Union Territory of India

Lakshadweep

Reported Last updated 11 Oct 2026

Lakshadweep is a union territory in the Arabian Sea region of India with its capital at Kavaratti. The 2011 Census recorded a population of 64,473 over an area of about 32 km².

Capital
Kavaratti
Area
32 km²
Population
64,473
Year 2011 · Census of India 2011
Density
2,014.8 /km²
Calculated
Districts
1
As of Jan 2025
Formed
1 November 1956
Official language(s)
Malayalam; English

Overview

Lakshadweep is India's smallest union territory, a group of coral islands in the Arabian Sea about 200–440 km off the coast of Kerala. Only some of its islands are inhabited, and its lagoons, coral reefs and white beaches make it a destination for diving, snorkelling and quiet holidays. Visitors need a permit to enter.

Districts of Lakshadweep

The district directory for Lakshadweep has not been published yet. Lakshadweep has 1 districts (as of January 2025).

History & formation

The islands became a union territory in 1956 and were named Lakshadweep in 1973. Kavaratti is the capital.

Culture, festivals & cuisine

Malayalam is widely spoken, with Jeseri and Mahl (on Minicoy) also used. Most residents are Muslim, and fishing and coconut cultivation are traditional livelihoods.

State symbols

State symbols for Lakshadweep are awaiting editorial verification. We only list symbols confirmed by an official source.

Legislature & representation

Details
LegislatureNone
Lok Sabha constituencies1

Seat figures as of January 2025 · source.

Sources & references

  1. Census of India 2011 – state population and area – Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India (2011) , retrieved 10 Oct 2026 – Population and area Reported
  2. Election Commission of India – delimitation and seats – Election Commission of India , retrieved 10 Oct 2026 – Lok Sabha and Assembly seat counts Reported