Lakshadweep is one of the most favoured tourist destinations in South Asia. Against the vast expanse of the blue sea, these islands look like emeralds. Lakshadweep means a hundred thousand islands. One of the most beautiful tropical islands, the world has ever seen, it is tucked away at 200-400km off the Malabar Coast of Kerala. It is an archipelago that covers 4,200sq.km, rich in marine wealth, and is spread over 36 islands in an area of about 32sq.km, out of which 10 are inhabited.
The most accepted theory on the formation of the islands is attributed to Sir. Charles Darwin. He proposed that the base of the islands below the reef is a volcanic layer over which corals settled, which in turn became atolls over a period of time. The atolls consisting of the islands and lagoon are in various stages of development. Smaller lagoons are filled with sediments. The larger ones are 10-16m deep. The enchanting aspect of these islands is the coral reef, formed over many centuries. Now, it extends along the coast. These reefs diverse ecosystems and are home to a variety of flora and fauna.
The islands are believed to have been discovered by shipwrecked sailors during the reign of Cheraman Perumal, the legendary king of Kerala in the 4th century AD. Before moving into the hands of the British, Tipu Sultan got hold of these islands after defeating the oppressive rulers of Arackal. The Union Territory was formed in 1956 and it was named Lakshadweep in 1973. The administrative headquarter is at Kavaratti, the Administrator being the head of the Union Territory. All the islands constitute one district for administration with four Tehsils. Each island gets a democratic setup with the elected members. At the Union Territory level, there is a District Panchayat with members elected from each village/dweep Panchayat.
Islands Of Lakshadweep | Flora and Fauna | Climate and Temperature
Languages and Customs | Folk Arts | Industry and Occupation | Things To Do
