How to get to Agatti

Agatti is a picturesque coral island located in the Lakshadweep archipelago, which belongs to India. This tropical paradise attracts travelers with its turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches, and rich underwater world, offering a unique experience of a secluded getaway.

You can reach Agatti primarily by air, as it houses the region's only aerial gateway, or by sea on passenger liners, making the journey itself part of an unforgettable adventure.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the island is by air. Agatti Island Airport (AGX) receives regular flights from the mainland, most frequently from the city of Kochi, which serves as the main transit hub for travel to Lakshadweep.

The airport runway is situated on a narrow strip of land surrounded by water, ensuring a breathtaking view upon landing. The airport is compact and well-connected to the residential part of the island, so the journey from the terminal to your accommodation takes minimal time.

Since Agatti is an isolated island in the Arabian Sea, there is no direct railway connection. Tourists preferring trains must first reach major transport hubs on the mainland, for example, the city of Kochi (Kerala state).

From the railway stations in Kochi, travelers can take a taxi or bus to the airport or seaport to continue their journey to the archipelago by plane or ship.

Reaching Agatti exclusively by bus is impossible due to its geographical location. Intercity buses can only be useful for reaching the departure port or airport on the mainland of India.

On the island itself, bus services are practically non-existent due to its small size (only about 7 km in length). The main means of transport here are bicycles, motorcycles, and auto-rickshaws.

Traveling to Agatti in your own vehicle is not possible, as the island is not connected to the mainland by a road network. Car transport can only be used to comfortably reach the departure city (usually Kochi) on the coast.

If you are traveling through the country by car, it will need to be left at a secure long-term parking facility in the port city before departing for the Lakshadweep islands, as the transport of personal vehicles to the island for tourists is generally not provided for.

A trip to Agatti Island requires careful preparation, as it is not just a resort but a protected territory with its own rules and way of life. Here are several recommendations to help make your trip comfortable and safe:

1. Entry Permit. To visit the Lakshadweep islands, including Agatti, all tourists (both foreigners and Indian citizens) require a special Entry Permit. Arrange this in advance through your hotel or tour operator.
2. Clothing and Dress Code. The local population practices Islam and adheres to conservative traditions. Please wear modest clothing made of natural fabrics that covers your shoulders and knees, especially outside of hotel beach zones.
3. Alcohol Ban. A strict dry law is in effect on the island. The consumption and import of alcohol are strictly prohibited (an exception is sometimes made for the neighboring island of Bangaram; please check current regulations).
4. Coral Protection. Collecting corals, shells, and harming marine flora and fauna is strictly punishable by law. Do not step on corals while swimming.
5. Cash. There are few ATMs on the island, and they may not work or accept international cards. Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of cash in Rupees.
6. Connectivity and Internet. Mobile signal and internet can be unstable. State operators (such as BSNL) work best here.
7. Seasonality. The best time to visit is from October to May. During the monsoon season (June–September), sea and air connections may be difficult due to storms.

Observing these simple rules and respecting local customs will guarantee you a warm welcome and unforgettable impressions of the pristine nature of the Lakshadweep islands.