Tour packages for Lakshadweep generally fall into two categories: official government-run ship cruises (SPORTS) and private land-based packages centered on specific islands.
1. Official Government Packages (SPORTS)
These are organized by the Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports (SPORTS) and are popular for their convenience, as they often include transportation, permits, and food.
- Samudram Package (4 Nights / 5 Days): A popular cruise on the ship M.V. Kavaratti. It typically departs from Kochi and visits the islands of Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Minicoy.
- Stay: Nights are spent on the ship in Diamond or Gold class cabins; days are spent on the islands for sightseeing and water sports.
- Cost: Approximately ₹31,000 to ₹45,000 per adult (depending on cabin class and season).
- Swaying Palm Package: Focused on Minicoy Island. Tourists stay in beachfront A/C cottages.
- Duration: Typically 6 or 7 days.
- Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, and visiting the historic lighthouse.
- Marine Wealth Awareness Programme: A 4–7 day package specifically for Kadmat Island, emphasizing marine life conservation and water sports like scuba diving.
2. Land-Based Private Packages.
These usually involve flying into Agatti Island and then taking a boat to your destination.
- Bangaram Island Resort: Often considered the premier luxury destination. Packages typically include boat transfers from Agatti, stay in beach cottages, and meals.
- Agatti Island Packages: Often the most affordable entry point since the airport is located here. Packages for 3 Nights / 4 Days typically start around ₹18,000–₹25,000 per person.
- Thinnakara Island: Ideal for those seeking a more rugged, “tented” experience on an uninhabited island.
3. Private Cruise Operators.
- Cordelia Cruises: Offers luxury cruise itineraries (often 3 to 5 nights) departing from Mumbai or Kochi that include Lakshadweep as a major port of call.
Key Travel Requirements.
- Mandatory Permit: Every visitor requires an entry permit. Official packages usually handle this for you, but if you book independently, your accommodation provider must arrange it.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May. Many ship-based packages are suspended during the monsoon season (June to September).
- Getting There:
- By Air: Direct flights operate from Kochi to Agatti.
- By Sea: Passenger ships operate from Kochi, taking between 14 to 20 hours.
Approximate Cost Estimates (2026)
| Package Type | Duration | Estimated Cost (Per Person) |
| Samudram (Ship) | 4N/5D | ₹35,000 – ₹44,000 |
| Agatti Standard | 3N/4D | ₹18,000 – ₹27,000 |
| Bangaram Luxury | 3N/4D | ₹50,000 – ₹75,000 |
| Private Multi-Island | 5N/6D | ₹45,000 – ₹65,000 |
