Agatti Island

Agatti is a long thin island of about three and a half square kilometres with a lagoon on one side, and it holds the only airport in Lakshadweep, its runway laid along the length of the island so that approaches come in low over turquoise water with the strip appearing at the last moment. Almost everyone entering the territory passes through it. The lagoon is shallow and exceptionally clear, used for snorkelling, glass-bottom boats and kayaking, with reef fish, turtles and rays. The island is inhabited, mostly Muslim, with coconut and fishing the main livelihoods, and alcohol is prohibited as across the inhabited islands.

What you actually see

• The airstrip - a runway along the island with approaches over the lagoon.
• The lagoon - shallow, clear water with reef life close to shore.
• The island villages - coconut groves and fishing settlements.
• The reef edge - drop-offs outside the lagoon used for diving.

When to go

October to May; the monsoon brings rough seas and disrupted flights. Water clarity peaks December to April. Flights are few and cancellations are common.

Honest expectations

Permits are compulsory and issued through registered operators. Flights are limited, small and frequently disrupted by weather. Alcohol is prohibited. Accommodation is limited and books out.

Nearby

Bangaram lies northwest; Kavaratti is southeast.