Blogs

Someone asked me, do you like mountain or beaches? In the eyes of a passionate traveler like me, both mountains and beaches hold equal beauty. But when it comes to making a choice between the two, all depends on the weather. And this time was meant for the sea. It was winter time and the clock was ticking, as I was already late in planning my vacation. After exploring a couple of options what was left on the top of my mind was Andaman Island. Flights were also affordable so, without stressing much, a plan was finalized.

Most of us are aware this virgin island is incredibly beautiful. It’s known for its stunning marine life, crystal clear blue beaches and a magical underwater world. Believe me, it has so much to offer, this blog will help you to list out the hidden gems of Andaman. Whether you like to observe the tranquil sea sitting beside the shore or you love to chill with a bunch of friends, or you simply need a vacation with your family, this place is meant for everyone. Be it a solo traveler, honeymoon couple or a family.

Andaman and Nicobar

Out of the 572 islands of Andaman and Nicobar only 38 are inhabited. Usually we call it as Andaman and Nicobar however Nicobar is separated from Andaman by a 150 km wide channel known as the 10 degree channel. The most interesting fact about Andaman is, it is close to Myanmar (190 km) and Sumatra (150 km) in Indonesia than it is to mainland India (almost 1200 km). This could be the reason these islands are unexplored. However those are worth a visit and since not much crowded yet its beauty is intact.

I am sure you all are keen to know the best places to visit while in Andaman. Let’s begin with Port Blair.

Port Blair:

As you must be aware Port Blair is the entry point for all other islands in Andaman. It’s the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Places to visit in Port Blair:

A cellular jail is a must visit as most of us have read about it in school, but its altogether a different feeling to see and understand the struggle of freedom fighters. You get goose bumps during the light and sound show when they describe the saga of freedom fighters and the punishment they used to get by Britisher’s.

Do visit Samudrika marine museum, water sports complex to enjoy water sports.

Don’t miss the Corbyn’s Cove beach.

Day Trips from Port Blair:

Chidiya Tapu:

Is known for its sunset and bird watching. It’s hardly 30 km’s from Port Blair and thus you can plan a visit to this place.

Wandoor Beach and Jolly Buoy Island:

You can easily cover these 2 places from Port Blair. To reach Jolly Buoy Island you need to take a ferry from Wandoor Beach. Typically sun sets quite early in Andaman. Hence all the activities start early morning. So the ferry starts at 9 am from Wandoor beach and it drops you at around 3 pm. Jolly Bouy is known for its crystal clear water and under water activities.

Ross Island: Netaji Subhash Chandra Dweep.

Usually Ross Island and North Bay tour is done together in a day. This island will awe you with its beauty. The earthquake in 1941 destroyed this island, now it’s famous for its historic ruins.

Havelock Island: Swaraj Deep.

This is the most popular island amongst all in Andaman and is on top of the tourist itinerary list. It’s known for ‘Radhanagar Beach’ which is considered as one of the most beautiful beach in Asia. Havelock is known for its diving experience and it surprises you with its pristine, turquoise beaches. While in Havelock always go for a beach side resort. We dived in Neemo Beach which was close by the resort we stayed. Havelock has ample of beachside resorts to choose from and also ensure you stay for at least 2 nights.

Havelock site visits:

Typically when we talk about beaches we don’t like to miss a sunrise and a sunset. While in Havelock do visit Radhanagar Beach during a sunset and Kalapathar during sunrise.
Diving in Havelock is a must, this being known for its best diving experience in south-east Asia. You will see a lot of diving schools around but preferably go for those which are close to beach number 3 & 4.For water sport activities like snorkeling, sea walk and glass bottom ride Elephant beach is the best. It’s a 20 minutes boat ride from Havelock. You can explore beautiful coral reefs here and laze on the white sand.
Just in case you like trekking you can explore this option. You need to start from Radhanagar village to reach elephant beach. Your local driver can guide you.

Neil Island: (Shaheed Dweep)

You can explore this island in a day. It’s a small island as compared to Havelock. However it’s equally beautiful and serene. It is also known as the vegetable bowl of Andaman Islands, as the land is ideal for the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. Neil has Laxamanpur and Bharatpur beach which are famous for its sunset.

Places to visit in Neil Island

Visit the beautiful beaches of Neil – Bharatpur, Sitapur and Laxamanpur Beach.

At Bharatpur Beach, you will find a diving center. You can go for Scuba diving, glass bottom boat ride and snorkeling here as well.

This is all we have if you are typically planning a 4-5 days trip to Andaman. However if you are planning an 8-9 days trip you can also cover Baratang Caves, Diglipur and North island. This is precisely described in another blog.

Some points to note are,

Network and Wifi in Andaman

BSNL, Airtel and Vodafone are the three main mobile networks in Andaman. Others like Aircel, Idea or Reliance / Jio don’t have much of a network (as of now). So make sure you have one of the service provider activated to be used in Andaman. Both Neil and Havelock island has very poor mobile network, so one way this is a good idea to enjoy your vacation without any disturbance due to internet and wifi.

ATM’s in Andaman.

Port Blair has a number of ATM’s. However while is Neil and Havelock there are quite a few especially around Jetty. So would recommend to carry enough cash to avoid last minute hassle.

How safe it is to travel in Andaman

You can be rest assured about safety as the civilians of this beautiful serene island are equally humble and down to earth. So far safety is not a concern here. Just be cautious as few tribal lands don’t like civilians to intrude and hence don’t risk by visiting the tribes without a proper guide. Few tribal zones are prohibited for tourists.

While Scuba diving or snorkeling make sure you listen to trainers instructions. Be safe and enjoy your blissful vacation.