There are many things to do and places to see in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This small territory in the Andaman Sea is home to two island territories, making the places to see in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands a tropical paradise.
While the islands are closer geographically to Thailand, they are actually controlled by India. The landmass is about 8000 square kilometers and is close to the equator.
Things to Do in Andaman and Nicobar islands
1. Hike in Madhuban
In South Andaman you can find amazing hiking trails that run from Mount Harriet to Madhuban. Along the trails you can find exotic flowers and forest that will leave you mesmerized. If you are staying in Port Blair there is a short ferry ride that will take you to the area through Chatham Harbor.
2. Sea Walk at North Bay Beach
If you love fish, and want to get really close to them, then make sure you visit North Bay Beach. It is just north of Port Blair, across the water.
Here you can find one of the most popular places to engage in the activity of sea walking. The waters are home to large coral reefs that are home to a variety of types of sea life. Sea walking includes wearing special gear similar to scuba diving. The rental companies employ lifeguards and trained staff to instruct you and monitor you so it is a safe yet exciting activity.
3. Scuba Diving
While scuba diving was once only available at Havelock Island, it is has now been extended to Neil Island as well. The waters have tons of coral and sea life and are an amazing place to explore. The islands have a lot of trained scuba divers to guide you to the best underwater places.
4. Savor the local food
One of the best things to do while on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is to sample the delicious, local food. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the sea and there is little doubt that the catch of the day really was caught that day. Food on the islands is a mixture of Indian, Thai and Malay cuisine, and offers something for everyone’s palate.
5. Watch the sunset and sunrise
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are relatively unblemished by tourism. While tourists do frequent the islands, the area has still been able to maintain its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Even the most popular beach won’t have throngs of tourists taking up space. The islands are a place to relax and enjoy what nature does best.
Places to See in Andaman and Nicobar islands
6. Baratang Island
Covered in dense tropical forest and lined with stretches of sandy beaches, Baratang Island is a tropical paradise. It is in the middle of the Andaman Islands.
The island is home to limestone caves which are one of the most interesting places to visit in the Andaman Islands. There is also a mangrove ecosystem on the island which is home to many birds. Near here is also Parrot Island, which is a truly unique sight to see. At sunset parrots return to their home, filling the sky with their amazing colors. It is one of nature’s most beautiful sights.
7. Havelock Island
One of the largest of the Andaman Islands, this land has beautiful, unspoiled beaches. The forests are green and dense and home to many species of animals. While part of the island has places to see for tourists, another part of the island is inhabited by Aboriginal people. On Havelock Island you can sail, scuba dive and kayak and almost anything else you can think of that allows you to connect to nature.
8. Radha Nagar Beach
On Havelock Island, a four hour ferry ride from Port Blair, you can find Radha Nagar Beach, one of the best beaches in the world. The beaches are filled with lush white sand and the waters are a tranquil blue. The beach will make you forget that the rest of the world exists. Take your time and relax and enjoy the peacefulness of your stay.
9. The Village of Wandoor
Just 30 kilometers from Port Blair is a small village called Wandoor, which is home to the Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park. Here you can an abundant array of coral reef and tropical fish that inhabit it. Just off the coast of Wandoor are the Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island, both which are open to tourists. You can take a day trip and travel by boat to the islands.
10. Chidiya Tapu
This tiny village 25 km from Port Blair is home to hundreds of species of birds. It is a great spot for anyone that loves bird watching. You will have the chance to spot parakeets, sea eagles and emerald doves.
11. Chatham Saw Mill
Chatham Island is connected to Port Blair by a bridge and on this island you can find one of the oldest sawmills in all of Asia. The saw mill was constructed in 1883 and is currently owned by the government. There is a museum on its premises in which you can see the types of wood found on the island and the history of how the saw mill evolved. The smell of freshly cut trees in the air making it a fragrant experience.
12. The Cellular Jail Memorial
Formerly known as Black Waters, or Kaala Paani, this jail was used by the British as a colonial prison for political prisoners. The memorial allows tourists to understand the role that the Andaman Islands played in India’s fight for independence. The jail memorial is located in Port Blair and is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
The things to do in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include everything from watching the sunrise to walking among fish to relaxing at sunset. The places to see on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands bring together the natural elements with the cultural history. This hidden gem in the middle of the ocean might be overlooked, but if you have the chance, a visit to these amazing islands is well worth it.
