Lakshadweep tourism not affected by economic slowdown

Lakshadweep, Apr 25 (ANI): Tourism industry of the country's smallest union territory Lakshadweep remains unaffected by global economic slowdown.

Till recent times, tourism was limited to the islands of Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Agatti, Minicoy and Bangaram, but now all islands of Lakshadweep even uninhabited, are now open for tourists.

Untouched white sand beaches, reefs and corals of Lakshadweep still remain a paradise on earth for the tourists.

"We love the peace and the tranquility. Its not commercialized. The weather is wonderful and the food is good. Its just complete relaxation away from everyday worries," said Michael Gardner, a foreign tourist from England.

Tourism industry everywhere has been hit by economic recession, which has affected inflow of tourists, but the pristine islands of Lakshadweep on the Arabian Sea have largely escaped.

General Manager of Bangaram Island Resort, Radhakrishna Shenoi, when asked whether tourism was impacted by recession in the island recently, he said, "Not so much, probably around 10 to 15 per cent. We have a decrease. Comparatively its fine, but we don't know how it is going to be in days to come."

Lakshadweep Islands is a cluster of 36 islands. Amongst them, 25 are uninhabited and 11 are habitat isles scattered in the Arabian Sea.

The best time to visit Lakshadweep is from October to mid May. From mid May to September, it is rainy.

Though all the resorts in Lakshadweep are open throughout the year, reaching there by ship is difficult during monsoon.

The islanders main source of living is from coconut, tuna and tourism. By Juhan Samuel (ANI)