Kiltan Island

Kiltan Island is a small coral island in the northern Amindivi group of the Lakshadweep archipelago in the Arabian Sea, located northeast of Amini and southeast of Chetlat. Covering about 2.20 sq km, it is known for its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise lagoon and surrounding coral reefs. The island has a traditional settlement, historic mosques and shrines, and offers a quiet setting for beach activities, snorkeling and observing local island life.

Visitors can expect a small, flat coral island with white sandy beaches encircling a shallow lagoon and reef on the western side. The interior has a compact village with traditional houses, mosques, and coconut groves. The shoreline offers clear water for swimming and snorkeling, and open areas for walking and photography. Facilities are basic, with a jetty, helipad, small shops and limited guest accommodation. The environment is quiet and relatively undeveloped compared to more touristic Lakshadweep islands.

Kiltan is part of the Amindivi group of islands historically inhabited for centuries and administered as part of the Lakshadweep archipelago. The island is noted for historic mosques and the shrine associated with Sheikh Ahmed Naqshbandi and other early Islamic figures, reflecting its long-standing settlement and maritime connections in the Arabian Sea.

The island has a predominantly Muslim population with Malayalam and Jeseri/Mahl influences, traditional fishing and coir-based livelihoods, and mosques serving as community and cultural centres. Local customs, cuisine and architecture reflect typical Lakshadweep island culture.