Explore the exotic Island retreats in India

Island retreats are one of the most preferred destinations for family vacations. Which of the islands generally comes to your mind when planning a beach holiday? Islands like Maldives, Bali, Bora Bora, Santorini, Maui, are some of the locations that come to your mind, right? But India itself is home to few gorgeous islands, complete with golden sands and clear blue waters. So, next time you want to go on an exotic island retreat, choose one of these exotic Indian island holidays                         

Diu 

Come to Diu Island to discover the impressive monuments that can be traced back to a time when the Portuguese ruled here. The picturesque beaches, the clean city, and the tropical food with a Gujarati flavour are the qualities that set this island apart from the other Indian islands. Some good news–unlike the rest of Gujarat, alcohol is served in Diu!
    Location: South coast of Kathiawar peninsula, Gujarat

Divar 

The island of Divar lies on the Mandovi River in Goa and is home to some fascinating people and cultures. Its history dates back to a time when Divar was home to the massive Hindu population of Goa. Though not many tourists find their way here, but when they do, it’s usually around the time three major festivals take place across the four small divisions of Divar. The island particularly comes alive during the Bonderam festival that is held with great delight during the monsoon.  If you are planning to visit Goa, and want to see more than just beaches and shacks, then Divar is precisely the place to start.    Location: near Mandovi River in Goa

Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is ethereal–no other words can truly describe the beauty of these isolated islands located approximately 300km from Kerala. Powerfully packed with turquoise blue waters and green palm trees, these coral islands are the smallest in India. The unspoiled quality and remote location of Lakshadweep Islands are perfect when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
    Location: Laccadive Sea, on the southwest coast of India

Havelock 

Go beyond the Greater Andamans and stumble upon this white sand paradise. A rich coral reef floating beneath the waters and a lush green forest proliferating beyond the beach, Havelock Island is one of the most popular islands in the Andamans, located about 39 kms from Port Blair. This stretch of the Bay of Bengal has a fascinating marine life, drawing travellers from around the world, especially between mid-January and mid-May. Some of the best diving sites are at the Lighthouse, The Wall, the Pilot Reef, and the Dixon’s Pinnacle.    Location: Andaman

Majuli

Even though Assam is known for its scenic beauty, no other destination in this state can compare with the serenity and natural beauty of Majuli Island. The gorgeous blue waters surrounded by lush greenery are perfect when you want to enjoy a relaxing vacation. Keep a camera on you at all times because this island offers you some stunning sunrises and breath-taking sunsets.    Location: Brahmaputra River in Assam

Pamban 

This Island is also known as Rameshwaram Island, Pamban Island is renowned for its association with Ramayana, a Hindu epic. According to the legend, Rama built the famous bridge from Rameshwaram to Sri Lanka to rescue Sita. Today, this island is renowned for two things–the Ramanathaswamy Temple and the ghost town of Dhanushkodi. Explore this town and marvel at the crumbling remains of a city that was destroyed by a cyclone in 1964.
    Location: Between Sri Lanka and the Indian Peninsula

Netrani 

This little island off the Karnatic coast (also known as Pigeon Island) located in the Arabian Sea. Lies off the coast of Karnataka situated approximately 19 km from the temple town of Murudeshwara in Bhatkal Taluk. The island is the visiting waters for whale sharks, turtles, cobias, string rays, stonefish, the Napoleon Wrasse, and the Great Barracuda!
    Location: Arabian Sea 

St. Mary

A set of four islands in the Arabian Sea, St. Mary’s Island in Udupi, is a treasure trove of striking basalt rock formations. It is because of these rock projections that St. Mary’s Island looks more like an island in Ireland than India. Be sure to visit the coconut gardens once you are done exploring the crystal blue waters of this island.     
    Location: Malpe coast in Udupi, Karnataka

Kavaratti 

Kavaratti, the capital city of Lakshwadeep islands, is laden with pristine white sand shores and endless lagoons. Donned with coconut groves, the island city of Kavaratti is a haven for adventure freaks. Scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing and parasailing are best enjoyed in these virgin waters. The spectacular views of the Arabian Sea; the sparkling white-sand beaches offers solace amidst the tranquil nature.    Location: Lakshwadeep

Agatti

Agatti Island is a 7.6 km long island, situated on a coral atoll called Agatti atoll in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. The white sand shores compliment the jet blue waters perfectly.  Agatti cioral growths and multicolored coral fishes abound in its lagoons. Canoeing and diving in the crystal-clear waters are major tourist activities. Fishing is the most important industry of Agatti.
    Location: Lakshwadeep