Andaman

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, to the southeast of the Indian mainland.The archipelago consists of 572 islands, with the Andaman Islands to the north and the Nicobar Islands to the south. The AndamanIslands are more popular amongst tourists and are known for their lush tropical forests, white-sand beaches, and coral reefs.

Andaman consists of 325 islands spanning over an area of 6,000 Square kilometers.  If you are a nature enthusiast,  you must visit the beautiful islands of Andaman. But the Andaman Islands are not just about beautiful landscapes and oceans. They are also home to indigenous tribes who have lived there for a very long time. These tribes have their languages, traditions, and ways of life that are different from what most people are used to.So, when you explore the Andaman Islands, you not only get to enjoy the beautiful nature but also have a chance to learn about and respect the cultures of the indigenous people who call these islands their home.

Given below are the top Andaman Islands that you must add to your next travel bucket list.

Havelock Island is one of the mot popular islands located in Andaman. It is located around 41 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can reach Havelock from Port Blair by taking a ferry. There are different types of ferries, including government-operated ships and private ferries. The government-operated ferries are usually more economical but can be slower. Private ferries on the other hand are faster but may be more expensive. The ferry journey from Port Blair to Havelock can take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose.

The major attraction of Havelock Island isn’t he Radhanagar beach which is considered by man as the Asia’s best beach. The beach is situatedaround 12 kilometers from the main town of Havelock and is known for its stunning sunsets, white sands and clear water. Apart from Radhanagar Beach, Havelock offers many opportunities to tourists for water sports and underwater exploration. Snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts flock to this destination to witness the rich marine life, including colorful coral formations and numerous fish species. Elephant Beach is another popular spot for snorkeling and exploring coral reefs.

The local population on the Island consists mainly of the indigenous Jarwa tribe, and tourism plays a significant role in sustaining the economy of these islands. There are several resorts, hotels, and guesthouses catering to tourists, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the peaceful surroundings.

Ross Island is situated in the South Andaman district, just 2 kilometers east of Port Blair. The most common way to reach Ross Island is by taking a ferry from Port Blair. Ferries to Ross Island usually depart from the Aberdeen Jetty in Port Blair. The journey is short, taking around 15-20 minutes.Touristsneed an entry permit to visit Ross Island, which can be obtained in Port Blair. These permits are often included when booking guided tours to Ross Island.

Ross Island holds significant historical importance as it served as the administrative headquarters for the British during their colonial rule of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.The Island was the seat of British administration in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from the late 19th century until 1942 when it was abandoned due to the Japanese capturing the island World War II. One can explore the British Commissioner’s Residence here whichwas designed in a Victorian style and served as the official residence of the British Commissioner, who was the highest-ranking administrative officer in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands during British rule.

The Ross Island Museum is another popular tourist attraction here. The Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and heritage of Ross Island, particularly its role during the British colonial era in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It features a wide range of exhibits, including photographs, documents, artifacts, and memorabilia from the colonial period. The museum often hosts a “Sound and Light Show” in the evening, narrating the history of Ross Island. This audiovisual presentation is both educational and entertaining, bringing the island’s history to life.

Neil Island is located around 40 km from Port Blair and the most common way to reach Neil Island is by taking a ferry from Port Blair. Ferries operate regularly between Port Blair and Neil Island and the journey takes around 2-2.5 hours depending upon the type of ferry you have taken and sea conditions. The Island offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to more fancy resorts. It’s a good idea to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Neil Island, now officially known as Shaheed Dweep, is a small but picturesque island,  known for its natural beauty and serene environment. One of the main attractions here is Laxmanpur Beach which is divided into two parts, Laxmanpur Beach I and Laxmanpur Beach II. Laxmanpur Beach I is famous for its stunning sunset views, whereasLaxmanpur Beach II is known for its natural rock arch bridges. The Natural Bridge, also called the Howrah Bridge, is a unique rock formation located near Laxmanpur Beach II. It’s a fascinating natural wonder and a popular spot for photography.

The jetty area on Neil Island is the initial point of arrival for tourists and is a bustling hub. You’ll find a variety of local shops and stalls around the jetty area. These shops sell a range of items, including souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts, jewelry, and local products. Another popular beach on the Neil Island is the Bharatpur Beach which is popular for its crystal-clear waters and is a great place for snorkeling. One can explore the underwater world and spot colorful coral reefs and marine life here.

North Bay Island is located near Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is part of the Ritchie’s Archipelago. The most common way to reach North Bay Island is by taking a ferry from Port Blair. Ferries to North Bay Island are available from the Aberdeen Jetty in Port Blair. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes.

North Bay Island is popular for its coral reefs. You can do snorkeling here or take a glass-bottom boat ride to witness the mesmerizing underwater world, including colorful corals and various fish species.  One can also engage in water sports activities such as  scuba diving, canoeing, surfing and sea walking.

The North Bay Island Lighthouse is a prominent landmark on North Bay Island. The lighthouse has historical significance and has served as a crucial navigational aid for ships and vessels navigating the waters around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is one of the main attractions of North Bay Island andtourists can climb to elevated points around the lighthouse to enjoy stunning views ofthe Andaman Sea.

Barren Island is situated in the eastern part of the Andaman, about 138 kilometers northeast of Port Blair. It has the only active volcano in the Indian subcontinent and is a remote and uninhabited island.The most common way to reach Barren Island is by taking a chartered boat or expedition vessel from Port Blair. It’s essential to make arrangements well in advance, including obtaining the necessary permits and coordinating with tour operators who specialize in trips to Barren Island.Barren Island’s volcano is known to be periodically active, emitting smoke and ash. Tourists are usually not allowed to land on the island but can observe the volcanic activity from a safe distance.

Barren Island is not a typical tourist destination due to many reasons, but visiting the islandprovides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness an active volcano in the Indian Ocean. The primary and most extraordinary highlight of Barren Island is its active volcano. As already mentioned above,  while tourists are not allowed to land on the island itself due to safety concerns, you can observe the volcanic activity from a distance, including smoke and ash emissions.

Many tour operators offer boat trips around Barren Island, allowing you to get relatively close to the volcano and observe its activity. These boat tours provide a unique point for photography and sightseeing. The waters around Barren Island are known for their biodiversity. While on a boat tour, you may spot dolphins, various fish species, and even the occasional whale in the surrounding sea.

Long Island is a secluded island in the Andaman region and is situated approximately 82 kilometers northeast of Port Blair. To reach Long Island, you will have to take a ferry from Port Blair to reach the Yerrata Jetty, which is the departure point for boats to Long Island. Regular government-operated ferries connect Yerrata Jetty in Port Blair to Long Island. These ferries are usually available on specific days of the week, so it’s advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance and plan your visit accordingly. The ferry journey from Port Blair to Long Island typically takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the type of ferry and weather conditions.

Lalaji Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Long Island and is known for its captivating natural beauty. The beach is less crowded compared to other popular beaches of Andaman. While visiting Lalaji Bay, you can arrange snorkeling trips to explore the underwater world.Merku Shores is another beautiful beach on Long Island.It features a long stretch of soft, sandy shoreline, clear waters, and lush greenery that surrounds the beach. Just like Lalaji Bay Beach, this is also a less-visited beach compared to some of the more popular tourist spots in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, making it perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.

Little Andaman is one of the larger islands in the Andaman region and is located in the southeastern part of the Andaman Sea. Itis situated about 120 kilometers south-southwest of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The beach is relatively remote and less developed compared to some of the other islands in the region. To reach Little Andaman,  you will have to take a ferry from Port Blairto Hut Bay, the main settlement on Little Andaman. The journey by ferry takes approximately 6-8 hours.

Butler Bay Beach is a prominent attraction here, offering a long stretch of golden sands and breathtaking views of sunsets. The Little Islandhastwo  waterfalls: Whisper Wave Waterfall and White Surf Waterfall, both setmidst dense jungle landscapes.The waterfallsare surrounded by lush greenery and The journey to reach this waterfall involves a trek through dense jungle. Some parts of Little Andaman also offer elephant safaris, allowing tourists to explore the island’s interior while riding on the back of these majestic creatures.

Cinque Island is located at a distance of about 40 kilometers south of Port Blair. The island’s proximity to Port Blair makes it accessible for day trips and short excursions from the main city. To reach Cinque Island, From Port Blair, travel to ChidiyaTapu Harbor, which serves as the departure point for boats to Cinque Island. ChidiyaTapu is a 45-minute drive from Port Blair.Regular government-operated and private ferries connect ChidiyaTapu Harbor to Cinque Island. The ferry journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes.

The island’s main attractions revolve around its unspoiled natural beauty and unique marine ecosystem. Coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish and sea creatures, make it a popular spot amongst snorkelers and divers.Some tour operators offer combined trips that include visits to nearby islands, allowing you to explore multiple destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Parrot Islandis an uninhibited island,  and is located at a distance of 100 km from Port Blair. Parrot Island is part of the Baratang Island group and to reach the island, you need to take a government-operated ferry or a private boat to Baratang Island from Port Blair. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.After reaching Baratang Island, you’ll need to hire a local boat or arrange for a guided tour to Parrot Island.

Parrot Island is named so because of the large population of parrots that inhabit the island and the spectacular natural phenomenon that occurs during sunset. Thousands of parrots, primarily green parrots, return to the island in the evening to roost in the dense mangrove forests surrounding the Island. This daily gathering of parrots is a beautiful sight, and it’s one of the key reasons why tourists come here. Besides parrots, Parrot Island is home to various other unique bird species as well,  hence,  proving to be a great destination for bird enthusiasts.

Baratang Island is located on the northern part of the Andaman Islands. From Port Blair, you can reach Baratang Island by road. The distance is around 100 kilometers. You’ll need to travel on the Andaman Trunk Road, which connects Port Blair to Baratang Island. The journey takes around 3-4 hours by car or bus.Along the way to Baratang, you’ll pass through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve. This area is sensitive, and there are regulations in place to protect the indigenous Jarawa tribe. Tourists are required to coordinate with local authorities and adhereto specific guidelines for responsible tourism.

The limestone caves on Baratang Island are a major tourist attraction. These caves are formed by the continuous action of seawater over thousands of years. The complex formations and stalactites inside the caves make for an interesting exploration. To reach the caves, you’ll have to take a boat ride through the dense forests. Guided tours are available to explore the caves. Local guides often accompany visitors to provide insights into the geology and history of the caves.

Baratang is also known for its unique mud volcanoes. Mud volcanoes are not true volcanoes in the traditional sense; they are geological features where a mixture of gas, mud, and water is forced to the surface due to pressure beneath the Earth’s crust. The mud that is expelled forms small volcanic-like mounds. Tourists can see the mud volcanoes from designated viewing areas. These areas aresafe and provide an excellent vantage point to witness the natural phenomenon.

Baludera Beach on Baratang Island is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a place where you can take leisurely walks along the shore, relax under the sun, and enjoy the soothing sound of the waves.

Diglipur Island is situated in the northern part of the Andaman Islands. To reach Diglipur Island from Port Blair,you’ll need to travel on the Andaman Trunk Road, either by bus or car. The distance between Port Blair and Diglipur is around 325 kilometers and takes around 10-12 hours by road.Alternatively, there is also a ferry service available from Port Blair to Diglipur. The ferry journey is longer but provides a scenic route through the Andaman Sea.Once you arrive in Diglipur, you can reach the island using local transportation options such as buses, auto rickshaws, and rented cabs.

Ross and Smith Islands, also known as Twin Islands, are among the mostpicturesque destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islandsand also one of the most popular tourist spots.  These twin islands are commented to each other via a 50-meter-long sand bar. Both Ross and Smith Islands have beautiful beaches with soft, white sands and crystal-clear waters. These beaches are ideal for swimming andsunbathingJust lieBaratang Island, Diglipur also has mud volcanoes that are worth visiting to witness this natural phenomenon.Another place to visit on Diglipur Island is the Saddle peak. Saddle Peak is the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is part of the Saddle Peak National Park. It is a popular trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts and the trek to the summit takes you through dense forests, and the trail can be moderately challenging.

While visiting DiglipurIsland, you must not missKalipur beach. The beach is known for its black sand which happens because of the volcanic geological processes in the region. The sand on this beach is composed of fine black or dark gray particles, creating a unique contrast with the blue waters of the Andaman Sea.

Red Skin Island is a beautiful island that is part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park in Andaman.  It is one of the two islands located in the National Park that is open to tourists. To reach Red Skin Island, you need to take a boat from WandoorJetty which is situated around 25 km from Port Blair. The whole journey takes around 30 to 35 minutes. Please note that the island is closed on Mondays and is open to tourists only from the months of May to October

Snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing are some of the most popular things to do inthe Red Skin Island.Snorkeling is a popular activity, allowing you to observe colorful fish, corals, and other underwater creatures in their natural habitat. For a more intense underwater experience, you can consider going forscuba diving. Since the island has a shallow water beach, it is also ideal for swimming.

To really explore the beauty of the ocean and marine life while staying dry, you can take a glass-bottom boat ride. On the island itself, you can take long nature walks along walking trails. It’s a great opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the island and spot some unique flora and fauna.

The Andaman Islands are a true natural paradise and one of the best places to visit in the country for beach lovers. The low population density and responsible tourism practices in the region have helped preserve the islands’ natural environment, making them an ideal destination for those seeking peace and quiet.Whether you seek serenity on pristine beaches, adventure in turquoise waters, or a glimpse into fascinating history, the Andaman Islands have something for everyone. From the action-packed shores of Havelock to the laid-back charm of Neil Island, and the historical intrigue of Ross Island, each island offers its own unique character. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover your own paradise in the Andamans!