For some people island is for water sports, beach parties and meeting new people. For some it is the dream place for lazy days, hanging hammocks and a nice book. And for the rest, it is about long walks, beautiful sunsets and equally enchanting sunrises. Whichever way, we associated them with a number of good and rejuvenating things; however, overly commercialized beaches with murky water are a big turn off. While there are many beautiful islands in India that might disappoint you, there are a few which will actually never fail to give you a relaxing and refreshing vacation.
16 Beautiful Islands In India In 2024
There are so many beautiful islands in India to savour some of the most life-altering wonderful experiences of nature. So, without further ado here’s a list of some of the extremely beautiful islands of India, far away from the tourist crowd. Take a look!
- Majuli Island – Experience The Biggest River Islands
- Diu Island – Witness The Magic Of Serenity
- Divar Island – Island Of Untouched Lively Culture
- St Mary’s Islands – Eye-witness The Cluster Of 4 Islands
- Little Andaman Island – The Most Stunning Islands In India
- Lakshadweep Islands – Relieve Your Stress
- Barren Island – Get Ready To Amaze
- Grand Island – Adore Water Sports To The Fullest
- Great Nicobar Island – Encounter The Largest Island In India
- Havelock Island – Seizure The Picturesque Landscape
- Agatti Island – Sense The Amazing Islands
- Neil Island – Feel The Exotic Beauty
- Kadmat Island – Capture The Exquisiteness
- Pamban Island – Rejuvenate Your Mind
- Munroe Island, Kerala – Enthral Your Senses
- Netrani Island, Karnataka – Get Mesmerize With The Beauty
1. Majuli Island – Experience The Biggest River Islands
Majuli Island is the one of the biggest river islands in the world and subsequently in India. The most unique of all the islands in India, this place is famous for its breath-taking sunrises and stunning sunsets. You will get a fair taste of Assamese culture here. Out of all the islands of India, this one is the most unconventional one. You will find moss instead of sand on its coast and traditional northeastern cuisine instead of seafood. However, it will prove to be an experience worth all the travel.
Best time to visit: October – December
How to reach: Take boat ride from Jorhat which is fairly connected through airways to Guwahati. There are two ferries – one leaves at 10 am and the other at 3 pm.
Places to see: 21 Satras and Mishing Village
Where to stay: La Maison de Anand, Yggdrasill Bamboo Cottage or government accommodations
Things to do: Rent a motorcycle to explore the island. Try your hand at local meshing and mask making.
Tips: Witness the beauty of the biggest island and incorporate this in your itinerary if you are visiting Guwahati.
Must Read: 6 Adventure Sports In Kochi
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2. Diu Island – Witness The Magic Of Serenity
This small island of India has traces of Portuguese culture infused in it. The architectural beauty and serenity can stun you to a surreal world. The exquisite beaches and tropical sea-food with a dash of Gujarati influence, will make it a notch different from other islands in India. And the best part, alcohol is legal here, unlike in Gujarat!
Best time to visit: October – January
How to reach: Diu can be reached by airways and roadways from most major Indian cities. However, it does not have a railway station.
Places to see: Diu Fort, Gangeshwar Temple, Seashell Museum and St Paul’s Church
Where to stay: Sugati Beach Resort, Kostamar Beach Resort, and Krishna Park Resort. Most of the high end resorts are located near Nagoa Beach.
Things to do: Rent a scooter or a bike to enjoy the locale to the fullest.
Tips: Enjoy the beauty of Diu Island by a scotty ride or a bike ride and enjoy some of the drinks with your friends.
3. Divar Island – Island Of Untouched Lively Culture
One of the untouched islands in India, Divar Island lies about 10 km upstream from Panjim, Goa. It is situated across the bustling river of Mandovi, and has retained the lively culture and countryside feel of Goa.
Best time to visit: Mid-November – Mid-February
How to reach: 10 mins ferry ride from Viceroy’s Arch in Old Goa
What to see: Our Lady Of Compassion Church, Shree Ganesh Sateri Temple, European Houses and Portuguese landmarks.
Where to stay: Divar Island Retreat Guest House
Things to do: Just for your info, Dil Chahta Hai was also shot here. So, you can recreate some of your favorite scenes from that movie here.
Tips: Don’t miss out on taking beautiful pictures out here as you will get the same view as in the movie Dil Chahta Hai.
Suggested Read: 10 Beaches Experiences Beyond Partying
4. St Mary’s Islands – Eye-witness The Cluster Of 4 Islands
St Mary’s is a set of four small islands in India. Quite similarly to Giant’s Causeway in Ireland, these islands are famous for their basaltic rock formations cut into a peculiar hexagonal shape. The rocky beach and clear blue water make these islands a must visit. Among the list of islands of India, this island is still unknown to a large number of people.
Best time to visit: December – January
How to reach: Only way to reach this island is to take a boat from Malpe, Karnataka. The ride is roughly 15 mins and costs about Rs 500 for a round trip.
Places to see: Coconut gardens and basaltic rock formations
Where to stay: Unfortunately, there are no accommodation facilities on this empty island in India. However, you can make your arrangements on the Malpe, nothing like it.
Things to do: A few selfies and group pictures on this extraordinary rock formations are requisite
Tip: Carry your own food and beverage since there is no refreshment facility available on the islands.
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
5. Little Andaman Island – The Most Stunning Islands In India
Little Andaman Island is one of the offbeat destinations in Andaman Islands. Not heavily crowded, this place has some really alluring beaches and is one of the best Indian islands. It is one of the most beautiful islands in India, and perfect for those who love nature in its raw form. For a budgeteer, this is the perfect island in India for honeymoon. It would not be a conventional one, but a memorable one, nonetheless.
Best time to visit: December – February
How to reach: It’s a little more than a day’s voyage by ship from Port Blair.
Places to see: White surf waterfalls, Whisper wave waterfalls, Hut bay and Coral reefs on the east of the island
Where to stay: Jina Resort and Blue View
Things to do: Surfing on some fabulously high waves is the top thing to do in this best island in India.
Tips: For all the nature lovers and enthusiasts, it’s a treat to witness the beauty of the Island.
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving in Andaman Islands
6. Lakshadweep Islands – Relieve Your Stress
Beautiful Lakshadweep Islands, the largest island of India, is a set of 36 palm-laden coral islands. This group is the smallest island in India. The extraordinary beauty and fairly untouched environment can beat any amount of stress that you had prior to your visit. It is one of the amazing islands in Indian Ocean.
Best time to visit: October – May
How to reach: This set of islands in India has good connectivity through airways and seaways.
Places to see: Kavaratti Island Marine Aquarium, Minicoy Island and Agatti Island
Where to stay: Coral Beach Resort or Island Holiday Home
Things to do: Scuba diving at Kavaratti and Kadmat
Tips: Carry a camera to conquer and capture the beauty of the most mesmerizing islands of India.
7. Barren Island – Get Ready To Amaze
Barren Island, the most easterly island of Andaman, is the only active volcanic island of India and also of South Asia. The astonishing beauty and lava rocks on this beautiful island makes it one of the most fascinating islands of India and will certainly take you through a memorable journey. One of the most pristine Indian islands, the sad part is that landing ashore is prohibited. You are only allowed to circle around the island in a board vessel.
Best time to visit: February – May
How to reach: Ships sail from Port Blair on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Or take a seaplane from Port Blair. You need a minimum of 7 passengers.
Places to see: Kaala pathar beach, Radhanagar beach, Elephanta beach
Where to stay: True to its name, the island is inhabited. And there are no accommodations available there. However, you can book your retreat on Port Blair.
Things to do: Diving and barefoot scuba on your day trip to Barren Island
Note: A special Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required from the Forest Department.
Suggested Read: 19 Best Hotels and Resorts in Andaman
8. Grand Island – Adore Water Sports To The Fullest
The best place for diving and snorkeling near Goa is the Grand Island. It is famous for its exceptional scuba diving sites. The exquisite beauty and unlittered beaches here make it one of the main islands of India that will add to your experience.
How to reach: A ferry ride will take 20-40 min from Goa depending on the departure point. It can be arranged by your resort.
Popular Attractions: Suzy’s Wreck dive, Shelter Cove dive, Bounty Bay dive, Sail Rock dive, Spice plantation and Dolphin points
Where to stay: This island is open just for a day trip of 8 hours. There are no accommodation facilities available.
Best time to visit: October – May
Things to do: Ship-wreck scuba diving and bait-fishing
Tip: Since the island is used as a base for Indian Navy, there might be chances that the entry is closed due to training exercises. Check with your hotel in Goa for the information before setting your plan.
9. Great Nicobar Island – Encounter The Largest Island In India
The Great Nicobar Island is the largest island in India and also one of the most beautiful of Indian Ocean islands. Its crystal-clear water will tempt you to take a dip and let go of your inhibitions. Amazing flora and fauna of this place makes it a small world of its own. One of the best islands in India, this place is perfect for a small vacation with your family or your spouse.
Best time to visit: February – June
How to reach: Boats and helicopters are available from Port Blair.
Places to see: Indira Point, Campbell Bay, Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve
Where to stay: Silver Sand Havelock, Anugama Resort, and Aashiaanaa Residency Inn
Things to do: Lazy dipping and floating on the serene coasts
Tips: Be daring enough to witness the crystal-clear waters of the amazing Island.
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10. Havelock Island – Seizure The Picturesque Landscape
The list is incomplete without adding the best island in India- Havelock Island, which is also the largest island in Andaman. Known for its picturesque beaches and alluring scenery, Havelock Island is one of the famous islands in India to visit. There is so much to do and see on this island which is why it is famous among honeymooners and families. FYI, it is also one of the best coral islands in India. This Island offers its tourists one of the most fun-filled Scuba diving in India considering all the activities that can be done in the Islands.
Best time to visit: February – June
How to reach: Take an air-condtioned ferry from Port Blair which takes 90 minutes to reach.
Places to see: Radhanagar beach, Kalapathar Beach, Elephant Beach
Where to stay: Symphony Palms Beach Resort, Havelock Nagri Resort, Barefoot at Havelock
Things to do: Scuba diving, exploring coral reefs
Tips: If you are planning to take a break with your spouse then you must visit this beautiful island in India.
Private Islands For Honeymoon
Beaches are often popular for its romantic significance and when it comes to plan a trip for honeymoon, the beaches in India amuses the new bees who want to make their honeymoon memorable for lifetime. Following list of beaches, will give you an idea about best known beaches in India that are considered to be the top honeymoon destinations in India.
11. Aggati Island – Sense The Amazing Islands
What makes Aggati Island one of the best islands in India Ocean is its calm lagoons, coral reefs, and white sand beaches. If you want a perfect island getaway, head to this island in Lakshwadeep archipelago. The breathtaking island is located in Agatti atoll where you can explore amazing corals.
Best time to visit: October-May
How to reach: Take a ferry from Cochin.
Places to see: Tinnakara Island, Bangaram Island
Where to stay: Agatti Island Beach Resort, Tinnakara Tent Houses
Things to do: Explore coral reefs, swimming
Tips: Must watch the beautiful view of corals and white sandy beaches which are a treat for eyes.
Suggested Read: Seven Wonders Of India
12. Neil Island – Feel The Exotic Beauty
Located between Havelock and Rose Islands, Neil island is another of the islands in Indian Ocean that you may wish to visit. The romantic aura brewing in its air, positions this serene island as one of the most exotic honeymoon destinations in the world. It lures a huge crowd of both domestic and international tourists because of its charming coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Get an exotic vibe on your tropical holiday on Neil Island.
Best time to visit: October-February
How to reach: Take a ferry from Port Blair or Havelock.
Places to see: Sitapur Beach, Lakshamanpur Beach, Bharatpur Beach
Where to stay: Summer Sands Beach Resort, Pearl Park Beach Resort
Things to do: Beach hoping, watersports
Tips: Don’t miss out on watching the charming coral reefs along with the tropical fishes which is a spectacular view.
13. Kadmat Island – Capture The Exquisiteness
Another island in the kitty of Lakshwadeep, Kadmat island will greet you with the scenic views of the ocean. Also known as Cardamom Island, it is one of the most beautiful islands in Indian Ocean that offers you a remote island experience. You simply cannot afford to miss it on your Lakshwadeep tour. The place is famous for its marine turtles and myriad water activities it has to offer.
Best time to visit: October-May
How to reach: Take a ferry from Agatti Island. It is where the nearest aiport is.
Places to see: Mohiyudeen mosque, Golden Jubilee Museum
Where to stay: Kadmat Resort, Kadmat Beach Resort
Things to do: Scuba Diving, Snorkeling
Tips: You must surely visit Cardamom Island which is indeed one of the most beautiful Island amongst Lakshadeep Islands.
Suggested Read: 10 Guest Houses In Nainital
14. Pamban Island – Rejuvenate Your Mind
If you have heard about Rameshwaram, then Pamban island in Tamil Nadu should not be one of the unknown islands in India to you. The island is known for its white sandy beaches and the unique bridge that connects the rest of the state to Rameshwaram. A drive on the bridge is an amazing experience in itself. If you wish to explore Tamil Nadu, then take a ferry and spend some time on this island.
Best time to visit: Any time of the year
How to reach: Take the bridge or ferry ride to Rameshwaram
Places to see: Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Dhanushkodi Beach, Ramar Patham temple
Where to stay: Daiwik Hotels, Hyatt Palace Rameshwaram
Things to do: Visit APJ Abdul Kalam’s old house
Tips: Hire a ferry and a ferry ride in exploring the Island which is beautiful.
15. Munroe Island, Kerala – Enthral Your Senses
Image Credits: Wikimedia commons
Planning to visit some of the beautiful islands in India then Kerala is a must visit for you. The magical backwaters of Kerala will surely make your vacation a memorable one indeed. Munroe Island is a collection of 8-island cluster which is a fascinating network of water canals and this assists in integrating various water bodies in the particular region. Guests can enjoy houseboats where they can stay overnight in one of the stunning Indian Islands.
Best time to visit: Munroe Island in Kerala can be visited in the months of October to May. The place must not be visited in the monsoon season which lasts from June to September.
How to reach: As Munroe Island is situated at a distance of 25 kms from Kollam, you can use ferry which will cost you INR 500. There are two shifts for the ferry ride one in the morning at 9 AM and other in the afternoon at 2 PM.
Places to see: Thenmala, M.G Beach, Jatayu Rock, Shendurni Wildlife Sanctuary, Varkala Beach, Chavara and Palaruvi Falls. However, there are other attraction as well.
Where to stay: You can prefer to stay in lodges or in hotels which are nearby.
Things to do: You can have beach fun or enjoy staying in houseboats or enjoy splash of water in waterfalls.
Tips: The place must not be visited in the monsoon season which lasts from June to September.
Suggested Read: 11 Fascinating Things To Do In Malappuram
16. Netrani Island, Karnataka – Get Mesmerize With The Beauty
Image Credits: Wikimedia commons
Netrani Island in Karnataka can be one of your top picks amongst Indian Islands which is popularly called as the Pigeon Island. The Netrani Island can be reached by the coast of Murudeshwara which is located in the Konkan coast. The Island is famous for its scenic beauty, picturesque landscapes, attractive cliffs, jagged rocks and is one of the beautiful Islands in India for the aquatic life enthusiasts where you can spot whale sharks and butterflyfish.
Best time to visit: Netrani Island in Karnataka must be visited in the months of December to January where you can enjoy scuba diving, snorkelling and various other water sports. You must not visit the place during monsoon season from June to September.
How to reach: As the Netrani Island is located near the Arabian Sea, you can reach by hiring boats from Bhatkal or you can even hire cabs or auto-rickshaws which are also available from Bhatkal.
Places to see: You can visit ruined temple which is nearby the Island or a Roman Catholic Church or a mosque. The choice is yours.
Where to stay: You can book hotels near the Netrani Island such as KSTDC Mayura Gerusoppa, Kairali Residency or Sagar Kinara Beach Resort and many other hotels.
Things to do: Scuba Diving, snorkelling and other adventurous water sports. Scuba diving starts at 5000 INR per dive.
Tips: You must not visit the place during monsoon season from June to September as there will be no water sports owing to high water level in the sea.
Further Read: 23 Picturesque Islands For Honeymoon
So, which of these islands call to you and allure you to experience them at least once? Share, which on are you going to explore first. And when you have finalised your dates, plan your trip to India with TravelTriangle and get ready to relax and get tanned on these mesmerizing islands!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Islands In India
Which is the most beautiful island in India?
Havelock Island in Andaman is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in India. It is an ideal getaway and considered amongst most exotic destinations in India, also the largest cluster of islands with white sand beaches and surreal blue waters.
What is the island off the coast of India?
North Sentinel is part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an Indian archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, hundreds of miles off mainland India’s southeastern coast. The Indian government restricts tourists travel to some of the islands.
Which is the smallest island in India?
Umananda Island in Assam is the smallest island in India. The island is the smallest inhabited river island in the world, that stands in the middle of the mighty Brahmaputra.
Which is the largest group of islands in India?
Andaman & Nicobar Islands, a group of 572 islands/islets is the largest group of islands in India and also the largest Union Territory in India with an area of 8,249 sq. km.
Is Maldives Indian?
Maldives is located south of India’s Lakshadweep Islands in the Indian Ocean. Both nations established diplomatic relations after the independence of Maldives from British rule in 1966.
Which is the largest island in the world?
Greenland is the largest island in the world at 836,109 sq m. It is located between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans.
How many islands are in India?
India is a beautiful country with 1,208 islands. Each island has its own set of unique attractions and landmarks that make it stand out from the rest. Some of the most famous islands include Great Nicobar Island, Neil Island and Lakshadweep.
What can one do on Pamban Island?
There are a lot of enthralling things that one can do on Pamban Island like going for a walk, swimming, and savoring the ravishing view of sunset and sunrise.
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