Andaman Islands Travel Guide: Explore India’s Tropical Paradise

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Feb

Feb 14,2020

Andaman Islands: An Overview

The Andaman Islands, a Union Territory of India, are a group of around 300 islands in the Bay of Bengal, with Myanmar to the north and mainland India to the west. Port Blair serves as the capital city for both Andaman and Nicobar Islands, acting as the point of entry to the islands and well connected by sea and air.

Some islands are inhabited by indigenous Andamanese people and are off limits to visitors to protect their privacy, as they have little or no contact with the outside world. The islands open to tourism are among the most beautiful in the world, featuring white-sand beaches and tropical rain forests, making them a must-see on a tour of Andaman Islands.

Places to Visit In Andaman Islands

1. Port Blair

The capital city is the ideal place to start your trip to Andaman. It is home to a strategically placed tri-command of the Indian Forces. Historically known as Kala Pani (Cellular Jail), it now hosts a light and sound show, showcasing the struggles of prisoners during the jail's operation, especially after the 1857 revolt and the first uprising of the free India movement.

2. Swaraj Dweep Island (Havelock Island)

Renamed Swaraj Dweep Island, it is 57 kms from Port Blair. Turquoise waters and white-sand beaches make it a top destination in Andaman. It attracts a global audience for its laid-back yet vibrant vacations. Activities include snorkeling with rare coral reefs and various water sports.

3. Neil Island

Neil Island offers coral reefs at Bharatpur Beach and stunning sunsets at Laxmanpur Beach. The Neil Kendra hamlet is located at the docks, with the Turtle Sanctuary at Sir Hugh Rose Island on the opposite coast, protecting some of the world's biggest turtles under the Wildlife Protection Act.

4. Little Andaman Island

As the fourth largest island of the Andaman archipelago, Little Andaman Island boasts beautiful white-sand beaches and mesmerizing waterfalls. A 4-hour trek through forest leads to waterfalls. The island offers adventure activities such as surfing, elephant safaris, boating through creeks, scuba diving to see coral reefs, and more.

Things to Do in Andaman

1. Island Hopping

Enjoy the relaxed activity of island hopping, experiencing stunning sunrises, sunsets, and strolls on white sands. Ferries connect you from one beautiful island to another, each with its distinct environment.
2. Mangrove Kayaking

Paddle through Havelock Island’s mangrove creeks with options for morning, afternoon, or night kayaking, an out-of-this-world experience in Andaman's tropical setting.
3. Behold Bioluminescence

Witness stars floating on water due to phytoplankton on no moon nights at Havelock Island. It is a surreal experience exclusive to Andaman.
4. Watching the Dolphins

Observe dolphins in the open blue seas of Lalaji Bay, with their playful acrobatics and unique chirps, a memorable wildlife encounter.
5. The Only Active Volcano of India

Visit Barren Island, 138 kms from Port Blair, to see South Asia’s only active volcano. World-renowned for scuba diving, you can see manta rays, basalt formations, and coral gardens created by lava flows. Access it by ferry or boat from Havelock Island.
6. Snorkeling

Snorkel at Elephant Beach in Havelock for a close look at vibrant marine life, witnessing rare corals and colorful fishes—a must-do activity.
7. Sea Walking

Sea walk lets non-divers explore the seabed with relaxed, easy breathing, experiencing the underwater world in a whole new way.
8. Parasailing

For thrill seekers, parasailing over the ocean offers an exhilarating rush—truly a bucket-list activity.
9. Helicopter Ride

Fly over the islands for a panoramic view of the tropical forests, dense mangroves, and surreal beaches—ideal if you have limited time.

How to Reach Andaman Islands

By Air

Catch a 2.5-hour flight from Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport. Flights from Delhi and Mumbai take around 5 hours.

By Ship

There are 3–4 sailings every month, each taking around 50–60 hours from Chennai and Kolkata.

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Mr.Avadh bihari Rathore

The Most important part is to keep you hydrated, be it after a party or those long walks on the beach. Water is must, so carry a bottle that can be refilled.