Are you looking forward to a splendid vacation to dip your toes in the soothing warm waters and to feel the breeze against you face? Then Andaman and Nicobar Islands is where you need to go. This breathtaking group of islands, with its sparkling water and pristine jungles will charm you. These tropical island chain may meet every unique desire of tourists.
A calm evening in the midst of sunset, a dive into the blue-green waters, trekking to embrace the lush flora and the rich culture to fulfill your history quest, the Andamans offers it all.
Places to visit
On your visit to these serene islands, do check these places out to have a memorable vacation.
Port Blair
The capital city of the island offers a wide variety of options to explore the city. For all the history lovers a museum tour is the best way to get to know the city. The Anthropological Museum takes one to the world of indigenous tribes and the Naval Marine Museum provides one with an insight into the rich biodiversity of the marine life.
Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex will delight all the water enthusiasts visiting the city. It offers water activities like banana rides, parasailing, rowboat paddling and speed boat rides.
The Cellular Jail
Don't be surprised, if you are asked to visit this jail during your trip. It was used by the British to imprison our freedom fighters. Though parts of the building are in ruins, it still stands strong to recite the tale of our forefathers' struggles. The jail is located at Port Blair, and is open for visit from Tuesday to Sunday. The light and the sound show here is highly recommended to watch.
Havelock Island
All the underwater explorers must include this place in their to-visit list. Prepare yourselves to dive into waters and watch the marine life through your naked eyes. Snorkelling, scuba diving and sea walking at the Elephant Beach are a few things to do here.
The crescent-shaped Radhanagar Beach, which was featured as Asia’s best beach by TIME magazine, also happens to be on the Havelock Island. The charming white sandy beach with its scenic beauty is without any doubt the most beautiful place to visit.
Madhuban
Amongst the trekking routes in Andaman, the rocky route from Mount Harriet, the highest peak in South Andamans, to the woodlands of Madhuban in the South Andaman has the most extravagant view. The 16-km trek can be the best adventure sport for you and your buddies. The nature lovers will be in awe of the exotic flora and fauna found in this region.
Island hopping
Bored of bar hopping, try something fun when you visit the archipelago. Yes, you heard it right, island hopping is a real thing in the Andamans. Most of the islands are a few ferry rides away from the capital city. Ross Island, North-Bay Island and the Viper Island can be combined to for a one-day cruise.
Ross Island holds on to the last relics of a magnificent church, the coral beauty of the North Bay island transforms you into the world of Nemo and Viper Island sends shivers down your spine as it was used as an execution ground during the colonial rule of Britain.
When to visit these tropical islands?
December to February
The temperature ranges from 20’ c- 30’ c. Technically this is not a winter climate, but it is very pleasant and cool. January is the best month to visit if you are seeking for an enhanced culture experience since The Island Tourism Festival takes place during this time.
April to June
The summer season is the best time to visit the island. All the breathtaking scenic photos of Andaman are usually taken during this time. The long white sandy beaches and its crystal clear water tempts all of us to pay them a visit. Water sports also actively take place during the summer.
July to September
This is time when the island experiences monsoon weather. And a trip during this time is not advisable, since the island receives about 300mm rainfall annually. Flights get delayed and most of the water sports are shut due to the weary weather.
But if what you want is to pamper yourselves with indoor spa and massage centre then hop on to the plane and enjoy your trip.
What to carry?
Loads of sunscreen.
Light cotton clothes and a cute pair of flip-flops.
Don’t forget to pack your beach wear.
Make sure you carry anti-allergic medicines and your basic medicines.
Essentials like sunglasses, umbrella and trekking shoes.
Always hydrate yourself, don’t let dehydration suck the fun out of your trip to the blue waters and dusky sky.
How to reach
The capital city Port Blair connects the islands to the world. Airways and waterways are the two means to reach the islands.
Via air
The only airport in the Andamans is the Veer Savarkar International Airport. There are direct flights from the Indian cities of Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Bangalore and Mumbai. The flights from Chennai and Kolkata take the shortest time (2 hrs) and hence the most preferable. Go Air and Spice Jet are the frequent fliers.
Via water
There are passenger ships available from Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam. They usually take about 60-70 hours to reach the island. The ship tours take about 3-4 times a month. First-time travellers may face sea sickness that may ruin their trip.
