Lakshadweep Permits: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Getting a Lakshadweep permit, a mandatory entry pass required for all tourists visiting the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, India. Also known as Lakshadweep entry pass, it’s not optional—it’s the only way you’ll set foot on these protected islands. Unlike other Indian destinations, Lakshadweep isn’t open to casual tourism. The government tightly controls access to protect fragile coral ecosystems, traditional lifestyles, and limited infrastructure. If you’re planning a trip to Agatti, Kavaratti, or Bangaram, this permit is your first and most important step.

Lakshadweep permits are tied to restricted islands, specific atolls in Lakshadweep where tourism is limited to preserve cultural and environmental integrity. Not all islands allow visitors—only a handful like Agatti, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Minicoy are open, and even then, only through registered tour operators. You can’t just show up with a flight ticket and expect to land. The permit system ensures visitor numbers stay low, keeping beaches uncrowded and waters pristine. It also means you’ll need to book your stay and permit together, usually through a licensed operator who handles the paperwork on your behalf.

There’s no online portal where you can self-apply. The process is manual, and it takes time. Most travelers apply 30 to 45 days before their trip. You’ll need a copy of your ID, a confirmed hotel booking, and a travel itinerary. Foreign tourists need an additional Indian visa, and everyone must carry the printed permit at all times during their stay. Checkpoints exist on the islands, and without your permit, you’ll be turned away—even if you’ve already flown in. This isn’t bureaucracy for the sake of it; it’s a system designed to prevent over-tourism in one of the most ecologically sensitive regions in India.

What makes Lakshadweep different isn’t just the permit—it’s what the permit protects. These islands have no cars, no traffic lights, and no big resorts. The culture is deeply rooted in Islam and fishing traditions. The water is so clear you can see fish from the air. The permit system keeps it that way. It’s why you won’t find crowds here like you do in Goa or Kerala. If you’re looking for quiet, untouched beauty, this is one of the last places in India where you can still find it.

Don’t confuse Lakshadweep permits with those for the Andamans or other Indian islands. They’re completely separate systems. And while some blogs say you can get permits on arrival, that’s a myth. Even if you’re flying into Agatti Airport, you must have your permit approved before boarding. Airlines check it. Police check it. Hotels check it. Skip this step, and your entire trip falls apart.

Below, you’ll find real traveler stories, practical tips on how to apply, which islands are worth visiting, and what to pack when you’re heading to a place where the only thing more important than your sunscreen is your permit.