Minicoy, or Maliku, is the southernmost and second-largest island in Lakshadweep. It is fundamentally different from the rest of the archipelago, sharing more cultural, linguistic, and historical DNA with the Maldives than with the Malabar Coast.

A Distinct Cultural Identity

➣ Language: The only island where Mahl (a dialect of Dhivehi) is spoken. The script used is Thana, written from right to left.

➣ Social Structure: Known as the "Female Island" due to its powerful matrilineal society. Women own the houses and have a dominant say in communal affairs.

➣ Village System: The island is meticulously organized into 10 to 11 Avahs (villages), each with its own community house and headwoman (Moothamma).

➣ Arts: Home to the iconic Lava Dance, a synchronized, colorful performance by men, and the Jahadhoni, exquisitely crafted traditional racing boats.


Top Highlights:

➣ Blue Flag Thundi Beach: In late 2022, Thundi Beach received the prestigious Blue Flag certification, marking it as one of the cleanest and most eco-friendly beaches in the world.

➣ The 1885 Lighthouse: A 160-foot British-built lighthouse that is still operational. Climbing its 200+ steps offers a panoramic view of the 9-Degree Channel and the entire crescent-shaped atoll.

➣ Tuna Industry: Minicoy is the heart of Lakshadweep's tuna fishing. You can visit the canning factory to see how "Masmin" (smoked tuna) is prepared.

➣ Shipwrecks: The island is a hotspot for "wreck diving." Two British steamships, the SS Hoechst and another vessel, lie just 8 meters deep, acting as vibrant artificial reefs for divers.