About Kalpeni Coral Storm Bank
Kalpeni Coral Storm Bank is a natural coral debris bank on the eastern and southeastern shoreline of Kalpeni Island in Lakshadweep, India. Formed by the accumulation of coral boulders, shingle and rubble deposited by a severe cyclonic storm in 1847, it is a distinctive geological feature. The bank runs along the ocean side of the atoll, contrasting with the calm lagoon on the west, and is noted for its rugged coral formations.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a long, low ridge of piled coral boulders, shingle and debris along the open sea side of Kalpeni Island. The area is exposed and rugged with no sandy beach, offering views of the Arabian Sea on one side and the atoll's lagoon on the other. Visitors can walk along the bank, observe varied coral fragments, see wave action on the reef, and photograph the stark natural landscape. There are no built structures on the bank itself.
Key highlights
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Long coral debris ridge formed by the 1847 cyclonic storm
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Accumulation of coral boulders, shingle and rubble on the eastern shore
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Contrast between rough open-sea side and calm western lagoon
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Views of the Arabian Sea and outer reef
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Natural geological evidence of storm impact on a coral atoll
History of Kalpeni Coral Storm Bank
The bank was formed during a severe cyclonic storm in 1847 which swept coral debris from the reef and deposited it as a high ridge along the eastern and southeastern shore of Kalpeni. It remains as a geological record of that event and is referenced in descriptions of Kalpeni Atoll's formation.
Route
| By air | Fly to Agatti Airport (AGX), the only airport in Lakshadweep, then travel by passenger ship, speed boat or helicopter transfer to Kalpeni Island with prior permit |
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| By public transport |