Andaman & Nicobar Islands Tourist Guide PDF

DESTINATION : ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS Short Notes :  Geography: Major islands include North Andaman, Middle Andaman, South Andaman, Little Andaman, Car Nicobar, and Great Nicobar.  Natural Beauty: Pristine beaches, coral reefs, and dense forests.  Cultural Diversity:...

DESTINATION : ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS Short Notes :  Geography: Major islands include North Andaman, Middle Andaman, South Andaman, Little Andaman, Car Nicobar, and Great Nicobar.  Natural Beauty: Pristine beaches, coral reefs, and dense forests.  Cultural Diversity: Indigenous tribes with unique traditions.  Strategic Significance: Important for India's defense and maritime security. 1. Best Places to visit :  The Andaman Islands are the ideal vacation location, with their sunny sky, golden beaches, turquoise oceans, and unspoiled surroundings.  There are 572 islands, with 37 inhabited.  Tourism: Popular for water sports and eco-tourism. How to reach  By Air : Port Blair Airport.  By Sea : Ferry. Top Places to visit : a. Port Blair  Historical Significance: The prison, once used by the British to exile political prisoners, now offers guided tours and a sound and light show about freedom fighters.  Adventure : It boasts the stunning beaches, lush greenery, and water sports, attracting tourists seeking relaxation and adventure in the Bay of Bengal. Top Spots :  Cellular Jail (Kala Pani)  Corbyn's Cove Beach  Chidiya Tapu  Wandoor Beach  Flag Hoisting Point  Anthropological Museum  Samudrika Naval Marine Museum  Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park  Mount Harriet National Park Activities to explore :  Water Sports  Beach Relaxation  Shopping  Trekking and Nature Walks  Cultural Experiences 1. Cellular Jail (Kala Pani) :  Cellular Jail Museum : Showcases harsh prison conditions and Indian independence struggle through artifacts, photos, and texts.  Light and Sound Show : Evening show narrates Indian freedom struggle and prisoner stories in multiple languages.  Cells and Galleries : Explore converted exhibits for chilling glimpse into inmates' lives.  Martyr's Column : Memorial tribute to freedom fighters who sacrificed for the nation. Activities to explore :  Guided Tour: Architecture, layout, historical significance.  Exhibition: Insights into prisoners' lives, stories of bravery.  Photography, Reflection.  Educational Activities : Learn about India's colonial history.  Contemplation, Remembrance: Stories of resilience, sacrifice at Cellular Jail. Info: a. Others :  Timing: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM / Holidays: Monday & National Holidays.  Entry Ticket : INR 30  Camera : INR 200  Video Camera : INR 1000  Film shooting per day with prior permission: INR 10,000 c. Light and Sound Show : (Tuesdays, Wednesday, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays)  Show Timings : Hindi - 6:00 PM and 7:15 PM/ English - 7:15 PM  Entry Fee : Price per head: INR 50 2. Chidiya Tapu Beach : ("Bird Island," is a picturesque destination)  Chidiya Tapu Beach: Beautiful beach with clear blue water and lush green forests. Activities include swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and bird watching.  Tip: Visit in the evening for a mesmerizing sunset.  Bird Sanctuary: Home to various bird species like parakeets and hornbills. Activities include bird watching and nature walks.  Note: Bring binoculars for a closer look.  Forest Walk Trail: Trek through the forest to spot unique flora and fauna. Activities include trekking and wildlife watching.  Caution: Wear comfortable shoes and insect repellent. Activities to explore :  Bird Watching  Sunset Views  Nature Walks and Hiking  Picnicking  Photography  Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Info: a. Others :  Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm / Holidays: No Holidays  Entry Fee : No entry fee 3. Corbyn's Cove Beach :  Description: Crescent-shaped beach with clear blue water, white sand, coconut trees, and a calm atmosphere.  Beach Walks : Enjoy a walk along the beach, which is less crowded than some of the other popular beaches in the Andamans. Walking, jogging, and collecting seashells.  Marine Sports Activities: Nearby, you can engage in various water sports like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and kayaking. Activities to explore :  Sunbathing and Relaxation  Swimming  Water Sports  Snorkeling  Food and Refreshments  Photography  Boat Rides  Walking and Jogging Info: a. Others :  Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm / Holidays: No Holidays  Entry Fee : No entry fee 4. Wandoor Beach  Wandoor Beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere, pristine sandy shores, and clear blue waters.  It serves as the gateway to the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and is a great spot for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying natural beauty. b. Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)  Marine Life : Swaraj Dweep has abundant marine life, perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving to see colorful corals, tropical fish, and other sea creatures.  Bird Watching : Swaraj Dweep is a bird watcher's paradise, home to diverse species like sea eagles and hornbills in its lush forests.  Nature Walks : Nature walks on Swaraj Dweep offer a close look at diverse flora and fauna, providing a rich biodiversity experience. Activities to explore :  Scuba Diving  Beach Relaxation  Kayaking and Paddleboarding  Fishing  Trekking and Nature Walks  Cultural Visits  Water sports Activities  Adventure Activities  Island Hopping: Explore and relax on nearby islands like Neil Island with boat trips. Info: a. Sea Way : (Ferry)  Distance : Port Blair Airport : 70 km/ Timing : 2.30 Hrs. b. Others :  Timing: 24 Hr/ Holidays: No Holidays  Entry Fee : No entry fee 1. Radhanagar Beach  White Sandy Beaches : The beach is known for its long stretch of soft, white sand, perfect for walks and sunbathing.  Crystal Clear Waters : Radhanagar Beach has clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The calm sea ensures a safe experience for all visitors..  Sunset Views : Sunset at Radhanagar Beach is stunning, with a colorful horizon perfect for photos and a memorable way to end the day. Activities to explore :  Swimming  Beach Relaxation  Sunbathing  Sunset Viewing  Beach Games  Photography  Nature Walks  Dining Info: a. Others :  Timing: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM / Holidays: No Holidays  Entry Fee : No entry fee  Boat charges : Adults : INR 500/ Children : INR 100 (0-2yr) Note : Make sure to come out before 5:30 PM as it begins to get really dark around 4:30 PM c. Facilities :  Changing rooms available for both males and females  Locker facilities available for a day on payment of INR 10 per day per locker  Tour guide  Paid showers available at the cost of INR 10 per head 2. Elephant Beach  Scuba Diving : Elephant Beach has fantastic scuba diving with diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs. Keep an eye out for anemones, starfish, sea turtles, and tropical fish.  Snorkeling : Elephant Beach is perfect for snorkeling with its clear waters and shallow reefs, allowing for easy observation of marine life just a few meters below the surface.  Beach Exploration : The beach has beautiful white sands and clear turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green mangroves and dense forest, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Activities to explore :  Snorkeling  Sea Walk  Glass Bottom Boat Ride  Kayaking  Trekking  Beach Picnicking  Bird Watching Info: a. Others :  Timing: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM / Holidays: No Holidays   Entry Fee : No entry fee  Charges for Locker Room : INR 10 per day per locker  Elephant Beach trek : Distance: 2 km / Charges: INR 500 per head for the complete trip  Ferry from Havelock Jetty to Elephant Beach : INR 1000 per head/ Duration: 20 minutes (8.7kms) Note : if you're planning to do adventure sports visit in between 10:00 AM -2:00 PM. The beach closes at 4:00 PM 3. Kalapathar Beach: A picturesque beach with black rocks and clear waters, perfect for solitude and beautiful sunrises. c. Shaheed dweep (Neil Island/ vegetable bowl)  Sea Walking : Unique underwater experience allowing visitors to walk without scuba gear, observing marine life up close.  Bird Watching : Home to various bird species, ideal for bird watching in the forests and mangrove areas.  Local Cuisine : Indulge in authentic Andamanese cuisine, especially fresh seafood, at local restaurants.  Relaxation : Neil Island provides a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for unwinding amidst peaceful beaches and natural surroundings. Activities to explore :  Beach Relaxation  Snorkeling and Scuba Diving  Glass Bottom Boat Ride  Cycling Tours  Fishing Trips  Relaxing in Resorts  Local Cuisine  Bird Watching  Cultural Exploration Info: a. Sea Way : (Ferry)  Distance : Port Blair Airport : 37 km/ Timing : 2.00 Hrs. b. Others :  Timing: 24 Hr / Holidays: No Holidays  Entry Fee : No entry fee Note :  Only BSNL network is available here.  Only Two ATMs and limited money exchange in Neil Island, so bring enough cash. (Syndicate Bank & Andaman & Nicobar State Cooperative Bank (ANSCB)  Boats may be delayed due to weather, plan with extra time. 1. Laxmanpur Beach : (picturesque )  Spectacular Sunsets : Laxmanpur Beach is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, attracting photographers and romantics alike. The sky transforms into a colorful canvas, providing a surreal backdrop.  Scenic Walks : The beach is perfect for relaxing walks, especially in the early morning or late evening when the light is soft and the atmosphere is peaceful.  Swimming and Water Sports : Laxmanpur Beach has calm waters, making it safe for swimming and ideal for beginners to try kayaking and jet skiing. Activities to explore :  Sunset Viewing  Beach Walking  Shell Collecting  Swimming  Snorkeling  Picnicking  Photography  Watching Marine Life Info: a. Others :  Timing: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM / Holidays: No Holidays  Entry Fee : No entry fee 2. Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge) :  Formation : The Natural Bridge is created by the sea eroding a coral reef, forming a beautiful arch made of limestone and coral.  Location : Located on the southern tip of Shaheed Dweep, Laxmanpur Beach is renowned for its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear waters.  Accessibility : Accessing the Natural Bridge requires a short walk through the beach and a hike surrounded by lush greenery, enhancing the journey.   Tidal Influence : Visit the Natural Bridge during low tide to walk up close to the arch. High tide makes the bridge partially submerged and inaccessible. Note : Footwear - Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on sandy and rocky surfaces Activities to explore :  Sightseeing  Photography  Rock Pool Exploration  Relaxation Info: a. Others :  Timing: 24 Hr / Holidays: No Holidays  Entry Fee : No entry fee d. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose island ( Ross Land )  Historical Ruins : The island features British-era ruins such as a church, swimming pool, bakery, and the Chief Commissioner's house, offering a glimpse into colonial life in the Andaman Islands.  Natural Beauty : With lush forests and coral reefs, this island offers stunning natural beauty, perfect for those seeking relaxation in nature.  Marine Life : The island's waters are full of marine life, ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Explore the underwater world and uncover colonial remnants. Activities to explore :  Historical Exploration  Nature Walks  Beach Picnics  Bird Watching  Boat Rides  Photography  Shopping and Souvenirs Info: a. Sea Way : (Ferry)  Distance : Port Blair Airport : 3.2 km b. Others :  Timing: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM / Holidays: Wednesday  Entry Fee : No entry fee 1. Ross Island / NSCB Light and Sound Show ( Temporarily closed )  Historical Narratives : The show explores the island's history as a penal colony under British rule, its role in the Indian independence movement, and the effects of the 1941 earthquake and tsunamis.  Visual Extravaganza : Lights projected onto Ross Island's ruins illuminate its history, creating a visually stunning experience with synchronized audio.  Educational Value : The Light and Sound Show educates visitors about Indian freedom fighters and the human spirit's resilience.  Entertainment : The dramatic narration combined with the visual effects makes the show an entertaining experience for both adults and children. Info: a. Others :  Timing: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM / Holidays: Wednesday  Entry Fee : Per head Adult : 300 rs / Child : 75 rs 2. Deer Park :  Wildlife : The park is home to different deer species, with the Sambar deer being the most common. Visitors can enjoy watching these graceful animals in their natural habitat, making it a delightful experience for animal lovers.  Scenic Walks : The park has scenic pathways through lush vegetation, perfect for leisurely walks and bird watching.  Picnic Spots : Picnic-perfect spots in the park offer a serene setting for families and friends to enjoy a meal surrounded by greenery and occasional deer sightings. Activities to explore :  Wildlife Spotting  Birdwatching  Historical Exploration   Nature Walks  Photography  Picnicking  Relaxation Info: a. Others :  Timing: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM / Holidays: Wednesday  Entry Fee : Adults – 50 rs / Child – 25 rs 2. Hidden Gems : Certainly! Here are some hidden gems across South Andaman and Havelock Island the Andaman and Nicobar Islands: a. Gem : 1. North Bay Island : Great for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life & North Bay Lighthouse (10 Mins) 2. Mount Harriet National Park: Ideal for trekking and wildlife enthusiasts, offering panoramic views and diverse flora and fauna. 3. Limestone Cave ( Baratang Island ) : Visitors take a boat ride through mangrove creeks to reach limestone caves, where they can spot various bird species and possibly crocodiles.  Location: Baratang Island, Middle Andaman  Timings: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Hours vary; closed at high tide)  Entrance Fees: INR 100-200 per person for boat rides (approx.) 3. Top Attractions : a. Watersports Activities: (**Non Refundable**) 1. Scuba Diving:  Locations: Dive sites in Havelock Island, Neil Island, and Port Blair  Timings: Morning and afternoon sessions vary based on dive center and weather conditions.  Entrance Fees: INR 3,500 for Photo CD and Dive Certificate. 2. Snorkeling:  Locations: Popular spots include Jolly Buoy Island, and Neil Island.  Timings: Morning and afternoon sessions; duration varies.  Entrance Fees: 1,000 per person (includes boat ride and snorkeling gear) 1.Specially (Snorkeling) a. North Bay  Half mask - Entrance Fees : 1000 Per person  Full mask - Entrance Fees : 1500 Per Person b. Elephant Beach (Havelock)  Snorkeling with floating device, equipment and guide - Entrance Fees : 1200 Per person 3. Jet Skiing:  Locations: Water sports complexes in Port Blair and Havelock Island  Timings: Available from morning to sunset  Entrance Fees: INR 600 for 5-10 minutes (approx.) 4. Banana Boat Ride:  Locations: Beaches in Havelock, Neil, and Port Blair  Timings: Daytime activities  Entrance Fees: INR 600 per person for a short ride (approx.) 5. Glass Bottom Boat Ride:  Locations: Near North Bay Island, Havelock Island  Timings: Typically morning and afternoon slots  Entrance Fees: INR 600 per person (approx.) 6. Under Water Sea Walk:  Locations: North Bay Island, Havelock Island  Timings: Morning and afternoon sessions; high tides  Entrance Fees: INR 3,500 per person (approx; includes guide & equipment) 7. Dolphin Ride: glass bottom ride  Locations: Found on islands like Havelock, Neil, and Port Blair.  Timings: ½ hr  Entrance Fees: 2500 Per Person. 8. Semi Sub Marine  Locations: Found on islands like North Bay, Neil, and Port Blair.  Timings: 1 hr  Entrance Fees: 1900 Per Person. 9. Parasailing  Locations : Found on islands like Havelock Island, Neil, and Port Blair.  Timings : Parasailing is typically available during daylight hours  Entrance Fees : 3500 Per Person b. Museums: 1. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum:  Location: Haddo, Port Blair(20 mins)  Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM /2:00 PM to 4:45 PM, closed  Holidays : Mondays and public holidays.  Entrance Fees: INR 50 per adult, INR 25 per child 2. Anthropological Museum:  Location: Phoenix Bay, Port Blair  Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM  Holiday : Mondays and public holidays  Entrance Fees: INR 20 per adult, INR 10 per child 3. Zoological Survey of India Museum:  Location: Haddo, Port Blair  Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM  Holiday : Sundays and public holidays  Entrance Fees: Free entry 4. Cellular Jail and National Memorial:  Location: Port Blair  Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:45 PM  Holiday : Mondays and public holidays  Entrance Fees: INR 30 per adult, INR 10 per child c. Parks : 1. Marine Park and Aquarium:  Location: Chatham Island, Port Blair (19 mins)  Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Open all days)  Entrance Fees: INR 50 per adult, INR 25 per child 2. Gandhi Park (Gandhi Park, Port Blair):  Location: Port Blair  Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Open all days)  Holiday : No Holiday  Entrance Fees: No entry fee 3. Mount Harriet National Park:  Location: Ferrargunj Tehsil, Port Blair  Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)  Holiday : Monday  Entrance Fees: INR 50 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners. 4. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park:  Location: Wandoor, Port Blair  Timings: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM  Holiday : Mondays and public holidays  Entrance Fees: INR 50 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners, plus boat ride costs. 5. Chidiya Tapu Biological Park:  Location: Chidiya Tapu, South Andaman  Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Open all days)  Entrance Fees: 25 rs entry fee 6. Mini Zoo (Mini Zoo, Port Blair):  Location: Haddo, Port Blair  Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Open all days)  Entrance Fees: INR 10 per person 7. Jogger’s Park : (Preferred to visit : Early Morning)  Attraction : A View Point for Flight landing & Take-off  Location: VIP Road, Port Blair  Timings: Morning: 4:00 AM - 9:00 AM /Evening: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Opens all days)  Entrance Fee: free for visitors. d. Day Trip & its Timing : 1. Ross Island - 9.00 am to 12:00 pm / 04:00 pm to 7:00 pm 2. North Bay Island - 9.00 am to 12:00 pm 3. Ross & North Bay Island - 8.30 am to 04:00 pm 4. Jolly Bouy - 8.30 am to 12:00 pm 5. Baratang Island (Limestone Caves & Mud Volcano) - 3:30 am to 5:00 pm 6. Chidiya Tapu (Mini zoo & Beach ) - 3hrs trip (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) 7. Mount Manipur National Park - 2.5 hrs ( 9:00 am to 5:00 pm) 4. Best Season / Time to Visit :  Peak Season : Apr – June 25°C - 45°C ( Summer)  Low Season : July – Sep 25°C - 30°C ( Monsoon )  Shoulder Season : Oct – Mar 10°C - 15°C ( Winter ) 5. BEST FOOD MUST TRY : a. Seafood Delicacies:  Grilled Lobster  Crab Curry  Fish Tikka  Prawn Masala   Cuttlefish Fry b. Local Cuisine:  Andamanese Fish Curry  Andamanese Bamboo Chicken  Coconut Prawn Curry  Andamanese Bread c. Street Food and Snacks:  Fish Pakoras  Coconut Water d. Desserts:  Tender Coconut Ice Cream  Bebinca Cake 6. Lifestyle of Andamanese’s : Here are key points summarizing the lifestyle of the Andamanese people:  Hunter-Gatherer Tradition : Historically, they were hunter-gatherers relying on hunting, fishing, and gathering.  Isolation and Contact: They lived in isolation until contact with outsiders in the late 19th century.  Language and Culture : They speak various unique languages and have distinct cultural practices tied to their environment.  Traditional Dwellings : They traditionally lived in temporary shelters made from natural materials.  Subsistence Practices : Depended on hunting wild animals, fishing, and gathering fruits, roots, and nuts.  Social Structure : Organized in small family groups or bands with community leaders.  Legal Protection : Recognized as indigenous with efforts to protect their rights and heritage. Understanding these points gives insight into the Andamanese lifes tyle, their historical resilience, and ongoing efforts to preserve their culture amidst modern changes. 7. Tripadvisor Rating : 4/5 8. Do’s and Don’ts : Dos: 1. Respect Local Culture and Traditions 2. Observe Environmental Conservation 3. Follow Safety Guidelines for Watersports 4. Adhere to Wildlife Protection Rules 5. Respect Local Laws and Regulations 6. Support Local Economy and Crafts Don'ts: Note : Do not approach, photograph, or interact with tribal members. Respect their privacy and cultural practices by observing from a distance. 1. Don't Disturb or Feed Wildlife 2. Don't Damage Coral Reefs 3. Don't Disrespect Sacred Sites and Monuments 4. Don't Engage in Illegal Activities 5. Don't Ignore Safety Precautions 6. Don't Overlook Health and Hygiene Be Aware of “SCAMS”  Remember to always be respectful, responsible, and conscious of the local culture, traditions, and environment during your visit to Andaman and Nicbor Island Important Remarks : 1. Weather and Monsoon Season: Tourists visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands should be aware of the unpredictable weather, especially during the monsoon season. It's best to plan your trip during the dry season or better weather conditions. 2. Limited Connectivity: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide a peaceful getaway from city life, but limited connectivity can be a challenge. Remote areas may have spotty mobile network coverage and slow internet, especially on smaller islands. 3. Ferry Delays and Cancellations: Inter-island ferry services in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are crucial for travel, but schedules may change due to weather, maintenance, or other reasons. 4. Responsible Tourism and Ecological Conservation: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are fragile ecosystems, so it's important to be an eco-conscious traveler. Avoid littering, damaging coral reefs, or disturbing wildlife to protect the environment. 5. Language Barriers: English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but you may face language barriers when communicating with locals in remote villages or non- touristy spots 6. Power Fluctuations and Electricity Problems : Power supply issues on islands can disrupt daily life and essential services due to their remote location, posing challenges in maintaining the electrical infrastructure. 7. Groundwater : Poor waste management and pollution can contaminate groundwater, affecting drinking water quality and public health in certain areas. At times, Tap water may turn brown due to mixing of ground water. 8. Water Scarcity : The islands face water scarcity from limited freshwater resources and high demand, causing occasional shortages for domestic and commercial use 9. High Cost of Food : The islands' remote location results in higher prices for food and goods due to transportation costs and supply chain challenges. 10. Environmental Concerns : The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are dealing with environmental issues like coastal erosion, coral reef degradation, and tourism impacts. 11. Health and Medical Facilities : Medical facilities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are limited, so serious health issues may need evacuation to the mainland for treatment. 12. Cultural Sensitivity : Strict regulations around interactions with tribal communities Notes : a. Hotel :  A 3-star hotel does not guarantee luxury accommodations; it often means basic rooms and essential services. b. Attractions :  In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, there are only a limited number of places to visit, with beaches being the main attractions. c. Cab Facility :  The cab service provided will be point-to-point only, covering direct transfers between specified locations d. Language barrier:  The primary languages in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are Bengali, Hindi, and a limited amount of Tamil. e. Breakfast :  Expect that the packed breakfast for early morning departures will include just fruits, sandwiches, and juice