Do you know Lakshadweep was a Union Territory of India before it was called as "Lakshadweep Islands"?
Lakshadweep has been a union territory since 1956 and it was renamed as Lakshadweep on November 1, 1973. Lakshadweep is a group of 36 Coral Islands. 35 islands are in clusters in the eastern part of India and the southernmost Island is called "Minicoy Island", making them 36 in total.

Lakshdaweep tapu islandsLakshdweep renamed

Lakshadweep Climate

Unlike other Island climates, Lakshadweep islands have a tropical climate too, making it a great place to visit from September to May.

  • In the winter (December to February), temperatures range from 20°C to 32°C, providing a cool atmosphere for tourists.
  • Summers (March to May) are mild and temperatures range from 22°C to 36°C, making it a good time for water activities.
  • During the monsoon season (June to September), there are heavy to intermittent rainfalls and strong winds from the sea, but the weather remains pleasant, and holidays can still be enjoyable.
  • October and November offer pleasant weather with light showers, making it an ideal time for holidays and various tourist activities.

Summers are not too hot, making it suitable for beach activities and watersports, and the monsoon season is enjoyable for experiencing the pristine nature of Lakshadweep and it's climate conditions.

History of Lakshadweep

The early history of Lakshadweep is not documented, and what is considered history is based on various legends. According to local traditions, the first settlement on the islands is attributed to the time of Cheraman Perumal, the last king of Kerala. It is believed that after converting to Islam at the request of Arab merchants, he left his capital Cranganore (present-day Kodungallor) for Mecca. Legend has it that search parties sailed to Mecca in pursuit of him, and one of these boats, belonging to the Raja of Cannanore, was shipwrecked on Bangaram island. They then moved to Agatti and later discovered and settled in Amini. Though this legend is not verified, it suggests the early origins of the island's settlements.


The introduction of Islam to the Lakshadweep islands is traced back to the 7th century around the year 41 Hijra. St. Ubaidullah, while at Mecca, dreamt of Prophet Mohammed instructing him to propagate Islam. After being shipwrecked near Lakshadweep, he settled on Amini and faced opposition from the island's headman. Despite challenges, he succeeded in spreading Islam on Amini and other islands, leaving a lasting impact.

The arrival of the Portuguese in the early 16th century marked a period of plunder for the islands. The Portuguese sought the prized coir from the islands, leading to conflicts. However, the islanders managed to repel the Portuguese invaders, putting an end to their intrusion.

Even after the conversion of the islands to Islam, the sovereignty initially remained with the Hindu Rajah of Chirakkal. Later, the administration passed to the Muslim house of Arakkal of Cannanore. In 1783, due to oppressive Arakkal rule, islanders sought the assistance of Tipu Sultan, leading to the division of suzerainty. After the British annexation in 1799, the islands came under the rule of the British East India Company. The British introduced the Lakshadweep Regulation 1912, conferring limited judicial and magisterial powers to local officials and imposing restrictions on outsiders.

The sequestration of the Lakshadweep islands during British rule reflects political maneuvers to establish supremacy in India, with the British prioritizing their economic interests over good governance. The British administration implemented policies to exploit profits through the Beebi without assuming full responsibility for island administration. During colonial rule, a few primary schools and dispensaries were established in the islands. 

Now the recent discussions are being made with leading Indian companies to build high-class Infrastructures in Lakshadweep to make it a tourist hub specially for those who are an Island Lover!

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