Andrott Island, also called Androth Island, is one of the 36 islands of Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea. It is the largest island and the closest to the Indian mainland. The island is special because it has a Buddhist past and a Muslim present. If you like water sports, visiting old places, or relaxing on the beach, there is a perfect place for your family & friends.
Explore Andrott Island through captivating images that showcase their rich culture, history, and charm.
The nearest airport to Andrott Island is Agatti Airport in Lakshadweep. Agatti is connected to Kochi (Cochin) in Kerala by regular flights. From Agatti, you can take a boat or ship to reach Andrott Island. Helicopter services are also available during monsoons or for emergencies.
There is no direct train to Lakshadweep because it is an island group. The nearest railway station is Kochi in Kerala. From Kochi, you have to take a flight to Agatti or a ship from Kochi Port to reach Andrott Island.
Are you looking for a quiet and peaceful place to escape the busy city life? Do you want to enjoy the natural beauty and rich culture of a tropical island? If yes, then Andrott Island is the perfect destination for you. Andrott Island, also called Androth Island, is one of the 36 islands of Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea. It is the largest island and the closest to the Indian mainland. The island is special because it has a Buddhist past and a Muslim present. Andrott Island has many things to see and do. Whether you like water sports, visiting old places, or relaxing on the beach, there is something for everyone.
We will tell you everything about Andrott Island, including things to do, places to visit, how to reach it, its history, and more. Read on to know why Andrott Island is a hidden gem of Lakshadweep and how to plan your trip.
People first lived on Andrott Island as early as the 6th century BC. It was part of the Chera kingdom in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Traders and travelers from Greece, Rome, Arabia, Persia, and China visited the island. The island was a center of Buddhism. Buddhist remains like stone pillars, sculptures, coins, pottery, and inscriptions from the 9th century AD are still preserved in a museum.
The island was ruled by different colonial powers like the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British. Locals resisted foreign control. The British built roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and lighthouses. Andrott became part of India in 1956 after independence.
Today, Andrott Island is peaceful with about 10,000 people. The culture is mixed, with influences from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and the Middle East. The literacy rate is 92%, and there are 946 women for every 1000 men. The island has coconut trees, banana plants, breadfruit trees, mangroves, birds, butterflies, crabs, and turtles.
One of the main reasons tourists love Andrott Island is because of the many activities available. The island is a paradise for water sports lovers, offering kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more. You can also go snorkeling and diving. The island has some of the best coral reefs in Lakshadweep. You can see colorful fish, turtles, rays, sharks, and dolphins in the clear water. If you are lucky, you might see a whale or a dugong.
Andrott Island has a fishing harbor where you can try fishing or watch local fishermen at work. You can also take a boat trip to nearby islands like Kalpeni, Kavaratti, and Kadmat and enjoy their beauty.
Andrott Island is not just about water sports; it is also rich in culture and history. You can visit the tomb of Saint Ubaidullah, who is believed to have introduced Islam to Lakshadweep in the 7th century. The lighthouse, built by the British in 1864, gives a beautiful view of the island and sea.
Exploring the villages of Andrott Island is another joy. You can meet friendly locals and learn about their traditions and customs. Don’t forget to shop for memories like coconut shell products, mats, and other handicrafts in the local markets.
Andrott Island is also ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. You can spend quality time with your loved ones on its clean and uncrowded white sandy beaches. Enjoy the shade of coconut groves. Watch the beautiful sunrise and sunset. The night sky is full of stars, perfect for stargazing. Some resorts and hotels also offer Ayurvedic treatments and yoga sessions for relaxation.
Andrott Island is a hidden gem of Lakshadweep. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The island has natural beauty, rich culture, and historical importance. There is something for everyone—adventure, relaxation, or learning. Andrott Island is a place where the past meets the present, land meets sea, and east meets west.
