 Just
off the coast of Kerala are a widely
scattered group of coral islands – 36 of
them – collectively known as
Lakshadweep. They form part of the Union
of India and are one of the country’s
newest tourist destinations. Ten of the
islands are inhabited by simple,
peace-loving folk whose language is close to
that spoken in Kerala. The islanders have
lifestyles and occupations that revolve
around coconut cultivation, coir matting and
fishing. Even today, nothing is actually
produced in the islands themselves, and
everything comes from the ’mainland’, as
India is somewhat quaintly referred to
there. Tourism’s major focus is on water
sports, as each of the islands are
surrounded by a coral reef providing large
areas of crystal clear water for everything
from snorkeling to wind surfing. The five
islands which are open to tourists have
simple accommodation in the shape of beach
cottages. Permits to visit Lakshadweep can
be obtained from the Lakshadweep tourist
office in Cochin. Regular flights operate
from Cochin to one of the islands, as well
as modestly priced ship cruises which stop
at all the islands open to tourism. These
cruises begin and end at Cochin.
 While
equipment for water sports is available at
the islands themselves, not much in the way
of shopping and entertainment is possible as
yet. Lakshadweep is the perfect holiday for
those who want to get away from the
artifices of the world and enjoy a few days
in simple yet stunningly beautiful
surroundings.
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