What to Do in Lakshadweep – A Complete Travel Guide
- Aj
- Apr 8
- 9 min read
Introduction
Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory, is an unspoiled paradise of crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you seek adventure, tranquillity, or cultural exploration, this tropical destination offers an unforgettable experience. Here's a complete guide to the best things to do in Lakshadweep, from local cuisine to shopping and water sports.
Folk Art
Kolkali and Parichakali: It’s a popular folk art forms in Lakshadweep
Lava: A popular folk dance of the Aminidivi tribe performed during festivals and special occasions.
Oppana: When a lead singer performs a song, a group of women follow. It is frequently done at weddings.
Celebrations
The Minicoy Festival is a festival that ushers in the new year and the conclusion of the harvest season.
Republic Day and Independence Day are observed for days with religious passion.
Lakshadweep also celebrates Id-ul-Fitr, Bakrid, Muharram, and Milad-ul-Nabi.
Marine Life and Coral Reefs
Lakshadweep is home to some of the most vibrant coral reefs in India. The lagoons surrounding the islands are rich in marine biodiversity, including:
Corals: Staghorn, brain and table corals
Fish: Parrotfish, groupers, clownfish, and butterflyfish
Marine Mammals: Dolphins and sea turtles
Apart from being a habitat for marine life, coral reefs also protect the islands from coastal erosion.
Water Sports and Activities
Water sports fans will find paradise in Lakshadweep. Among the well-liked pastimes are:
Scuba Diving: Visit Agatti, Bangaram, and Kadmat islands to experience the colourful underwater world at expert diving centres.
Snorkelling: Take in the splendour of aquatic life and coral reefs from above.
Kayaking and canoeing: While kayaking, take in the beautiful scenery and serene lagoons.
Fishing: With the help of local guides, take part in both traditional and contemporary fishing activities.
Cuisine of Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep's cuisine is heavily influenced by South Indian and Maldivian flavours. The islanders rely heavily on seafood, coconut and rice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tuna Curry: A flavorful dish made with freshly caught tuna and spices.
Coconut Rice: A staple dish made with rice cooked in coconut milk.
Mas Huni: A traditional dish made with tuna, coconut, and chilli.
Local Food and Dining Options
Dining in Lakshadweep is a unique experience, with most meals featuring fresh seafood and traditional South Indian flavours. The islands have limited restaurants. Many resorts and guesthouses offer delicious home-cooked meals.
Cuisine
Kilanji: A thin crepe-like dish made of rice and eggs, often served with a sweet coconut milk dish.
Mus Kavaab: A spiced tuna curry made with chilli powder, coriander powder, cardamom, and more.
Octopus Fry: A popular delicacy in Lakshadweep.
Maas Podichathu: A dish made of dried tuna, coconut, turmeric powder, onions, and garlic.
1. Kavaratti Biryani
The fragrant Basmati rice in this traditional Lakshadweep meal is seasoned with a mixture of coconut, coriander, and a touch of saffron. Delectable seafood and delicate beef enhance the dish. An age-old preparation, this dish is an integral part of the cuisine of Lakshadweep.
2. Moplah Dishes
Moplah dishes are rooted in Lakshadweep’s cultural heritage and include a treasure trove of age-old recipes. These dishes are a mix of Malabari, Arabic, and indigenous cuisines. These foods produce a distinctive and tasty experience. The amazing tastes of traditional Moplah foods like pathiri, mutton curries, and biryani make them stand out. Both residents and visitors appreciate moplah cuisine.
3. Kallummakaya Curry
Kallummakaya curry is a mouthwatering dish that is part of the Lakshadweep food and culture scene. Mussels are cooked together with herbs, curry leaves and coconut milk to form a delicious, creamy gravy. The recipe has the perfect balance of spice and tanginess, making it a great dish to enjoy anytime. This dish is best enjoyed with appam or steamed rice.
4. Kinnathappam
Kinnathappam is a traditional sweet treat. It is a steamed rice cake sweetened with jaggery and enriched with the goodness of coconut milk. The preparation involves layering rice flour, jaggery, and coconut, resulting in a delectable dessert that perfectly captures the essence of the island. The sweetness from the jaggery blends seamlessly with the subtle richness of coconut milk, creating a delightful balance of flavours.
Popular Dining Options:
Agatti Island Beach Resort: It is known for its fresh seafood dishes and local specialities.
Bangaram Island Resort: It offers a mix of local and continental cuisines.
Local Cafes: Inhabited islands like Minicoy and Kadmat have small eateries that serve local snacks and meals.
Visitors are encouraged to try traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including coconut-based curries, fresh fish, and tropical fruits.
Seafood Restaurants in Lakshadweep
Being a coastal paradise, Lakshadweep offers some of the freshest seafood dishes. Although there are limited commercial restaurants, resorts and homestays, each of them serves excellent seafood delicacies.
Recommended Seafood Dining Spots:
Agatti Island Beach Resort: Specializes in tuna, lobster, and prawn dishes.
Bangaram Island Resort: Known for its grilled fish and seafood platters.
Local Cafes in Kadmat: It offers freshly cooked seafood meals, often prepared in traditional island style.
Nightlife in Lakshadweep
The nightlife in Lakshadweep islands is peaceful and serene, with minimal commercial nightlife. It revolves around campfires on the beach, stargazing, and traditional dance performances organised by local communities.
Beach Bonfires: Several resorts organise beach bonfires where guests can relax under the stars.
Cultural Shows: Local dance and music performances provide a glimpse into the island’s rich culture.
Evening Walks: The islands’ tranquillity makes evening walks along the beach more blissful.
Shopping in Lakshadweep
Look for exquisite mementoes and regional goods that capture the islands' natural beauty and culture.
a) Handicrafts
Handicrafts made from seashells, coconut shells, and coir are among the chief items to purchase in Lakshadweep. These handcrafted goods include jewellery, home goods and ornaments. These serve as excellent souvenirs due to their exquisite craftsmanship.
b) Lacquered Wooden Items
Lacquered wooden objects, which are traditional timber crafts painted with vivid hues, are a speciality of Minicoy Island. They are used as bowls and utensils or as decorative items.
c) Spices
Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and other fresh spices are available in Lakshadweep. These spices are great presents for people who love to cook and are primarily found in local stores.
d) Coconut Products
There are many coconut trees in Lakshadweep. Variety of items are made from coconuts like dried coconut, coconut vinegar, and coconut oil are available and can be purchased.
e) Traditional Clothes and Accessories
Do buy the native clothing like shawls and sarongs, which are frequently embellished with designs inspired by the island's culture. Also, jewellery manufactured locally from beads and shells are pretty good.
Best Markets for Shopping:
Agatti Island Market: The main shopping hub where you can find local crafts and spices.
Kavaratti Island Market: Known for its coir products and handmade jewellery.
Minicoy Island Local Shops: Famous for lacquered wooden items and traditional accessories.
Let’s know about these destinations for shopping In Agatti Island:
1. Agatti Island Craft Market
It is located near Agatti Island Airport. It is one of the most renowned shopping markets on Agatti Island. You will get some intricately designed and unique collections of woven mats and hand-carved wooden figures made by local artisans. You can witness these artisans creating these unique and amazing designs. The woven mats are not just floor coverings, but pieces of art crafted by skilled hands, and the wooden carvings represent the island’s rich heritage besides being a home decor.
What’s special: Handwoven mats, wooden carvings, seashell jewellery, and traditional Lakshadweep attire.
a. Lakshadweep Handicrafts Centre
It is located at Central Agatti Island. It’s the finest place where you can find the best of local artisans’ work, offering a range of beautifully crafted items that reflect the island’s heritage. A living museum, where the shelves are lined with beautifully crafted products and textiles depicting stories of the island’s past, with those handwoven baskets representing the medieval period.
What’s special: Coir products, textiles, handwoven baskets, and traditional clothing.
b. Local Fishermen’s Market
Located near Agatti Harbour, explore the vast market of different fishes caught by local fishermen, which makes it the best place to experience fish shopping on Agatti Island. All you need to do is just stroll along the stalls and find the best fish you can see. Experience the daily hustle and bustle of Agatti’s fishing community at the Local Fishermen’s Market, where you’ll find the freshest catch of the day.
What’s special: Fresh and dried fish, seafood products, and fishing gear.
c. Agatti Island Spice Shop
It is situated on Main Market Road. Spice up your life with some Spice shopping on Agatti Island. This shop offers a variety of locally sourced spices that will add a touch of Lakshadweep’s unique flavours to your cooking, making the food more delicious with a tempting aroma.
The place is lined up with shelves containing colourful jars filled with everything from fiery chilli powders to fragrant curry leaves. The best part is the friendly shopkeepers are always eager to share recipes and cooking tips.
What’s special: Locally sourced spices, herbs, and spice blends.
d. Traditional Weaver’s Market
One of the many other textile markets for shopping in Agatti island is this unique shop known for its traditional techniques of weaving its exquisite textiles, ranging from sarongs and scarves. It is located near the Community centre.
Each piece depicts a careful work of art showcasing the vibrant colours that act as a testament to Lakshadweep’s weaving tradition.
What’s special: Handwoven textiles, sarongs, scarves, and tapestries.
e. Agatti Fresh Produce Market
Located in Central Agatti Island, visit this organic land for some fruit shopping in Agatti Island with some locally grown fruits like mangoes, papayas, and bananas and vegetables. It’s the perfect place to pick up some fresh ingredients for a beachside picnic or a delicious home-cooked meal.
What’s special: Fresh tropical fruits, organic vegetables, and local delicacies.
While shopping in Lakshadweep is a more laid-back experience compared to mainland markets, it offers a chance to take home a piece of the island’s culture and natural beauty.
2. Kavaratti Island market
China Bazar Kavaratti
This bazaar is a one-stop best Shopping Place in Lakshadweep, promising to give you an exceptional and fantastic experience here. Kids often enjoy buying candies, and ladies can find their regular toiletries at this shopping area in Lakshadweep.
Candy is a popular purchase for children, and this Lakshadweep retail district also has the standard amenities for women.
You can also discover electronics, hardware, and cell recharge stations or coupons in some areas of this market.
Muhammad Musthafa Supper Market
One of the best Shopping Places in Lakshadweep is this market. Groceries, daily necessities, and miscellaneous things are available near and around the beach. However, residents primarily use it for groceries.
Thavakkal Clothing Store
This is one of those shops to visit if you’re seeking for a wide selection of beachwear and other regional clothing. It is conveniently located at Agatti Island’s upper corner. Wearing local garb, you can go street shopping in Lakshadweep while spending a few hours here.
Co-operative Society Supermarket
This grocery is located on Kadmat Island, one of the Lakshadweep archipelago’s significantly less populated islands. Here, the people frequently sold the locally grown goods. This is the greatest example nearby when looking for retail malls in Lakshadweep. It offers a wide range of options like groceries, souvenirs, trinkets, and fish.
Thele Fole Tea Shop
On Minicoy Island, this tea store is situated in a prime area. Basically, you may find this tea business on the island’s leftmost summit. Enjoy excellent tea, views of the Laccadive Sea, and regional foods here.
3. Minicoy Island Market
a. Traditional attire
Men often wear the ‘Mundu,’ a simple, elegant garment made from cotton or silk wrapped around the waist and draped over one shoulder. The ‘Mundu’ is typically paired with a shirt or vest.
Women on Minicoy Island traditionally wear the ‘Chatta and Mundus Neriyathum,’ which consists of a blouse(Chatta) and a two-piece skirt draped in a draped style. The blouse is beautifully made with embroidery or embellishments, and the skirt is pleated and worn gracefully.
b. Marine products
Fish is a staple food in Minicoy, and drying fish is a traditional preservation method used to ensure a constant supply of seafood. The island’s proximity to fishing grounds ensures the availability of fresh and high-quality marine products and the best items for shopping on Minicoy Island.
Local market shops in Minicoy Island offer a variety of marine delicacies like tuna and fish pickles that are loved by both visitors and residents.
c. Local Artifacts and souvenirs
Minicoy Island offers a variety of local artefacts and souvenirs that reflect its cultural heritage. Visitors can find unique items like Miniature dows, which are traditional sailing vessels intricately made by local artisans. These miniatures are made from natural materials like wood and coconut fibre that serve as a symbol of Minicoy’s Seafaring traditions and are found in cheap shopping on Minicoy Island.
Skilled craftsmen transform these locally sourced shells into decorative items such as jewellery, Keychains, and decorative pieces, which are the best items for shopping on Minicoy Island.
d. Handwoven textiles
Skilled artisans on the island weave fabrics using traditional techniques, creating sarees, scarves, and garments. These textiles often feature bright colours and patterns that reflect the island’s surroundings and cultural influences.
Weavers use materials like cotton and silk from the region to produce these handmade textiles. Each piece is made with care and attention to detail, making them unique and special and the best item for shopping on Minicoy Island.
e. Coconut products
Minicoy Island is filled with coconut trees, and coconut-based products are essential to the local economy and daily life. One of the most prominent coconut products is virgin coconut oil, which is known for its health benefits and culinary uses. Locals use coconut oil for cooking, hair care, and skin care, and best item for shopping in Minicoy Island.
Additionally, minicoy shows creative uses of coconut shells by crafting decorative items such as bowls, cups, and ornaments. These coconut shell crafts highlight the island’s commitment to sustainability.
Conclusion
Lakshadweep is a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and adventure seekers. Whether you explore its marine biodiversity, indulge in delicious cuisine or shop for unique souvenirs, the islands offer an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in this tropical gem!
