Tides of Change: The Story of Lakshadweep Tourism

Summary Lakshadweep, an attractive archipelago in the Arabian Sea, is increasingly noted as a promising tourist destination with its pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and rich cultural heritage. Over the past five decades, the islands have witnessed significant progress in institutionalising tourism, driven by policy reforms and strategic planning initiatives. The initial serendipitous tourism developmental encounters have steered Lakshadweep towards adopting tourism as a stimulant for its development. However, as tourism continues to expand on the islands, it is crucial to prioritise the local community’s well-being and the region’s ecological integrity. While the local community aspires to be the custodian of the destination’s natural and cultural assets, the emphasis is now on the administration to change its centralised orientation and facilitate sustainable development based on a collaborative model. Looking ahead, the future of tourism in Lakshadweep hinges on adopting a destination stewardship model that fosters stakeholder collaboration and ensures tourism development aligns with the islands’ cherished traditions and values.