

5. Dominantly Muslim Population

Lakshadweep has a 100% rural and majority Muslim population (over 96%). Islam arrived here through Arab traders as early as the 7th century.
The culture and language of Lakshadweep are strongly influenced by Malabar (Kerala) and Arab traditions.

The two primary spoken languages are:

• Malayalam (on most islands)
• Mahl (a dialect of Dhivehi) spoken on Minicoy, influenced by the Maldives

6. A Strategic Location in the Indian Ocean

Though peaceful, Lakshadweep holds immense strategic importance for India due to its location in the Arabian Sea:

• It lies close to major international sea routes
• It helps India monitor and secure the western maritime frontier
• In recent years, India has focused on naval installations and radar stations on the islands

This location also allows India to assert influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), particularly with growing Chinese presence.

7. Rich Marine Biodiversity and Coral Reefs

Lakshadweep is a biodiversity hotspot with:

• Coral reefs supporting over 600 species of marine fish
• Rich mangroves and seagrass beds
• Endangered species like green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and dolphins

The Ministry of Environment has declared large parts of the islands as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and coral tourism are promoted under strict eco-guidelines.

8. Lakshadweep Was Once Part of Kerala

Until 1956, Lakshadweep was administered as part of the Malabar District of Kerala. Post-independence, it was separated and declared a Union Territory.
However, strong cultural, linguistic, and economic ties with Kerala remain, especially with the coastal city of Kochi, which serves as the mainland access point.

Malayalam continues to be the most commonly spoken and taught language across the islands.

9. Eco-Tourism Is Being Developed Cautiously

The Lakshadweep administration is working on eco-tourism projects like:

• Water sports (snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing)
• Glass-bottom boat rides
• Homestays and limited resorts

Tourism is regulated to ensure minimum impact on the coral reefs and local lifestyle. Islands like Bangaram and Kadmat are popular for foreign tourists, while Minicoy offers traditional culture and dance forms like Lava dance.

10. Facing Threats from Climate Change

Being low-lying, Lakshadweep is highly vulnerable to rising sea levels due to global warming. The effects of climate change include:

• Coral bleaching
• Loss of biodiversity
• Risk of island submergence

In response, the government is promoting climate-resilient development, renewable energy (solar power), and sustainable fishing practices.

Additionally, Lakshadweep has been declared a plastic-free zone to reduce marine pollution.

Conclusion

Lakshadweep is truly one of India’s best-kept secrets. Far from the noise of mainland life, these islands offer unspoiled natural beauty, a unique culture, and rich marine life. While it remains a tranquil destination, its strategic importance, ecological fragility, and cultural richness make it a subject of national and global interest.

For travelers and explorers, Lakshadweep is a reminder of how nature, tradition, and simplicity can come together to create paradise on Earth—one that must be cherished and preserved.