7 Things You Didn’t Know About Lakshadweep

You have probably heard of Lakshadweep, India’s hidden coastal treasure. This union territory houses a cluster of 36 gorgeous islands, out of which only 10 are inhabited. This archipelago is widely known for its astounding marine life and untouched beaches, but there’s a lot more history to this place than you probably know about. Here are 7 interesting facts you may not have known about Lakshadweep. 

1. The oceans of Lakshadweep are home to about 600 species of fish, 78 species of corals and 82 species of seaweed. 
2. These islands are the only coral atolls in India.  
3. Lakshadweep is the smallest union territory of India. 
4. Out of the 36 coral atoll islands, 17 are uninhabited. 
5. The island of Minicoy is famous for its boat-building tradition. Incidentally, this is where the Jahadhoni, a traditional race boat, originates from. In fact, during the annual National Minicoy Fest, skilled oarsmen from all over Lakshadweep compete in spectacular boat races. 
6. Earlier, these islands were called Laccadive islands. In 1956, when it was declared a Union Territory, the name was changed to Lakshadweep Islands. 
7. The communities who live on the Amindivi and Laccadive group of islands share cultural similarities with communities living in the coastal regions of Kerala. Whereas the communities that reside in the Southern Minicoy Islands share cultural similarities with the native of The Maldives. They even share the same spoken language as Mahl.