How to reach Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is a stunning archipelago of 36 coral islands in the Arabian Sea off the southwestern Coast of India. Thus, its remote location opens a limited window for answering how to reach Lakshadweep. Most tourists use air travel to get there, but a boat or ship is another good option. Besides knowing modes of transportation, there are more consideration points to remember while planning your trip, such as entry permits, special permits and seasons, which also play a crucial part in the travel experience. So, check out this detailed guide on reaching Lakshadweep, which covers each detail you should know before visiting there.
How to Reach Lakshadweep By Air
The only airport in Lakshadweep is the Agatti Airport on Agatti Island.
Step 1:To reach Lakshadweep by air, one must fly to Cochin International Airport, a getaway to the island. After that, you will take another flight to Agatti Airport, which will take around one hour and 30 minutes.
Step 2:After reaching Agatti, one can take the helicopter facility to Kavaratti, which is accessible throughout the year. However, you can also catch a ferry from Aggatti to reach your desired location in Lakshadweep.
Reasons to Choose:To reach Lakshadweep by air come up with various facilities and experiences, which are;
- Comfort: Enjoy a relaxed journey with minimal effort; sit back and unwind.
- Speed: Cover hundreds of kilometres in a few hours, making it the fastest travel option.
- Helicopter Ride: An incredible experience, witnessing the aerial view of Lakshadweep.
Confirm the availability of tickets with your holiday planner before planning a trip to Lakshadweep.
Note:The distance between Agatti airport and Lakshadweep is 85 km (approx.).
How to Reach Lakshadweep by Ship
Currently, seven ships from Cochin to Lakshadweep and vice versa are available.
Step 1:You will have to reach Cochin using a suitable mode of transport, such as air, train, or bus.
Step 2:From Cochin Port Trust Passenger Wharf, catch any ship from MV Amindivi, MV Arabian Sea, MV Bharat Seema, MV Dweep Setu, MV Kavaratti, MV Lakshadweep Sea, and MV Minicoy to reach Lakshadweep.
Reasons to Choose:You will get plenty of facilities and experiences, such as;
- Accommodation Options: From luxury to budget-friendly and comfortable.
- Homely Ambience: Welcoming environment throughout the journey.
- Onboard Amenities: Enjoy access to a cafeteria and an entertainment lounge.
- Upper Deck Entertainment: Witness the view of the ocean for a scenic and fun-filled experience.
Monsoon months (June-August) are when passenger ships don’t operate.
Note: The journey to Lakshadweep from Cochin takes 15-20 hours (approx.), and most cruises operate overnight. You can also book well-planned Cruise tour packages for Lakshadweep from Mumbai.
Permit For Lakshadweep
Indian and foreign tourists need a permit to bask in the colourful coals of virgin beaches. A permit can be obtained at Kochi airport. With the permit, Indians can visit all the inhabited islands in Lakshadweep. However, foreigners are allowed to visit the Kadmat, Bangaram, and Agatti Islands.
Documents Required for Lakshadweep
You should have some required documents before entering Lakshadweep, listed below. However, you can check the complete details about this permit through our Lakshadweep Travel Guide.
- Entry Permit
- Confirmed Accommodation Booking
- Confirmed Return Tickets
- Identity Proof
- Customs Declaration Form
- Special Permits for Restricted Islands (Recommended)
- Travel Insurance (Recommended)
Reaching Lakshadweep From Major Destinations
Lakshadweep has no rail or road connectivity and only connects with the rest of India through its Agatti Airport or by ferry from Kochi. Here are the details on how to reach Lakshadweep from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
Lakshadweep From Delhi
Airline |
Duration |
Stop |
IndiGo |
12 hr 35 min |
Bengaluru, Kochi |
Lakshadweep From Mumbai
Airline |
Duration |
Stop |
Akasa Air, IndiGo |
11 hr, 40 min |
Bengaluru Kochi |
Lakshadweep From Bangalore
Airline |
Duration |
Stop |
IndiGo |
13 hr 20 min |
Kochi |