Lakshadweep

Of the 36 or so coral atolls that make up the isolated paradise of Lakshadweep, only about 10 are inhabited, and their population is devoutly Sunni Muslim. Tourism here is severely restricted to protect the fragile ecosystems and the traditional peoples. If you don't have an Indian passport, your visit will be limited to Agatti, Kadmat, or Bangaram Island, each of which has one resort property. (You need to obtain a government entry permit with passport details.)

Crystal waters and soft sands are Lakshadweep's main attraction; all resorts offer water sports, and there's even a scuba diving school on Kadmat Island.