LAKSHADWEEP ISLANDS

Just off the coast about 400km from Kerala are the widely scattered group of coral Islands - 36 of them -collectively known as Lakshadweep. Lakshadweep Islands are located in the Arabian Sea between 8 and 12 degrees north latitude and between 71 and 74 degree longitude.

It has a tropical climate (Summer 22 to 35 degree C and winter 20 to 32 degree C). Out of the 36 islands only 10 are inhabited and out of these 10 only 4 islands namely Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Minicoy and Kadamat are open for domestic tourists. Only 2 islands - Kadamat and Bangaram are open for foreign tourists.

The islands are full of lush green gracious tall palm trees. One can say that coconut is the only commercial crop. Other than this deep green shrubs and some runners are seen on the ground.

Common sea birds are Sterna fuscate and Anous solidus and these nest on an island called Pitti-a bird sanctuary. Apart from the common forms of life on surface the under water life of the islands is just marvelous.

Colourful fishes and others of different varieties are available in abundance. Slow moving creatures like crabs, lobsters and shrimps are available on the coastal region. Dolphins, flying fishes, Turtles can be seen by the keen observers.