India is a vast and beautiful country with diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, endless ocean, vast deserts, thick forests and charming islands. Indeed, this huge nation has some beautiful island destinations. Some of these are perfect spots for sightseeing, some are great for wildlife watching including bird spotting and yet some others are suited for water sports and beach parties. So, pack your bags and fly to India to relax by the calm waters or to enjoy a stroll on the beaches of some of the best island destinations in India.
Majuli Island
A visit to Majuli Island will most definitely turn out to be a memorable experience for travellers. The Majuli Island is considered to be one of the world’s biggest river islands. Travellers will get familiar with many unique experiences at this place. Enjoy the stunning sunrise and sunset, relish traditional Assamese cuisine, and find moss in place of sand along its coast. The island is touted to be a sort of a bird sanctuary as many extinct species of migratory birds are found here.
Chorao
Explore the picture-perfect island of Chorao, which is located around five kilometres from Panaji on the Mandovi River in Goa. The island has a beautiful misty look due to the presence of a thick mangrove hedge on one part of the island. It was a Portuguese settlement in India, who visited the place to relax. Explore the island’s white churches, such as the Church of St Bartholemew and the Church of Our Lady of Grace.
Diu Island
The magnificent Diu Island has a true Gujarati heritage. The Diu Island reflects traces of Portuguese culture, along with a strong Gujarati influence. Travellers can explore its architectural and natural beauty. Stroll across its picturesque beaches and enjoy its tropical seafood, which have an inherent dash of Gujarati flavours.
Divar Island
You have to visit it to believe it! The Divar Island reflects an uncommon, untouched aura, which may be due to the fact that it is one of the lesser visited destinations in the country. The island is located around 10 km upstream from Panjim in Goa and reflects a characteristic Goan influence in its architecture, cuisine and people.
Rameshwaram Island
Rameshwaram Island is located in the Gulf of Mannar in between peninsular India and Sri Lanka. It is a revered holy place among the Hindus. According to the folklore, the island houses a site which has a lingam installed by Lord Ram here.
Lakshadweep Islands
The Lakshadweep Islands are a popular island destination in India. This pristine collection of around 36 islands is blessed with picturesque beauty of endless beaches and coral reef. The islands also boast of one of the best tropical island systems in the world and have a rich underwater life. Explore living corals, sea urchins, sea weeds, sea birds, eels, swordfish and octopus while here. A visit to the local Marine Museum is recommended. Being a popular travel destination, the islands are home to numerous luxury and budget resorts and hotels.
