Introduction
Andaman and Nicobar Islands – India’s ‘Tropical Paradise’ is an island group that is sure to give tourists a magical taste of the turquoise water, colourful marine life, untouched beauty, and mysterious jungles.
Natural Wonders and Unique Biodiversity
The Flora and Fauna of Andaman is very rare. Apart from the natural beauty that attracts millions of tourists to this wonderland, the great grand history of the place is sure to entice you as well. If you are planning to visit this peaceful abode, this one-stop guide will make your vacation a perfect one.
About Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a union territory of India consisting of a total of 572 islands. While most of the islands are occupied, some remain uninhabited. It comprises two island groups, the Andaman Islands and the Nicobar Islands, separated by the 150 km wide Ten Degree Channel. Surprisingly, all of this is a submerged extension of the Arakan Mountains, which lay hidden underwater.
Ideal Seasons and Andaman Island Festivals
The best season to visit the island group is from October to May. That’s when the temperature is pleasant and ranges from 23° C to 35° C. If you want to absorb the local culture, watch the tribal dance and art forms, and enjoy magic shows, then come here during the annual Island Tourism Festival. It is a 10-day carnival and mainly occurs in January.
Andaman Island Highlights and Must-Visit Places
Ocean lovers, gear up. This blissful place is home to the world’s most beautiful islands and sightseeing locations. From one angle, it basks with history; from another, it is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. There’s so much to see and experience in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. But, if you are tight on schedule or seeking a list, you must not miss these things at any cost: There are several picturesque and popular islands near Port Blair that can leave you speechless.
Neil Island – A Quaint Getaway
However, few can match the quaint and soothing charm of Neil Island. Visitors prefer this island for its stunning biodiversity, white sandy beaches, unspoiled and pretty coral reefs, and tropical woodlands. Away from the noisy humdrum, Neil Island can serve as the perfect weekend getaway.
Ross Island – A Walk Through History
History is to Ross Island, what peace is to Neil Island. Also known as the ‘Paris of the East’, the island was named after Daniel Ross, a British marine surveyor. It is home to the remnants of a former British settlement. A tour on this island takes you down the road of nostalgia.
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Elephant Beach and Adventure Sports
Elephant Beach is one of the attractions located on Havelock Island. It is famous for the bright coral reefs and underwater marine sports. It takes around twenty minutes to get to the beach on a ferry, and the sight of the shore alone will leave you fascinated. Andaman and Nicobar Islands are famous for their adventure activities, and you should certainly add a few of them to your itinerary.
Underwater Marvels and Scenic Treks
Many people come to Andaman for the sheer delight of water sports. If you want to feel and touch the unique and colourful marine life, Andaman offers many options for you at affordable prices. Havelock Island and Neil Island are specifically flocked by scuba diving enthusiasts.
Once you are inside the water, the weight of your body fades away, and you find yourself in a completely new world. Hoards of fish and sea creatures will surround you as you walk. Trust us; it’s heaven.
Andaman and Nicobar Sea Adventures: Snorkelling and Sea Walks
There are only two places where you’ll be able to sea-walk in Andaman: Elephant Beach and North Bay. The enchanting marine world full of magnificent corals and diverse aquatic animals will instantly transport you as you dip your head for Snorkelling.
Elephant Beach, South Button, Tamarind Camp, Neil Island, Kalipur, North Bay Island are some famous snorkelling locations. You can choose one according to your convenience.
Trekking Through Nature’s Beauty
The trekking trails of Andaman are equally beautiful. You are surely going to fall in love with the forests of Andaman. Chidiya Tapu and Kala Pahaad are a few trekking destinations that would make you fall in love with the woods and trails of Andaman on foot. The sense of tranquillity that the Islands shower is perfect for recharging one’s body and mind.
Rich Birdlife and Nature Reserves in Andaman
Mount Harriet National Park is the tropical evergreen forest in Port Blair, which was initially a reserve. It is home to seven endangered species. The Parrot Island near Baratang is famous for endemic birds—especially Parrots. Sippi Ghat, Chidiya Tapu, Farar Ganj, and Havelock Island are places where you can copiously listen to and spot sights of birds in equal variation.
Historical Gems and Iconic Structures
There are multiple incredible sightseeing locations in Andaman and Nicobar Islands as well. Cellular Jail is one of the best places to visit in Andaman. This jail gives a clear picture of our days under British Rule. Britishers used this jail to imprison the political prisoners of India and Africa.
Historically, the cellular jail is known as Kaala Paani, which translates to Blackwater, pertaining to the fact that the ocean was the only way to get out of the jail, which was nearly impossible. Baratang is a small island located between the South and Middle Andaman and is home to several natural wonders in more ways than one. Mangrove creeks, beautiful beaches, limestone caves, and mud volcanoes adorn the landscape of the scenic islands.
Access and Transportation
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are accessible by air and boat. Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is connected to Kolkata and Chennai airport. The island can also be reached by waterways. Regular ships leave from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair, and the journey takes around 50-60 hours. There are all kinds of options available for different travellers.
Budgeting and Accommodation Options
The cost, including food and travel, would be somewhere around 2000 per day for budget travellers. Eco and concrete huts are examples of budget accommodation. For mid-range travellers, who are comfortable in large decent rooms, eat in local restaurants and commute on public taxis, the cost can go up to INR 3500-6000 per day.
For luxury travellers, who book rooms in five-star hotels and top-of-the-line resorts, eat in fine cafes and restaurants, and commute on privately hired vehicles, the cost would be above INR 7000 per day.
Adventure Sports Costs and Distribution
If you are in for adventure sports, then it will cost you extra, with the following distribution: Sea Walk – 3500 INR/Person; Scuba Diving – 3500 INR/Person; Banana Boat Ride – 600 INR/Person; Jet Ski Ride- 600 INR/Person; Semi Submarine Ride – 1850 INR/Person; Glass Bottom Boat Ride – 700 INR/Person.
Culinary Delights and Seafood Extravaganza
The staple diet of Andaman includes rice, coconut, spices, and lots of seafood. Being a group of islands, Andaman is a zion for seafood lovers. From cuttlefish, crabs, lobsters, prawns to the all-time favourite Red Snapper, you will be in for a real treat. It is also the perfect place to relish multi-cuisines. And yes, don’t forget to quench your thirst with a refreshing dose of coconut water from time to time.
Accommodation Choices
Some of the best hostels are Kanchan’s Nest, Blue Bridge Homes, and My Andaman Sports Hostel. You can choose to share a room with someone or book a separate room for yourself. Some highly recommended hotels in Andaman and Nicobar Islands are Hotel de Pebbles, Hotel Palika, Havelock Farms Resort, Senses Havelock Resort, Reef Atlantis, and Aashiaanaa Residency Inn.
The best luxury properties in Andaman and Nicobar Islands include the Havelock Holiday Beach Resort, Lush Green Retreat, Symphony Samudra Beachside Jungle Resort And Spa, SeaShell Neil and Taj Exotica Resort & Spa.
Ideal Trip Durations
It would be great to plan a 5 Nights and 6 Days trip to cover all the main sightseeing activities. A 9 Nights and 10 Days trip will give you time to explore all islands and activities at leisure. If you are interested in diving courses, you need to plan for a 2 to 3 week stay.
Conclusion and Call to Action
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