The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a pack of islands with stunning beaches, treasured history, offbeat mangrove creeks and legendary sunset views. Here is a list of top destinations to visit when touring these islands :
1. Port Blair
The capital of the union territory of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is just a 2hr air ride away from mainland India and the only entry point for the country. Port Blair is connected to the other islands through ferries. One of the major tourist attractions in the city is the Cellular Jail that held within its walls the great Indian freedom fighters. This tour takes you down the memory lane reminding us of the struggle our forefathers went through to buy us our freedom. The island also has some of the amazing beaches of the world. The Corbyn Cove beach is one of such beaches with serene waters and coco trees lining its shores.
2. Ross Island
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, formerly known as Ross Island is a 2km ferry ride from Port Blair. Ross Island used to be the administrative capital of the Andamans until 1941. The island is controlled by the Indian Navy now and requires signing in on entry. The island houses many historic reminiscents including the famous Penal Colony and Japanese Bunker. Pack some good walking shoes as this island demands walking through the historic ruins. On the other side of the island is a beautiful beach for some chill time. The island is open for visitors until 6 p.m.
3. North Bay Coral Island
North Bay Coral Island, as the name suggests, is popular for its corals. The coral life found here is stunning and taking a dive to witness it around you is surreal. The island has a ton of activities to offer. You could go snorkelling, scuba diving, ocean walks and taking a glass bottom boat to explore the coral life. Apart from this is the lighthouse on the coast that used to appear on our old 20 rupee note. The lighthouse and the walk to it both make for a great experience.
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4. Havelock Island
Havelock Island, officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is the most popular island on the Andamans. Located at about 70km from Port Blair it can easily be reached by taking a ferry ride. Havelock Island is a paradise getaway with white sandy beaches and blue clear water. Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking make this beach a popular destination for underwater activities. Havelock’s Radhanagar beach is one of Asia’s 10 best beaches. A must go beach, for its serene beauty. The Kalapathar is another of Havelock’s treasure beaches. Lazing around to watch the stunning sunsets at the scenic beaches are a definite on the Andaman Bucket list.
5. Neil Island
Neil Island is one of the calmer and quieter beaches of the Andamans. Neil is a small island and can be covered by walking around. It is laid back and a perfect spot or a lazy afternoon. The island has limited amenities to offer to the tourist crowd but on the brighter side this makes it less crowded. Catch the iconic Howrah bridge on the island and the beautiful Sitapur beach popular for its clean shores and sunrise views. Limited network and wifi make this a detox island from the hustle and bustle of life. Put on the boho look, grab a summer hat and sunscreen and have a laid back getaway on Neil Island.
6. Baratang Island
Baratang Island is one filled with natural wonders. The island has stunning limestone caves , mud volcanoes , mangrove creeks and good wildlife. The island is slightly less developed and a day tour does justice to the attractions here. Baratang Island is the only place in South Asia to have a mud volcano. The limestone caves are also one of a kind, you could take a boat ride and experience this natural wonder. Take a pair of binoculars along as the island offers good bird watching opportunities.