Bangaram Atoll

Bangaram is a teardrop-shaped island of about half a square kilometre inside a lagoon on the western edge of Lakshadweep, uninhabited apart from resort staff, ringed by white sand and shallow water with a reef beyond. Because it has no resident population, it is the only island in the territory where alcohol is served, which shapes who goes. The lagoon is used for snorkelling, kayaking and diving, with turtles, rays and reef fish, and the uninhabited islets of Thinnakara and Parali lie within reach by boat. Access requires a permit and, in practice, a booking, as independent travel in Lakshadweep is tightly limited.

What you actually see

• The lagoon - shallow clear water inside the reef around the island.
• The uninhabited islets - Thinnakara and Parali nearby by boat.
• The reef diving - drop-offs and coral outside the lagoon.
• The empty beach - sand with no settlement behind it.

When to go

October to May; the monsoon from June to September brings rough seas and boats stop, with most operations closed. Water clarity is best from December to April.

Honest expectations

Permits are compulsory and Lakshadweep restricts independent travel heavily; almost everyone arrives on a package. Flights to Agatti are limited and often disrupted. Facilities are limited and expensive.

Nearby

Agatti lies southeast; Kavaratti is southeast beyond it.