Minicoy Island

Minicoy Island, locally known as Maliku, is the southernmost inhabited island of the Lakshadweep archipelago in the Arabian Sea, about 400 km off Kochi. This crescent-shaped coral atoll is known for its white sandy beaches, large lagoon, historic lighthouse built in 1885, and distinct Maldivian-influenced culture. It is notable for tuna fishing, coconut cultivation, and pristine marine environment.

Visitors can expect a remote coral atoll with a large shallow lagoon on the western side and open sea on the eastern side, white sandy beaches, coconut groves, and small villages. Key areas to explore include the 49-meter Minicoy Lighthouse offering panoramic views, the lagoon for swimming and boating, Viringili islet, Juma Masjid, and the tuna canning factory. The environment is quiet, low-rise, and focused on beach and marine activities.

Minicoy has historical links with the Maldives and was under Maldivian influence for centuries before coming under British administration. The Minicoy Lighthouse was constructed in 1885 during British rule to guide ships through the Eight Degree Channel. The island has long been known for seafaring and tuna fishing traditions.

Minicoy is home to the Mahls, an ethnic group with cultural and linguistic ties to the Maldives. The local language is Divehi (Mahl), distinct from Malayalam spoken in northern Lakshadweep. The island is known for the Lava dance, traditional boat building, and predominantly Islamic heritage reflected in local mosques and customs.