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There are many beautiful islands in India, each with something special to offer. Some islands have clear waters and sandy beaches, while others are known for their history, wildlife or local traditions. The famous islands in India include both sea and river islands, with unique landscapes and activities. Some of the largest islands in India are home to local communities, while others remain untouched. From the Andaman Sea to the backwaters of Kerala, these islands provide a great escape from city life. Exploring them gives a chance to see a different side of India.
Top 9 Beautiful Islands In India
Here are the most beautiful islands in India, known for their clear waters, unique landscapes and unmatchable vacay destinations for visitors:
1. Andaman And Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of over 500 islands in the Bay of Bengal. Only some are open for tourists, while others remain protected for wildlife and indigenous tribes named Jarwa Tribe. These islands have a mix of history, adventure, and beach experiences. The Cellular Jail in Port Blair is a well-known historical site that was a prison where the British imprisoned many freedom fighters. People also visit Ross Island, which has old British-era ruins. The islands are among the largest islands in India, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Major Attractions: Neil Island, Jolly Buoy Island, Chatham Saw Mill, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Ideal Trip Duration: 5 – 6 days
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
2. Diu Island
Photo: Piyush Tripathi / Wikimedia Commons
Diu Island is a small island with a rich history and beautiful beaches. Diu was once ruled by the Portuguese, and their influence can still be seen in the architecture and culture. The Diu Fort, a major attraction, was built after an alliance between the Portuguese and the Sultan of Gujarat to defend against the Mughal Emperor. Nagoa Beach is another popular spot where visitors can swim and try water sports. These include jet skiing, parasailing, bumper rides, banana rides, and speed boat trips. The island is different from other famous islands in India because of its colonial past.
Major Attractions: Nagoa Beach, St. Paul’s Church, Naida Caves
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Diu Airport
3. Grand Island
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Grand Island, located near Goa, is a great place for adventure. Many people visit this island for snorkelling and scuba diving, as it has some of the best diving spots in India. The underwater world is full of colourful fish, coral reefs, and even old shipwrecks like Suzy’s Wreck. The island is also famous for fishing trips, and boat rides often include dolphin spotting. Unlike other famous islands in India, Grand Island is not for overnight stays. It is mainly a day-trip destination. Visitors take boat tours in the morning and return by evening.
Major Attractions: Stuhr Museum, Fonner Park, Eagle Scout Park
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
4. Divar Island
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Divar Island is located in Goa and is one of the lesser-known islands in India. It is known for its quiet environment, Portuguese-style houses, and old churches. The island is mainly visited by people who want to experience Goa’s local culture without the crowds. The famous Bonderam Festival is held on the fourth Saturday of August every year, bringing people together through music and traditional celebrations. One of the beautiful islands in India, Divar Island can only be reached by ferry. The short ferry ride from Old Goa adds to the experience.
Major Attractions: Our Lady of Compassion Church, Shree Saptakoteshwar Temple, Sluice gates
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
5. St. Mary’s Islands
Photo: Man On Mission / Wikimedia Commons
St. Mary’s Islands, near the Karnataka coast, are famous for their special volcanic rock shapes. The rocks have hexagonal shapes, formed millions of years ago due to volcanic activity. This makes the island different from other beautiful islands in India. Since there are no hotels on the island, visitors take a ferry from Malpe and return the same day. The island has a rocky beach, and it is a great place for photography. Visitors enjoy walking around and exploring the rock formations. The clear waters around the island add to its natural beauty.
Major Attractions: Basalt rock formations, Daryabahadurgarh Fort, Chandramoulishwar Temple
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
6. Majuli Island
Photo: Udit Kapoor / Wikimedia Commons
Majuli Island, located on the Brahmaputra River in Assam, is the biggest island in India on a river. It is famous for its Assamese culture and traditional monasteries called Satras. The island is home to many monks who follow old customs and practice ancient arts. People visit Majuli to see its unique culture, including traditional dance and music, Sattriya and Ankiya Nat. It is also a great place for birdwatching, as many migratory birds visit the island. Due to soil erosion, the island is shrinking, which makes it an important place to visit before it disappears.
Major Attractions: Molai Forest Reserve, Kathiatoli (Tengapani) Waterfall, Garmur Satra
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jorhat Airport
7. Lakshadweep Islands
Photo: Asssagar / Wikimedia Commons
The Lakshadweep Islands are a group of 36 coral islands in the Arabian Sea. Only a few of these islands are open to tourists, and visitors need special permission to visit. These islands are known for their clear waters and rich marine life. Popular activities include snorkelling, kayaking, and scuba diving. Besides, Bangaram and Agatti Islands are the most visited spots. Lakshadweep is one of the largest islands in India, and it is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sea and nature. The local seafood dishes here are also a major highlight.
Major Attractions: Minicoy Island, Bangaram Island, white-sand beaches
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Agatti Airport
8. Barren Island
Photo: Nishimoto, M. – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service / Wikimedia Commons
Barren Island is the only active volcano in India. It is located in the Andaman Sea and is one of the most beautiful islands in India. The island is uninhabited, and visitors are not allowed to land there. However, boat tours are available for travellers who want to see the volcano from the sea. The island has a dark, rocky landscape due to past volcanic eruptions. Many boat trips also include deep-sea fishing and snorkelling. The sight of smoke coming from the volcano makes it a special experience.
Major Attractions: Active volcano, boat tours, scuba diving
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
9. Munroe Island
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Munroe Island, located in Kerala, is a small island connected by canals and rivers. It is known for its backwaters, making it different from other beautiful islands in India. The island is best explored by taking a canoe ride through the narrow waterways. Here visitors can see traditional village life, coconut trees, and migratory birds. The island is also famous for the Kallada Boat Race, which is held during the Onam festival. Many travellers stay in homestays to experience the local culture and food. Munroe Island is slowly sinking due to rising water levels, making it a must-visit place.
Major Attractions: Sasthamcotta Lake, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Raghu Munroe Art Gallery
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
There are many beautiful islands in India, each offering a different experience. Some islands are full of history, while others are known for adventure or relaxation. From the biggest island in India to remote private islands, there is something for everyone. If you want to explore these amazing destinations, plan your next trip with TripXL and enjoy a memorable island holiday.
Cover Photo: Angshu Purkait / Unsplash
