India is home to some of the world’s most stunning and exotic destinations. India offers diverse places to explore from ancient temples and historic monuments to modern architectural marvels. With 71% of the Earth’s surface covered by water, numerous beautiful islands are perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life. These islands provide a tranquil retreat and a sense of peace.
To help you discover these serene getaways, we’ve compiled a list of the most beautiful islands in India, saving you time and ensuring you don’t miss out on these hidden gems.
1. Havelock Island, Andaman
Havelock Island, part of the stunning Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a top destination for beach lovers. Known for its breathtaking blue waters and pristine white sands, this island offers a perfect escape from everyday life. Imagine relaxing on a beach chair, sipping a refreshing drink, and enjoying the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Havelock Island provides an ideal setting to unwind and experience paradise.
Attractions: Havelock Island has several popular attractions, including Elephant Beach, Kala Patthar Beach, Vijayanagar Beach, and Radhanagar Beach. These stunning spots offer beautiful scenery and are perfect for relaxing or exploring.
Where To Stay: Finding accommodation on Havelock Island is easy, with options for every budget. You can choose from beach huts, budget hotels near Vijayanagar Beach, or luxury hotels with spas and pick-up services. There’s something to suit every preference and budget.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Havelock Island is from October to May. During these months, temperatures range from 15°C to 34°C, making it ideal for enjoying the clear waters and diving.
How To Reach: You can reach Havelock Island by ferry from Phoenix Bay Wharf, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, a high-speed coastal cruise will get you there in 90 minutes. While on the island, you can enjoy scuba diving, sea walking, and trekking.
2. Lakshadweep Islands
India’s Lakshadweep Islands, known for their stunning turquoise waters in the Arabian Sea, are a top destination for water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. You must get an entry permit from the Lakshadweep tourism office in Kochi to visit. Only after obtaining this permit can you explore these beautiful islands.
Attractions: Some popular attractions in the Lakshadweep Islands include Kavaratti, Agatti, Kalpeni, Bangaram, Minicoy, and Kadmat.
Where to Stay: The Lakshadweep Administration handles all visitor tour packages. They arrange everything, including tours, transportation, and accommodation.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Lakshadweep Islands is from October to April. During these months, you can enjoy clear, sunny days and explore the island’s stunning marine life.
How To Reach: To reach the Lakshadweep Islands from Kochi, you can choose from five ships that take about 14 to 20 hours. Boat fares range from INR 2,000 to INR 5,000, depending on the type of seat and boat.
3. Munroe Island, Kerala
Munroe Island, an 8-island cluster in Kerala’s enchanting backwaters, is a unique network of water canals originally dug by Colonel John Munroe. This intricate system connects various water bodies in the area, creating a fascinating and scenic environment.
Attractions: Nearby attractions include Thenmala, M.G. Beach, Jatayu Rock, Varkala Beach, Chavara, Shendurni Wildlife Sanctuary, and Palaruvi Falls. Visitors can choose from various hotels and lodges, and houseboats are also available for overnight stays.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Munroe Island in Kerala is from October to May. The monsoon season, from June to September, can be quite uncomfortable.
How To Reach: Munroe Island is about 25 km from Kollam. You can reach the island by ferry, which costs INR 500. The ferry operates twice daily: at 9 AM and 2 PM.
4. Majuli Island, Assam
Majuli Island, the largest river island in the world, is a natural marvel located in Assam, northeastern India. Known for its unique culture and lifestyle, the island also boasts a diverse ecosystem worth exploring.
Attractions: When visiting Majuli Island, make sure to explore the twenty-one Satras located there. Notable places include Kamalabari Satra, Dakhinpat Satra, Garmur, and Tengapania.
Where To Stay: Majuli Island doesn’t have hotels, but you can stay in guest rooms at the Satras. These Satras offer basic facilities for tourists.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Majuli Island is from July to March, during the monsoon and winter seasons.
How To Reach: Jorhat is well-connected by flights and is just 14 km from Neemati Ghat. From there, you can catch ferries to Majuli at 10 AM and 3 PM.
5. Netrani Island, Karnataka
Known as Pigeon Island, Netrani Island is located off the coast of Murudeshwar on the Konkan Coast in the Arabian Sea. This scenic island, with its stunning cliffs and jagged rocks, is ideal for spotting exotic marine life like whale sharks and butterflyfish.
Attractions: Visitors to Netrani Island often come for adventure sports, particularly scuba diving, which costs around INR 5000 per dive. The island also features a ruined temple, a Roman Catholic church, and a mosque.
Where To Stay: Several hotels near Netrani Island, including KSTDC Mayura Gerusoppa, Sagar Kinara Beach Resort, and Kairali Residency.
How To Reach: The island is near the Arabian Sea and can be reached by hiring boats from Bhatkal. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for transportation from this area.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Netrani Island in Karnataka is from December to January. This period is ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports. Avoid visiting between June and September, as the sea is rough, and these activities are not recommended.
6. St. Mary’s Island, Karnataka
St. Mary’s Islands, located off the coast of Malpe in Udupi, is a group of four small islands known for their unique geological features. They are home to one of India’s 26 geological monuments, showcasing columnar basaltic lava formations. These formations were created by ancient volcanic activity when Madagascar, once part of the Indian peninsula, separated about 88 million years ago.
Attractions: Key attractions on St. Mary’s Islands include Vadabhandeshwara Temple, the ruins of Daria Bahadurgarh Fort, and Malpe Beach, which is known for its fine, silvery sand.
Where to Stay: St. Mary’s Island does not have accommodation facilities. However, tourists can book hotels in Udupi for a comfortable stay.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit St. Mary’s Island is from October to January when the weather is pleasant. The only way to reach the island is by ferry.
How To Reach: A ferry ride from Malpe Beach to St. Mary’s Island costs about INR 150.
7. Elephanta Island, Mumbai
Located northeast of Mumbai Harbour, near the Gateway of India, Gharapuri is known as Elephanta Island. It is famous for the Elephanta Caves, a network of rock-cut temples recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient Indian artisans.
Where to Stay: There are no hotels on Elephanta Island itself, but plenty of hotels in South Mumbai are easily accessible.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Elephanta Caves is from November to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid visiting during the hotter, humid months to ensure a more comfortable trip.
How To Reach: To reach Elephanta Island, take a ferry departing at 9 AM, with the last leaving at 5:30 PM. Ferry tickets cost between INR 130 and INR 150, with discounts for children. The caves are closed on Mondays. Don’t miss the annual music and dance festival held for two days in February. Plan your visit by taking the first ferry to explore the caves, visiting Cannon Hill to see the old cannon, and then returning on the last ferry back to Mumbai.
8. Rameswaram Island, Tamil Nadu
Rameswaram Island, located off the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu, offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. It’s connected to the mainland by one of India’s longest sea bridges. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches and historic temples on this remarkable island.
Attractions: Must-see attractions on Rameswaram Island include the Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agniteertham, Gandamadana Parvatham (about 3 km from Rameswaram), the Five-Faced Hanuman Temple, and Dhanushkodi. Finding accommodation on the island is easy, with plenty of options available.
Where To Stay: Book hotels and villas starting at INR 500. The stay is affordable and comfortable.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Rameswaram Island is from December to February when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.
How to Reach: Rameswaram is on Pamban Island. To get there, take a train from Madurai to Pamban, which takes about 4 hours. From Pamban railway station, you can hire a cab to drive the 10 km to Rameswaram.
9. Chorao Island, Goa
Chorao Island, the largest island in Goa, reflects the Portuguese colonial influence with its charming atmosphere. It’s a great spot for bird lovers, as it hosts Goa’s largest bird sanctuary.
Attractions: Chorao Island is known for its rich flora and fauna, including extensive mangroves. The island’s western part features Goa’s largest bird sanctuary, with an entrance fee of INR 50. Visitors can also explore ancient Catholic churches from the 16th century and beautiful Hindu temples scattered across the island.
Where To Stay: Accommodation on Chorao Island includes comfortable hotels like Villa Terra Rosa, with options for different budgets.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Chorao Island in Goa is from mid-November to mid-February when the weather is pleasant.
How To Reach: To reach Chorao Island, you can take a regular ferry boat from Ribandar village, just 2 km from Panjim. Ferries run frequently throughout the day and evening, every 5-10 minutes. People and motorbikes can travel for free, while cars are charged INR 10. The ferry service is available until 2 AM. After 2 AM, you’ll need to charter a ferry, which costs around INR 100.
10. Willingdon Islands
The Willingdon Islands in Kochi, India, are the largest artificial islands in the country. They blend colonial history with the natural beauty of their water-bound surroundings.
Attractions: In Cochin, you should visit attractions like the backwaters, Marine Drive, Hill Palace, Fort Kochi, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Bolgatty Palace, and St. Francis Church. The island offers beautiful natural scenery and a peaceful environment for relaxation.
Where to Stay: Kochi offers various accommodation options, such as the Kochi Marriott Hotel, Trident Cochin, Taj Gateway Hotel, and more, with prices to suit different budgets.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Cochin Island is from October to February when the weather is pleasant.
How To Reach: The island is just a 5-minute ferry ride from Fort Kochi. Ferry tickets start at INR 200, depending on the type of boat.
11. Ponnumthuruthu Island, Trivandrum
Ponnumthuruthu Island, a stunning retreat in the Kerala backwaters, is an ideal addition to a visit to Varkala. Known as the ‘Golden Island’ for its long sandy beaches, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers. The island features bird songs, red laterite cliffs, and soothing mineral springs.
Attractions: Watching the sunset on Ponnumthuruthu Island is a must-do. Nearby attractions include Varkala Lighthouse, Kappil Lake, Varkala Beach, and Kaduvayil Jama Masjid. For accommodation, consider Basuri Beach Resort (5.8 km away), Vakkom Palazzo (0.6 km away), or Villa Akasa (4.7 km away).
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ponnumthuruthu Island is from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the area enjoys the refreshing onset of the monsoon season.
Open Days and Timings: Ponnumthuruthu Island is open for visitors every day from Monday to Sunday. The visiting hours are from 5:30 AM to 12 PM and then again from 4 PM to 7 PM.
How to Reach: Varkala Railway Station is the closest railway station to Ponnumthuruthu Island, just 5 km away. Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport, about 30 km from the island. Visitors can take a boat from Nedunganda, reaching the island in 30 minutes through the scenic backwaters, for a fare of INR 200 per person. The main attraction on the island is the ancient Shiva Parvati Temple.
12. Diu Island
This small island on Gujarat’s southern coast is rich with remnants of the Portuguese era, showcasing some of the best Portuguese architecture and cultural influences. The streets are clean, colorful, and peaceful, especially if you venture away from the typically crowded beaches and waterfronts. With beautifully built churches and villas, it feels like walking through a mini Portuguese town. Though often associated with Gujarat, Diu is a union territory governed by the government of India and has its own rules and regulations.
Attractions: Diu Island in India is a great place to go sightseeing, so take a stroll around. The Diu Fort, a stunning example of Portuguese architecture, is one of the main attractions. St. Paul’s Church and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi are must-see churches on the island. The Zampa Gateway considered the symbol of Diu Island, is another architectural wonder that should be on your itinerary.
Where to stay: Diu offers many budget hotels, though most may not appeal to everyone. However, there is a backpacker hostel that receives good reviews from travelers.
Best Time to Visit: Avoid visiting Diu during the summer because it gets very hot and humid, though watersports and festivals are happening then. Winter is the ideal time to visit, with pleasant weather and activities like jet skiing, parasailing, water skiing, hot air balloon rides, desert biking, and more to enjoy.
How to Reach: Alliance Air, a subsidiary of Air India, offers flights to and from Diu four times a week from Mumbai, with round-trip fares typically around INR 12,000. If you’re driving a private vehicle, there’s a border tax of around INR 40. The nearest railway station is Delvada, about 10 km from Diu. If you plan to take a cab, don’t forget to negotiate the fare.
13. Divar Island
Divar Island, nestled on the banks of the Mandovi River, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by marshy waters and narrow roads. While there isn’t much to see, the island offers tranquility and is rarely visited, making it perfect for those seeking a serene escape. The largest village on the island is Piedade, known for its charming atmosphere. The name “Divar” comes from the Konkani words “Dev” and “Vaddi,” meaning “Place of the Gods,” reflecting its significance in Hindu history. Visitors often come during festival seasons, such as Bonderam in August and Potekar, a Halloween-like celebration held three days before Lent.
Attractions: Divar Island comprises three villages: Piedade, Malar, and Naroa. Piedade is the largest village, home to the Church of Our Lady of Compassion and a cemetery that showcases intricate Kadamba architecture. In Malar, you’ll find the 400-year-old São Mathias Church, while Naroa also offers sites worth exploring.
Where to stay: Divar Island offers charming guesthouses and family homes often rented out to travelers. To avoid any inconvenience, booking your stay in advance is advisable.
Best Time to Visit: You can visit Divar Island anytime, but it’s best to go during the Bonderam festival. This lively event takes place on the fourth Saturday of August each year.
How to Reach: Located 10 km from Panjim, Goa, Divar Island, it is accessible by three free ferries. These ferries run frequently from Old Goa, Ribander, and Bicholim, operating daily between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM.
14. Ilha Grande (Grand Island)
Your Goa vacation isn’t complete without a visit to Ilha Grande. This island offers a range of water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. It’s also a great spot for dolphin sightings. If you’re looking for a relaxing escape, the island’s serene beaches are perfect for unwinding and downtime.
Attractions: The main attractions of Ilha Grande are its beautiful beaches and the wide range of water sports available.
Where to stay: There are no accommodations in Ilha Grande, but there are plenty of places to stay in Vasco Da Gama.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ilha Grande is from October to March. The weather is pleasant during these months, and there’s less rain. Boats to the island usually operate only during this period.
How to Reach: Trips to Grand Island start at 8:30 AM and run until 4:00 PM from Coco Jetty. The nearest airport is Goa Airport, just a few minutes from the jetty, and the closest railway station is Madgaon Station.
Conclusion
India’s diverse islands offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From the serene backwaters of Kerala’s Ponnumthuruthu Island to the historical richness of Diu and the natural wonders of Havelock Island, each destination provides a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure sports, tranquil beaches, or cultural exploration, these islands cater to all preferences.
Exploring the stunning landscapes, indulging in water activities, and immersing yourself in the local culture make these islands a must-visit. Plan your trip around the best seasons to enjoy pleasant weather and maximize your getaway. Each island promises its charm, making your escape a vacation and a memorable adventure.
FAQs
Q1: What are the best islands to visit in India for a beach vacation?
Ans: Some of the best islands for a beach vacation in India include Havelock Island in the Andamans, Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu, and the stunning St. Mary’s Islands in Goa. These destinations are renowned for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxing ambiance.
Q2: When is the ideal time to visit the islands of India?
Ans: The ideal time to visit Indian islands varies by region. Generally, the best period is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. For example, visiting Havelock Island or the Lakshadweep Islands is perfect to avoid heavy monsoon rains during these months.
Q3: How can I reach these islands?
Ans: Most Indian islands are accessible by ferry, boat, or flight. For instance, you can reach Havelock Island from Port Blair by ferry, while the Lakshadweep Islands can be accessed by flights or ships from Kochi. Each island has its own travel logistics, so it’s best to check the specific options for your destination.
Q4: Are there accommodation options available on the islands?
Ans: Accommodation options vary by island. Popular islands like Havelock Island and Diu offer a range of hotels and resorts. Some islands, like Ponnumthuruthu, might have limited options and require booking in advance. It’s advisable to research and book accommodations ahead of your visit to ensure a comfortable stay.
Q5: What activities can I do on these islands?
Ans: Activities depend on the island you choose. For example, Havelock Island is known for scuba diving and snorkeling, while the St. Mary’s Islands are perfect for exploring geological formations. Islands like Diu offer historical sites and Portuguese architecture, while others like Netrani Island are famous for diving.
Q6: Are there any special festivals or events on these islands?
Ans: Many islands have unique festivals and events. For example, Divar Island in Goa celebrates the Bonderam festival in August, and Lakshadweep Islands have various cultural festivals throughout the year. These events can provide a rich cultural experience and insight into local traditions.
Q7: What should I pack for a visit to these islands?
Ans: Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, along with swimwear, sunscreen, and insect repellent. If you plan on engaging in water sports or outdoor activities, bring appropriate gear such as snorkeling equipment or hiking shoes.
Q8: Are there any travel restrictions or permits needed for these islands?
Ans: Some islands require special permits or approvals. For example, visiting the Lakshadweep Islands requires an entry permit from the Lakshadweep Tourism Office. It’s essential to check any travel advisories or requirements specific to the island you plan to visit before you go.
Q9: Can I find local food and dining options on these islands?
Ans: Most popular islands offer a variety of local and international dining options. Islands like Goa and Andaman have numerous restaurants and eateries serving local delicacies and global cuisine. However, remote islands might have limited dining choices.
Q10: How do I get around the islands once I arrive?
Ans: Transportation options vary by island. Some islands have local taxis, rental scooters, or bikes. Others may offer boat rides or organized tours. It’s a good idea to plan your transportation in advance or upon arrival to ensure easy travel around the island.
