With an area of around 11 hectare, Bitra is the smallest inhabited island in
Lakshadweep. The climate is warm throughout the year. The island is covered by thick brushwood and shrubs, and is rich in coconut palms. The people are mainly Muslims and they speak a local version of
Kerala’s language,
Malayalam.
Bitra has the largest lagoon in Lakshadweep. This magnificent lagoon is on the north-eastern tip of a large coral ring reef. Coral growths and multi-colored fish are abundant in this lagoon.
A
shrine, dedicated to Malik Mulla - an old Arab saint who is said to have been buried there, is the main attraction. The shrine is a place of pilgrimage for other islanders.
Bitra is situated 48 km west of
Chetlat.
