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Situated within the picturesque Lakshadweep, Kadmat Island is a true gem of the Arabian Sea. This long, narrow island boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and a serene ambiance that beckons travellers seeking a tropical escape. As one of the most popular destinations in Lakshadweep, Kadmat offers a well-rounded experience, from comfortable accommodations and delectable local cuisine to world-class snorkelling and diving opportunities. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the island’s natural splendour or simply relax on its pristine beaches, Kadmat promises an unforgettable getaway.
Location
Photo: User:Amog. / Wikimedia Commons
Kadmat Island is located in the western reaches of the Lakshadweep archipelago, approximately 404 km off the southwest coast of the Indian mainland. Situated in the Lakshadweep Sea, a part of the Arabian Sea, Kadmat is considered one of the most geographically isolated islands in the Lakshadweep chain. Its remote location contributes to the island’s unspoiled natural beauty and tranquil ambiance.
How To Reach
Photo: JFK_Photography / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Reaching Kadmat Island in Lakshadweep can be a bit of a journey, but the effort is well worth it to experience this tropical paradise. Here’s how to reach the island by Sea and Air.
By Sea: The primary way to access Kadmat is by boat, as the island lacks an airport. Visitors can take a ferry from Kochi (Cochin) in Kerala, which is the nearest major city on the Indian mainland. The ferry ride to Kadmat takes approximately 12–14 hours, depending on the specific route and boat schedule. Some ferries may make intermediate stops at other Lakshadweep islands along the way.
By Air: Travellers can fly into Agatti Airport, which serves as the main gateway to Lakshadweep. From Agatti, they can then take a boat transfer to Kadmat, which takes around 2–3 hours.
Places To Visit Around Kadmat Island
Here are 5 places to visit around Kadmat Island:
1. Kadmat Lagoon
Photo: Tama66 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The jewel in Kadmat’s crown is undoubtedly its stunning lagoon, a haven for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Stretching along the island’s western side, the Kadmat Lagoon boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that invite visitors to dive in and explore the vibrant underwater world. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the lagoon provides excellent opportunities for scuba diving. Beyond water-based pursuits, the Kadmat Lagoon also offers a serene setting for simply soaking up the sun, swimming in the calm waters, or simply relaxing on the white sandy beaches that line its shores.
Timings: Water sports activities typically available from 9 AM to 5 PM
2. Kadmat Beach Resort
Photo: peterweideman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
As the primary accommodation option on the island, the Kadmat Beach Resort plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall visitor experience on Kadmat. The resort’s strategic location, nestled along the island’s coastline, provides guests with direct access to the island’s beautiful beaches and the nearby lagoon. The resort’s design seamlessly blends with the island’s natural surroundings, utilizing local materials and incorporating traditional Lakshadweep architectural elements. This creates a serene and authentic ambiance, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the island’s unique character. The resort also organizes various activities and excursions, from snorkelling and scuba diving to island-hopping and cultural experiences, ensuring that visitors make the most of their time on Kadmat.
Timings: Resort facilities and restaurant open from 7 AM to 10 PM
3. Kadmat Island Nature Trail
Photo: diego_torres / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
For those seeking to explore Kadmat’s terrestrial attractions, the island’s nature trail offers a unique opportunity to discover its diverse flora and fauna. Traversing the island’s interior, the trail winds through lush, verdant landscapes, providing glimpses into the island’s thriving ecosystem. Visitors may have the opportunity to observe or even participate in activities like coir-making, a key industry in Lakshadweep, or learn about the island’s cultural practices and heritage. The Kadmat Island Nature Trail is a refreshing respite from the water-based activities, allowing visitors to appreciate the island’s terrestrial charm and gain a more holistic understanding of Lakshadweep’s unique environment and local communities.
Timings: Nature trail open from 8 AM to 5 PM
4. Coral Gardens
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Just off the shore of Kadmat Island lie spectacular coral gardens, a must-visit for any nature enthusiast or diving aficionado. These underwater ecosystems are teeming with life, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the Lakshadweep marine environment. Scuba diving trips to these coral gardens offer the chance to see a wide range of fish species, including clownfish, parrotfish, and sometimes even larger species like reef sharks or manta rays. These coral gardens not only provide a stunning visual experience but also offer an important lesson in marine conservation and the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems.
Timings: Diving and snorkelling trips to the coral gardens are usually conducted between 8 AM and 4 PM
5. Kadmat Island Lighthouse
Photo: Robert Schrader / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Standing tall on the eastern side of the island, the Kadmat Lighthouse serves as both a navigational aid and a popular tourist attraction. While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding area offers one of the best viewpoints on the island. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding ocean, the island’s lush landscape, and on a clear day, even glimpse neighbouring islands in the distance. The lighthouse area is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, as many local and migratory birds can be spotted here, especially during the early morning or late afternoon hours. The juxtaposition of the white lighthouse against the blue sky and green landscape makes for stunning photography opportunities.
Timings: 6 AM to 6:30 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: palacioerick / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Kadmat Island’s primary accommodation option is the Kadmat Beach Resort, operated by the Lakshadweep administration. This resort provides comfortable lodging and serves as a hub for visitors exploring the island. The resort offers a range of room types, from basic cottages to more premium beach-facing villas. Staying at the Kadmat Beach Resort allows easy access to the island’s key attractions and facilitates the booking of various activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. While Kadmat lacks the extensive accommodation options of some other Lakshadweep islands, the Kadmat Beach Resort offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring this pristine tropical destination.
Where To Eat
Photo: ShenXin / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
As a relatively small and remote island, Kadmat’s dining scene is focused primarily around the Kadmat Beach Resort. The resort’s main restaurant is the primary dining option for visitors, serving a variety of local seafood dishes, Lakshadweep specialities, and more conventional Indian and international cuisine. Beyond the resort, dining options are limited, as the island has a small permanent population. However, visitors may have opportunities to interact with locals and try homemade Lakshadweep delicacies, such as traditional fish curries, coconut-based preparations, and freshly harvested tropical fruits. For those seeking a change of pace, the resort can also arrange picnic lunches on the beach or in other scenic spots around the island, allowing visitors to enjoy their meals surrounded by Kadmat’s natural beauty.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Bráulio jardim / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Kadmat Island in Lakshadweep is during the dry season, which typically runs from October to May. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. This makes it an ideal time for enjoying the island’s various water-based activities, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall and choppy seas, which can disrupt travel and limit the availability of certain activities. While the island maintains its lush, verdant appearance during this time, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a beach-centric holiday.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Salahpoomalika / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of Trip
The average cost of a trip to Kadmat Island in Lakshadweep can vary depending on several factors, but a rough estimate would be around INR 30,000 to INR 50,000 per person for a 3-4 night stay.
Tips For Travellers
- Securing the required permits to visit Lakshadweep, either through a tour operator or directly from the authorities, is crucial.
- Kadmat’s tropical climate and island setting call for lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear.
- Lakshadweep is an ecologically fragile archipelago. Be mindful of your impact, avoid disturbing the natural habitats, and follow local guidelines to help preserve the islands’ pristine beauty for future generations.
Kadmat Island in Lakshadweep offers a unique tropical paradise experience, with its stunning lagoon, vibrant marine life, and opportunities to immerse in the local culture. For those seeking a peaceful, nature-focused getaway, Kadmat is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable island adventure. As you plan your next trip to Lakshadweep, let TripXL shoulder the burden of bookings and the best deals
Cover Photo: Salahpoomalika / Wikimedia Commons
