The new high-speed ferry, “Parali,” recently completed its trial run, ferrying 160 passengers from the Lakshadweep Islands to Mangaluru’s old port in a mere seven hours, a significant reduction from the previous 13-hour journey.
Passengers onboard the ‘HSC Parali’ expressed their delight at the swift and smooth travel experience compared to the older vessels, which were retrofitted cargo carriers, as reported by PTI.
The Lakshadweep Islands Tourism Development Authority, established under the Central Tourism Ministry, plans to launch the Mangalore-Lakshadweep tourist liner service after conducting a few trial runs. However, uncertainties loom as officials consider the potential impact of rough seas during the monsoon season, as reported by Hindustan Times.
Besides these, the facilities at the receiving point in Kadmatt, the closest port of entry from the mainland, has been ramped up by LITDA.
Efforts to enhance connectivity between the mainland and Lakshadweep gained momentum after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the islands. This initiative aims to facilitate various forms of tourism, including eco-tourism, education, health, and recreation.
Historical Ties And Tourism Growth
Historical ties between Karnataka and Lakshadweep, dating back to 1783, have contributed to the strong bond between the regions. In 2010, the first passenger vessel, ‘M.V. Aminidevi,’ embarked on its journey to Kadmatt island in Lakshadweep with 150 tourists. This marked a significant step in tourism, especially benefiting Karnataka. This initiative facilitates easier travel for tourists from cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Panaji, and Mumbai to Lakshadweep.
LITDA coordinators in Karnataka have reported a surge in inquiries, especially from Bengaluru. Modern tourism facilities have been developed on three islands out of nine, closer to Mangalore for navigation, offering various water sports and tourist activities.
Affordable Travel Options
Tourists can now travel to Lakshadweep for a cost of Rs 5,000 per person on this ship, with a travel time of less than 14 hours. Special weekend packages have been introduced, promising a rejuvenating experience.
Previously, only a cargo ship, ‘Tipu Sultan,’ operated between the islands and the mainland, representing one of the oldest routes in Indian maritime history.
Accommodations in Minicoy, Kalpeni, Kadmatt, and Aminidevi are limited, and tourists are accommodated on the islands based on availability.
However, the rush has already begun as tourists from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Baroda, and other places are booking their seats, treating Mangaluru as their port of departure, according to officials.
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