Kadmat Island — Local services in Lakshadweep

Kadmat Island, also known as Cardamom Island, is a coral island belonging to the Amindivi subgroup of islands of the Lakshadweep archipelago in India. Measuring 9.3 kilometres (5.8 mi) in length, the island has a lagoon with a width of 1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) covering an area of 25 square kilometres (9.7 sq mi). The ecological feature of the island is of coral reef with seagrass, and marine turtles which nestle here. The Ministry of Environment and Forests (India) has notified the island as a marine protected area for ensuring conservation of the island's animal, plant, or other type of organism, and other resources.

The only inhabited village on the island is Kadmat, which had a population of 5,389 according to 2011 census. Fisheries is the main economic activity on the island with agriculture limited to 5% of the land area. Tourism is allowed even for non-Indians and the attractions are kayaking, snorkeling and leisure trips by a glass-bottomed boat for scuba diving. Kadmat Island, which belongs to the township of Kadmat Island of Aminidivi Tehsil.1] is the central most island of the Lakshadweep archipelago. It is in the shape of a tear drop, with 3.5 square kilometres (1.4 sq mi) area and is located on a coral reef. With a length of 9.3 kilometres (5.8 mi)[a] from north to south and a maximum width of 0.57 kilometres (0.35 mi)[4] and it is the longest island in the Amindivi group.[5] Its southern end is the narrowest with a width of about 10 metres (33 ft). The island's topography is about 2.0 to 3 metres (6 ft 7 in to 9 ft 10 in) on the eastern side and 2.0 to 4 metres (6 ft 7 in to 13 ft 1 in) on the western part above the mean sea level. Its surface formation consists of coral conglomerate overlying broken pieces of coral and coral sand.[6]

The lagoon on the western side of the island [7] extends over a maximum width of 2 kilometres (1.2 mi)[8] covering an area of 37 square kilometres (14 sq mi)[6] and the water depth is shallow about 2 to 3 metres (6 ft 7 in to 9 ft 10 in).[9 It has a shore line and has a sandy beach. The reef width is about 50 metres (160 ft). The tidal range lies between 0.6 to 1.6 metres (2 ft 0 in to 5 ft 3 in).911 The beach on the eastern side of the island has a width of 100 metres (330 ft). At the breaking zone of this beach there is a 100 metres (330 ft) wide coral algae ridge.[7]

Kadmat Island is bounded by Kavaratti Island to its northwest at a distance of 67 kilometres (42 mi). It is 32 kilometres (20 mi) away from Kiltan Island. Amini Island, which marks the northwestern part of the Pitti Bank formation, is 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) to the southwest.[6] Kochi is 407 kilometres (253 mi) away.[12]

There is an airport on nearby Agatti Island, in which flights operate from Cochin. From Agatti, it is a two and half hours boat ride to Kadmat. Ferry services also operate from Cochin on the coast of Kerala but involves a journey...

Kadmat The Kadmat Island is long and narrow. It is only 0.57 km wide at the broadest point having maximum length of 11 km. It lies between 11° 10′ and 11° 16′ N latitude and 72° 45′ and 72° 48′ E longitude, having an area of 3.20 sq km. This island is at a distance of 407 km (220 nautical mil from Kochi and located between Amini Island in the south and Chetlat Island in the north.

It has lagoon on the western side, measuring about 2 km at the broadest point with a total area of 37. sq km. The island is flat, rising 2 to 3 m in the east and 2 to 4 m in the west above the sea level. high ridge of sand runs down the western side of the island and also there is a sand accumulati on the southern part of the island, giving rise to undulations. The northern side is flat.

Kadmath is 8 Kms long and 550 metres wide at the broadest point. In addition to the beautiful shallow lagoon on the west that forms an ideal spot for water sports, there is a narrow lagoon on the east. The best attractions are the long sandy beaches and small sand banks on the southern tip for sun baths. Kadmath has been identified for staying tourists with its tourist huts aesthetically situated in the coconut palm groves in the beaches facing the lagoon. The place is ideal for a real holiday that brings you away from the maddening crowd, hustle and bustle of city life. You will certainly learn the art of disembarkation on the island around noon on the second day of the 6 days Marine Wealth Awareness Programme tour. You spend 3 days enjoying sea breeze and moonlit beach. Water sports crafts like kayaks, pedal boats, sailing yachts, skiing boats and glass bottomed boats are available on hire. The scuba diving centre in the island has become an attraction for water-sport enthusiasts.

Climate The climate of Kadmat is similar to the climatic conditions of Kerala. March to May is the hottest period of the year. The temperature ranges from 25oC to 35oC and humidity ranging from 70 -76 per cent for most of the year. The average rainfall received is 1600 mm a year. Monsoon prevails here from 15th May to 15th September. The monsoon period raises temperature to the mercury level between 27- 30 degrees. During the monsoon time, boats are not allowed outside the lagoon because of the violent sea. The presence of the reef maintains calm at the lagoon.

Island at a glance Population (2011) 5389 Density (per Sq.km) 1727 Access by Air and Sea from India,South-west coast. Location 11°- 13* North Latitude 72°- 47* East longitude Distance to Malabar coast 407 kms from Kochi Total geographical Area 3.20 sq.Kms Maximum Length 8 km Width 550 meters Temperature 32oC (Max.) to 28oC (Min.) Humidity 70-75% Highest Rainfall 241.8 mm.recorded in 24...

Kadmat Island in Lakshadweep, India, is a tropical haven that captivates with its pristine beauty and tranquil ambiance. Stepping onto the powdery white sand, I immediately felt a sense of serenity as the turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs beckoned.

Exploring the underwater paradise through snorkeling and scuba diving revealed a kaleidoscope of colors and a diverse marine ecosystem. The warm tropical breeze, the gentle waves, and the scent of the ocean added to the island's allure.

The local culture embraced me with warmth, and savoring fresh seafood and aromatic spices offered a delightful culinary experience. Beachfront cottages seamlessly integrated with nature, providing a comfortable retreat.

Each day began with the soothing sounds of the ocean and the spectacle of sunrise, creating a perfect start. From water sports to leisurely walks along the shoreline, Kadmat Island offered a blend of adventure and relaxation.

As I left the island, I carried not just memories of its breathtaking landscapes but a profound sense of rejuvenation. Kadmat Island, with its untouched beauty and warm hospitality, became a sanctuary where time stood still, allowing a deep connection with nature and a rediscovery of life's simple joys. It's a destination etched in my heart, a treasure trove of...