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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, located in the picturesque Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a dream destination for beach enthusiasts. Famous for its crystal-clear blue waters and immaculate white sandy beaches, this island offers the ultimate getaway from the stresses of daily life. Picture yourself lounging on a beach chair, sipping a cool beverage, and soaking in the serene views and tranquil ambience. Havelock Island provides the perfect atmosphere to relax and experience true paradise.
- Attractions: Havelock Island boasts several renowned attractions, such as Elephant Beach, Kala Patthar Beach, Vijayanagar Beach, and Radhanagar Beach. These breathtaking locations provide stunning views and are ideal for both unwinding and discovering the beauty of nature.
- Where To Stay: Finding accommodation on Havelock Island is simple, offering options for every budget. Whether you’re looking for beach huts, affordable hotels near Vijayanagar Beach, or luxurious resorts with spas and pick-up services, there’s something to cater to all tastes and budgets.
- Best Time To Visit: The optimal time to visit Havelock Island is between October and May. During this period, temperatures range from 15°C to 34°C, creating the perfect conditions to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and indulge in diving activities.
- How To Reach: You can reach Havelock Island by ferry from Phoenix Bay Wharf, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. Alternatively, a high-speed coastal cruise can get you there in just 90 minutes. Once on the island, you can enjoy activities such as scuba diving, sea walking, and trekking.
2. Lakshadweep Islands
India’s Lakshadweep Islands, famous for their stunning turquoise waters in the Arabian Sea, are a prime destination for water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving. To visit these islands, you must first obtain an entry permit from the Lakshadweep tourism office in Kochi. Only after securing this permit can you explore these picturesque islands.
- Attractions: Some of the top attractions in the Lakshadweep Islands include Kavaratti, Agatti, Kalpeni, Bangaram, Minicoy, and Kadmat.
- Where to Stay: The Lakshadweep Administration manages all visitor tour packages, taking care of everything from tours and transportation to accommodation.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit the Lakshadweep Islands is between October and April. During these months, you can experience clear, sunny days and discover the island’s breathtaking marine life.
- How To Reach: To reach the Lakshadweep Islands from Kochi, you can select from five ships, which take approximately 14 to 20 hours. Boat fares vary between INR 2,000 and INR 5,000, depending on the type of seat and vessel.
3. Munroe Island, Kerala
Munroe Island, an 8-island cluster in Kerala’s captivating backwaters, is a distinctive network of water canals originally dug by Colonel John Munroe. This intricate system links various water bodies in the region, 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 select from a range of hotels and lodges, with houseboats also available for a memorable overnight stay.
- Best Time To Visit: The ideal time to visit Munroe Island in Kerala is between October and May. The monsoon season, from June to September, can be rather uncomfortable.
- How To Reach: Munroe Island is located approximately 25 km from Kollam. You can reach the island by ferry, with a fare of INR 500. The ferry runs twice a day: at 9 AM and 2 PM.
4. Majuli Island, Assam
Majuli Island, the largest river island in the world, is a natural wonder situated in Assam, northeastern India. Renowned for its distinct culture and way of life, the island also features a diverse ecosystem that is truly worth exploring.
- Attractions: When visiting Majuli Island, be sure to explore the twenty-one Satras situated there. Key attractions include Kamalabari Satra, Dakhinpat Satra, Garmur, and Tengapania.
- Where To Stay: Majuli Island doesn’t have traditional hotels, but you can stay in guest rooms at the Satras. These Satras provide basic facilities for tourists.
- Best Time To Visit: The ideal time to visit Majuli Island is from July to March, during the monsoon and winter seasons.
- How To Reach: Jorhat is easily accessible by flights and is located just 14 km from Neemati Ghat. From there, you can take ferries to Majuli at 10 AM and 3 PM.
5. Netrani Island, Karnataka
Known as Pigeon Island, Netrani Island lies off the coast of Murudeshwar on the Konkan Coast in the Arabian Sea. This picturesque island, with its striking cliffs and jagged rocks, is perfect for spotting exotic marine life such as whale sharks and butterflyfish.
- Attractions: Visitors to Netrani Island often come for adventure sports, especially scuba diving, which costs approximately INR 5000 per dive. The island also hosts a ruined temple, a Roman Catholic church, and a mosque.
- Where To Stay: There are several hotels near Netrani Island, including KSTDC Mayura Gerusoppa, Sagar Kinara Beach Resort, and Kairali Residency.
- How To Reach: The island is located near the Arabian Sea and can be accessed by hiring boats from Bhatkal. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for transportation from the area.
- Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Netrani Island in Karnataka is from December to January. This period is perfect for scuba diving, snorkelling, and other water sports. It’s advisable to avoid visiting between June and September, as the sea tends to be rough, making these activities unsuitable.
6. St. Mary’s Island, Karnataka
St. Mary’s Islands, situated off the coast of Malpe in Udupi, is a cluster of four small islands renowned for their distinctive geological features. The islands are home to one of India’s 26 geological monuments, featuring columnar basaltic lava formations. These formations were formed by ancient volcanic activity that occurred when Madagascar, once part of the Indian peninsula, separated approximately 88 million years ago.
- Attractions: Notable attractions on St. Mary’s Islands include the Vadabhandeshwara Temple, the ruins of Daria Bahadurgarh Fort, and Malpe Beach, famous for its soft, silvery sand.
- Where to Stay: St. Mary’s Island does not offer accommodation facilities. However, tourists can easily book hotels in Udupi for a comfortable stay.
- Best Time To Visit: The ideal time to visit St. Mary’s Island is from October to January when the weather is most pleasant. The island is accessible only by ferry.
- How To Reach: A ferry ride from Malpe Beach to St. Mary’s Island costs approximately INR 150.
7. Elephanta Island, Mumbai
Located northeast of Mumbai Harbour, near the Gateway of India, Gharapuri is better known as Elephanta Island. The island is famous for the Elephanta Caves, a series of rock-cut temples that are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves highlight the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient Indian artisans.
- Where to Stay: There are no hotels on Elephanta Island itself, but there is a wide range of hotels in South Mumbai that are easily accessible.
- Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit the Elephanta Caves is from November to March when the weather is pleasant. It’s best to avoid the hotter, more humid months for a more comfortable experience.
- How To Reach: To reach Elephanta Island, take a ferry that departs at 9 AM, with the last ferry leaving at 5:30 PM. Ferry tickets range from INR 130 to INR 150, with discounted rates for children. The caves remain closed on Mondays. Be sure to catch the annual music and dance festival held for two days in February. Plan your visit by taking the first ferry to explore the caves, then head to Cannon Hill to see the historic cannon before returning on the last ferry to Mumbai.
8. Rameswaram Island, Tamil Nadu
Rameswaram Island, situated off the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu, offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal. It is connected to the mainland by one of India’s longest sea bridges. Visitors can enjoy exploring the island’s beautiful beaches and historic temples.
- Attractions: Top attractions on Rameswaram Island include the Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agniteertham, Gandamadana Parvatham (about 3 km from Rameswaram), the Five-Faced Hanuman Temple, and Dhanushkodi. Accommodation is easily available on the island, with a wide range of options to choose from.
- Where To Stay: You can book hotels and villas starting at INR 500. The accommodations are both 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 perfect for outdoor activities.
- How to Reach: Rameswaram is located on Pamban Island. To reach it, take a train from Madurai to Pamban, which takes approximately 4 hours. From Pamban railway station, you can hire a cab for the 10 km drive to Rameswaram.
9. Chorao Island, Goa
Chorao Island, the largest island in Goa, showcases the influence of Portuguese colonial heritage with its quaint and picturesque atmosphere. It’s an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts, as it is home to Goa’s largest bird sanctuary.
- Attractions: Chorao Island is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including vast stretches of mangroves. The island’s western region is home to Goa’s largest bird sanctuary, with an entrance fee of INR 50. Visitors can also discover ancient Catholic churches dating back to the 16th century and beautiful Hindu temples spread across the island.
- Where To Stay: Accommodation on Chorao Island includes cozy hotels like Villa Terra Rosa, offering a range of options to suit various budgets.
- Best Time To Visit: The ideal 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, take a regular ferry from Ribandar village, located just 2 km from Panjim. Ferries operate frequently throughout the day and evening, every 5-10 minutes. Pedestrians and motorbikes can travel for free, while cars are charged INR 10. The ferry service runs until 2 AM. After that, you will need to charter a ferry, which costs around INR 100.
10. Willingdon Islands
Willingdon Islands in Kochi, India, are the country’s largest artificial islands, offering a unique blend of colonial history and the scenic beauty of their surrounding waters.
- Attractions: In Cochin, don’t miss attractions such as the serene backwaters, Marine Drive, Hill Palace, Fort Kochi, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Bolgatty Palace, and St. Francis Church. The island provides stunning natural landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
- Where to Stay: Kochi has a range of accommodation choices to suit all budgets, including options like the Kochi Marriott Hotel, Trident Cochin, Taj Gateway Hotel, and more.
- Best Time To Visit: The ideal time to visit Cochin Island is from October to February when the weather is cool and enjoyable.
- How To Reach: The island is only a 5-minute ferry ride from Fort Kochi, with ferry tickets starting at INR 200, depending on the boat type.
11. Ponnumthuruthu Island, Trivandrum
Ponnumthuruthu Island, often called the ‘Golden Island’, is a beautiful getaway in the Kerala backwaters and a perfect complement to a visit to Varkala. Famous for its expansive sandy beaches, the island offers a serene environment, with the sounds of birds, red laterite cliffs, and healing mineral springs that make it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
- Attractions: Watching the sunset on Ponnumthuruthu Island is a must-experience. Nearby attractions include Varkala Lighthouse, Kappil Lake, Varkala Beach, and Kaduvayil Jama Masjid. For accommodation, you can choose from 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 ideal time to visit Ponnumthuruthu Island is between October and March. This period offers pleasant weather, with the refreshing onset of the monsoon season enhancing the island’s charm.
- Open Days and Timings: Ponnumthuruthu Island is open to visitors daily, from Monday to Sunday. The visiting hours are from 5:30 AM to 12 PM, and then from 4 PM to 7 PM.
- How to Reach: Varkala Railway Station, located just 5 km from Ponnumthuruthu Island, is the nearest railway station. The closest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, approximately 30 km away. Visitors can also take a scenic 30-minute boat ride from Nedunganda, with a fare of INR 200 per person. The main attraction on the island is the ancient Shiva Parvati Temple.
12. Diu Island
Located on Gujarat’s southern coast, Diu is a charming island steeped in the legacy of the Portuguese era, offering stunning examples of Portuguese architecture and cultural influences. The island’s streets are clean, vibrant, and tranquil, particularly if you explore beyond the bustling beaches and waterfronts. With its beautifully constructed churches and villas, walking through Diu feels like stepping into a miniature Portuguese town. Although closely linked to Gujarat, Diu is a union territory under the direct governance of the Indian government, with its own set of rules and regulations.
- Attractions: Diu Island in India is a fantastic destination for sightseeing, offering plenty to explore. The Diu Fort, a remarkable example of Portuguese architecture, is one of the island’s top attractions. Be sure to visit the St. Paul’s Church and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, both of which are essential stops for history and architecture enthusiasts. Another iconic site to include on your itinerary is the Zampa Gateway, considered the symbol of Diu Island, which stands as an impressive architectural landmark.
- Where to stay: Diu offers a variety of budget-friendly hotels, though they may not suit everyone’s preferences. However, there is a highly-rated backpacker hostel that is popular among travelers for its great reviews.
- Best Time to Visit: It’s best to avoid visiting Diu during the summer as the weather can be extremely hot and humid, even though watersports and festivals take place during this time. The winter season is the perfect time to visit, offering pleasant weather and a wide range of activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, water skiing, hot air balloon rides, desert biking, and more.
- How to Reach: Alliance Air, a subsidiary of Air India, operates flights to and from Diu four times a week from Mumbai, with round-trip fares usually around INR 12,000. For those driving their vehicles, there is a border tax of approximately INR 40. The nearest railway station is Delvada, located about 10 km from Diu. If you’re taking a taxi, be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
13. Divar Island
Divar Island, located along the Mandovi River, offers a serene escape with its peaceful environment, surrounded by marshy waters and narrow paths. While the island isn’t packed with tourist attractions, it provides a tranquil retreat and is seldom crowded, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. The island’s largest village, Piedade, is known for its charming vibe. The name “Divar” originates from the Konkani words “Dev” and “Vaddi”, which means “Place of the Gods,” highlighting its importance in Hindu history. Many visitors come during festive seasons like Bonderam in August and Potekar, a celebration similar to Halloween, held three days before Lent.
- Attractions: Divar Island is made up of three villages: Piedade, Malar, and Naroa. Piedade, the largest of the three, is home to the Church of Our Lady of Compassion and a cemetery featuring intricate Kadamba architecture. In Malar, you’ll discover the São Mathias Church, which has stood for over 400 years. Naroa also offers several notable sites for exploration.
- Where to stay: Divar Island offers cosy guesthouses and family homes that are frequently available for rent. To ensure a smooth experience, it is recommended to book your accommodation in advance.
- Best Time to Visit: You can explore Divar Island at any time of the year, but the ideal time to visit is during the vibrant Bonderam Festival. This lively celebration is held annually on the fourth Saturday of August, offering a unique cultural experience filled with festivities and local traditions.
- How to Reach: Situated 10 km from Panjim, Goa, Divar Island can be reached via three free ferry services. These ferries operate regularly from Old Goa, Ribander, and Bicholim, running daily between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, ensuring convenient access to the island.
14. Ilha Grande (Grand Island)
Your Goa vacation isn’t complete without exploring Ilha Grande. This island provides a variety of water activities, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing. It’s also an ideal destination for dolphin sightings. For those seeking relaxation, the island’s peaceful beaches offer the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy some downtime.
- Attractions: The primary attractions of Ilha Grande are its stunning beaches and the diverse array of water sports on offer.
- Where to stay: There are no accommodation options on Ilha Grande, but Vasco Da Gama offers plenty of places to stay.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Ilha Grande is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. During this period, boats to the island are typically available.
- How to Reach: Trips to Grand Island begin at 8:30 AM and continue until 4:00 PM from Coco Jetty. The nearest airport is Goa Airport, only a short distance from the jetty, and the closest railway station is Madgaon Station.
Conclusion
India’s islands offer the perfect retreat from the daily grind, providing a peaceful haven for those looking to relax and explore. From the tranquil backwaters of Kerala’s Ponnumthuruthu Island to the historical heritage of Diu and the natural beauty of Havelock Island, every destination promises a distinctive experience. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventure sports, relaxing beaches, or cultural immersion, these islands cater to all tastes.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, enjoy exciting water activities, and dive into the rich local culture to make your visit unforgettable. Plan your trip during the best seasons to enjoy the perfect weather and ensure an amazing getaway. Each island offers its unique allure, making it a memorable adventure beyond just a vacation.
