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Scattered some 200-400 kilometres west off the Kerala
coast, lie the islands of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, an archipelago of
36 coral islands and open reefs collectively known as Lakshadweep. They form
part of the Union of India and are one of the country’s newest tourist
destinations.
Out of these islands, only ten are inhabited and they are
Andrott, Amini, Agatti, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmath, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kiltan and
Minicoy. The main islands are Kavaratti, Minicoy, and Amini. Kavaratti is the
headquarters of these islands, while Bitra is the smallest of all, with a
nominal population. Agriculture is the mainstay of the Lakshadweep economy, the
major products being coconut and coir.
People of the islands are very
similiar to the people of Kerala - even their language is the same, except in
Minicoy, where Mahl is spoken. The people of Lakshadweep are often commended for
their honesty, and the absence of crime in the islands is laudable. Lakshadweep
is the perfect holiday for those who want to get away from the artifices of the
world and enjoy a few days in simple yet stunningly beautiful surroundings.
GENERAL INFORMATION
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State Capital
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Kavaratti
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| Area ('000 sq. km) :
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0.03
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| Population ('000s in 1991) :
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52
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| Location :
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400 kms west of the coast of
Kerala
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| Main Languages :
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Malayalam,Mahl and English
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| Climate:
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Throughout the Year - Warm
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| Clothing:
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Throughout the Year -
Cottons
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| Best Time To Visit :
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May to September
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