Planning A Trip To Lakshadweep? Know Permit Rules, Best Time To Visit And More

PM Modi’s recent visit to the enchanting Lakshadweep has captured widespread attention. The images and snorkelling videos shared by the Prime Minister on social media went viral, causing a significant impact on Google search trends. Data from MyGovIndia reveals that the global search interest in the islands has now reached its highest point in the last two decades. The island’s newfound fame has not only resonated nationally but has also garnered international attention.

PM Modi’s visit served as a powerful endorsement for beach lovers and adventurers, encouraging them to explore the beauty of Lakshadweep. Situated just north of the Maldives and 400 kilometres west of mainland India, Lakshadweep offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, pristine beaches, and exotic marine life, making it a versatile destination for tourism.

For tourists seeking tranquillity and wishing to explore the adventurer side, Lakshadweep has to be on their list. Giving a travel guide about how to apply for Protected Area Permit (PAP), what are the permits and taxes levied, how to travel, where to stay, what to do, and many more, travel enthusiast Tanya Khanijow has piled up all the information that you must know before packing your bags.

Have a look below if you too want to visit the breathtaking holiday destination:

Here’s How To Apply For a Protected Area Permit (PAP)

Travel enthusiasts who are planning to visit the picturesque island can apply online for the Protected Area Permit (PAP) through the e-permit gateway run by the Lakshadweep Administration at lakshadweeptourism.com/contact.html. The application form requires personal information like your name, address, travel dates, purpose of visit, and islands that you are willing to visit.

For the verification process, you need to upload scanned copies of your government-based ID proof and a passport-sized photograph. After submitting the documents, non-Indian travellers need to pay a permit fee of Rs 300 per person. Once submitted, the application is processed within 7 working days, and you will be notified via email of the permission status.

Visitors must be aware that the PAP is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. Other than this, a green tax of Rs 300 per person is levied upon arrival at Agatti airport.

Best Time To Visit And How To Reach Lakshadweep

Due to the lower temperatures and pleasant weather conditions, October to February is the ideal season to visit Lakshadweep. Shifting gears to transportation, tourists may visit the heavenly destination by air. If you are travelling from Delhi, then you can book a flight from Delhi to Kochi that will cost you roughly Rs 12,000 (round trip). However, the prices may vary.

An alternative mode of transportation to explore Lakshadweep is through a ferry voyage, providing a scenic and leisurely journey across the ocean. The cost of inter-island transportation via ferry ranges between Rs 4,000 and Rs 8,000 per person for a round trip.

Where to Stay?

For a budget-friendly experience, tourists can stay at Agatti Island, which has guesthouses charging Rs 1,500–2,500 per night. If you want to have a modest vacation, go to Bangaram Island, which offers cottages for Rs 15,000 per night (all-inclusive). But if you are looking for luxury accommodation, Kavaratti is your go-to place that has air-conditioned suites for INR 9,000 per night (all-inclusive).

Activities To Make Your Trip Memorable

Lakshadweep’s water sports activities are endless. This island has a delightful array of adventure sports to get that adrenaline rush going. Canoeing at Minicoy Island, scuba diving at Rs 3,500, snorkelling at Rs 1,000, parasailing, kayaking, jet skiing, and reef walking are just to name a few. It also offers some breathtaking visuals of the colourful coral reefs and marine life that the gasps of ‘Woahs’ just won’t stop.

Adventure junkies can also visit local villages, witness traditional boat building, enjoy Maldivian dance performances like the Lava Dance, and get ayurvedic massages and spa treatments after exploring different places for ultimate relaxation.

Take fishing and island tours for Rs 1,000–Rs 1,500 per person and make the most of your tour that you can cherish forever.

The social media user also gave some additional tips to make your trip hassle-free and enjoyable. She urged travellers to carry enough cash, as ATMs and credit card facilities are restricted on some islands. She also recommended tourists to learn basic Malayalam, an Indian language. Additionally, she asked visitors to minimise plastic waste, avoid littering, and take part in beach clean-up campaigns, if possible.

Original news source