Bitra or Bitrā Par is a coral atoll belonging to the Amindivi Subgroup of islands of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep in India, 33 km to the north of Perumal Par and 41 km to the southeast of Byramgore Reef. The island of Bitra is located at the northern end of the Bitrā Par coral reef.
The island is said to have been the breeding grounds of the tern group of sea birds that hail from the Pitti sand. The island was frequented by the people of the neighboring islands of Kiltan and Chetlet who anchored in the shore of the Bitra Island to collect the eggs of the birds. The fishermen of the other islands would also visit the island but found it difficult to settle in the Bitra Island due to the lack of drinkable water. The sources of water often turned brackish during the season of the monsoons thus making it impossible for the inhabitants to gather water. The government has made continuous efforts to reduce the problem increasing the number of inhabitants of the island. The people of the island offer prayers at the shrine of Malik Mulla, the Arab saint.
Things to See & Do
* Malik Mulla Shrine
General Information
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Indian Rupee (INR)
Language – Hindi, English
Population – 264 approx
Land Area – 105.2 km² approx
Electricity – 2 round pins European style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT plus five and a half hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 91
Travel Links – The Lakshadweep islands are served by an airport on Agatti Island.
The islands can also be accessed by ship from Kochi (Cochin), taking approximately 24 hours.