Top News

New Delhi: The Indian Ocean islands are the perfect destinations to relax and enjoy spectacular natural beauty, pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical forests. These islands, surrounded by crystal-clear water, create an ideal canvas for experiencing diverse marine life, underwater adventurous activities like deep diving, snorkelling, water sports, boating, and fishing. The list is not limited to these activities only. An enthusiastic traveller can get immersed in delicious local cuisine, vibrant culture and festivals, and unique wildlife encounters.

Islands in the Indian Ocean range from tiny and uninhabited to large and bustling. Stretching from Australia’s west coast to Africa’s east coast, and encompassing the southern coasts of India and the Middle East, these island destinations within the Indian Ocean offer something for every type of traveller, catering to adventure seekers, families, and those seeking a romantic getaway. Scroll down for more information here.

Top island destinations in the Indian Ocean

Here is the list of the top island destinations in the Indian Ocean.

1. Seychelles

If you are looking for a beach honeymoon, Seychelles, with a chain of 115 islands off the east coast of Africa, is perfect. This Indian Ocean destination is filled with superb sandy beaches, palm trees and beautiful towns. There are many resorts on the islands, but if you’re aiming for budget travel, the three main islands serve the purpose. Seychelles is not only renowned for pristine beaches but also for huge tortoises, big coconuts and large areas of rainforest, great for hiking.

2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, comprising 600 islands, are still known for their untamed nature and for being India’s remotest territory. Situated in the Bay of Bengal, a few Andaman and Nicobar islands, inhabited by ancient tribes, restrict travellers from visiting these. Still, the main tourist activities are scuba diving and sunbathing on one of the many beaches.

3. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, with a history of more than 3,500 years, is the most populous of all islands in the Indian Ocean. This ancient island nation is located southeast of the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent. Here one can explore spectacular coastline, colonial towns, national parks and temples. The best way to move throughout Sri Lanka is by railroad, as the hill railways are great to witness amazing views.

4. Réunion

Located between Madagascar and Mauritius, Réunion is technically an overseas territory of France. This small island boasts of forests, gorgeous waterfalls, empty sand beaches and volcanoes. While numerous resorts attract tourists for luxury and relaxation, you can go hiking up to the caldera of a volcano for a great outdoor experience.

5. Madagascar

Madagascar, the world’s fourth largest island, is a biodiversity and adventure tourism hotspot as it boasts 70 per cent of rare plants and one in 20 rare living species. Most tourists visit the island to see chameleons and lemurs in their natural habitats.

6. Mauritius

For diverse cultural and culinary experiences, Mauritius is one of the best Indian Ocean island destinations as it was colonised by many different cultures, including the Dutch, Portuguese, Africans, French, and Chinese. It is located between the Seychelles, Madagascar and Réunion.

7. Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep’s tropical islands, located off the Kerala coast, are the perfect locations for an entertaining beach holiday. Clusters of coconut trees, hidden lagoons, water sports such as sailing sessions, kayaking, glass-bottom boat tours, snorkelling and scuba diving are the main attractions. Apart from tourists basking in the sun, they love to catch a grand glimpse of the vibrant corals.

8. Christmas Island

Christmas Island, an Australian territory located off the southern coast of Indonesia, is a stand-alone plateau that is made up of limestone and layers of volcanic rocks. Here you can explore rainforests, Flying Fish Cove (the island’s only port), and coral reefs. Additionally, you can enjoy activities like snorkelling, diving, bird-watching and the iconic red crab migration.

As a tourist, visiting the top island destinations in the Indian Ocean will fill your life with never-before moments. You will feel the adrenaline rush. So, include these destinations in your travel bucket list.

---