The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are an island chain located on the eastern geographical boundaries of India. It is a splendid chain of 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal. These attractive undulating islands are known for their tropical evergreen forests, exotic flora and fauna, mangroves, and rainfeds. It is divided into two island groups, first the Andaman group which covers about 550 islands of which 28 are inhabited. Second is the Nicobar group of 22 islands, of which 10 are inhabited. These groups are separated by a 150 km wide Ten Degree Channel.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also known for the historically significant landmarks of India’s first war of independence. Such as Ross Island, Viper Island, Hopetown, Cellular Jail, and Mount Harriet. These islands are called the home for various endemic birds and many species and non-species are found here. The Andaman Islands have a large number of Wildlife Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, and National Parks. These islands are graced with both southwest and northeast monsoon. That’s why it receives rainfall twice a year, from the northeast monsoon between November to January and from the southwest monsoon between May to September.
The best time to visit
Andaman and Nicobar Islands enjoy a balmy climate, the changes in temperature are minimal and stay engaging throughout the year. The best time to visit the islands is from October to May, as the monsoon is over by this time. And the weather becomes beautiful for water sports, sightseeing, and relaxing on beaches.
Travelers visit between May and September. To explore new experiences of life and to unwind from their daily routines lives. They visit to feel a few moments of silence, solitude, and bliss. During this period of monsoon season water sports are not available due to unpredictable rains, strong winds, and high tidal waves.
Tourist places of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Cellular Jail:- It is a must-visit place of Port Blair in Andaman. Cellular jail was constructed in 1908 by the freedom fighters. But commissioned by the Britishers, it is a three-story and seven-wing building. This place is a witness to the horrific hardships faced by freedom fighters during the colonial rule in India. Cellular jail is popularly known as “Kala Panni” and is famous for its sound and light show in the evening.
- Chidiya Tapu:- This island is heaven for nature lovers and the house of various indigenous and migratory birds. Chidiya Tapu is a treasure trove of mesmerizing views of the oceans and thick forests covered with dense mangroves. The biological park here offers exotic plant species and elegant birds and animals. The island is famous for its adventure sports like sea-walking, scuba diving snorkeling, and many more. Chidiya Tapu is famous for its sunset point where you can end your long day and relax.
- Radhanagar Beach:- It is a blue flag beach tucked on the western coast of Havelock islands, radhanagar beach is the most popular destination for tourists in Andamans. This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Asia, due to its sparkling blue sea and soft silver sand. Radhanagar Beach is the best spot for photographers longing for a perfect shot. Swimming after 5 pm is not allowed in the sea due to the risk of high tidal waves.
Other attractions
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park:- This park was created in 1983 and is a house of 15 untouched islands having the most attractive collars and marine life across the country. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a part of Wandoor islands in Port Blair, private and government-owned buses and taxis are available for visiting the park. The most attractive thing about this park is riding the glass boat, which shows the entire marine under your seats.
- Mount Harriet National Park:- This park was formed in 1969. Mount Harriet is a part of this park, is the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and is the best trekking spot on the island. Mount Harriet National Park is known for its alluring flora and fauna species and is also a hotspot for butterflies. You can trek through Madhuban Jungle to explore the beauty of Mount Harriet and see the regional animals and butterflies that fly around.
How to reach
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are the union territory of India, so Indians do not require any legal permission to visit here just need a document proving their nationality. But foreigner needs to obtain permissions and documental proofs while traveling. The islands are connected with India only by air and sea routes.
The fastest and safest way is to board a flight from Bengaluru, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata airport and it takes around 2.5 to 4 hrs to reach to the capital city Port Blair. You can also travel through ships from the ports of Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam and reach Haddo Wharf, the main seaport of Port Blair. The voyage takes the time of 3 to 4 days.
Port Blair airport is 31kms away from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which takes about 40 mins to reach there by car. There is no direct international ship or flight available to reach Andamans.
Conclusion
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an eco-friendly destination. Hence, where you can enjoy the beautiful evergreen tropical rain forests, and decorated mangrove-lines streams. Additionally, the silver sand beaches with mesmerizing sunsets and sunrises, and marine life rich with rare species of flora and fauna, provide the best experiences. There are excellent opportunities for adventure sports, trekking, campaigning, nature trails, and so on. These islands are paradise for tourists, due to their never-ending beauty with memorable historical values.
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