Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism – A union territory of India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located exclusively in the Indian Ocean in the north-eastern part of India. The island is famous for its immense scenic beauty, natural minerals and cultural diversities. In this article, we will discuss the beauty of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, their major natural sites, cultural diversities and attractions.
Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India, is a vibrant and historically important destination. Located on the South Andaman Island, Port Blair serves as the gateway to the archipelago and offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage and modern amenities.
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Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : History
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Indian Ocean and are spread over a distance of about 1200 kilometers from the east coast of India. The history here is full of diversity and adventure. In ancient times, tribal tribes lived on the islands here, which are called ‘Andamanese’ and ‘Nicobaris’. The life of these tribals was based on agriculture, sea hunting, and gathering. European explorers came to discover the group in the 15th and 16th centuries, including Vasco da Gama, Christopher Columbus, and James Cook. After this, in the 18th century, the British East India Company started gaining authority here and they built a jail here which became the present-day ‘Kalapani Jail’.
In 1858 the British government acquired these islands with India and annexed it as the ‘Andaman and Nicobar Province’. After the independence of India in the year 1947, these islands became part of India. Port Blair, the headquarters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is famous for its prosperity, natural beauty, and tribal culture. The beautiful beaches, wildlife, and rich culture of these islands make them a prime tourist destination.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : Main Attractions
1)- Swaraj Dweep/ Havelock Island
Amidst the Andaman Islands, Swaraj Island stands out as a picturesque paradise, adorned with dazzling white sandy shores, lush emerald forests and rich coral reefs. Spread over an area of 113 square kilometers, it is situated among the inhabited islands of the Andaman group. Located about 39 kms north-east of Port Blair, the island mesmerizes one and all with its exotic mix of intricate rainforest canopy and enchanting sandy shores, alluring one and all to the joy and frolic of the blue sea.
2)- Shaheed Dweep
Shaheed Dweep, located just 37 kilometers away, is a small but extremely beautiful island. This island is located to the south of the Andaman Islands. It has unexplored coral reefs, spectacular bio-diversity, white sandy beaches, and tropical forests and vegetation. Hence it is considered as one of the highest tourist places in Andaman. Shaheed Dweep is called the ‘vegetable bowl’ of the Andamans. The settlers here have named the beaches after mythological characters from the epic Ramayan, Sitapur, Laxmanpur, Bharatpur, Ramnagar etc. The island has a very relaxing climate and, with long, secluded beaches, it is an attractive place to relax after the hustle and bustle.
3)- Baratang
The island, which lies between South and Middle Andaman, consists of beautiful beaches, mangrove coves, mud-volcanic, and limestone caves. From here the Andaman Trunk Road goes up to Rangat and Mayabunder. With permission from the Forest Department and local guidance, the limestone cave can be explored at Baratang.
4)- Great Nicobar
This place is 540 km away from Port Blair by sea route for Indian tourists. The area of Great Nicobar Island is 400 Sq. India’s southernmost point ‘Indira Point’ is located in Great Nicobar Island. A rare bird called ‘Megapod’ is found in Great Nicobar.
5)- Barren island
India’s only active volcano which erupted once in 1991 and again in 1994-95 after lying dormant for about 177 years, is located in Barren Island. , The island is about three kilometers in diameter and has a large volcanic crater about half a kilometer from the coast. The island can be visited by hiring boats with the permission of the Forest Department. Foreign nationals are allowed to board the ship only and are not allowed to disembark.
6)- Diglipur
Diglipur, located about 12 hours by road from Port Blair, is located 325 km north of Andaman Island and the natural beauty offers a unique experience to the tourists. It is known for the fame of its oranges, rice and marine life. Saddle Peak, the highest point of the islands, is located nearby and it is here that the Kalpong, the only river in the Andamans, flows. The only hydro-electric project of the islands is also situated on this river.
7)- Rangat
The eco-tourism destination, Rangat, which has an area of 1070 sq km, is located in Middle Andaman. This large island is surrounded by pristine beaches, waterfalls and interesting islands. The island is spread over 75 villages and 14 gram panchayats. The major portion of the population is made up of people from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Fishing and farming are the two major residential occupations in the island.
8)- Mayabundar
Mayabunder, about three hours north of Rangat, occupies a large area and is surrounded by mangrove forest. The village is home to a large minority of the eastern Burmese Karen tribe, who were originally brought here as timber workers from Britain. Also, it is more detailed and more impressive than Rangat.
9)- Little Andaman
Little Andaman Island is situated at a distance of 120 km from Port Blair by sea. White sandy beaches, mesmerizing waterfalls, boating through the creeks, exciting elephant safaris, elephant wood cutting, training of elephant calves, surfing etc. are the major attractions of Little Andaman Island. All places in Little Andaman Island can be reached by road. Little Andaman has a rich bio-evergreen rain forest.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : Major Attractions
- Jet Ski Ride
- Seakart
- Scuba Diving
- Trekking
- Game Fishing
- Bird Watching
- Nature & Wildlife
- Shopping
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : Heritage Spot
10)- Cellular Jail
Built by the British colonial administration in the late 19th century, the prison served as a prison for Indian freedom fighters during the British rule in India. The design and architecture of the prison was unique, with a central tower with seven spokes emanating from it, giving it the appearance of a “wheel within a wheel”. Each cell was designed to isolate individual prisoners, separating them from each other. Prison conditions were harsh and brutal, with prisoners subjected to forced labor and harsh punishments. Many freedom fighters had to suffer a lot within its walls.
The Cellular Jail serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for India’s independence. Today, it serves as a national memorial and museum, attracting visitors who come to learn about India’s history and pay tribute to the brave men who fought for freedom. The site stands as a symbol of the country’s struggle against oppression and its journey towards freedom.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : Local Transport
Following are the modes of local transport in Port Blair and other tourist places, you can choose any according to your convenience.
- Autos
- Mini Buses
- Taxis
- Buses
- Rental Car
- Rental Biks
- Cab Car
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : Famous Food
- Fish curry
- Amritsari Chole Kulche
- Chilli Curry
- Machar Jhol
- Coconut Shrimp Curry
- tandoori fish
- Grilled Lobster
- Barbecue
Know about the recipe of fish curry and chilli curry please click here.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : Hotels
All types of hotels are available here, you can choose any hotel according to your choice. For more information visit the official website of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism : ENTRY FORMATLITIES FOR FOREIGNERS
To know about the guide lines for foreigne tourist please click here.
How To Reach in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
By Air – Veer Savarkar International Airport is located in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Port Blair is connected by air to major cities of India.
Shipping Services – The Directorate of Shipping Services, Andaman and Nicobar Administration operates regular ferry services in the coastal areas. The Directorate also operates vehicle ferries to important places and several harbor ferries. For tourists, private buses are operated from Port Blair to nearby tourist places. Private tourist boats are also available at Wandoor.
Helicopter Services – Daily helicopter services are available from Port Blair to other inter-island tourist destinations.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism FAQ’s
1) Where is the Andaman and Nicobar Islands situated?
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are nestled in the Indian Ocean, and are located off the southeast coast of India.
2)- What is the best way to reach here?
You can reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands via flight. Veer Savarkar International Airport is served by Port Blair Andaman.
3)- How is the weather here?
The climate of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is tropical. There are high temperatures and high disaster potential here throughout the year, so you should follow weather related information.
4)- What is the local art and culture here?
The art, music and dance of the local tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is delightful. The culture here has elements of ancient and local native culture.
5)- Can forecasting budget be done for here?
Yes, you should study the costs of hotels, food, travel and attractions as necessary to decide the approximate budget for here.
Note :- Please note that the information given here is based on 2021 and may change, so you should get the latest information from official sources.