One of the main highlights of my travel diary was the Andaman and Nicobar islands. With its crystal clear beaches, mesmerizing nature trails and elaborate history, this place has completely buttered me over. Some of the beaches in the Andamans like the Radhanagar beach, have made it to various lists of the World’s best beaches. After seeing its crystal clear waters and colourful coral reefs and school of fish, I totally love the place.
1. Traveling to Andamans
Though it is located away from the mainland in the Bay of Bengal, this archipelago of islands is still quite unexplored. The islands directly come under the control of the Central Government of India. Port Blair is the main city of this archipelago with its own airport and sea port. There are two ways to reach Port Blair either through flight or by ship. There are regular boat services from Chennai, Kolkata and Chennai and as for flight services are there from Chennai and Kolkata.
2. Where to stay
The three main islands in Andamans which are convenient for stay are – Port Blair, Havelock island and Neil island. Port Blair has a plenty of options in all possible budgets. Being a small town, you can pick your stay anywhere. Havelock and Neil island on the other hand have limited stay options compared to the former.
3. Andaman Cuisine
There is no specialty food as such in Andamans. You get a great mix of Bengali, North and South Indian cuisines here. At Havelock and Port Blair, you have plenty of variety food choices. If you are a foodie, you will love the choice of restaurants available there. From Chinese to continental and Indian, they sure know how make our mouth water.
4. Places to visit
The Cellular Jail in Port Blair – This place is known for its ancient times and its architecture. The stories within the walls can really fright you but also might surprise you. Another thing to do is to watch the sound and light show, which I highly recommend to know more about our freedom fighters. The show is available both in Hindi and English languages.
Chidiya Tapu – The best sunsets are to be experienced here. As the sun goes down the horizon, the bright colours begin to fade away and the dry rocks circled around begin to shimmer before the dark fall upon them. Even if it is a cloudy day this place won’t disappoint you.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach – A water sports center in Port Blair.
Bharatang Island – This Island is about 100km from Port Blair and it takes almost 5 hours to reach. It has beautiful beaches surrounded by mangroves, natural limestone caves and most importantly the mud volcanoes. You will need a permit to visit the limestone caves and to reach the limestone cave we have to travel a 5 min speed boat ride.
Havelock Island – Havelock is almost like a small heaven with its crystal, turquoise blue pristine water and unspoiled beaches and receives the highest footfall of tourists. In fact, Radhanagar Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches around the world.
Neil Island – This island is almost a paradise. The turquoise blue sea waters and golden beaches are a treat to the eyes. Apart from the pristine beaches, there is a natural bridge at this Island. The Island is so small that you can explore the whole place in a two-wheeler.
Ross Island – Another place that will leave you speechless. This island was the capital until 1941 when an earthquake destroyed the island. It was also the headquarters of the Indian penal settlement for nearly 80 years. The island had markets, bakery, open air theatre, tennis court, military mess, printing press and others. But today, everything has disappeared except some old buildings which once was full of landmarks.
5. Activities to do at Andaman
Andamans offers you a variety of options for water sports. It is best known for scuba diving. You can even enjoy snorkelling, banana boat ride, jet skiing or even do a sea walk. The best options are available at Havelock. On my visit, the shore dives started at 3500. But remember to engage with certified PADI instructors for scuba diving
And the list can go on and on. Though we can capture the places in our cameras this place is worth visiting at least once like a saying, “Eyes are the best camera to capture anything”. Trust me, once you visit you will never want to return and it is great to discover India’s Best Kept Secret!
-Nandhitha.S
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