The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a union territory of the Republic of India. It has to offer jaw-droppingly gorgeous beaches, and multiple groups of indigenous tribes make the whole experience unforgettable. The location is picturesque, where the land is in the middle and is surrounded by water. The island is serene; the white sandy beaches and sparkling blue water are breathtaking. Tourists from all over the world visit this ecological paradise to seek solace. Few are even interested in the biodiversity of flora and fauna that the island possesses. Many visitors enjoy thrilling water adventures and cherish the feeling of togetherness, and for a few, it’s an inspiration to create art. It’s an ideal travel destination to break monotonous routines and make memories for visitors.
In this blog, we will try to give you a realistic experience of visiting the island yourself!
- Port Blair
Port Blair is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which reminds us of the sacrifices of freedom fighters. It has a cellular jail, one of the most infamous remnants of India’s struggle for independence. It was built for the solitary confinement of the prisoners. Freedom fighters like Veer Savarkar and Batukeshwar Dutt were incarcerated in this prison colony. Port Blair is also a gateway to other tourist attractions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to its accessibility from the mainland.
How to reach?
Ferries operate mainly from Port Blair to other islands.
- Havelock Island
Havelock Island, or Swaraj Island, is a popular beach in India and was also awarded the best beach in Asia by TIME magazine in 2004. It’s a wonderful, serene place with a white beach, lush green forest, sparkling blue water devoid of wave action, amazing aquatic life, and coral reefs. The Island has three awesome beaches: Radhanagar Beach, Vijayanagar Beach, and Elephant Beach. The place has an abundance of beauty and tranquillity; one must visit Havelock Island for a relaxing Beach holiday in Andaman.
There are a huge number of activities that one can do, like scuba diving, snorkelling, boating, fishing, etc. One can also enjoy elephant rides. The sunset at this beach is a marvel to behold.
How to reach?
Ferry service is available where the beach is situated at a distance of 12 kilometres from the Havelock Islands.
- Baratang Island
Baratang Island has many exciting things that any visitor can enjoy. Here, limestone caves of unique shapes are formed due to erosion. It also has dense mangrove creeks, tidal swamp forests, and small but fascinating Mud Volcanoes. A boat ride is available, which covers the canopy of the forest and is also home to the indigenous ‘Jarwa’ tribe. One has to be careful of the sea crocodiles and should not go near the water.
How to reach?
Ferries and cabs from Port Blair to Baratang are available.
- Neil Island
Neil Island is termed the coral capital of Andaman, which is famous for its coral reefs and white shores. In the morning, people can enjoy snorkelling and the coral reef view. One can enjoy the calm and cool sea breeze and indulge in oneself. Usually, when we talk about beaches, one cannot forget to imagine mouth-watering foods such as fish and coconut water.
How to reach?
The only way to get to Neil Island is to take a ferry from Port Blair. Both government and private ferries are connecting this island to Port Blair and other nearby Islands.
- Ross Island
Ross Island is famous for Kalla Paani, or cellular jail. Earlier, the jail was used to incarcerate political prisoners, notably from India’s struggle for independence. The island also has remains of the British era in the form of a bakery, bungalows, etc. It has a picturesque location and is one of the most important tourist destinations.
How to reach?
Ross Island is one of Port Blair’s closest islands and can be easily reached via a short (15-minute) boat ride from the Aberdeen Jetty (inside the water sports complex).
- Rangat
Rangat is a perfect place of scenic beauty for flora and fauna lovers. It is located on Middle Andaman Island and is famous for Cuthbert Bay Beach. It is the breeding ground for turtles such as olive ridley turtles, green sea turtles, hawksbill and leatherback turtles. It is a wildlife sanctuary on the beach that has newly born turtles. Visitors can help release turtle hatchlings.
How to reach?
Ferries and Government buses from Port Blair, Havelock, Neil, and Long Island lead to Rangat.
- The Great Nicobar Island
The great Nicobar Island covers an area of 1,045 square kilometres, making it the largest Nicobar Island. It is known for its diverse wildlife and is also a part of the World Biosphere Reserve. The island also contains the indigenous tribe called ‘Shompen, which is one of the oldest tribes in the world. The area was severely affected by the 2004 tsunami in the Indian Ocean, resulting in many deaths. It has Campbell Bay, which is home to several unique fauna, including Crab-eating macaques, giant robber crabs, megapodes, and Nicobar pigeons.
How to reach?
Indian citizens do not require permission to visit the island of Great Nicobar, whereas foreign nationals need to visit the Assistant Commissioner’s office in Port Blair before making their travel reservations. Veer Savarkar Airport is the only commercial airport in Port Blair, Andaman, where one can take a flight.
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