Minicoy, which is about 10.6 km long, is the southern most island in
Lakshadweep and is the second longest after
Andrott. This crescent shaped island has one of the largest lagoons in the archipelago. Minicoy is the furthest island from
Kavaratti, about 200 km away, and is located close to Maldives.
Minicoy is set apart from the Northern group of islands by its culture. Mahl is the spoken language, which is written in Divehi script. Their traditionally arranged village system is known as ‘Athiris’; each Athiri is a cluster of houses under the administrative control of an elderly man called Mooppan. Each village features a beautifully garnished and maintained village house. Majority of the islanders are employed as seamen.
Minicoy is a prominent centre of tuna fishing. There is a tuna canning factory with an ice plant and cold storage.
Major point of attraction here is the 300 ft tall Light House, constructed in 1885, and the Juma Mosque.
Dandi, similar to the Kolkali dance of Kerala, is a traditional dance form of the island. Lava Dance is another traditional dance form performed during the festive occasions.
Viringili, a small island situated at the south of the main island, was once used to isolate small-pox patients. It was also known as Smallpox Island. The Dak Bungalow at Minicoy provides excellent accommodation facilities.
Minicoy is situated at a distance of 398 km from Kochi.
