10 Beautiful Islands of India
1. Havelock Island, Andaman
The island can be visited by a ferry which leaves from Phoenix Bay Wharf. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Havelock Island. There is another coastal cruise which is a high-speed cruise and takes 90 minutes to reach the island. One can indulge in activities such as scuba diving, sea walk and trekking on the island.The best time to visit Havelock Island in Andaman is during the months of October to May when the temperature is mild and around 15 to 34 degree Celsius. It is also the perfect time to go diving in the crystal-clear water of the place. Accommodation is never a problem there is a variety of options ranging from beach huts to luxury hotels are offered to the tourists.
2. Lakshadweep Islands
The Lakshadweep Islands are one of the most exotic tourist spots of the country, nestled amongst the deep turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea. These group of islands in India are perfect for those looking to engage in water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving. It is mandatory to get an entry permit from the Lakshadweep tourism office situated in KoThere are five ships from Kochi to Lakshadweep islands and take nearly 14 to 20 hours to reach the destination. The fare of the boat ride varies from INR 2000 to INR 5000 depending on the type of seat as well as boat hired. chi only after which will the tourists be allowed to enter the region where Lakshadweep Islands are situated.
3. Munroe Island, Kerala
Another gem of the magical backwaters of Kerala, the 8-island cluster of the Munroe Island is a fascinating network of water canals dug out by Colonel John Munroe. This complex labyrinth helped integrate the various water bodies of the region. The best time to visit Munroe Island in Kerala is during the months of October to May since the place becomes extremely uncomfortable during the monsoon season June to September.
4. Majuli Island, Assam
The biggest river island in the world, Majuli Island is one of the many natural wonders of the northeastern state of Assam. Along with its fascinating and unique culture and lifestyle, the island’s diverse ecosystem is not to be missed. Jorhat is a place which is very well-connected by flights and is located at a distance of 14 km from Neemati Ghat.
5. Netrani Island, Karnataka
Famously called the Pigeon Island, Netrani Island is accessible through the coast of the temple town of Murudeshwar, situated off the beautiful Konkan Coast amidst the alluring Arabian Sea. The scenic Island in India, with its fascinating cliffs and jagged rocks, is perfect for those looking to spot exotic marine life like whale sharks and butterflyfish. People generally visit the island to experience adventure sports especially scuba diving. The island is located near the Arabian Sea and can be reached by hiring boats from Bhatkal.
6. St. Mary’s Island, Karnataka
A set of four small islands off the coast of Malpe in UduSince St. Mary’s island does not really have a staying facility, Udupi is the place where tourists can book hotels and have a comfortable stay.Since St. Mary’s island does not really have a staying facility, Udupi is the place where tourists can book hotels and have a comfortable stay. The best time to visit the place is during the months extending from October to January since the climate is pleasant at that time thereby making the stay comfortable.
7. Elephanta Island, Mumbai
Gharapuri, situated in the northeast direction of the Mumbai Harbour by the Gateway of India, is popularly called Elephanta Island due to the presence of the famous labyrinth of the Elephant Caves. These rock-cut marvels have been designated a world heritage site by UNESCO, representing the brilliance of ancient Indian craftsmanship. One should also witness the music and dance festival there which is held for two days in February every year. The Caves remain closed on Monday. One can take the first boat to Elephanta Island, visit all the caves present there and then go up to Cannon Hill to see the old cannon, come back to the dockside and finally board the last boat back to Mumbai.
8. Rameswaram Island, Tamil Nadu
The Rameswaram Island, situated off the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu finds a spot on this list, connected to the mainland by one of the longest sea-bridges of the country. A galore of beaches and temples await travellers visiting this iconic island. Since Rameswaram is located on the Pamban Island itself, one can take a train from Madurai till Pamban which will take around 4 hours. Then, a cab can be further hired to cover the remaining 10 km from Pamban railway station to Rameswaram. Some very famous attractions which are a must-visit on the island of Rameswaram include Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agniteertham, Gandamadana Parvatham at a distance of 3 km from Rameswaram, The five-faced Hanuman Temple and Dhanushkodi.
9. Chorao Island, Goa
The largest island of Goa, the Chorao Island is a tribute tot he former colonial rule of the Portuguese, with their influence seen all over the quaint island. This Island in India is perfect for ornithophiles, with Goa’s largest bird sanctuary situated here. Chorao Island is famous due to the abundant flora and fauna that it possesses. There are a lot of mangroves located here. The largest bird sanctuary of Goa is located in the western part of the island. The Island can be reached by means of a regular ferry-boat from the village named Ribandar 2 km from Panjim. Three ferry boats ply in rotation throughout the day and in the evening frequency is every 5-10 minutes.
10. Willingdon Islands
The largest artificial Island in India, the Willingdon Islands of Kochi are steeped in India’s colonial history, merging well with the natural beauty of the water-locked landmass. Some major attractions which are a must-visit in Cochin include its backwaters, marine drive, hill place, Fort Kochi, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Bolgatty place, St. Francis church and much more. The island lays 5 minutes ferry ride away from the Fort Kochi.
