Did you know Goa has over 3,000 islands along its coast? While some are popular, many beautiful islands are still hidden. These untouched gems offer peace away from crowded places.
St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka is about 88 million years old. Majuli Island in Assam is less known but rich in culture. These islands show the untouched beauty of India, perfect for adventure seekers.
Key Takeaways
- India has numerous unexplored islands, many of which are hidden gems.
- St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka is an ancient island estimated to be 88 million years old.
- Goa’s coastline features over 3,000 islands.
- These islands offer a serene retreat away from well-trodden tourist paths.
- Majuli Island in Assam is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Introduction to India’s Unexplored Islands
India is more than just busy cities and crowded beaches. It has tranquil, unexplored islands most people don’t know about. These islands are quiet places where nature’s beauty shines, perfect for anyone wanting to escape the noisy tourist spots.
Going to these hidden places lets you see the quiet beauty and variety of India’s less-known islands. Quibble Island in Tamil Nadu and Munroe Island in Kerala are among them. You can get to Quibble Island by ferry from Adyar, and it’s best to visit from October to March. Munroe Island, made up of eight small islands, is 27 km from Kollam. The best time to visit is from October to May.
Divar Island in Goa and Bhavani Island in Andhra Pradesh are also must-visits. You can reach Divar Island by ferry from Old Goa. October to May is the best time to go. Bhavani Island is one of the largest on the Krishna River, reached by boat from Punnami Ghat. The ideal visit time is from October to March. Thinnakara Island in Lakshadweep is also unmissable. It’s an hour from Agatti aerodrome and is best visited between October and May.
The extraordinary North Sentinel Island in the Andamans is also notable. It’s famous for being isolated and home to the Sentinelese tribe. However, it’s hard to visit due to Indian laws protecting its secluded lifestyle.
These hidden islands in India offer unique experiences. They show the beautiful places in India that most don’t see. It’s a chance to discover beauty that’s not yet famous.
- Quibble Island: Reachable by ferry from Adyar, best time to visit: October-March.
- Divar Island: Ferry ride from Old Goa, best time to visit: October-May.
- Bhavani Island: Boat ride from Punnami Ghat, best time to visit: October-March.
- Munroe Island: Located 27 km from Kollam, best time to visit: October-May.
- Thinnakara Island: Around an hour from Agatti aerodrome, best time to visit: October-May.
Exploring India’s unexplored islands like in the #DekhegaIndiaTohDikhegaIndia campaign is exciting. It’s shared on social media, showing off these hidden gems. Tools like Geniefie Trip Planner app help travelers plan their trips, offering tips and special deals. It lets adventurers share their photos and stories, inspiring others to visit India’s lesser-known islands.
St. Mary’s Island, Karnataka
St. Mary’s Island sits off Malpe’s coast in Udupi, Karnataka. It shows off the Western Ghats’ wonders with its unique rock shapes. These islands are famous for their hexagonal basalt rocks. They are made up of four islands: Coconut Island, North Island, Daryabahadurgarh Island, and South Island. Each has its own beauty.
Location and Access
You can reach St. Mary’s Island by boat from Malpe Beach, Udupi. It covers about 1 square kilometer. In 2016, it was named a National Geological Monument. This was due to its special rocks and geology. The highest point is Coconut Island at 10 meters above sea level. The islands have amazing rhyolitic lava rock columns.
Unique Features
St. Mary’s Island is known for its hexagonal rock columns, like the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland. These rocks were formed about 88 million years ago. This was when Madagascar was still part of India. The islands help us learn about India’s west coast rising. They also show the sea level drops by 1 mm each year.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to see St. Mary’s Island is from October to January. The weather is nice then. The islands stretch across four areas. They are a peaceful place with birds like gulls and kites. There are no shops or hotels, so it’s a pure natural place to visit.
Divar Island, Goa
Divar Island is a secret spot in Goa. It’s just 10 kilometers from Panaji. This peaceful island offers a special experience with its calm vibe and beautiful views. You can get there by ferry from Old Goa. It’s different from other places in Goa.
Serene Ambiance
Divar Island is known for its quiet and greenery. It’s a peaceful place away from busy city life. The island has three lovely villages: Naroa, Piedade, and Malar. Traditional festivals here show the island’s deep culture.
Major Attractions
Divar Island is famous for its old Portuguese buildings. It also has peaceful spots for exploring. Every year, there are lively festivals like Bonderam and Potekar. These festivals bring together history and culture in a fun way.
Activities to Enjoy
There are lots of things to do on Divar Island. You can go on heritage walks to see beautiful places and old buildings. Since it’s close to Panaji, visiting nearby spots is easy. It’s perfect for relaxing, trying Goan food, and enjoying a slow-paced life.
Divar Island is a true Goan retreat. It mixes untouched beauty, cultural events, and history walks perfectly.
Kavvayi, Kerala
Kavvayi is hidden among the Kerala backwaters. It’s a prime example of peacefulness. It gives real travel experiences to those wanting quiet spots and green sceneries.
The biggest backwater in North Kerala, Kavvayi Island, has caught many famous travelers’ eyes. Think of Marco Polo or Ibn Battuta. Their stories make the island even more special.
Getting to Kavvayi Island is easy. You can take a ferry or cross a bridge. From Bangalore, fly to Kannur for about 1500 INR. Buses cost between 800 and 1200 INR. From Kannur airport, a prepaid auto to the town costs 400 INR. A car ride is about 600 INR. The train to Payyanur is just 15 INR. Then, it’s a short 15-minute bike ride to the island.
Kavvayi Island is famous for good reason. Its beauty and calmness are unmatched. It’s about as big as the 16 km² Valiyaparamba Island, making it easy to explore.
Kavvayi is great for nature lovers and those looking for peace. It combines beauty with real travel experiences. This island lets you connect with nature. It’s perfect for those who need a break in Kerala’s lovely secluded spots.
Hope Island, Andhra Pradesh
Hope Island in Andhra Pradesh is 200 years old. It was made by sand moving from the River Godavari. Its tadpole shape makes a natural wall for the Godavari Delta. It is a place of pure nature and quiet beauty.
Natural Beauty
Visitors find peace on Hope Island. Its green lands and clean beaches offer lovely views. It is a peaceful spot away from city noise, perfect for finding calm.
Ideal Travel Period
The best time for a visit is from June to August. The weather is great then. It’s the best season to enjoy the island’s peaceful nature.
| Island | Distinguishing Feature | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Hope Island | Newly formed, tadpole-shaped, natural barrier | June to August |
| Divar Island | Close to Panjim, rich cultural heritage | November to February |
| Kavvayi Island | Largest backwaters of North Kerala | September to March |
| Quibble Island | Largest river island in Tamil Nadu | December to February |
Majuli Island, Assam
Majuli Island is in the middle of the Brahmaputra River in Assam. It’s the largest river island in the world. It’s 352 km² big and has about 300 people living in each square km. The island is full of cultural heritage and Assamese traditions. It’s well-known for its special river island culture. Majuli is rich in history and traditions.
Culture and Traditions
Since the 16th century, Majuli has been Assam’s cultural heart. It’s filled with Assamese traditions. Many tribes and community groups live here. The island is famous for its 22 Vaishnava Satras from the 15th century. They help keep the island’s old culture alive. Big festivals here draw many visitors.
Top Sites to Explore
Majuli has many important and beautiful places to see. Despite erosion, it still covers 352 km² and has 144 villages. Places like Garmur Satra and Dakhinpat Satra are must-visits. They have old artifacts and writings. The landscape is shaped by two rivers. It’s stunning to explore.
Things to Do
There’s a lot to do in Majuli that shows off its cultural heritage. Visitors can make masks, check out handloom items, and try Komal Saul rice. For nature lovers, there’s bird-watching. History enthusiasts will enjoy the satras’ stories. The best time to visit is from September to March.
Unexplored islands in India
India’s island destinations offer a unique off-grid travel experience. These hidden gems have pristine environments and local ecosystems. They are untouched by mass tourism.
The Lakshadweep Islands consist of 36 beautiful islands in Southern India. They are peaceful and less known than other places. Little Andaman Island offers coral reefs and surfing. It takes a day to get there from Port Blair.
- Majuli Island: It’s one of the largest river islands in the world, found in Assam. It’s known for rich culture and is reachable by boat from Jorhat.
- Diu Island: This island mixes Gujarati and Portuguese culture. It has calm beaches and a unique seashell museum.
- Barren Island: The only active volcanic island in South Asia. Barren Island has lava rocks and diving spots. You can only get there by boat.
The Great Nicobar Islands are perfect for families. They are the largest in India and have lovely beaches and wildlife. Munroe Island offers tours on backwater canals, perfect for canoeing.
“Kadmat in Lakshadweep is becoming popular. The Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports manages it. It’s great for those who love nature and untouched places.”
Hope Island in Andhra Pradesh is known as the safest harbor in East India. It’s a peaceful spot for those wanting to get away from busy life.
The table below shows special features of India’s less-known islands. They are great for unique off-grid travel.
| Island | Key Feature | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| St. Mary’s Island | Geological Monument | November to May |
| Kavvayi Island | Historical Records by Explorers | November to May |
| Hope Island | Safest Harbor | November to May |
| Butler Bay Beach | Surfing and Peaceful Walks | December to March |
Conclusion
Traveling to unknown Indian islands is great for those who love sustainable travel. These places are eco-friendly. They let you see India’s culture and beautiful nature.
St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka has cool rock formations. Divar Island in Goa is rich in culture. Majuli Island in Assam is beautiful with its rivers. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also amazing with beaches and volcanos.
At the Sunderbans, you can see wild animals. Netrani Island offers fun diving. Elephanta Island and Munroe Island let you explore India’s history. These islands offer a break from busy life and amazing experiences.
These hidden gems give you special memories and connect you with nature. They are perfect for those seeking peace, culture, or adventure. These islands make an eco-friendly trip come true.
FAQ
What are some unexplored islands in India worth visiting?
Check out these hidden gems in India: St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka, Divar Island in Goa, Kavvayi in Kerala, Hope Island in Andhra Pradesh, and Majuli Island in Assam. They are beautiful, peaceful, and less crowded. Perfect for exploring!
How can one access St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka?
To get to St. Mary’s Island, take a boat from Malpe, close to Udupi in Karnataka. This island is famous for its unique rock shapes.
What makes Divar Island in Goa different from other Goan destinations?
Divar Island is quiet and different from busy Goa beaches. You can reach it by ferry from Old Goa. It’s filled with festivals and old Portuguese buildings.
When is the best time to visit Kavvayi Island in Kerala?
Visit Kavvayi Island from October to March. Then, the weather is nice. You’ll love the backwaters of Kerala and the greenery.
What are the unique features of Hope Island in Andhra Pradesh?
Hope Island looks like a tadpole and protects the Godavari Delta. It’s naturally beautiful. Visit from June to August for the best experience.
Why is Majuli Island in Assam significant?
Majuli is the world’s largest river island. It’s full of Assamese culture, mask-making, and monasteries. Visit from October to January to see it best.
What type of activities can visitors enjoy on Divar Island, Goa?
In Divar Island, go on heritage walks, see Portuguese buildings, join festivals, and take calming boat rides.
What makes India’s unexplored islands ideal for sustainable travel?
These islands are clean and eco-friendly. They are great for travelers who like untouched places. It’s a chance for off-the-grid adventures.
What are some of the major attractions of St. Mary’s Island?
St. Mary’s Island is famous for special rock shapes and a beautiful sea life. The best time to go is from October to January.
