Lakshadweep is a beautiful group of islands located in the Arabian Sea, southwest of the Indian mainland. Kozhikode, a city in Kerala, serves as a key gateway for travelers heading to Lakshadweep due to its proximity and transport connections.

This route is popular among tourists and locals alike who want to explore the pristine beaches and unique culture of Lakshadweep. In this guide, you will learn the main travel options, step-by-step planning, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Kozhikode to Lakshadweep – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Lakshadweep from Kozhikode. Flights operate regularly but require advance booking due to limited seats and strict permit rules.

• The nearest airport to Lakshadweep is Agatti Airport, served by direct flights from Kozhikode Calicut International Airport (CCJ), approximately 150 km from Kozhikode city center.

• Flight duration is about 1 hour 15 minutes, with fares typically ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 one way depending on the season and availability.

• Flights usually operate 3-4 times a week, but frequency can reduce during monsoon months due to weather conditions affecting visibility and safety.

• Advance booking through official airline websites or travel agents is essential, as the number of seats is limited and permits from the Lakshadweep administration are mandatory for all travelers.

• Carry valid ID and the permit approval letter at check-in; security checks are strict due to the sensitive nature of the islands.

• Arriving at Agatti Airport, you will find limited transport options, so pre-arranged boat transfers or local boats are necessary to reach other islands.

Ship

Traveling by ship is a traditional and economical option, ideal for those who prefer a slower journey and want to experience sea travel to Lakshadweep.

• Passenger ships depart from Kozhikode Port to Lakshadweep islands, mainly to Kavaratti, the capital, with a journey time of approximately 14 to 20 hours depending on the vessel and weather.

• Ship fares range from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 for economy class, with higher fares for cabins; booking is done through the Lakshadweep administration or authorized agents.

• Ships operate weekly or bi-weekly, with schedules subject to change during monsoon season due to rough seas and safety concerns.

• Facilities onboard vary; basic food and water are available, but carrying personal snacks and water is advisable for comfort.

• Embarkation is from Kozhikode Port, accessible by local buses, autos, or taxis; arrive early to complete security and boarding formalities.

• Sea travel can be affected by tides and weather, so expect possible delays and carry seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kozhikode to Lakshadweep is not possible directly, but you can use a car to reach the port or airport comfortably before boarding your flight or ship.

• Kozhikode city is well connected by National Highway 66 (NH66), and the drive to Calicut International Airport or Kozhikode Port takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.

• Car rentals and taxi services like Ola and Uber are widely available in Kozhikode, offering convenient transfers to the airport or port with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹800.

• Self-drive options require familiarity with local traffic rules and parking availability near the airport or port; secure parking facilities are limited, so plan accordingly.

• During peak tourist seasons and festivals, traffic congestion near the airport and port can increase travel time; leaving early is recommended.

• Ensure your vehicle has sufficient fuel and carry a physical map or GPS device, as mobile signals can be weak near the port area.

Flight and Ship Combination

Some travelers prefer combining flight and ship travel to reach different islands in Lakshadweep, especially if visiting multiple islands.

• Fly from Kozhikode to Agatti Airport, then take local boats or passenger ships to other islands like Kavaratti, Minicoy, or Bangaram, which do not have airports.

• Boat transfers from Agatti can take 1 to 4 hours depending on the island, with fares varying between ₹100 and ₹500 per trip.

• Booking boat transfers in advance through local operators or the Lakshadweep tourism office is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Weather conditions can affect boat schedules; monsoon months often cause cancellations or delays, so plan buffer days in your itinerary.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Kozhikode to Lakshadweep, helping you organize your journey smoothly.

• Step 1: Obtain the Lakshadweep travel permit online through the official Lakshadweep administration website; this is mandatory and can take a few days to process.

• Step 2: Book your flight or ship tickets only after receiving the permit; use official airline websites or authorized agents to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats.

• Step 3: Arrange local transport in Kozhikode to reach the airport or port on time; consider pre-booking cabs or using trusted taxi services for reliability.

• Step 4: Pack light but carry essentials like medicines, water bottles, and snacks, especially if traveling by ship; also include valid ID and permit documents.

• Step 5: Arrive at the airport or port at least 2 hours before departure to complete security checks and boarding formalities smoothly.

• Step 6: Upon arrival at Lakshadweep, confirm your onward boat transfers or local transport in advance to avoid waiting times and ensure a comfortable connection to your final island destination.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a printed copy of your Lakshadweep permit and valid photo ID; these are checked multiple times during your journey.

• Drink only bottled or purified water on the islands and during travel to avoid waterborne illnesses common in coastal areas.

• Book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like December to February, as flights and ships fill up quickly.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Kozhikode to avoid overcharging and ensure safe travel to the airport or port.

• Pack light luggage since space on flights and ships is limited; carry a small daypack for essentials during island hopping.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as monsoon rains and rough seas can cause cancellations or delays; keep flexible travel dates if possible.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Kozhikode to Lakshadweep is during the dry season, from November to April, when weather conditions are favorable for flights and sea travel.

Monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rains and rough seas, often disrupting ship schedules and causing flight delays or cancellations.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Onam and Christmas in Kerala, as transport and accommodation prices rise sharply and availability drops.

• Early morning flights and ships tend to have smoother journeys due to calmer sea conditions and less air traffic congestion.

• Fog in winter mornings can occasionally delay flights, so allow extra time if connecting to other transport.

• Peak tourist season is December to February, so book well in advance and expect higher fares and crowded services.

Arrival at Lakshadweep & What to Expect

Arriving at Lakshadweep, most travelers land at Agatti Airport or arrive at Kavaratti Port by ship. Both points have limited local transport options, so pre-planning is essential.

Local commute mainly involves boats or small ferries between islands. On larger islands like Kavaratti, auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common for short distances. Accommodation is mostly guesthouses or government-run hotels near the main town areas.

Prepaid taxis are not common, so negotiate fares beforehand or use trusted local operators. Mobile network coverage is limited, so offline maps and contacts are useful. Carry cash as ATMs are scarce.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Lakshadweep from Kozhikode is by flight to Agatti Airport, especially if you want to save time and travel comfortably. However, the ship option offers a budget-friendly and scenic alternative for those with flexible schedules.

Planning ahead by securing the necessary permits, booking tickets early, and arranging local transport will make your journey stress-free. With these tips, you can confidently explore the stunning islands of Lakshadweep starting from Kozhikode.