Minicoy Island is a hidden gem in the Arabian Sea, part of the Lakshadweep archipelago. It is the southernmost and second largest island of the group, with an area of 4.8 sq km and a population of about 10,000 people. Minicoy Island is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and rich culture. It is a perfect destination for those who seek peace, relaxation, and adventure in a tropical paradise.
Minicoy Island has a unique history and identity, as it was once ruled by the Maldives and has a distinct language and customs from the rest of Lakshadweep. The island is divided into 11 villages, each with its own village head and council. The islanders are mostly Muslims and follow a matrilineal system of inheritance. The island has a vibrant and colorful culture, with traditional dances, music, and festivals.
Minicoy Island is well connected by air and sea from mainland India. The nearest airport is in Agatti Island, which is about 200 km away. From there, you can take a helicopter or a boat to reach Minicoy Island. The island also has a helipad and a jetty for visitors. The best time to visit Minicoy Island is from September to May, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm.
Minicoy Lighthouse: A Historic Landmark
One of the most prominent and iconic attractions of Minicoy Island is the Minicoy Lighthouse, which stands tall at the northern tip of the island. The lighthouse was built by the British in 1885 and is still operational today. It is one of the oldest and tallest lighthouses in India, with a height of 50 meters and a range of 40 nautical miles. The lighthouse is open to visitors from 3 pm to 5 pm every day, except on Fridays and public holidays.
The Minicoy Lighthouse offers a spectacular view of the island and the sea from its top. You can climb up the 200 steps to reach the balcony and enjoy the panoramic scenery. You can also see the neighboring islands of Maldives and the shipwrecks that dot the coast. The lighthouse is surrounded by a lush green garden and a museum that displays the history and artifacts of the island. The lighthouse is a must-visit for anyone who wants to witness the beauty and heritage of Minicoy Island.
Thundi Beach: A Pristine and Serene Destination
Thundi Beach is one of the most beautiful and serene beaches in Minicoy Island. It is located on the eastern side of the island, facing the lagoon. The beach is named after the Thundi tree, which grows abundantly in the area. The beach is known for its white sand, clear water, and calm waves. It is an ideal place for relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming.
Thundi Beach also offers a variety of water sports and activities for the adventurous. You can indulge in snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, and more. You can explore the coral reefs and marine life that inhabit the lagoon, or visit the nearby islands and sandbanks. You can also enjoy a picnic or a barbecue on the beach, or watch the sunrise or sunset. Thundi Beach is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts.
Boat Racing: A Thrilling and Cultural Experience
Boat racing is one of the most thrilling and cultural experiences in Minicoy Island. It is a traditional sport and a festive occasion for the islanders, who compete in teams of 11 villages. The boat racing is held on the lagoon, using wooden boats called jahadhoni. The boats are decorated with colorful flags and streamers, and are rowed by the villagers with rhythmic chants and drums. The boat racing is a spectacle of speed, skill, and spirit.
The boat racing is usually held during the monsoon season, from June to September, or on special occasions like Eid or Independence Day. The boat racing is open to visitors, who can either join a team or watch from the shore. The boat racing is a fun and exciting way to experience the culture and camaraderie of Minicoy Island.
Underwater Shipwrecks: A Mysterious and Adventurous Exploration
Minicoy Island is home to some of the most mysterious and adventurous underwater shipwrecks in the world. The island has a history of maritime trade and warfare, and has witnessed many shipwrecks over the centuries. Some of the most famous shipwrecks are the SS Hoechst, the Princess Royal, the SS Sirus, and the MV Dara. These shipwrecks are now submerged in the sea, and are inhabited by various fish, corals, and other marine creatures.
The underwater shipwrecks can be accessed and explored by scuba diving, which is one of the most popular activities in Minicoy Island. You can dive into the depths of the sea and discover the secrets and stories of the shipwrecks, as well as the beauty and diversity of the marine life. You can also see the remains of the ancient port and the fort that once guarded the island. The underwater shipwrecks are a treasure trove for history buffs and adventure seekers.
Juma Mosque: A Sacred and Beautiful Place of Worship
Juma Mosque is one of the most sacred and beautiful places of worship in Minicoy Island. It is located in the village of Bada, and is the main mosque of the island. The mosque was built in the 17th century, and is one of the oldest and largest mosques in Lakshadweep. The mosque is known for its exquisite architecture and design, which reflects the influence of the Maldivian and Arab styles. The mosque has a dome, a minaret, and a courtyard, and is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.
The Juma Mosque is open to visitors, who can admire its beauty and learn about its history and significance. The mosque is also the center of the religious and social life of the islanders, who gather there for prayers and festivals. The mosque hosts the Eid celebrations, which are the most important and joyous occasions in Minicoy Island. The mosque also has a library and a museum, which display the Islamic literature and artifacts of the island. The Juma Mosque is a place of peace and harmony, and a symbol of the faith and culture of Minicoy Island.
Lava Dance: A Unique and Vibrant Form of Art
Lava Dance is one of the most unique and vibrant forms of art in Minicoy Island. It is a traditional dance that originated from the Maldives, and is performed by the men of the island. The dance is a form of martial art, which involves swift and graceful movements, accompanied by drums and chants. The dance is performed with wooden sticks, which are used to strike and defend against each other. The dance is a display of strength, agility, and coordination.
The Lava Dance is performed on festive occasions, such as Eid, Independence Day, or Republic Day. The dance is also a way of entertainment and competition, as the dancers try to outdo each other with their skills and style. The dance is open to visitors, who can watch and enjoy the performance, or even join and learn the dance. The Lava Dance is a fun and lively way to experience the art and spirit of Minicoy Island.
Getting There
To reach Minicoy Island from mainland India, you have two options: by air or by sea. By air, you can take a flight from Kochi (Cochin) to Agatti Island, which is the nearest airport to Minicoy Island.
From Agatti, you can take a helicopter or a boat to reach Minicoy Island. The flight from Kochi to Agatti takes about 1.5 hours, and the helicopter or boat ride from Agatti to Minicoy takes about 1.5 hours as well.
By sea, you can take a ship from Kochi to Minicoy Island, which is operated by the Lakshadweep Administration. The ship service takes around 18 hours to reach Minicoy Island. You can book your tickets online on the Lakshadweep Administration website.
Minicoy Island is a paradise in Lakshadweep, where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature, the thrill and adventure of water sports, the heritage and culture of the islanders, and the hospitality and warmth of the locals. Minicoy Island is a destination that will leave you spellbound and satisfied, and make you want to come back again and again.
If you are looking for a perfect getaway in a tropical paradise, book your tour package or plan your trip to Minicoy Island today. Thank you for reading this article, and feel free to share your feedback or questions with us.
