Kalpeni Island

Kalpeni, ringed by an exceptionally large lagoon and several uninhabited satellite islets, is known for its striking beach composition — much of the shoreline is made up of finely crushed coral rather than conventional sand, giving parts of the coast a distinctive pinkish-white colour. The remains of ships wrecked on the surrounding reef over the decades add points of historical curiosity along parts of the coastline.

Kalpeni's relatively large lagoon, among the biggest in Lakshadweep, offers particularly good conditions for kayaking and glass-bottom boat rides, and the island's satellite islets — reachable by local boat — provide quieter, more secluded stretches of shoreline for visitors wanting to get away from the main settlement.

The coral-composed beaches and historical shipwrecks scattered around Kalpeni's reef reflect the island's exposure to the open sea, a geography that has shaped both its distinctive coastline and its history of maritime hazard for passing vessels.

Reached by ship from Kochi; permits are mandatory for all visitors.