Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their stunning natural beauty and pristine beaches. Here are some of the best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar islands.
1. Radhanagar Beach
Radhanagar Beach, also known as Beach No. 7, is a pristine beach located on Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is known for its natural beauty, with white waters, powdery white sands, and tropical forest surrounding the beach. Radhanagar Beach has consistently been ranked as one of the best beaches in Asia and the world.
Location
Radhanagar Beach is situated on the western coast of Havelock Island, approximately 12 kilometers from the island’s main town, Govindnagar.
Reachability
The beach is easily accessible from Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, by ferry or seaplane. Regular ferry services operate between Port Blair and Havelock Island, with the journey taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. Seaplane services are also available, providing a faster mode of transportation.
Activities
Radhanagar Beach offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and beach volleyball. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. There are several dive centers and water sports operators near the beach that offer equipment rental and guided tours.
Facilities Provided
The beach is well-maintained and equipped with basic facilities such as restrooms, changing rooms, and showers. There are also several shacks and shops near the beach where visitors can enjoy local snacks and refreshments.
Best Time to Visit radhanagar beach
The best time to visit Radhanagar Beach is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities. The monsoon season, from May to October, should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and rough seas.
Also Read: How to reach Andaman and Nicobar islands
2. Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail, also known as Kala Pani (Black Water), is a historic colonial-era jail located in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It was used by the British to exile political prisoners and freedom fighters during India’s struggle for independence.
History
The construction of Cellular Jail began in 1896 and was completed in 1906. The jail was designed as a central prison with a central tower from which all seven wings monitor, giving it a resemblance to a bicycle wheel. Each wing had three storeys of small cells designed for solitary confinement.
Purpose
Cellular Jail was used by the British to exile political prisoners and freedom fighters, particularly those involved in the Indian independence movement.
Notable Things
Several prominent freedom fighters were imprisoned at Cellular Jail, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, Yogendra Shukla, and Fazl-e-Haq Khairabadi. Many prisoners endured years of solitary confinement, torture, and forced labor.
Structure
The jail originally had 698 cells, each measuring 4.5 meters by 2.7 meters, with a small ventilator at the top. The cells were designed to hold a single prisoner in solitary confinement, with minimal contact with other.
Present Day
Today, Cellular Jail has been converted into a national memorial and serves as a museum to showcase the history of the Indian independence movement and the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. The museum displays artifacts, photographs, and exhibits related to the jail’s history and its inmates.
Visiting Hours
Cellular Jail is open to visitors from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 1:30 pm to 4:45 pm. It is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Reachability
Cellular Jail is located in Port Blair and is easily accessible by road from the city center. It is approximately 3 kilometers from the main ferry terminal.
Overall
Cellular Jail is a significant historical landmark that stands as a reminder of India’s struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in India’s history.
3. Neil Island
Neil Island, officially known as Shaheed Dweep, is one of the Andaman Islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, India. It is located about 40 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Neil Island is known for its serene beaches, rich marine life, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for travelers looking to escape the rush of city life.
Beaches: Neil Island is home to several beautiful beaches, including.
Bharatpur Beach
Known for its coral reefs and clear waters, Bharatpur Beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides.
Laxmanpur Beach
This beach is famous for its stunning sunset views and natural rock formations. It is a great place for leisurely walks and photography.
Sitapur Beach
Sitapur Beach is known for its natural beauty and is less crowded compared to other beaches on the island.
Location
Neil Island is situated south of Havelock Island and is accessible by ferry from Port Blair and Havelock Island.
Activities to Do
Visitors to Neil Island can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and cycling around the island. The clear waters around the island are perfect for exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Natural Attractions
Neil Island is also home to natural attractions such as the natural bridge formation known as the Howrah Bridge and the limestone formations at Natural Bridge.
Accommodation
Neil Island offers a range of accommodation options, including resorts, hotels, and guesthouses, catering to different budgets. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Best Time to Visit Neil islands
The best time to visit Neil Island is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from May to October, should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and rough seas.
4. Ross Island
Ross Island, also known as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, is a small island located near Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It was once the administrative headquarters of the British during their rule of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
History
Ross Island was named after British marine surveyor Sir Daniel Ross. It served as the administrative center, with the British establishing a penal settlement, churches, bungalows, and other buildings on the island. However, the island was abandoned after an earthquake in 1941 and the Japanese occupation during World War II.
Present Day
Today, Ross Island is a protected area and is managed by the Indian Navy. The island is open to tourists and is a popular destination for its historical significance and natural beauty.
Reachability
Ross Island is accessible by a short boat ride from Port Blair. Regular ferry services operate between Port Blair and Ross Island, with the journey taking around 15 to 20 minutes.
Visiting Hours
Ross Island is open to visitors from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on all days except Wednesdays.
Major Attraction of Ross Islands
Ruins of British Buildings: Visitors to Ross Island can explore the ruins of British buildings, including the British Commissioner’s residence, the Chief Commissioner’s residence, a church, and a bakery.
Museum: The island houses a museum that showcases the history of Ross Island and its role during the British colonial period. The museum displays photographs, documents, and artifacts related to the island’s history.
Light and Sound Show: Ross Island hosts a light and sound show in the evenings, narrating the history of the island and its significance during the British rule. The show is a popular attraction among tourists.
Flora and Fauna: Ross Island is also known for its rich flora and fauna, with deer and peacocks roaming freely on the island. The island is surrounded by pristine beaches and offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea.
5. Baratang Island
Baratang Island is a beautiful island located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is known for its natural attractions, including limestone caves, mangrove creeks, and mud volcanoes, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Location
Baratang Island is situated between South and Middle Andaman Islands, approximately 100 kilometers north of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Reachability
Baratang Island is accessible from Port Blair by road and sea. Visitors can take a government-operated bus or hire a private vehicle to reach the island, followed by a boat ride to reach the limestone caves and mud volcanoes.
Best Time to Visit Baratang island
The best time to visit Baratang Island is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from May to October, should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and rough seas.
Accommodation
Baratang Island does not have many accommodation options, and most visitors prefer to stay in Port Blair and make a day trip to the island. However, there are a few guesthouses and eco-resorts available for those looking to stay overnight on the island.
Major attraction Baratang Island
Limestone Caves
One of the main attractions of Baratang Island is its limestone caves, which are formed over millions of years by the continuous action of natural forces. Visitors can take a boat ride through the mangrove forests and hike to reach the caves, where they can see stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Mangrove Creeks
Baratang Island is surrounded by dense mangrove forests. Visitors can explore these creeks by boat, witnessing the rich biodiversity of the mangrove ecosystem and spotting various bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and eagles.
Mud Volcanoes
Another unique attraction of Baratang Island is its mud volcanoes, which are natural geological formations that emit mud and gases. The mud volcanoes of Baratang are among the few of their kind in India and are a fascinating sight to behold.
Jarawa Tribal Reserve
Baratang Island is home to the Jarawa tribe, one of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands. The Jarawa tribe is known for their unique culture and way of life, and visitors are not allowed to interact with them to protect their privacy and cultural heritage.
6. Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach is a popular tourist destination located on Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is known for its stunning coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and beautiful white sandy beach, making it a perfect spot for vacation.
Location
Elephant Beach is situated on the northwest coast of Havelock Island, approximately 10 kilometers from the main town, Govindnagar.
Activities to Do
Elephant Beach is famous for its snorkeling and diving opportunities. The clear waters around the beach are home to a variety of coral reefs and marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and rays. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world or take a boat ride to deeper waters for diving.
Trekking
Elephant Beach can also be reached by a short trek through the lush tropical forest of Havelock Island. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty
Facilities
Elephant Beach is equipped with basic facilities such as restrooms, changing rooms, and small eateries where visitors can enjoy snacks and refreshments.
Reacability
Elephant Beach is accessible by boat from Govindnagar Beach, with regular boat services operating between the two locations. The boat ride takes around 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views of the coastline along the way.
Best Time to Visit Elephant Beach
The best time to visit Elephant Beach is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and ideal for snorkeling and diving. The monsoon season, from May to October, should be avoided due to rough seas and heavy rainfall.
7. Best Places to visit in andaman and nicobar islands is Mount Harriet National Park
This national park, located on South Andaman Island, offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and is home to a variety of wildlife, including Andaman wild pigs and saltwater crocodiles.
Frequently Asked Question
1. Which is the most visited island in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Havelock Island is one of the most visited islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
2. Which part of Andaman is best to stay
The best part of Andaman to stay depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some popular areas to stay in Andaman:
- Port Blair
- Havelock Island
- Neil Island
- Diglipur
- Baratang Island
3. How much money is needed to trip for Andaman
The cost of a trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands can vary depending on various factors such as the duration of your stay, the type of accommodation you choose, your mode of transportation, and your activities. Here is a rough estimate of the expenses you might incur for a trip to Andaman
- Flights cost: The cost of round-trip flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata to Port Blair can range from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 or more per person.
- Accommodation cost:. Budget accommodations can range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts can range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 per night. Luxury resorts can cost ₹10,000 or more per night.
- Food cost: A meal at a budget restaurant can cost around ₹200 to ₹500 per person, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around ₹500 to ₹1,500 per person.
- Transportation cost: Renting a scooter can cost around ₹500 to ₹800 per day, while hiring a car with a driver can cost around ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per day. Boat rides to different islands can cost around ₹500 to ₹2,000 per person.
- Adventure cost: The cost of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat tours can vary depending on the operator and the type of activity. Snorkeling trips can cost around ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per person, while scuba diving can cost around ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per person for a single dive.
Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per person for a 5-7 day trip to Andaman, while a mid-range traveler might spend around ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 per person. Luxury travelers can expect to spend ₹50,000 or more per person for a week-long trip. These are rough estimates and actual expenses may vary.
4. How long is the flight from India to Andama and Nicobar islands
Direct flight from Chennai to Port Blair takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, while a direct flight from Kolkata takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
5. What is the price of ferry ticket in Andaman
1. Port Blair to Havelock Island: The ferry ticket price for a government-operated ferry from Port Blair to Havelock Island is around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per person for a one-way trip. Private ferries are also available and may cost more.
2. Port Blair to Neil Island: The ferry ticket price for a government-operated ferry from Port Blair to Neil Island is around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per person for a one-way trip. Private ferries may cost more.
3. Inter-Island Ferries: The price of ferry tickets between different islands in Andaman can vary. For example, the ferry ticket price for a government-operated ferry from Havelock Island to Neil Island is around ₹600 to ₹1,000 per person for a one-way trip.
6. Which part of Andaman is not allowed to visit.
Certain areas of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are restricted or prohibited for tourists due to security reasons or to protect the indigenous tribes living in these areas. The main areas that are restricted or prohibited for tourists are:
- North Sentinel Island: North Sentinel Island is home to the Sentinelese tribe, one of the last uncontacted tribes in the world. Due to their isolation and hostility towards outsiders, the Indian government has declared the entire island and its surrounding waters up to a distance of 5 nautical miles as a restricted area. Access to North Sentinel Island is strictly prohibited for tourists.
- Tribal Reserves: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to several indigenous tribes, including the Jarawa, Onge, and Great Andamanese tribes. To protect their privacy, culture, and way of life, certain areas where these tribes live, such as parts of South Andaman Island and Middle Andaman Island, are restricted for tourists. Interaction with these tribes is prohibited, and entering these areas without permission is illegal.
- Military Areas: Certain areas of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are used by the Indian military for strategic purposes and are off-limits to civilians. These areas are usually well-marked and access is strictly prohibited.