By TravoUpdate
Lakshadweep is gaining popularity among Indian tourists, while the Maldives is seeing a decline in Indian visitors.
Lakshadweep's Rising Popularity
Diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives, especially after Mohamed Muizzu's administration took power, have led to social media calls to boycott the Maldives.
Diplomatic Tensions Impact
Diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives, especially after Mohamed Muizzu's administration took power, have led to social media calls to boycott the Maldives.
Diplomatic Tensions Impact
Prime Minister Modi's support for Lakshadweep has contributed to its increased popularity among Indian tourists.
Prime Minister Modi's Support
Agatti Airport in Lakshadweep saw a significant rise in passengers, with 22,990 passengers from April to June, compared to 11,074 in the same period the previous year.
Agatti Airport Growth
The number of flights to Agatti increased by 88%, with 786 flights this year compared to 418 the previous year, improving travel accessibility.
Increase in Flights to Lakshadweep
Indian visitors to the Maldives decreased by almost 50%, with only 28,604 arrivals between April and June this year compared to 54,207 in the same period last year.
The decline in Indian Visitors to Maldives
The Maldives saw a rise in Chinese tourists, with 1.2 lakh Chinese arrivals in the first half of 2024, making China the top source of tourists to the Maldives.
Rise in Chinese Tourism
Indian tourists to the Maldives dropped to sixth place in terms of visitor numbers, with a 42.5% decrease compared to the previous year.
Indian Tourists Drop in Ranking
Lakshadweep is becoming increasingly popular among cruise travelers, indicating a broader trend of Indian tourists exploring new destinations.
Cruise Travel to Lakshadweep
The Maldives faces stiff competition from other destinations like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, which offer similar beach experiences and more flexible travel options.
Competition with Other Destinations