Kavaratti, Coral island in Lakshadweep, India
Kavaratti is a coral island in the Lakshadweep archipelago of the Arabian Sea, located roughly 400 km (250 miles) off the coast of Kerala. The island is surrounded by a lagoon whose shallow turquoise water is protected by a reef, while palm groves and low buildings mark the interior.
The island belonged for centuries to the trading posts of Arab seafarers who spread Islam across the archipelago. Carved wooden pillars in the mosques stand as evidence of this long building tradition, still visible today in the religious architecture.
The name comes from the Malayalam word for sea turtle, reflecting the former abundance of these creatures in the lagoons. Visitors today see small fishing boats pulled up on the shore and notice the role of coconut in local cooking and craft traditions.
The island is reached only by ship from Kochi or via Agatti airport with a connecting transfer. Visitors should note that entry permits are required and alcohol is prohibited across the entire archipelago.
A marine aquarium on the shore displays fish species and small sharks from the lagoon, giving visitors a direct look at life below the surface. The desalination facility supplies the population with drinking water every day, as freshwater is naturally absent on the island.
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