Bangaram Island

Bangaram Island is a small uninhabited coral island in Lakshadweep, set in a lagoon north of Agatti and one of only three islands in the territory that foreign nationals may visit. Bangaram Island has no permanent population; a single government-run resort operates here, and the staff come across from nearby islands.

Bangaram Island forms part of an atoll with the islets of Thinnakara and Parali, all ringed by coral reef. It has long been run as a quiet resort island and has kept that character: there are no roads, no cars and very little development. Bangaram is also the one place in Lakshadweep where alcohol is permitted, which sets it apart from the rest of the islands. Access is by boat from Agatti, and every visitor needs a permit arranged in advance.

What to see

• The shallow lagoon, with snorkelling straight from the beach
• Coral reefs with reef fish, turtles and rays
• Kayaking across the lagoon towards Thinnakara
• Dolphins often seen on the boat crossing from Agatti
• Dark night skies, with no town lights

What to wear

Bangaram Island is a resort island, so swimwear is fine on the beach and in the water, but pack cover-ups for meals and for the boat trip through Agatti, where modest clothing is expected. The sun is intense, so bring a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard for snorkelling. Water shoes help on coral rubble. On the inhabited islands, men usually wear a lungi and shirt and women long dresses with a headscarf.

Local food to try

Meals on Bangaram Island are served at the resort and lean on Lakshadweep and Kerala coastal cooking: tuna curry, fried reef fish, coconut-based vegetable dishes and rice or parotta. Look out for mas, the dried tuna of the islands, and tender coconut water straight from the tree. Vegetarian meals can be arranged. The resort is the only source of food, so tell them about dietary needs in advance.

Good to know

• Best from October to May, when seas are calm and water is clear
• Resort stays and day visits only; activities run in daylight
• Permit and resort charges apply; book through the resort or an approved operator
• Allow at least 2 to 3 nights to enjoy the lagoon
• About 1.5 to 2 hours by boat from Agatti, which has the airport
• Do not touch or stand on coral, and do not take shells

Nearby places

All trips to Bangaram Island pass through Agatti Island, the airport island. Indian nationals can add the capital, Kavaratti, and mainland flights connect through Cochin International Airport in Kerala, about 460 km away.