The trending favourite travel destination — Lakshadweep, has all our hearts. And, why not? After the derogatory remarks by the Maldives ministers, it is India's chance to turn the tables. Well, on that note let’s see how and why Lakshadweep – the Indian coral island, will surprise you as a tourist.
The bespoke island Lakshadweep boasts surreal pristine beach fronts, coral atolls, colourful markets, tribal culture, ultramarine sea, historical monuments and not to forget the flavourful seafood. So, let's take a virtual stroll through Lakshadweep, but before just a reminder do not forget to plan a trip to Lakshadweep soon for some insta-worthy pictures and of course to unwind.
About Lakshadweep island
In the first century CE, a Greek sailor made the earliest reference of the islands that now comprise Lakshadweep as a source of tortoise shell. Previously known as Laccadives, Lakshadweep was a significant location for sailors after the Portuguese arrived in India. For the islands, it also marked the start of years of pillage. Ships were in high demand for the finely spun coir. Thus, island vessel plundering by the Portuguese began. Early in the 16th century, they are reported to have forcefully landed at Amini in order to obtain coir, but the invasion was put down by poisoning all of the invaders.
In 1973, Lakshadweep was renamed from the Union Territory, which had been established in 1956.
An Administrator chosen by the Indian President presently oversees Lakshadweep. The daily management and advancement of the islands falls within the purview of the Union Territory's Lakshadweep Administration, a local authority.
Weather of Lakshadweep island
Lakshadweep weather changes deepening upon the Arabian Sea’s mood. Yes, the tropical sun and the gentle caress of the sea breeze decides whether the Union Territory will be windy or sunny. However, understanding the nuances of Lakshadweep's weather can elevate your travel experience, allowing you to choose the perfect time to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this island paradise.
The best time to visit Lakshadweep, for those looking to get the most out of their trip, is between January and March. The weather is ideal throughout these months, with pleasant temperatures, lots of sunshine, and calm seas. This is the ideal time of year to enjoy water sports, explore the coral reefs, and soak in the unspoiled beauty of the islands.
Cultural heritage of Lakshadweep
Cultural heritage of places expands to various factors such as cultural language, history, heritage, art forms and many more.
The two most widely used folk arts in the Territory are Kolkali and Parichakali. Although ‘Lava’ is the most popular dance form in Lakshadweep, they are an essential element of the local cultural environment. Folk dances from North Eastern India bear similarities to several of these. The song Oppana, which is sung by the lead performer and then a group of women, is a standard melody at weddings.
In Lakshadweep, picnics are a popular kind of leisure time. The holidays that are most generally observed are Republic Day and Independence Day, followed in order by Milad ul-Nabi, Idulfitr, Bakrid, and Muharram. It's interesting to note that religious fervour surrounds the celebration of Republic Day and Independence Day.
Traditional dress of Lakshadweep
Women traditionally wear the Kachi, a garment resembling a lungi that is usually worn in black or white. Additionally, they don lengthy headpieces known as Thattams. For Laccadivian ladies, jewellery is essential. Traditionally, men are seen in lungis, but younger generations are starting to dress more like westerners, with shorts and pants.
Compared to the other islands, the Minicoy islands have unique cultural characteristics. Depending on the social class they are from, the customary attire varies. Only the Manikins ladies in the Minicoy have gold jewellery on them.
Cuisine of Lakshadweep
The cuisine of Lakshadweep is characterised by a strong seafood and coconut flavour, as one may anticipate from any tropical island tourist destination. In the local restaurants, tuna fish is frequently served. Notable dishes include Rayereha's red tuna curry and Sabbath's white coconut tuna. The regional food, which also includes foods like parotta and malabar chicken, has clear similarities to Kerala's Malabar culture. Popular fish meals include Mus Kabab and Maasu Podichath, and a crowd favourite in Minicoy is fish pakoras.