How to Reach Lakshadweep from Major Indian Cities

Lakshadweep is an archipelago off the southwestern coast of India, marked by pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, and vibrant marine life. Though a remote place, reaching Lakshadweep is not at all difficult if planned well. Lakshadweep can be reached by air or sea or both, depending on the starting location. This guide explains how to reach Lakshadweep from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kochi. You can book Lakshadweep holiday package with us or our partner at best price and discover Lakshadweep.

Overview of Lakshadweep’s Connectivity

The primary gateway to these islands is Cochin (Kochi) in the State of Kerala and this is also the sole access to Lakshadweep. It can reach Kochi through either an airplane or through trains. Once there, they can then advance further into Lakshadweep either through airplanes or ships.

1. Air: The airport lies on only one island called Agatti Island from which air-bound flights can leave to Kochi.

2. By Sea: It is possible to travel by sea with the help of passenger ships running between Kochi and Lakshadweep Islands. It takes much longer, but the ride is filled with scenery.

3. Permits: Visitors be it Indians or foreigners have to obtain special permits to visit Lakshadweep. Such permits can be acquired by the tour operators or the registered agencies on behalf of the visiting clients.

Reaching Lakshadweep from Major Cities

1. From Delhi Travelers from Delhi need to get to Kochi and then go to Lakshadweep. Here is how to do that:

By Air: Delhi to Kochi: There are numerous direct flights throughout the day. The flight takes around 3 hours. Kochi to Agatti Island: Air India is flying from Kochi to Agatti Island. It takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. These are short flights. Thus, there are very few seats, so prior booking is compulsory.

By Train: Delhi to Kochi Major trains available are Kerala Express (12626) and Nizamuddin Ernakulam Duronto Express (12284). It will take around 48-50 hours in terms of train. From Kochi by flight and ship: Lakshadweep.

By Sea: From Kochi, one can book a ticket on any of the passenger ships operated by the government for Lakshadweep. The journey will take around 14-20 hours depending upon the destination island.

2. From Mumbai

People coming from Mumbai need to go first to Kochi.

By Air: Mumbai to Kochi There are numerous flights that go directly from Mumbai to Kochi, and this takes 2 hours. From Kochi to Agatti Island Travel from Kochi to Agatti Island by flight.

By Train: Mumbai to Kochi Some popular trains include the Netravati Express (16345) and Mangala Lakshadweep Express (12618). This takes about 24-28 hours. Proceed from Kochi by flight or ship to Lakshadweep.

By Sea: After reaching Kochi, take a passenger ship to Lakshadweep. The ships are provided with basic facilities and offer an experience of sea travel.

3. From Bengaluru

The connectivity from Bengaluru to Kochi is good. Therefore, traveling to Lakshadweep is easy.

By Air: Bengaluru to Kochi: Daily flights connect Bengaluru to Kochi. The time taken to travel is approximately 1 hour. Kochi to Agatti Island: Travel by air from Kochi to Agatti.

By Train: Bengaluru to Kochi: Trains such as Ernakulam Express (12677) and Kanyakumari Express (16526) connect Bengaluru to Kochi. It takes around 12-14 hours to reach it. Travel to Lakshadweep from Kochi by Air or Ship,

By Road There is also a by-road, as one can easily cover the journey by car and bus from Bangalore to Kochi, a road distance of almost 550 Km that would consume 8-10 hours to reach.

4. From Chennai

Kochi can be reached by air or train from Chennai before traveling to Lakshadweep.

By Air: Chennai to Kochi: There are direct flights of several airlines connecting Chennai and Kochi. It takes about 1.5 hours to cover the distance Kochi to Agatti Island: Fly from Kochi to Agatti Island

By Train: Chennai to Kochi: Trains consist of Trivandrum Express (12695) and Chennai Egmore Express (16127) that connect the city of Chennai to Kochi. The duration of travel takes about 12-14 hours. Fly or ship from Kochi to Lakshadweep.

5. From Kochi

The gateway to Lakshadweep is the city of Kochi. However, air or sea transport may be chosen.

By Air There are regular flights run by Air India from Kochi to Agatti Island, a distance of 1 hour and 30 minutes from Kochi to Agatti.

By Sea Several passenger ships operated by the government travel from Kochi to Lakshwadeep. These ships, namely MV Kavaratti, MV Corals, and MV Minicoy, take around 14-20 hours to reach the islands. Ship Classes: Ships have different classes, which include First Class (air-conditioned cabins) and Second Class (non-air-conditioned).

Types of Transportation in Lakshadweep

Once you are at Lakshadweep, you can go island-hopping by using the local ferries, speed boats, or even private boats. Some islands can be visited on a day trip while others require an overnight stay. Important Tips for Traveling to Lakshadweep

1. Permits: Obtain your permit well in advance. Tour operators and government offices can assist with the process.

2. Advance Bookings: Flights and ships to Lakshadweep have limited capacity, so book your tickets early.

3. Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance, especially if traveling during the monsoon when sea journeys might get delayed or canceled.

4. Packing Essentials: Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, hats, and comfortable footwear. Don’t forget motion sickness medication if you’re traveling by ship.

Best Travel Option Based on Budget and Time

Luxury Travelers: For traveling from Kochi to Agatti, prefer air travel in the shortest time and with the maximum convenience. Budget Travelers: Opt for trains to Kochi from your city and take a passenger ship to Lakshadweep Adventure Enthusiasts: Ships portray a scenic travel experience, but are apt for those persons who like traveling and enjoying the trip, not focusing on the destination.

FAQs about how to reach lakshadweep

1. Are there direct flights from big cities to Lakshadweep? No, there are only flights to Lakshadweep from Kochi to Agatti Island.

2. How many hours does it take by ship to reach Lakshadweep? 14-20 hours depending upon the island.

3. How much does it cost to travel to Lakshadweep? Airfare Kochi to Agatti starts around ₹5,000-₹10,000. Ship tickets start at ₹2,000-₹5,000 depending on the class.

4. Is there any restriction on visiting Lakshadweep? Visitors need a permit, and entry to some of the islands is restricted to prevent damage to the local environment and culture.

It is very much worth the travel from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kochi to reach Lakshadweep. Since there are so many options of traveling, you can choose that which suits your budget, schedule, and preference. If you wish to have the speed of an air journey or the scenic beauty of sea travels, Lakshadweep has promised a memorable experience amidst pristine natural beauty.