LAKSHADWEEP

• Scuba Diving in Kalpeni Island

  

  Lakshadweep Water Sports authority runs various water activities on all these island. Scuba diving is the best way to explore the wealth of marine life. Being considered as one of the best unexplored sites in world, you can see unique species of coral, school of fishes , turtles, etc., which you might have either seen only in books or the National Geographic channel. The PADI scuba divers take some 2o-minute sessions to teach the basics of Scuba diving - like breathing under water through a mouth pipe and various other important things to dive and see in the underwater world.>

• Lighthouse, Minicoy Island

  

  Minicoy, being the farthest island from other islands, is an island one must not miss. A 300-foot tall lighthouse built in 1885 on crescent-shaped island which makes viewing the north of the island from top marvellous, along with the reef and hues of blue water. It is a majestic landmark for this island. This lighthouse was created by the British government to keep a watch on ships enroute from Aden to Colombo. There were many shipwrecks found around this island before 1928. The light source in 1885 was through kerosene wick lamps, then it progressed to petroleum vapour burners and now they have electric power for it. Currently since some years, they have shifted from using incandescent lamps to metal halide lamps. The Lighthouse in-charge mentioned that it is a revolving optic and a clockwork mechanism for rotation and the lamp is fixed. The lighthouse got independence from British control not when India got independence in 1947, in fact the India flag was hoisted in 1956 itself. If you do not like climbing steps, then you should avoid this place, as you will have to climb more than 120 steps. The outer side of the lighthouse has been developed for current tourism and a concrete road is made outside, leading to the boat jetty for locals.

• Canoeing, Minicoy Island

  

  As water is abundant and clearly seen as turquoise water around this island, also being close to Maldives, various activities are performed here. Canoeing is one activity, which I would suggest as you can see various turtles, corals and various colourful fishes following you, while you row. Since the water depth is only 2 metres around the island, you are definitely not going to fall in the water. When silver sand and the sun heats the water beneath, water looks like emerald.

• Kite Surfing , Kadamat Island

  

  If you do not like water or strong wind, then this water activity might not for you. You definitely need to practise as you keep falling in water every time you try to be steady on the board. This island also serves great place for snorkelling and scuba diving. The PADI certificate for scuba diver is conducted at Kadamat island only. While snorkelling, you might be lucky to see an olive ridely sea turtle swimming next to you.