ANDAMAN & NICOBAR TRAVEL GUIDE

One of the union territories of India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a breathtaking archipelago located in the Bay of Bengal. The exotic beaches blessed with coral reefs and amazing marine life making the landscape breathtakingly exquisite, cater a perfect beach holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. This group of islands is an empyrean for both nature admirers and adrenaline junkies alike.

Capital: Port Blair Location: Bay of Bengal

History of Andaman

Andaman and Nicobar have rich history dating back since 800 BC. These Islands are one of the famous Islands in the world and they have the best beaches in India. This must visit destination is a good place for vacationing but let us learn a thing or two about this paradise. The indigenous population called Andamanese and Nicobarese inhabit these Islands. The Islands of Andaman and Nicobar have five indigenous tribes that are still living in these parts like Jharwas (Jarawas), Onges, The Great Andamanese, Shompens, Sentenelese. The common languages they spoke were Onge, Andamanese, Sentinelese, Jarawa and Nicobarese. In addition to the tribal’s of the Island, it was believed that the Andaman Islands were descendants of African slaves that arrived in this Island after a shipwreck while being carried on board on a Portuguese ship, however, most of the anthropologist’s sum-up with the fact that they are not Negros but Negritos. For years, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have seen many faces from India’s First War of Independence that took place in the year 1857 to the Japanese Invasion during the 2nd World War. But with the coming of Indian Independence in the year 1947, these islands Andaman and Nicobar were united with the Indian mainstream. Today, you will find, its past relics, artefacts and ruins around the Island, in the museum of Cellular Jail in Andaman. For ages, the Andamans have been nicknamed as Kala Paani because of its cellular Jail. Earlier, Andaman used to be a prison central to take away the prisoners far from the mainland. Today, this Cellular Jail sources as a prime attraction for tourists.

Best Time to Visit Andaman Island

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are one of the most popular beach tourist destinations in India. Being surrounded by the Andaman Sea to the east and the Bay of Bengal to the west, this place is crowded with tourists from across the globe. The ideal season to visit these Islands is during the months between October and May. You will feel calm and soothing amidst fresh air and heart warming sun with temperatures exceeding up to 30°c. This season is also famous for its annual tourism festival that takes place in the month of January. To know more, we have separated the three seasons below for better understanding.

Summer: April to June (24°c – 37°c)

This season is said to be one of the preferred times to travel to Andaman as will be surrounded by warm and pleasant breeze giving the perfect opportunity for tourist to indulge in fun summer activities. The temperatures during summers range from 24°c – 37°c and you can partake in water sports like surfing, scuba diving, paragliding, snorkelling, banana ride, and you can also take a trekking tour to explore its flora and fauna. Some common leisure activities that you can enjoy anytime of the day is by taking a stroll along the shoreline, drink refreshing drinks as you lay in the white sand beach, or take a long massage for an eventful evening in the Island. Besides, summer is not an ideal holiday season, you can always enjoy the off season amidst its beautiful attractions and budget hotels.

Monsoon: May to September (22°c – 35°c)

This season is not an eventful time to visit the Islands with the annual rainfall exceeding between 200 to 300 mm. Andaman and Nicobar experience big sea waves and heavy rainfalls during the monsoon season. Hence, the transportation via sea will be will be inaccessible including the flight to be delayed for several hours. The travellers hopping from miles across may face endless waiting hours. However, you can have a quite time in the resorts itself with soothing massages and indoor activities.

Winter: December to February (20°c – 30°c)

Best time to visit the Islands is during the winters when the temperature ranges between 20°c – 30°c. The weather during winters stays mild and pleasant throughout. In this season you will witness the Island packed with many tourists, the resorts, and the beaches will be celebrating with various beach activities like banana boat rides, beach volleyball, jet skiing, speed boating, water zorbing etc. You can also take up underwater activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, parasailing, undersea walking etc. Basically, this season is the most joyous period throughout the year and the days are often sunny and the sea is sometimes calm enough to reflect the clouds above. During this season you can visit its many wildlife attractions like Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Mount Harriet National Park, Arial Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Belle Island Wildlife Sanctuary etc.

DO’S AND DON’TS FOR RESPONSIBLE TOURISM ARE:

• Foreign Nationals should enter the islands with required permit from the immigration authorities.
• Do not enter in restricted or tribal areas around the Islands.
• In order to keep the streets clean, dispose of the garbage and plastics at proper places.
• If you happen to visit during summers make sure to carry all the necessary items like sunscreen lotion, a sipper, and sunglasses.
• For foreigners – Make sure to have enough Indian currency so you won’t have trouble if your cash runs out.
• If you want to take part in water activities then, avail the service of certified instructors of an international professional organization like PADI, CMAS, NAUI, BSAC or SSI for safe driving experience.
• It is advisable to drink sufficient water to avoid dehydration.
• It is advised not to take pictures of the airport, government dockyard, naval wharf, dhanikari dam, defence establishments and Chatham Saw Mill.
• Proper permits are required to take video or film.
• Do not swim after consuming liquor for your own safety.
• Setting up tents and hammocks during nights by the beaches or forest is not allowed.
• Nudity on beaches and public places is not allowed. Including proper beach wear.
• Entering National Parks without permission is not allowed.
• Make sure to be a part of island annual festival during January.
• It is best if you consult with the lifeguards before entering the sea.

Things to Do in Andaman

The islands of Andaman are a popular destination if you are looking for a recreational and leisure vacation. Its sandy beaches, attractive diving spots, aboriginal cultures and incredible history make the island an interesting holidayplace. This perfect go-to destination is also a great place to dive into its thrilling water sports activities along with other popular things to do. And there is no doubt; the place can never bore you. An ideal getaway destination far off the mainland is teeming with activities for family and friends such as adventure sports, trekking, sightseeing tours around the Island and thrilling water activities.

The Islands of Andaman has a ten-day long tourism festival and it is definitely a must attend occasion. This annual tourism festival is held every month of December and January. Besides, other must attend festivals in Andaman that are joyously celebrated are Subhash mela, a 7-day festival held on January and Vivekananda festival. For history lovers, the Islands offer a number of attractions to satiate their appetite in the form of Cellular jail and Ross Islands.

The islands of Andaman offer thrilling water activities that can be enjoyed whether you are on your family holiday or on a vacation with friends. If you always wanted to witness the underwater life then sea-walking provides a unique experience, you will feel like you’re walking on the moon.

This unique activity can be partaken by family who no age bars. Scuba Diving is a popular water sport and can be enjoyed at places like Havelock and Neil Islands which are rich in underwater life.

Caving can also be a great experience for those looking for a new adventure. There are two caves in Andaman such as Alfred Caves in Diglipur and Limestone Caves in Baratang. An interesting attraction every traveller must visit is the Mud Volcano in Baratang Island. This volcano is created by decaying organic matter emitting from underground. Parrot Island is also a must visit destination in Baratang to sight-see thousands of parrots.

Another popularactivity to do while in Andaman is Island Hopping. One can visit the different islands around Andaman via ferry rides. Ross Island, Viper Island, Havelock Island and Neil Island are some of the best choices for Island Hopping.

Apart from this, beach relaxing also a must thing to do, you can visit some sun-toasted beaches like Lakshmanpur Beach, Elephant Beach and witness the best views of sunrise, sunset, and even moonrise. If you are a foodie, the islands have some food joints that offer the fresh seafood.

Top Tourist Attractions in Andaman

Blessed white-sugar beaches, turquoise waters, sylvan haven and unparalleled tranquility, Andaman & Nicobar Islands is a perfect holiday destination in India. Though considerably detached from the main Indian Peninsula, the Islands are so well intact with the history of the country that try as you may, you cannot forget that this international-looking destination is not a part of India. The landmark of the Islands is of course its scenic beaches that are flanked by palm trees, however, Andaman & Nicobar are much more than just a beach getaway. The Islands apparently gleam with rich marine life of which coral reef is of prime importance.

The main city of Port Blair itself has a number of tourist attractions which are definitely a must see. The city houses the historical Cellular Jail that once has India’s leaders of freedom struggle. A part of the jail has been converted into a museum and it remains one of the major tourism attractions in Andaman. The nearby Ross Island also has plenty to offer to the visitors interested in history. Port Blair is also known for offering watersports opportunities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sea-cruises along with glimpses of the history and culture of the region. The Aberdeen Bazaar, which forms the centre of the town also has a lot to offer to shopaholics and the history buffs.