Planning a trip to Lakshadweep? Here's all you need to know about entry permits, guidelines & more

PTC News Desk: Lakshadweep has been making headlines for the past few days after three ministers made derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Many celebrities have come forward, urging Indian tourists to visit Lakshadweep rather than the Maldives. Social media users have launched a campaign with the hashtag #BoycottMaldives to highlight the beauty of the island, which is about 750 kilometres from the Maldives in the Arabian Sea. 

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Here’s all you need to know about documents and other requirements for visiting Lakshadweep:

According to the Union territory's official website, the Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands (Restriction on Entry and Residence) Rules, 1967 govern entry into Lakshadweep. It states that any person who is not a native of these islands must obtain a permit in the prescribed form from the competent authority before entering and residing on these islands.

According to the website, only government officials and military personnel working or visiting these islands, as well as their families, are exempt from this.

Entry Permit: All tourists, including Indian nationals, must obtain an Entry Permit (EP) to visit Lakshadweep. The EP can be obtained by contacting an authorised travel agent or the Lakshadweep Tourism Department.

Restricted Area Permit: Certain islands in Lakshadweep have been designated as restricted areas due to their sensitive ecological and strategic significance. Visitors wishing to visit these restricted areas must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in addition to an Entry Permit.

The RAP can be applied for through designated authorities, and specific guidelines and permissions must be followed when visiting these restricted areas.

Special Permits: In some cases, special permits are required for activities such as filming, research, or other specialised purposes. Applicants seeking such permits should contact the appropriate authorities well in advance and follow the specific requirements outlined for their intended activities.

Also Read | 'Boycott Maldives': Maldives swings into damage control, distance itself from minister's remarks

Documents needed:

The entry permit form is available online, and you must submit it to the administrator.

 The form requires an application fee of Rs 50. 

Indian visitors must present a Police Clearance Certificate issued by the Commissioner of Police from their home district in India. Furthermore, applicants must provide a self-attested photocopy of their ID card, as well as three passport-sized photographs. Once the permit is approved, travellers must present it upon arriving in Lakshadweep.

Also Read | Boycott Maldives: EaseMyTrip suspends all Maldives flight bookings after remarks against PM Modi

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