Could this be the country’s new tourist hotspot? Tourists who want to get away from it all have been making the long journey to the Lakshadweep Islands, those distant tiny dots in the Arabian Sea. Once you reach you’re guaranteed the ultimate non-urban holiday.

“It’s secluded and offers water sports,” says Cheriya Koya, assistant general manager, Society for the promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports (SPORTS), a nodal agency for the promotion of tourism in Lakshadweep. October to May is the best time to visit.

Lakshadweep is composed of 36 coral islands of which 10 are inhabited. Bangaram Island is a high-priced destination.

If you want to fly, take Air India (the former Indian Airlines) which operates daily flights (except Sundays) from Kochi to Agatti (it takes about 90 minutes). Also, Kingfisher operates flights to the islands on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

But nothing quite beats the thrill of sailing in one of the all-weather ships operating between Kochi and the islands, taking about 24 hours. There are also speedboats that take about six to eight hours.

And where do you stay? Accommodation ranges from pretty tourist huts to more expensive resorts. The four-star resort run by the Casino Group of hotels is on Bangaram. Take a look at the different places:

Agatti

It’s the only island with an airport and is the gateway to the islands. If you are up for adventure, the sailboat by day and fishing by night trips are popular. Tour operators also arrange a night turtle watch.

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Stic Travel Group offers Agatti Island Resort Packages, which includes accommodation at the four-star Agatti Island Beach Resort. The prices vary between Rs 10,000 and Rs 12,500 for double occupancy and includes transfers to and from Agatti Airport, all meals, usage of health club and indoor games. Also includes complimentary stay for two children below five years and all taxes and entry permits. Valid till end December.

Bangaram

The secluded island is uninhabited except for the CGH resort. Spread over 128 acres, there’s a wide choice of water sports like scuba diving, deep sea fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and much more. You can even enrol in diving courses for beginners. The real thrill though is deep sea big game fishing. The more adventurous can even hire local boats and cruise around with a trained crew. If you are a serious angler, bring your own equipment.

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The CGH Earth resort has 26 cottages in two categories: standard and deluxe rooms. Double occupancy in the standard rooms costs 300 euros per night. The deluxe huts where groups of up to four can stay, cost 550 euros per night. This covers accommodation and all meals. Valid from December 21 to Jan 10, 2009.

Kavaratti

Kavaratti is the administrative capital and the most developed of the islands. The tourist guides recommend seeing Ujra Mosque, which is special because the water of its well is believed to have curative powers.

Of course, there are facilities for water sports. Also, you can go out in a glass-bottom boat and watch the marine life.

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The Taratashi package is a four nights/five days offering from SPORT, where you can stay in tourist huts near the beach. The trip there costs Rs 8,000 per head in diamond class and gold class; Rs 6,000 per head in first class and Rs 3,500 in tourist class. The price includes transportation by boats like M.V. Tipu Sultan, M.V. Amindivi, M.V. Minicoy or the M.V. Kavaratti. Valid till December 31. Accommodation and meals is not included.

Kalpeni

This is one of the most important tourist spots in Lakshadweep. One attraction is Cheriyam Island. During low tide you can walk from Kalpeni to Cheriyam.

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Coral Reef Package from Ebenezer Holidays in Kochi offers a three-night/four-day cruise that combines a visit to Kavaratti, Kalpeni and Minicoy. The island tours are organised during the day with lunch and refreshments ashore. Nights are spent on board the ship. First class: Rs 12,150 + taxes with all meals. Tourist Class: Rs 8,475 + taxes. Valid through October 2008 to May 2009.