Overview of Andaman Islands

Overview of Andaman Islands

Andaman Islands – Comprehensive Travel & Tourism Guide, a complete overview of Andaman Islands

As Pat Conroy once said, “Once you have travelled the journey never ends, it keeps playing time and again in the quietest chambers of your mind, never breaking off from the voyage you took.”

A visit to the beautiful Island of Andaman is one such journey, one that you will experience and remember for years to come.

The Most Splendid Little Island in the World – An Introduction

The island of Andaman, off the southern coast of India, has been known for many things, not the least of which is the fact that it is one of the biggest tourism destinations in the world.

Seeking heritage, culture, history, modernity, shopping, partying, drinking, and sundry enjoyments? Andaman Island is your one-stop destination for all things exotic and magnificent.

From popular activities like scuba diving and jet skiing to sea karting, trekking, and more, the island lives up to the saying ‘big things come in small packages’. From its tropical forests to reefs and beaches, Andaman is a sandy paradise equally rich historically as well as geographically.

Andaman Island has been conveniently divided into North, Middle, and South Andaman. Each segment has its own special and outstanding sights and unique things to do inAndaman.

“Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing at all.”

– Helen Keller

How to reach Andaman Islands

It may have around 300 islands and as many visitors every month, but there are only a handful of ways to get to this tropical paradise, the most important (not to mention convenient and recommended) being by air.

Flights for Andaman Island trips will invariably take you to Port Blair, the capital. There are direct flights to this charming capital from Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Ahmadabad, Bhubaneswar, and Chennai. The duration lasts anywhere from 2-5 hours.

Your destination is Port Blair Airport, the Veer Savarkar International Airport. Non-stop flight tickets can be purchased from Spice Jet, Go Air, Indigo, Air India and Vistara.

Note that there are absolutely no direct flights to Andaman Islands Internationally & only domestically all flights to Andaman will pass through or start from a major Indian city. The main reason some people choose private flights to the island is so they can get there sooner. In which case, keep all relevant paperwork ready (visa, passport, RAP) for the Foreign Nationals.

Aside from these, you will need to fill out special forms and gain exclusive permits before hopping on a self-chartered plane to Andaman. Customs and immigration counters in airports will have what you need. There are important guidelines detailed by the Director General of Civil Aviation that you need to comply with before choosing a private Andaman plane trip.

If you’re looking to go by ship, Kolkata, Chennai, and Vizag are the cities to note. These ship tours disembark 3-4 times monthly. It will take much longer to reach Andaman via ship, namely 60-70 hours. Your final stop will be at Haddo Jetty, Port Blair at Andaman Islands.

Bear in mind that ship sailing times are listed a month before departure. These are essentially government-regulated trips, meaning you will not find luxury liners taking you to Andaman by sea. On the other hand, private luxury cruises are indeed available, especially in the Thailand-Andaman stretch. Islands for days! You get to island-hop and enjoy all that such a trip has to offer.

Similar to private flights, private yachts to Andaman are also possible, but only from Thailand. An average trip from here will take 2 days, weather permitting. Your final destination will be Chatham Anchorage. You must be open to Andaman authorities checking your yacht upon arrival. Island-based travel agencies will surely be able to help foreign tourists get sorted when it comes to producing all relevant documents.

With 325 islands comprising the Andaman chain, reaching there is only the beginning. Indians making the trip do not need a passport or visa, just valid Indian ID proof. A special form is available to help Indians access islands like Jolly Buoy Island and Cinque Island.

On a similar note, foreigners coming to Andaman need to have a proper passport and visa. Non-Indian travellers also need to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to get to select Andaman locations. These rules apply regardless of whether the foreign tourists are travelling via private jet or yacht.

Where can you fill out the RAP form? At designated counters in the airport or seaport that you are scheduled to land in. Each form allows for 30 days of unrestricted access to some hotspots on Andaman, following which the permit can be extended for another 15 days. Be sure to head to the appropriate office three days before the original RAP lapses. RAP is applicable for Foreigners and OCI (overseas citizens of India).

“The journey is the destination.”

– Dan Eldon.

Tribal Life – Mystery Keepers of the Island

Before British rule, Andaman Island was home to indigenous tribes. In fact, many a zone still is. Protected by the Andaman government, these pocket regions are distributed across the archipelago.

Not all of them are legal to visit. The Sentinelese, for instance, are too hostile for anyone’s taste, and it is best to steer clear of their little island in the sea.

The five distinct tribal ‘societies’ that comprise this island deserve mention. They have been living in near-total isolation, untouched and uninfluenced by our world, for more than 60,000 years; and counting.

The five tribes are: the Great Andamanese, the Jarawas, the Onge, the Nicobar People, and the Sentinelese.

Considered to have descended from early migrants out of Africa, each of these precious tribal groups is worth protecting. They are some of the few Palaeolithic societies left on the planet. To date, little is known about how exactly they even came to live on Andaman. You can learn more at the Anthropological Museum in Port Blair.

“The life you have led doesn’t need to be the only life you have.”

– Anna Quindlen.

Port Blair – Window to the Past, Present & Future

The quaint city of Port Blair in South Andaman is the capital of Andaman Island, and it has many a treat in store for tourists from all over the world.

The naval base is a major tourist attraction in its own right. If you wish to know where to go shopping in Andaman, let alone where to find the most recommended restaurants in Andaman, a good city-guide is all you need.

Take a peek into India’s history on your visit to the Cellular Jail facing the sea. Know your present environment and the diminishing marine life at the Samudrika Marine Museum, and how you can work towards making tomorrow a better world for the biodiversity of Andaman.

You can travel from here to almost every other island in the archipelago chain. The best ferries in Andaman Port Blair include the Phoenix Bay Jetty and Haddo wharf.

If you wish to spend time only in Port Blair, make sure you November to mid-May. You can take advantage of a plethora of well-priced offers during this time. Below we shall delve more into Andaman’s magnificent history.

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”

– Gustave Flaubert.

Andaman Island –Pages from the Past

These little islands hold a trove of lore. Their history traces its roots back to the Stone Age, perhaps even before that. You cannot talk history without understanding where the name Andaman even originated.

The Hindu god Hanuman takes full credit for this. The illustrious Ptolemy, a Greek mathematician and explorer, noted the name ‘Angademan’ in his work, which goes back to the 1 st century. In the 13 th century, history-book-favourite Marco Polo termed the place ‘Angamanian’.Niccolo de Conti in 1440 simply referred to it as ‘Island of Gold’, which the Italian explorer could have used to describe the marvellous sights and experiences one still finds on Andaman Island.

Be that as it may, Indian mythology retains the rights to the island’s root-name. Hanuman as a deity has left his mark here, and in more ways than one. There are religious spots on Andaman said to have hosted the god himself during his transit to Sri Lanka.

Let’s cover a rather bizarre fact from a book published in 15 th century Paris. The ‘Book of Wonders (The Secrets of Natural History)’ notes that Andaman was home to groups of wolf-like humanoid creatures! These might well be the earliest werewolf sightings, if true. Or perhaps this can be put down to an over-active imagination seeing tribals for the first time.

Language is as much a part of Andaman’s history as anything else. There was a time when languages like Khora, Bo, Mohkhmer, and Shompen were prevalent among the tribes who also called Andaman home. Unfortunately, those tongues are now extinct. Being oral in nature, the last surviving members of these tribes took their speeches to their graves.

Good news is that other old languages exclusive to Andaman still exist, namely Andamanese, Onge, Sentinelese, and Jarawa. Categorized as ‘Austroasiatic’, these tongues are quite similar to their long-buried counterparts, and have highly interlinked tribal connections. Most people speak Andamanese, though.

“A good traveller has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.”

– Lao Tzu.

Historic Locales on Andaman Island

Whether you are a history buff or a simple tourist looking to soak up local culture, the following places are absolutely worth visiting. It is advised that you respect every guideline pertaining to these significant locations, owing to their historic nature.

1. Chatham Sawmill

Not only is it the oldest it’s also the largest of its kind in Asia. The sawmill is today maintained by Andaman’s forest department. A World War II era relic, namely a bomb pit, can be found here. A museum containing wood carvings are also on display.

2. Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep

What were once Havelock Island and Neil Island (under colonial Britain) have been renamed into Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. These are not merely ‘Indianized’ monikers, but are honourable mentions of freedom fighters who lost their lives for India’s liberty.

3. Cellular Jail

What were once Havelock Island and Neil Island (under colonial Britain) have been renamed into Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. These are not merely ‘Indianized’ monikers, but are honourable mentions of freedom fighters who lost their lives for India’s liberty.

4. Viper Island Jail

It might even have been as sinister as it sounds. Named after Archibald Blair’s seafaring vessel, the jail was originally divided into two sub-zones. One hosted the gallows where prisoners used to be hanged. The other was a courtroom, which may feel ironic by the moral standards of present-day.

5. Penal Colony

If you’re even on Ross Island, be sure to stop and check out a certain set of ruins that predate Cellular Jail. The colony is picturesque and peaceful, making it worth your time.

6. Bunkers & Ruins

These are generic terms applied to actual historical locales on Andaman that go back to British-colonial times. The ruins and bunkers alike are open to tourists all year round. Field guides cover every pertinent detail about what went down in these important hotspots all those decades ago.

“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.”

– Anita Desai.

Andaman’s Dark Past

The island has always been a hub of invasions from varied civilizations over the decades, if not centuries. Indigenous tribes have been countering outsiders for quite some time on Andaman Island.

Territorial mention of the island traces its roots to the Maratha Empire. The island was no stranger to war, especially with the Chola Kings who used Andaman as a naval base when they were battling Indonesia’s Sriwijaya Empire.

Actual colonization came first from Danish East India settlers who mostly occupied Nicobar, which they’d affectionately renamed ‘New Denmark’. 1755 was not a pleasant age for disease control. Unable to fight the ravages of malaria, settlers were forced to quit the island; circa, 1848.

Then around 1857, along came the British and set up camp on Chatham Island. The English settlers lived and worked on Andaman from this checkpoint, with Dr.F.J.Mouat heading a dedicated committee to run things. The British had come here earlier, during 1789-1796. However, the climate proved intolerable, forcing them to return home.

The dark side of Andaman’s history now starts to unravel, especially when the British took over Port Blair. Its infamous Cellular Jail or ‘Kalapani’ became (from 1857 onwards) a confinement/detainment centre for prisoners of all types, especially freedom fighters from India. Anyone who so much as breathed a word against the British were often sent here to languish for the rest of their days.

The British brushed wrongly against local tribes when they started using Indian prisoners to help expand British influence on Andaman.

Many a human right was violated during those early, almost lawless, days.

1859 saw a tribal revolt against British expansionism, resulting in the famed Battle of Aberdeen. Suffice to say, the tribes suffered a brutal defeat at the hands of the English. Indigenous numbers fell to an all-time low, threatening the future of these already endangered tribes people.

In 1938, the English bid adieu to Andaman. Their prisoners were released, and many of them decided to settle right there on the island itself. Several groups of them made their way to the Indian mainland.

But Andaman Island was not done with darkness. Wars found the remote island once more, namely World War II. The Japanese occupied Andaman and proved as cruel as the British who came before them. Many an Indian suffered at their hands.

Ironically, the English returned in 1945 to ‘free’ Andaman from the Japanese. As they say, history is written by the victors. It is saddening to note that little to no records exist of what actually transpired during this time. The sheer criminal possibilities boggle the mind. One can candidly call this the darkest period in Andaman’s history.

When Pandit Nehru gained enough power, he chose to acquire Andaman for India instead of a couple of Manipuri districts from Myanmar (which was then termed Burma).Having gained the elevated status of being a Union territory, Andaman Island came under a plethora of protections and safeguards.

Today, the island holds plenty of memorials and monuments. Its unique collection of landmarks serve as potent historical gateways.

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

– George Santayana.

Top 10 Islands to Visit

Andaman is a chain of islands, each one as distinct and filled with experiential value as the next. Here are the top 10 islands to check out in the Andaman spectrum.

1. Jolly Buoy Island

From twisty scattered tree trunks, clear beach waters and amazing submerged coral colonies, Jolly Buoy Island is calmness made manifest, and snuggled amidst nature’s finest waters. Snorkelling and scuba diving are most certainly one of the top things to do on this island.

You can get there by boat from the mainland. You are not allowed to take any kind of plastic with you when you visit Jolly Buoy; an exemplary decision indeed. You will find this island around 30km southwest of Port Blair.

2. Cinque Island

One of the so-called ‘hidden islands’ on Andaman, Cinque Island is indeed inhabited but still feels refreshingly empty and isolated from the world. Between its coral reefs and white sand beaches, this island can be rather breathtaking. It belongs to the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. The island is also a birdwatcher’s paradise.

A natural sandbar divides the island into north and south Cinque. You can charter boats to take you to this wonderful island. Snorkelling, diving, and swimming are tourist favourites on Cinque, but make sure you stay far away from where saltwater crocodiles live. The island stands around 39km from Port Blair.

3. Havelock Island ( Swaraj Dweep )

Part of the famed Ritchie’s Archipelago, Havelock Island is as lush as it is serene. Its shallow blue-green waters and white sand beaches are worth every minute of your time. Everywhere you turn, there is natural beauty like few other islands in Andaman can boast. Havelock Island is renamed to Swaraj Dweep , which is the official name of Havelock Island Presently.

Swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving tours are readily available for tourist satisfaction. Situated around 41km from Port Blair, this island is one of the jewels in Andaman’s archipelago crown.

4. Ross and Smith Island

The twins, as they’re also referred to, Ross and Smith Island are joined by a natural sandbar, and contain some of the finest sights and experiences in Andaman. You can walk between both islands at your leisure. Make sure you do not attempt that during high tide, because that’s when the sandbar is submerged underwater and out of sight.

Olive Ridley turtles can be found here in due season. The nesting and hatching of these critically endangered species is truly a sight to behold. Snorkelling, swimming, sun bathing, and more await tourists on Ross and Smith Island. The twins are situated farthest from Andaman.

5. Diglipur Island

Around 325km from Port Blair is one of the farthest island wonders in Andaman. Diglipur in North Andaman has some of the best eco-friendly options in the entire archipelago chain. Savouries like special rice and oranges add to its wonder.

Saddle Peak, i.e., the highest point in the archipelago, can be found here. Andaman’s only river, namely the Kalpong River, calls Diglipur Island home. Add Andaman’s only hydro-electric project gracing its only island-centric river and you have yourself a tourist-checkpoint worth scratching off your list. You can get here by boat or copter.

6. Neil Island

Being uninhabited since the pilgrims landed in the 1960s has lent Neil Island an air of natural glamour not often found among Andaman’s other islands. From tropical trees, paddy fields, and banana manors, to the beach scene, this island redefines the words ‘escape to paradise’.

Scuba diving and snorkelling aren’t the only fun activities to indulge on Neil Island. The beautifully varied marine life here demands glass-bottom oceanic rides to witness their full glory. You will find Neil Island on the Ritchie’s Archipelago in Andaman.

7. Mayabunder

Mangrove swamps, elongated promontories, and a sizeable Burmese Karen tribe (minority population) have come to define this unique island. Granted, this is not a tourist-favourite place, but it nonetheless holds immense cultural and historical importance.

The tribe mentioned above share living space with Bangladeshi and Pakistani settlers. The Burmese Karen, however, have been around since British colonial times, when the English brought them here as labour. Situated only three or so hours from Port Blair, Mayabunder Island is still a brilliant snorkelling hotspot.

8. Barren Island

Having the only active volcano in all of South East Asia, Barren Island is definitely a must-visit tourist hotspot in the Andaman archipelago. There is no flora or tribes people here, and the volcano zone is not open to visitors. The volcano only recently exploded, in 2017, making it more dangerous today than ever before.

Helicopter and ferry tours are of course permitted. Scuba diving is a huge favourite, owing to the rich marine life that thrives around the volcanic island. You will find Barren Island about 140km from Port Blair.

9. Baratang Island

One of the most heard about islands in the Andaman chain. The island holds so much beauty and natural value that parts of it are opening up to tourists.

From mud volcanoes to limestone caves, you’ll find them and more on Baratang Island. Trekking is a great way to admire the beauty of the place. Mangrove boat rides and tropical forest trips are also on the cards. Situated 150km north of Port Blair, the island is only accessible by ferry.

10. Little Andaman

Visiting a place like Andaman and not stopping by an island named expressly after it is a boor. To get into this island, Hut Bay is your port of call. From exquisite waterfalls and white sand beaches to surfing, pristine creeks and more, Little Andaman contains a wealth of experiences.

Elephants are used for various tasks here, especially lumbering. You can see that as well as partake of safaris on elephant-back. Baby elephant calves are also trained as work animals here, adding to your things to see on Little Andaman. The evergreen rainforest spreads on this island are splendid. Standing 120km from Port Blair, Little Andaman is also renowned for its surfing scene.

“Still round the corner, there may wait, a new road or a secret gate.”

– J.R.R. Tolkien.

Top 10 Must-Do Activities

There are several outstanding and unforgettable things to do in Andaman, ten of which we will cover below. Each one has value, not just for tourism’s sake but life experience as well.

1. Bioluminescence

Almost galactic, nearly otherworldly… On Havelock Island is a beach where bioluminescence redefines one’s respect for nature. The phytoplankton content in the water is concentrated enough to ensure that you feel like you’re taking a boat ride amongst the stars.

Adding to its magical allure is the fact that this natural phenomenon occurs only on no moon nights. Scuba diving and kayak tours are open to tourists who want a close look at this magnificent occurrence. You can see it for free at no extra charge.

2. Swimming with Elephants

Aside from their star elephant, there are over sixty behemoths comprising the herd. You may need to book swims in advance, but all in all spending time with these people-friendly tuskers is sure to connect you to nature like few others activities can.

One can say elephant swimming is one of the best things to do in Andaman. You can ride them as long as there is a guide present. All the elephants are given the best most humane treatment on Andaman.

3. Light & Sound Show

While a visit to the Cellular Jail might connote sombre experiences, these days the historical landmark hosts a light and sound show absolutely worthy of admiration. This symbol of India’s freedom struggle (the jail detained prominent names in India’s freedom fight) now frees your senses with a splendid show.

Highlighted by late veteran actor Om Puri’s narration, the heartrending stories of what the prisoners once went through here, and their trials and tribulations, are memorably showcased. There are specific and affordable entry fees. Make sure you catch the show on time to avoid hassle.

4. Snorkelling

Almost everywhere you go for water sports adventures on Andaman, there will be an option for snorkelling. It is, after all, one of the top tropical activities in and around islands. Corals, marine life, mud volcanoes, or just the general feel of being underwater is yours to enjoy through snorkelling.

Compared to North Bay, Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) has the clearest waters. There are training and guidance centres to help you learn the basics of snorkelling before you do, & then use the right equipment and take the dive of a lifetime.

5. Scuba Diving

On a similar note to snorkelling, scuba diving takes you fully underwater to get up close and personal with tropical Oceania. There are different difficulty levels to scuba diving, so make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into, especially depending on where you plan to dive.

Sea walking and PADI scuba diving are two excellent options to explore. The rates are reasonable. Just make sure you are accompanied by a guide or two just in case the weather turns or you suddenly feel unsure about how to handle a certain situation.

6. Parasailing

From the waters to the clear blue skies… Parasailing is one of the most sought after tourist activities in Andaman.

In addition to granting you some of the best aerial views outside of a helicopter, the thrill of being up there in a parasail is second to none. Safely tied behind a motorboat, and your parasail all checked and ready to go, you are sure to enjoy the adrenaline rush of soaring over open waters. You can parasail only in due season when the winds are favourable; meaning, when they are gentle and not prone to sudden gusts.

7. Island Hopping

This top-10 point is sort of a ‘cheat’, in that we cover so many activities in just one recommendation. Island hopping is a great way to explore as many distinct landmasses in the Andaman archipelago. Sunsets and sunrises are yours for the enjoying, especially if you’re on a romantic trip. You will need to choose and book the right ferries to help with your ‘hopping’.

Islands like North Bay, Havelock, Neil, and Viper are some of the most visited by island hopping aficionados. Armed with the right information, you can also visit tribal-inhabited islands like Ross & Smith, Long, Stewart, Jolly Buoy, and Guitar. The scenic sensations waiting for you via this activity option are simply splendid.

8. Excursions &Tours

We couldn’t resist another ‘cheat tip’, namely a collection of multiple unique adventures rolled into one suggestion. There is a vast array of tours and excursions for you to enjoy in Andaman. Tours: helicopter, kayaking, and trekking. Excursions: to various beaches and other hotspots are also available.

These neat tourism-centric packages are affordable, and give good bang for your buck. You will learn a lot more than you would if you explored alone, because these tours and excursions come with qualified guides who come bearing permits to take their clientele to some of the finest attractions in Andaman.

9. Turtle Nesting

This is an absolutely beautiful activity here, owing in large part to the significance and value of the turtle nesting season. Ram Nagar Beach in Diglipur Town is one of the most favoured hotspots for this, come December-January.

Different turtle species show up in a handful of other island sites, so be sure to check up on seasonal information regarding the same before planning your trip. These critically endangered species are highly protected by Andaman laws, and is a heart-warming hope-filled experience.

10. Volcano Tour

You can’t miss this for anything! The only active volcano in all of South Asia can be found in Andaman, and there are safe tours to let you see the smoking peak with your own eyes. Barren Island is sure to thrill.

Mud volcanoes are also present, and can be found underwater off Baratang Island. These sights instil a fresh sense of respect for Nature, and all her creations. The sheer feeling of being near something so ancient and timeless, yet breathing, is nothing short of enlightening (and a little nerve-racking J).

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.”

– Unknown

Local Cuisine of Andaman

A plethora of cuisines can be found on modern-day Andaman Island, including its archipelago of islands.

Andaman’s version of tropical seafood is as unique as it is delectable. Prawns, crabs, and fish are served up in a variety of different styles (barbeques, curries, etc.) and flavours, many of them local Andaman cuisine styles.

Some of the top 6 local Andaman cuisines you need to savour are:

  • 1. Grilled Lobster

    Cloves, parsley, chilli flakes, and butter grace this plate of grilled goodness. Grilled lobster remains one of the best foodie experiences in Andaman Island.

  • 2. Amritsari Kulcha

    Coriander leaves, potatoes, onions, and assorted seasonings go into this one-of-a-kind meal that has in recent years come to define Andaman cuisine.

  • 3. Coconut Prawn Curry

    As tropical as it is delicious, and garnished with locally grown spices, the creamy coconut milk that comprises this meal beautifully complements the curry, which is altogether served with rice.

  • 4. Tandoori Fish

    Precisely what the name says, fish cooked in the tandoori style further adds to Andaman’s culinary excellence. Seafood lovers must try a bite of this flavour-burst meal.

  • 5. Fish Curry

    On a similar note, the fish curry Andaman-style is nothing short of a revelation. The spices used are local, which actually alters the core taste of this dish as compared to a random Indian curry.

  • 6. Macher Jhol

    Having originated in Bengal but given an Andamanaese twist, this exquisitely flavoured and ideally balanced meal consists of turmeric, coriander, chillies, and fish cooked in a gorgeous melange that is nothing less than delightful to taste.

“We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfilment.”

– HilaireBilloc.

Events You Can Have In Andaman

From weddings to honeymoons, birthdays to all sorts of parties, Andaman Island is a tropical dream come true for any sort of theme or event you wish to have.

There are special packages that you can avail from us at Andaman Island Travels to help in this regard. Even if a certain package for, say, birthdays is not present, you can still host/plan an event around it.

There are plenty of islands, and even more modern conveniences, to make sure your event is madememorable. Andaman is not only about natural beauty but also modern pleasures.

Nightlife, shopping, food and drink, adventure activities, water sports, plane/copter tours, treks, excursions, explorations, and more all add to the near-limitless possibilities you can enjoy in the Andaman archipelago.

“The traveller sees what they see. The tourist sees what they come to see.”

– G.K.Chesterton.

Island Wonders- Nature in All Its Glory

Despite being one of the biggest names in the tourism sector, Andaman Island still boasts virginal landscapes and lush natural wonders, preserved and protected to date.

From unique volcanos and reefs to having the largest arthropod species in the world, Andaman is a genuine bio- and geo-diversity hotspot.

Andaman Island is known for having the only active volcano in all of South-Asia; on Barren Island.

The Andamans arealso where the only mud volcanoes can be found; underwater.

The endangered dugong or sea cow can be spotted here, albeit rarely. They are shy, government-protected, creatures. You can dive with a trained professionalto see them.

The ancient nature of this island is not to be forgotten. It finds mention in a second century AD treatise written by Ptolemy (Greek mathematician and geographer).Other historically important influences on Andaman Island over the past decades have come from the Chinese, Arabs, Japanese, Europeans, and British.

December to April is a great time to visit for newlyweds. Andaman, after all, is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. Popular among honeymooners are Cinque Island, Neil Island, Interview Island, and Long Island.

Little Andaman, as its name suggests, is a world in itself. Indira Bazaar should certainly be on your list of places to see in Little Andaman.In contrast, its beaches and jungles are almost ancient in their beauty and pristine lushness. You might evencatch sight of crocodiles in select locations.

Don’t forget to stop by the White Surf Waterfalls. Boasting a ‘cult reputation among surfers’, Little Andaman is certainly worth driving off the beaten path for.

“Travelling – It leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

– Ibn Battuta.

Personal Discovery & Exploration – A Conclusion

You will discover one of the richest marine life spreads in and around Andaman Island. For instance, over 750 fish species can be foundin one reef alone.

The coral as well as fish life here are special – reef sharks, manta rays, dugongs (Andaman’s state animal), and other fish like tiger, parrot, and angel can be found.

Turtles require separate mention: Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, Green, and Leatherback (world’s largest) turtles all come here to nest in due season.They are obviously protected under law, and you can come see the nesting/hatching during apt seasons so long as you abide by the guidelines set in place to keep these turtles feeling safe.

Ethnic villages, coconut fields, rocky outcrops, bays, swamps, beaches, lakes, hills, forests, mountains, reefs, and wide open seas… Are you hungry for these? Are you eager to lose yourself in an island-world of adventure and possibility? The sky is truly the limit where Andaman Island is concerned. It is not unusual for visitors and tourists alike to feel like they’ve stepped into an entirely different dimension upon arrival.

“To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which nothing is so familiar that it is taken for granted.”

– Bill Bryson.