India’s smallest Union Territory, Lakshadweep, has emerged as a prominent topic of conversation, swiftly climbing the ranks as a must-see destination, particularly among Indian tourists. The island captured widespread attention following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, during which he shared captivating images, creating a buzz across the nation. However, a diplomatic row ensued after derogatory comments from Maldivian ministers, leading to calls for an Indian “boycott” of the island nation.
Despite this, Lakshadweep has become the focal point for exploration, endorsed by celebrities, social media influencers and the public alike. The surge in tourism can be attributed to strategic infrastructural projects undertaken by the Indian Government, enhancing the region’s allure and global prominence. This archipelago, with its 36 pristine islands, embodies a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural diversity, making it an appealing destination for travelers seeking unspoiled landscapes and immersive cultural experiences.
While the region’s charm has been undeniable, limited accessibility and basic infrastructure posed challenges to its tourism potential. The delicate balance between sustainable development and the preservation of Lakshadweep’s unique natural resources became imperative.
Unprecedented search growth
MakeMyTrip, the popular online travel portal, recently shared on X that it observed a remarkable surge of 3,400 percent in on-platform searches for Lakshadweep following Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the island. Another travel firm, Ixigo, also noted a parallel trend. Aloke Bajpai, the co-founder and group CEO of Ixigo, posted on X that there has been a significant 2900 percent increase in searches related to Lakshadweep in the past couple of days.
Here’s all you need to know about the infrastructure of the island –
Lakshadweep’s air connectivity
The Indian government has proposed the construction of a new airfield on Minicoy Island, one of the 36 islands in India’s smallest Union Territory (UT). The envisioned airfield aims to serve both commercial and military aircraft, with plans for a joint facility capable of accommodating fighter jets, military transport planes, and commercial flights, according to government sources.
The development of this airstrip holds the dual purpose of boosting tourism around Lakshadweep and enhancing India’s surveillance capabilities over the Arabian Sea and Indian Pacific Sea. Presently, the only airport in Lakshadweep is Agatti, located approximately 300 kilometers away from Minicoy.
In a significant move, SpiceJet announced on Wednesday its intention to initiate flight operations to Lakshadweep, further underlining the region’s growing connectivity and importance. Flights to Lakshadweep’s Agatti Island can also be accessed via Cochin International Airport, with Air India operating flights. Currently, amid an increase in demand, Alliance Air has all its Kochi-Agatti flights sold out until March.
Lakshadweep’s water connectivity
Cordelia Cruises, the sole cruise liner transporting Indians to Lakshadweep since 2021, has experienced a surge in popularity. Operating from Mumbai, Goa, and Kochi, these cruises attract over 80,000 travelers annually to the island. Since 2021, more than 200,000 Indians have chosen Cordelia Cruises for their vacation experiences.
“We are thrilled about the growing interest in Lakshadweep; we are committed to being an integral part of its growth story… We’ve witnessed a remarkable interest for Lakshadweep cruises, particularly the four-night and five-night itineraries from Mumbai, which echoes the public’s enthusiasm for exploring this idyllic destination,” Jurgen Bailom, President and CEO of Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd, Cordelia Cruises, told Travel Trade Journal.
New resorts coming soon in Lakshadweep
Several resorts currently exist on Bangaram Island, Agatti Island, and Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep. Now, prominent Indian hotel chains are actively seeking additional locations to establish opulent accommodations. The Taj Group, in particular, has unveiled plans to introduce new hotels on Suheli and Kadmat islands by 2026, with the development overseen by the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL).
The Taj establishment on Suheli, a captivating ring-shaped island surrounded by a coral reef and enclosing a lagoon, is set to feature 110 rooms, including 50 water villas and 60 beach villas. Drawing inspiration from the luxurious villas in the Maldives, this development is poised to offer a remarkable hospitality experience.
Kadmat Island, recognised as a marine protected area with seagrass beds serving as nesting grounds for marine turtles, will be home to another Taj property. This upcoming resort is reportedly designed to include 35 water villas and 75 beach villas.
Emphasising sustainable hospitality, the forthcoming resorts aim to minimise environmental impact and preserve the delicate ecosystem of these largely unexplored destinations.
Does existing infrastructure require an upgrade?
Currently, Lakshadweep possesses the necessary infrastructure to cater to its 60,000 residents and a limited number of tourists. In 2021, the island welcomed 13,500 tourists, and this number increased to 22,800 the following year. However, with expectations of a significant surge in tourist numbers, the existing infrastructure requires an upgrade.
Despite the anticipated influx, Lakshadweep administrator Praful Patel expressed confidence in the island’s capacity to handle increased tourism. He noted that additional resorts and villas have been constructed on certain islands to enhance accommodation options. Patel stated, “We have received directives regarding tourism development, and we are actively working on it. Some islands hold strategic importance, and to manage that, if the existing system of online permits continues, there should not be any issues…” News18 quoted Patel as saying.