Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Once known as Kalapani - Black Waters - for their role as a feared penal settlement, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are now a relaxed tropical island outpost that belongs to India but is geographically closer to Southeast Asia. Superb, near-deserted beaches, incredible corals and marine life, an intriguing colonial past and the remnants of a Stone Age culture lure travelers to these mysterious islands, 1000 km off the east coast of India in the Bay of Bengal.

Until the beginnings of colonial rule, the islands were populated mainly by indigenous peoples, but today the majority of the Andamans' population is mainland settlers or their descendants who live in and around Port Blair, the capital, on South Andaman. The territory comprises 572 tropical islands (of which 36 are inhabited), with unique wildlife and lush forests, although the Nicobar Islands are off-limits to tourists.

The islands are close to the epicenter of the undersea earthquake that caused the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, which, in turn, led to devastating loss of life and homes on the southerly Nicobar Islands and Little Andaman. Apart from flooding on low-lying areas of South Andaman Island and damage to the reefs near Wandoor, the main Andaman island group escaped major damage, though other islands such as Havelock and Interview noticeably tilted with the earth movement. Pre-tsunami, small-scale tourist infrastructure had been slowly developing but the almost total absence of tourists during 2005, coupled with the cost and energy of repairing the damage, demoralized many islanders and there's still much to do to revive these beautiful islands' tourism facilities.

Highlights of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Scuba-Diving : Beautiful coral reefs teem with vivid underwater life.

Port Blair : The Cellular Jail stands as a reminder of the hilly Andaman capital's bleak colonial past.

Wandoor : The white sandy beach and islets of the Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park are the archipelago's most popular day-trip destination, and a good appetizer for more remote.

Neill Island : Cruise by boat to Havelock's tiny neighbour, an excellent hang-out, very laid-back, friendly and great for diving.

North Andaman : The long haul on the road from Port Blair is worthwhile for the backdrop of thick rain forest and the dazzling tropical beaches when you get there.

Adventure Activities in Andaman and Nicobar

Diving : Diving in Andaman blue sea is a unique experience. There are several diving sites in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The greatest range of options for diving is in Havelock and Neil Islands where sites include Mac Point, Aquarium, Barracuda City, Turtle Bay, Seduction Point, Lighthouse, The Wall, Pilot Reef and Minerva Lodge.

Snorkeling : Andaman and Nicobar islands offer much easier and cheaper sport known by the name of Snorkeling. Havelock Island is one of the best places for snorkeling. The closest place to Port Blair for snorkeling is North Bay. Other snorkeling sites in Andaman are Red Skin and Jolly Buoy, near Wandoor.

Surfing and Fishing : Surfing and Fishing in Andaman is liked by several visitors in Andaman. Although Andaman is still remote, surfers continue to drift down there for the reliable waves off the east coast. Andaman also offers game fishing opportunities for its visitors.

Accommodation in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Accommodation is not a big issue in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As this place is visited by thousands of tourists every year, this place has several star and renowned hotels and resorts. One can easily find the accommodation here. If you want luxurious accommodation then you can book 5 star and deluxe hotels and if your budget is low then you can also book budget hotels, lodges and resorts here in Andaman and Nicobar.

How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Air: There is an international airport in Port Blair which is also the capital of Andaman and Nicobar. Daily flights are available for Andaman and Nicobar from Chennai and Delhi.

Sea: There are usually four to six sailings a month between Port Blair and the Indian mainland fortnightly to/from Kolkata and weekly to/from Chennai. This journey takes around 56 to 60 hours. But it is also unique experience to travel through boat.