Lakshadweep: India's 'Coconut Island' Offers Tropical Escape and Rich Culture

• Lakshadweep, India's smallest Union Territory, is a cluster of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea, known as the 'Coconut Island'.
• The islands are primarily coral atolls with white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, and abundant coconut palms.
• Coconuts are central to Lakshadweep's economy and culture, used for food, oil, coir, handicrafts, and rituals.
• The predominantly Malayali population's culture is influenced by Kerala, with fishing and coconut cultivation as main occupations.
• Lakshadweep offers diverse experiences like snorkeling, scuba diving, eco-tourism, and island hopping, with controlled access to preserve its ecosystem.

Why It Matters: Lakshadweep, the 'Coconut Island', is a tropical paradise offering unique cultural and ecological experiences.