India, with its vast coastline and rich geographical diversity, is home to a treasure trove of lesser-known islands, each offering something unique and unexplored. While some of the country’s islands are popular with tourists, there are many hidden gems scattered across its waters, waiting to be discovered. From remote volcanic terrains and serene backwaters to lush mangrove forests and abandoned towns, these islands promise an escape into nature’s untouched beauty and India’s diverse culture.
Here are five such lesser-known islands that are sure to surprise and captivate any traveller seeking something off the beaten path:
1. Barren Island
Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bay of Bengal.
Why it’s unique
Barren Island is one of India’s most unique destinations, as it is home to the only active volcano in the country. This remote island, located about 135 kilometres Northeast of Port Blair, is uninhabited and off-limits for most travellers, making it a truly untouched paradise. The volcanic activity and the rugged terrain make it an incredible geological phenomenon, offering an awe-inspiring view of volcanic craters and streams of lava, especially after eruptions.
The island also boasts a unique underwater ecosystem, attracting divers to explore its rich marine life. Due to its isolation and difficult conditions, it remains one of the least explored and most fascinating places in India.
2. Vypin Island
Location: Near Kochi, Kerala.
Why it’s unique
Located just off the coast of Kochi, Vypin Island is one of the lesser-known gems of Kerala. This small island is largely overshadowed by the more famous Kochi attractions, but it offers a quiet and idyllic escape with its serene beaches and traditional Kerala village atmosphere. Vypin is rich in cultural heritage, featuring the ancient St George Forane Church and a bustling fishing community.
The island is also home to the Vypin Lighthouse, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding waters. Its peaceful environment and lack of mass tourism make it a hidden treasure for those wanting to experience the authentic coastal life of Kerala.
3. Pirotan Island
Location: Gujarat, off the coast of Kutch.
Why it’s unique
Pirotan Island is a small, lesser-known island in the Gulf of Kutch, famous for its untouched beaches and rich marine life. It is part of the Marine National Park. The island is uninhabited and remains a serene spot for nature enthusiasts.
The beaches host migratory birds, and its waters teem with coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and birdwatching. Its proximity to the Kutch region also offers a rare combination of marine life and cultural heritage, with nearby coastal towns offering a glimpse of Kutch’s famous crafts.
4. Nanda Island
Location: West Bengal, near the Bay of Bengal coast.
Why it’s unique
Located near the mouth of the Hooghly River, Nanda Island is a small island that is rich in biodiversity. The island remains relatively undisturbed by tourism, offering a tranquil environment with abundant birdlife, especially migratory species during the winter. Nanda Island is part of the Sundarbans region and offers a quiet retreat with lush green forests and rare flora and fauna.
Visitors can explore its quiet beaches, observe various species of birds, and witness the natural beauty of the area in its untouched state.
5. Dhanushkodi Island
Location: Tamil Nadu, Southern tip of India.
Why it’s unique
Dhanushkodi Island is situated at the southernmost tip of Tamil Nadu, near the famous Palk Strait. It is known for its desolate and hauntingly beautiful landscape, as well as its historical significance. Once a bustling town, it was destroyed during a cyclone in 1964 and has remained uninhabited ever since. The remnants of the old town and the ghostly ruins of buildings add a unique charm to this island.
It is also close to the Adam’s Bridge (Rama’s Bridge), a series of natural limestone shoals, which is often associated with the Hindu epic Ramayana. The island is a blend of mystery, history, and natural beauty.
Edited by Megha Chowdhury
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