Apart from admiring the nature, the next best thing on any vacationer's 'to-do list' should be water sports. There are plenty of opportunities for Scuba diving, Yachting, Pedal boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Snorkeling, etc.
There is no way one should miss out on these. Also, a visit to the lighthouse and a few local houses would complete the trip!
Insurance
Its always a good thing to have medical or travel insurance before you partake in adventure sports.
Things to carry
1) Sunblock 2) Flip Flops, Hats, Bathing Suits, Sunglasses 3) Energy Bars 4) Waterproof camera bags, lenses and battery packs
Safety Tips
Carry a small bottle of water during the day for emergencies. Stretch before participating in water sports. Make sure you choose operators that offer up-to-date safety gear.
Medical fitness
Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary for one to know how to swim while going in for water sports. However, it is advisable that you can breathe easily while under duress.
General tips
The best time to visit the Lakshadweep is from November to February. Make sure you have acquired a permit before hand, which is mandatory even for Indian citizens visiting Lakshadweep.
About Water Sports
Activities offered : Jet Ski, Banana boat, Kayaking, Bumper Ride, Quad Bike Ride, Wake Boarding, parasailing, Power Kite, Kite Surfing, Swimming
Cost of Activity : Starts at Rs. 750 including equipment, depending upon the kind of activity.
Currents : Range from calm waters to strong, depending upon the tides and the dive site
Difficulty Level : Easy-Challenging
Nearest Airport : Agatti
Nearest Port : Agatti
Region : Arabian Sea
Time required : 1-4 weeks if you want to try out all the different sports
Water Temperature : 26 deg C to 33 deg C
How to Reach Water Sports
- Air: You can fly from the capital city of Kerala, Kochi which has an international airport connected to almost all the major cities of the country. The airport at the Union Territory is at Agatti. Apart from that there is also a facility of flying in Pawan Hans Helicopter to Agatti from Kochi, which takes about hour and half.
- Sea: Another good option to reach the island is travelling by water. With a number of passenger ships operating between Kochi and Lakshadweep, you can enjoy the voyage for INR 500 to INR 1000. However, for foreigners the cost is around INR 2000. It takes about 18 to 20 hours to complete the journey. The service is closed down during the monsoon season.
