When it comes to planning an island trip we often think of Bora Bora, Maldives, and other foreign islands. But while doing so we often forget that there are the most beautiful islands in India too. They are no less popular than those pristine white sand beaches you see on the popular islands across the world. 

Can’t name a few? Check out our list of Indian Ocean islands that one must visit. 

6 Most Beautiful Islands In India

1. Barren Island, Andaman

Located in the Andaman archipelago this island is the home to the only active volcano in the Indian subcontinent. This erupting beauty is a great treasure to the magical home of the Andaman and Nicobar islands. 

Barren Island has located about 140 km from the capital town of Port Blair and is the best island in India to visit during your trip to Andaman.

Best time to visit- November to February

How to reach- Havelock is the nearest place from where you can either get a boat or seaplane to arrive at Barren Island

Things to do- You can enjoy the trip and do all water sport activities and meet marine creatures like turtles, and manta rays

Places to stay- Since the island is dangerous due to active volcanoes, it is best to stay at Main Island. Here are the top accommodations

• Hotel de pebbles
• Ocean terrace
• Kokari Guesthouse
• Hotel RNP
• Seashell resort & spa 

Also Read:Best 10 Places to visit in Udaipur | Top Things To Do In Udaipur

2. Divar Island, Goa

Goa is majorly known and traveled by beach lovers as it houses the major of the amazing ones in the country. But Divar Island, part of old Goa, has an authentic charm not much changed since the 16th century. It’s a place for serene calm, raw beauty.

It indeed takes your breath away and shows you the freshness of life. All of this makes it one of the most beautiful islands in India. 

Places to see: Church of our lady of compassion and Salim Ali bird sanctuary

Best time to visit- August

Getting there- Take a ferry from Bicholim district and reach Divar

Where to stay- Casa dos Silveiras offers the best accommodation facilities or you can stay at ITC Grand Goa for a luxurious stay. But it is in the main part of Goa. 

3. Netrani Island, Karnataka

Beautiful sea and surroundings; the island is out of bounds, as a Navy observation post and installation and is serene making it the best experience of a lifetime. Netrani Island is around 20km inside the sea from Murudeshwar and is a must-visit for scuba diving lovers.

Attractions at Murudeshwar:

• Visit Statue of Lord Shiva
• Shri Murudeshwara beach
• Raja Gopure
• Bhukailasa cave museum

When to visit- December and January 

How to reach- Take a train to Murudeshwar Railway station and reach Netrani island via bus or autorickshaw

Places to stay- RNS Guest House on the island and Aryana Guest House in Murudeshwar are the best hotels with affordable rooms

4. Minicoy, Lakshadweep

Minicoy or commonly known as Maliku is the best crescent-shaped island in the Indian Ocean. It floats along the side of one of the biggest lagoons in Lakshadweep.

But its culture sets it apart from the other most beautiful islands in India. The cultural and folk dances here are a must to be experienced and enjoyed. The island uses colorful and beautiful boats called jahadhoni for boat races and receiving dignitaries.

Fun activities to:

• Go for a sea-boat ride in glass-bottomed boats
• Scuba diving
• Snorkeling
• Watch the crystal clear coral reefs
• Capture the scenic view of the island from the lighthouse

Best time to visit- September to May

How to reach- Ferry from Trivandrum departs daily to the island

Places to stay- Minicoy resort is a government-organized resort where you will get affordable rooms, a sky bathroom, and a courtyard

5. Pamban Island, Tamil Nadu

Located around 2 km from the southern coast of Tamil Nadu, Pamban or Rameswaram is a needle-like island. It stretches outwards across the Palk Strait that separates India from Sri Lanka. Pamban Island is a hauntingly beautiful destination but an underrated island.

The island is known for its rich mythological history. This is where the god-king Ram got his army of monkeys to build a bridge to Lanka, with the blessings of the sea god.

Best time to visit- October to April

How to get there- Rent a car or take a direct train to Rameswaram from Madurai and take public transport to the island. 

3 Best Places to stay- 

• Daiwik Hotels Rameswaram
• Star Palace Hotel
• Hotel Ashoka

 6. Kavvayi, Kerala

Kavil Pattanam, the harbor mentioned by the legendary traveler's Ibn Battuta and Marco Polo in their travelogues has now transformed into a beautiful island. Known to be the largest backwaters island group, Kavvayi Island is a pristine destination.

Also Read: Once In A Lifetime Experience! Purple Island Is The World’s Best Photogenic Tourist Spot

Things to do – 

• An expedition on a boat, from Kotti to Kottapuram is just incredible and lets one see and enjoy the wonderful sights of Kavvayi Kayal.
• Try Zorbing where you’d be into a giant plastic ball rolling into the water
• Relax at Payyanur park 

Best time to visit- June to August

How to get there- There are two ways to reach either by train or flight. Kannur, Calicut, and Mangalore are the nearest airports to the island. But if you are getting there by train, take a train to Payyanur railway station. 

Places to stay- Kavvayi Beach House at the island is situated at the very unique spot around the backwaters and moonlit beach. Rooms are spacious and there is a restaurant as well that serves the best of south Indian dishes

To unleash your love to serene waters one must pay a visit to these beautiful less explored best islands in India.