Andaman and Nicobar islands comprise of some truly exotic palm-lined wave lashed beaches that would actually fascinate any and every nature lover. Apart from its pristine scenic beauty, the rich historical background of Andaman and Nicobar islands too attract the vacationers. If you are planning a visit to these islands, the top 10 Andaman and Nicobar island places listed below would make your sightseeing easy. So read on-
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands stretch like a string of jewels across the Bay of Bengal. In all there are 572 small and large islands of which only 36 are inhabited and of these only the Andaman Part is accessible for tourists. That leaves out 22 islands comprising the Nicobar chain.
Still, what is left is a tropical paradise of supreme pristine beauty. The islands lead out to golden beaches and blue waters of the ocean while a bit inland you see the start of dense forests. As you travel inland you go deeper into lush tropical vegetation that may lead you up into mountains, the flora and fauna changing as you go along. If it is variety you seek you are not going to be disappointed.
# Port BlairSince Port Blair is the entree point and also has plenty of attractions you could spend some time here exploring its beaches, the city and its attractions. The city is small and you can walk around to explore the attractions of Aberdeen Bazaar or Junglighat. Better Still, hire a local auto rickshaw which is considerably cheaper than private cars. Visit the infamous Kalapani or cellular jail and take in the light and sound show. After that you can head for Ross Island, one time HQ of the British, a journey of 25 minutes by boat.
Next, Corbyn’s Cove beach with its unique coconut grove should be on your list though it may be a bit crowded so you have an alternative in Wandoor, about 25 km and a lovely place with coral reefs where you can watch marine life in a glass bottomed boat. Another unforgettable place is Chidiya Tapu or Bird Island, also 25 km from Port Blair and this is where the tropics come alive in lush green forests resounding to the cacophony of myriads of birds.
# Cinque IslandCinque Island is a small uninhabited island situated around 26 kilometers away from Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Cinque Island is known for its stunning and pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports activities. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral gardens and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks.
Tourists can take a boat ride from Port Blair to reach Cinque Island, and the journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour. The island is surrounded by turquoise blue waters, and the beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The island is also known for its beautiful lagoons and mangrove forests, which can be explored by taking a leisurely walk.
As the island is uninhabited, tourists are not allowed to stay overnight, and there are no accommodation facilities available on the island. However, there are several day tour packages available from Port Blair, which includes transportation, snorkeling and diving gear, and a guide, allowing tourists to explore the island and its surroundings in a safe and enjoyable way.
Cinque Island is a must-visit destination for those who are interested in marine life and underwater activities, and its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
# North Passage IslandNorth Passage Island is a small island part of the Ritchie's Archipelago, which is a group of islands that are located around 150 kilometers east of Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
North Passage Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports activities. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, and the beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
The island is also home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks, making it a popular destination for underwater enthusiasts. The island is uninhabited, and tourists are not allowed to stay overnight on the island. However, there are several day tour packages available from Port Blair, which includes transportation, snorkeling and diving gear, and a guide, allowing tourists to explore the island and its surroundings in a safe and enjoyable way.
North Passage Island is located in a remote and untouched part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure, tourists are advised to be well-prepared and carry all necessary supplies and equipment, including food, water, and camping gear, if they plan to spend a day exploring the island.
# Havelock IslandHavelock Island is the largest island in the Ritchie's Archipelago, which is a group of islands located around 50 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Havelock Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports activities. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, and the beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The most famous beach on the island is Radhanagar Beach, which has been named as one of the best beaches in Asia.
The island is also home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks, making it a popular destination for underwater enthusiasts. In addition to water sports activities, tourists can also enjoy trekking, bird watching, and exploring the island's lush tropical forests.
Havelock Island has a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, making it accessible to all types of travelers. The island is well-connected to Port Blair by regular ferry services, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours. Tourists can also take seaplane services from Port Blair to Havelock Island, which offers a scenic and adventurous way to reach the island.
# Long IslandLong Island is a small and secluded island located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India in the Bay of Bengal. It is part of the Ritchie's Archipelago, which is a group of islands located around 80 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Long Island is known for its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports activities. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, and the beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The most famous beach on the island is Lalaji Bay Beach, which is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with powdery white sand and turquoise blue water.
The island is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several species of birds and reptiles, making it a great destination for bird watching and nature photography. The island has a small village where tourists can interact with the local communities and get a glimpse of their traditional way of life.
Long Island is well-connected to Port Blair by regular ferry services, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours. Tourists can also take seaplane services from Port Blair to Long Island, which offers a scenic and adventurous way to reach the island.
# Diglipur
Diglipur is a picturesque town located in the northern part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India in the Bay of Bengal. It is the largest town on the North Andaman Island and is known for its natural beauty, serene beaches, and lush tropical forests.
Diglipur is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including the famous Ross and Smith Islands, which are actually two separate islands connected by a thin sandbar. The islands are surrounded by crystal clear waters and are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The nearby Ramnagar Beach is also worth a visit for its tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty.
The town is also surrounded by dense tropical forests and is home to the Saddle Peak National Park, which is the highest peak in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The park is a biodiversity hotspot and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several endemic species. Tourists can take guided trekking tours through the forest to explore its natural beauty and wildlife.
Diglipur is well-connected to Port Blair by regular bus and ferry services. Tourists can also take a seaplane service from Port Blair to Diglipur, which offers a scenic and adventurous way to reach the town.