Lakshadweep has always been beautiful, but entering 2026, it is finally accessible. The flight maps have changed, the resorts have upgraded, and the secret is definitely out.
If you are planning a trip to India’s coral paradise this year, forget the old forums and outdated advice. Here is the definitive, on-the-ground guide to visiting Lakshadweep in 2026.
1. The “Golden Ticket”: How to Get the Permit
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The Rule: You must have a confirmed hotel/resort booking before you can apply.
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Current Wait Time: 12–15 days (Peak Season).
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Where to Apply: Exclusively at epermit.utl.gov.in.
Pro Tip: Do not book non-refundable flights until your permit is approved.
The Luxury Hack: If you are booking a package through SPORTS (the government agency) or the new Taj (SeleQtions) resort on Bangaram, they will often process the permit for you. This concierge service alone is worth the premium—it saves you the entire bureaucratic headache.
2. Getting There: The New “Goa Hop”
Forget the old advice that says you must fly via Kochi. The flight map expanded in late 2025, making the islands much more accessible.
The Flight Options
- The “Party & Peace” Route (Goa → Agatti)
- Airline: Fly91
- Why: This is the trendiest route of 2026. Spend a few days partying in Goa, then take the morning flight from Mopa directly to Agatti for a detox.
- The “City Escape” Route (Bangalore → Agatti)
- Airline: IndiGo
- Why: Direct connectivity (~2 hours). Perfect for Bangalore techies needing a quick reset without the layover.
- The “Classic” Route (Kochi → Agatti)
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Airline: Alliance Air / IndiGo
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Why: The most frequent daily flights. Best if you are combining the trip with a Kerala backwater tour.
3. Where to Stay: Island vs. Island
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For Couples & Luxury: Bangaram Island
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The Upgrade: The resort here is now managed under IHCL’s SeleQtions (Taj) brand. Expect significantly better service and food than previous years.
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The Vibe: Private cottages, sandbars, and bioluminescent plankton at night.
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Important Note: The resort bar here is the only spot in Lakshadweep where alcohol is legally served. Do not bring your own bottles from the mainland; they will be confiscated at the airport.
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For Budget & Transit: Agatti Island
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The Vibe: It’s where the airport is. It’s busy, energetic, and raw.
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Stay: Several new private homestays opened in 2025, offering clean AC rooms and home-cooked meals for a fraction of the resort prices.
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For Divers & Families: Kadmat Island
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The Vibe: Quiet, long beaches, and a massive coral wall.
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Activity: This is the best spot for PADI certification and spotting sea turtles in the lagoon.
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4. What to Eat & Buy (The Local List)
Must-Eat
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Mas Min: The staple dish, smoked tuna cooked with grated coconut and spices.
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Kilanji: A paper-thin rice crepe served with coconut milk and banana (usually for breakfast or dessert).
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Lobster: Order this in the morning from your resort; it’s caught fresh daily and grilled to perfection.
Must-Buy
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Tuna Pickle: Spicy, tangy, and addictive. Buy two jars (one for you, one for a gift).
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Virgin Coconut Oil: Some of the purest in India, extracted right on the islands.
| Expense Category | Budget Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Flights (Roundtrip) | ₹14,000 - ₹18,000 | ₹18,000 - ₹25,000 |
| Accommodation (4 Nights) | ₹16,000 (approx ₹4k/night) | ₹1,20,000+ (approx ₹30k+/night) |
| Permits & Green Tax | ₹2,000 | ~₹3,000 (Agency fees) |
| Food & Activities | ₹5,000 | ₹25,000 (Scuba + Dining) |
| Total Estimate | ₹37,000 - ₹45,000 | ₹1,60,000+ |
Your Next Steps
Lakshadweep isn’t just a destination; it’s a reset button. Whether you are chasing the bioluminescent waves of Bangaram or the raw coral walls of Kadmat, the hardest part is simply deciding to go.
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Save this guide for when your permit gets approved.
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Join the Conversation
If you could only pack one book for a week on a remote island with no reliable WiFi, what would it be? Drop your answer (and your permit questions!) in the comments below. 