Andrott

The Andrott Island is the largest island with an area of 4.90 sq km, length of 4.66 km and a maximum width of 1.43 km. It lies in the east-west direction, between 10° 48′ and 10° 50′ N latitude and 73° 38′ and 73° 42′ E longitude. It is 119 km (64 nautical miles) away from Kavaratti and 293 km (158 nautical miles) away from Kochi. It is the only island having a very small lagoon area .

Andrott is the nearest island to the mainland and has an east-west orientation unlike other islands lying in the north-south direction.It is the Largest island in the Lakshadweep.Thick vegetation mainly coconut groves ,add to the beauty of the island.It was the first island to embrace ISLAM . The Saint Ubaidullah ,who is belived to have converted the people of islands to islam,died here and his tomb still remains in the Juma at Mosque . Religious preachers from here are held in high esteem.Fishing industry is well developed,next only to Minicoy and Agatti. Coir and Copra are the major products of the island.

Climate

The climate of Andrott is similar to the climatic conditions of Kerala. March to May is the hottest period of the year. The temperature ranges from 25^oC to 35^oC and humidity ranging from 70 -76 per cent for most of the year. The average rainfall received is 1600 mm a year. Monsoon prevails here from 15th May to 15th September. The monsoon period raises temperature to the mercury level between 27- 30 degrees. During the monsoon time, boats are not allowed outside the lagoon because of the violent sea. The presence of the reef maintains calm at the lagoon.