Introduction To Islands of India
India, a land of diverse landscapes, boasts some of the most breathtaking islands nestled in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. From serene, sun-kissed beaches to untouched coral reefs, Indian islands offer the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and culture. Whether you’re planning a relaxing vacation, a diving expedition, or just curious about the country’s lesser-known gems, this 2024 guide to Indian islands will take you through everything you need to know — including how to reach them, what to do, and what makes each island unique.
Why Visit the Islands of India?
India’s islands are hidden treasures that offer experiences far removed from the chaos of city life. Here’s why they deserve a place on your travel bucket list:
- Natural Beauty: From crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches to lush tropical forests, Indian islands are a paradise for nature lovers.
- Rich Biodiversity: Many islands are home to rare marine species, coral reefs, exotic birds, and endemic flora and fauna.
- Cultural Diversity: Islands like Majuli in Assam or Diu in Gujarat reflect a unique blend of tribal, colonial, and regional cultures.
- Adventure Activities: Perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and trekking through untouched trails.
- Peaceful Getaways: Most islands are secluded and offer tranquil settings ideal for rejuvenation and digital detox.
Whether you seek thrill, peace, or cultural enrichment, India’s islands cater to every kind of traveler.
List of Indian Islands
🏝️ Complete Guide to Indian Islands – 2024
Discover India’s 1,382 Island Treasures
| Island Code | Island Name | Area (km²) | State/UT | Population Status | Key Features | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AN-01 | Port Blair (South Andaman) | 1,347 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Capital & Main Hub | Administrative center, Cellular Jail | No |
| AN-02 | Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) | 113 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Tourist Hub | Radhanagar Beach, Water sports | No |
| AN-03 | Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) | 13.7 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Tourist Destination | Coral reefs, White sand beaches | No |
| AN-04 | Car Nicobar | 127 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Tribal Settlement | Nicobarese community | RAP Required |
| AN-05 | Great Nicobar | 1,045 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Tribal Area | Shompen tribe, Indira Point | RAP Required |
| AN-06 | Little Andaman | 707 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Settlements | Onge tribe reservation | RAP Required |
| AN-07 | Baratang Island | 238 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Eco-tourism | Mud volcanoes, Limestone caves | Forest Permit |
| AN-08 | Long Island | 18 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Small community | Pristine beaches | No |
| AN-09 | Diglipur (North Andaman) | 1,376 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Administrative | Saddle Peak, Turtle nesting | No |
| AN-10 | Rangat (Middle Andaman) | 1,536 | Andaman & Nicobar (UT) | Agricultural | Mangrove creeks | No |
| Island Code | Island Name | Area (km²) | State/UT | Population Status | Key Features | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD-01 | Kavaratti | 4.22 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Capital Island | Administrative center, Marine aquarium | Entry Permit |
| LD-02 | Agatti | 2.7 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Airport Island | Gateway to Lakshadweep | Entry Permit |
| LD-03 | Bangaram | 0.58 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Resort Island | Luxury tourism, Coral reefs | Entry Permit |
| LD-04 | Kadmat | 8.0 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Tourism Hub | Water sports, Scuba diving | Entry Permit |
| LD-05 | Kalpeni | 2.28 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Inhabited | Lagoon, Coconut groves | Entry Permit |
| LD-06 | Minicoy | 4.8 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Cultural Hub | Lighthouse, Tuna fishing | Entry Permit |
| LD-07 | Amini | 2.6 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Inhabited | Traditional lifestyle | Entry Permit |
| LD-08 | Andrott | 4.8 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Largest inhabited | Historical significance | Entry Permit |
| LD-09 | Chetlat | 1.14 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Small community | Traditional crafts | Entry Permit |
| LD-10 | Kiltan | 1.63 | Lakshadweep (UT) | Inhabited | Coconut cultivation | Entry Permit |
| Island Code | Island Name | Area (km²) | State/UT | Key Features | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WB-01 | Sagar Island | 300 | West Bengal | Kapil Muni Temple, Ganga Sagar Mela | No |
| AS-01 | Majuli Island | 880 | Assam | World’s largest river island, Satras | No |
| AS-02 | Peacock Island | 0.018 | Assam | Umananda Temple | No |
| GA-01 | Divar Island | 12 | Goa | Portuguese heritage, Churches | No |
| GA-02 | Chorao Island | 17.5 | Goa | Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary | No |
| KL-01 | Munroe Island | 13.4 | Kerala | Backwater tourism | No |
| WB-02 | Sundarbans Islands | 9,630 | West Bengal | Mangrove forests, Royal Bengal Tiger | Forest Permit |
| Island Code | Island Name | Area (km²) | State/UT | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AN-U01 | Ross Island | 0.5 | Andaman & Nicobar | British ruins, Deer park |
| AN-U02 | Viper Island | 0.3 | Andaman & Nicobar | Historical jail, Gallows |
| AN-U03 | Jolly Buoy Island | 0.8 | Andaman & Nicobar | Coral sanctuary, Snorkeling |
| AN-U08 | Barren Island | 8.0 | Andaman & Nicobar | Active volcano |
| MH-U01 | Elephanta Island | 16 | Maharashtra | UNESCO World Heritage caves |
| KA-U01 | St. Mary’s Islands | 0.05 | Karnataka | Basalt rock formations |
| GJ-U01 | Bet Dwarka | 3.0 | Gujarat | Religious significance |
| GJ-U02 | Pirotan Island | 3.2 | Gujarat | Marine sanctuary |
- 🏝️ Havelock Island – Water sports, beaches
- 🏝️ Neil Island – Coral reefs, snorkeling
- 🏝️ Port Blair – Historical sites, connectivity hub
- 🏝️ Elephanta Island – Day trips from Mumbai
- 🏝️ Majuli Island – Cultural tourism
- 🏝️ Kavaratti Island – Lakshadweep gateway
- 🏝️ Ross Island – Historical tours
- 🏝️ Sagar Island – Religious tourism
- 🏝️ Bangaram Island – Luxury tourism
- 🏝️ Agatti Island – Entry point to Lakshadweep
- 🏝️ Barren Island – Volcano viewing
- 🏝️ St. Mary’s Islands – Geological tours
- 🏝️ Cinque Island – Scuba diving
- 🏝️ Divar Island – Heritage walks
- 🏝️ Chorao Island – Bird watching
Lakshadweep: October to March
Majuli: November to April
West Bengal Islands: November to February
Lakshadweep: Entry permit required (apply online)
Restricted Islands: Special permissions needed
Tribal Areas: Protected Area Permits (PAP) required
By Sea: Regular ferry services from mainland
By Road + Ferry: Combined transport for river islands
Seaplane: Available for select destinations
FAQs
India has 1,382 islands, including both coastal and inland river islands. However, only a fraction are inhabited or open to tourists due to environmental and security reasons.
Yes, permits are required to visit certain islands. For example, Lakshadweep Islands require special entry permits for both Indian and foreign travelers. Some parts of Andaman & Nicobar Islands also have restricted zones.
The ideal time to visit is between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and sea conditions are suitable for travel and water sports. Monsoons (June to September) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and travel disruptions.
Yes, Indian islands are generally safe for solo travelers, couples, and families. However, tourists should follow local regulations, avoid restricted areas, and stay informed about weather and safety advisories.
Absolutely. Many islands are ecologically fragile zones with coral reefs, mangroves, and unique species. Visitors are advised to practice responsible tourism, avoid plastic, and respect marine and terrestrial habitats.
Resources Used
This guide was created using verified and up-to-date information from the following sources:
- Incredible India (Official Tourism Website) – www.incredibleindia.org
- Lakshadweep Tourism Department – www.lakshadweeptourism.com
- Andaman & Nicobar Tourism – www.andamantourism.gov.in
- Data Web on Island Environment and Protection (DWIEP) – https://dwiep.ncscm.res.in/Island/IslandDirectory
- Ministry of Home Affairs, India – Guidelines on Restricted and Protected Area Permits
- Articles and reports from Times of India, The Hindu, and India Today Travel
Last Updated: May 2024
This article is based on the latest travel, permit, and ecological guidelines available as of May 2024. Please refer to official tourism websites or government notifications for real-time updates before planning your trip.
