The coral islands of Lakshadweep, a total of 36 of which 10 are inhabited, have in recent years become one of the country's popular tourist destinations. One of the very last places in the world where little has changed in the face of rapid development. The Lakshadweep lies in the Arabian Sea. It is surrounded by lagoons and known for their pristine beauty. Coconut trees abound, the beaches are silver crescents and the sea is a crystal clear endless blueness. Tourism is restricted to ensure that the delicate environment is not ecologically damaged. Only five islands are open for tourism- four to domestic tourists and one to international tourists. Bangaram, the resort for international tourist, is otherwise uninhabited. The four islands that are open for domestic tourism include Kavaratti, the administrative capital; Kalpeni with its rich coral and marine life; Kadmat with its very fine beach; and Minicoy which has one of the largest lagoons in the archipelago. Visitors can arrive here by ship from Kochi, enjoy a wide range of water sports, explore marine life, and relax. Lakshadweep has an airstrip Agatti through which it is connected to Kochi on a flight that originates from Chennai. Ship cruises are available as packages designed for the tourists. You can go for Scuba Diving- Laccadives(Kadmat). An eight to ten day course is conducted by trained instructors and dive masters. To introduce you to the wonders of life under the sea, untouched, unspoilt with average visibility of 150ft. All equipment provided by Laccadives. Swimming skills are mandatory and the minimum age for diving is 14 years. A doctor's certificate clearing the candidate to be fit for diving is necessary.