A tiny island among the 36 Lakshadweep group of islands, Minicoy Island, is one of India’s best yet lesser-visited destinations. Located 200 km further from Kavaratti Island amidst the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea, words cannot describe the beauty of this place. This island has one of the largest lagoons in Lakshadweep and is endowed with crystal blue waters, white-powdery beaches, and clear skies. This place’s soothing atmosphere and charm lure many people, but it remains one of India’s best-kept secrets. Minicoy Island has a cluster of 10 villages called Athiris. Not just this, this island is celebrated for its dance tradition, the lava dance performed on special occasions.
Why Visit Minicoy Island?
For couples and honeymooners who want to spend time in solitude, Minicoy Island is an ideal choice. The ambience, blue waters, white sands, and exceptional views are perfect for spending quality time together. Also, if you love being in nature and admire beauty, head to Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep.
How to Reach Minicoy Island
Minicoy island is a Southern-most island of Lakshadweep which is accessible by air or ferry. Check out the details below and choose the preferable mode to reach Minicoy Island.
By Air: Lakshwadweep’s only airport is Agatti Aerodrome on Agatti Island and is around 457 km away from Kochi. You can also cover this route by flight from Cochin to Agatti, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and flights are available six days per week.
By Sea: Minicoy Island can be reached by seven passenger ships – MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea, MV Lagoon, MV Corals, MV Amindivi, and MV Minicoy, which operate between Cochin and Lakshadweep islands.
Note: You can avail yourself of a helicopter service from Agatti to Minicoy.
Best Time to Visit Minicoy Island
The winter season is the best time to visit Minicoy Island. The weather during this time is pleasant, and you can enjoy all the water activities without burning your skin. However, the best months to visit Minicoy Island are September to May.
Places to Visit on Minicoy Island
The shimmering beaches and clear waters of the Arabian Sea are the prime attractions of Minicoy Island, which is dotted with palm and coconut trees.
Minicoy Lighthouse: An old lighthouse built by the British in 1885 offers spectacular views of the Minicoy and the endless sea.
Juma Masjid: It is also a notable place to visit on Minicoy Island that is built in the medieval era and houses ancient sculptures.
Thundi Beach: Being a Blue Flag beach, it is one of the most pristine and clean beaches of Lakshadweep. On this beach, you can enjoy swimming, pedal boating and kayaking.
Things to do in Minicoy Island
Minicoy Island has many things to do and some of them let you peek into underwater life and explore the coral reef for a rich aquatic experience. Some of the best activities are;
Kayaking: Surf on thee water surface for soothing ride and admire the endless ocean.
Scuba Diving: Swim under the watersports to see the marine life.
Snorkelling: Push your limit and challenge yourself to go at a deeper level of underwater world and swim with colorful fish.
Boat racing: It is not a usual boating as it is linked with cultural heritage of Lakshadweep and one of the must-try activities here.
Underwater Ship Wrecks: Get down under a depth of 8 meter of water to observe two ships wrecked which serves as a underwater museum.
Accommodation on Minicoy Island
There is only one resort on Minicoy Island—the Minicoy Resort. It is a 20-bedded place to stay and is among the most well-organized government resorts in the Lakshadweep Islands. It is located very close to the lighthouse. Every cottage has an open-to-sky bathroom with coral-laid floors.
Where to Eat in Minicoy Island
The Minicoy Resort has food arrangements in the courtyard at the entrance itself. The food served here is mainly Keralite. Tuna fish—grilled, baked, or fried—is mostly available. You can have spiced coconut-rich vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. You must give advance notice if you wish to savour the Minicoy speciality. Alcohol is not allowed on this island.
Places for Shopping
There are few shopping options on this island except Thele Fole Tea Shop, which is at the left-most peak. The best things to buy in Minicoy Island are tea, Laccadive sea backdrop, and local snacks.
Tips for visiting Minicoy Island
- Whether you are an Indian or not, all visitors are required to have a permit to enter Lakshadweep.
- You will be around or at the beach all day, so make sure to wear a generous amount of sunscreen.
