Andaman And Nicobar Islands

Ross Islands which is part of the Andaman and Nicobar islands is located 3kms on the east of PortBlair. It’s is a Fifteen minute ferry ride from the PortBlair water sports complex. It is a place of historical importance and has many intriguing stories. It used be the Administrative headquarters of the British colony. A major part of the island was destroyed in the 1941 earthquake. The authorities have managed to recover some famous buildings such as the Farzan Ali bakery and is now maintained as a Museum. Civil settlement is not allowed by the authorities now.

The best way to enjoy the Ross Island is to go for a walk around the island. The island is covered with century old trees and if you get lucky you might even get a chance to see Deers, Peacocks and ducks admist the cool breeze and the amazing view of the sea. Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts can set out for a hike around the island and enjoy the beautiful floral and faunal species on the island.

A light and sound show is conducted at the Ross Island at 5:15pm. It showcases the history of the island and what part it played in the freedom struggle of India. The show will definitely bring out the patriot in you. With a view like this everything only gets better and better. The best time to visit Ross Island is in the evening. The right time to Leave from PortBlair will be by the 4:00pm ferry or before so that you can reach on time for the light and sound show and enjoy the panoramic view of the sunset.

Corbyn’s Cove is one of the best beaches to visit when in PortBlair, it has a vast sea shore and is one of the cleanest beaches of India. It has a variety of water sports to choose from like Jet ski, motor boat, scuba diving making it the most happening beach there. You can also take a swim or play beach volleyball. There are changing room facilities available. Last but not the least, the beach has a beach bar as well so you can enjoy your drinks with a view of sunset.

Paradise lies not too far from the hustle and bustle of India’s large populated cities. Havelock island is one of the best getaways of India.

It is 41km northeast of the capital city PortBlair and is a 2 hour ferry ride from PortBlair Jetty. Many ferry’s also have a dance floor on the decks so you can dance your way with the pleasant and breathtaking view.

Havelock Islands is known for its white sand beaches and dive sites. You should visit Havelock and atleast stay there for 2 nights to enjoy the island to it’s fullest. There are some beautiful resorts which also have private beaches and personal scuba diving activities.

Radhanagar beach is one of the best beaches in Asia. It’s a must visit while in Havelock Islands and a 12km bus ride. The white sand and emerald blue waves with the astounding sunset view makes it a perfect combination to enjoy your evening. You must carry spare clothing as the waves are irresistible and will make you want to take a swim and enjoy the waves.

One of the beautiful places in Havelock island- Kala Patthar Beach with white sand, blue green water along with black rocks surrounded by lush green trees. It’s one the best beaches to view the sun rising from the horizon. The sunrise time is at 5:00 am. Waking up early in the morning just to witness the sunrise is definitely worth it.

A trip to Andaman without a visit to the Jolly Buoy island is incomplete. It is open for six months a year from October to March due to maintenance reasons. You can get there by taking a boat from Wandoor Beach in PortBlair. It’s a day long trip and you are not allowed to carry plastic. So it’s advisable to carry steel or water thermos. You can also take bottles for Rent before you board the boat.

Jolly Buoy island is famous for its fun water activities like snorkeling, glass bottom boat. The island is surrounded with turquoise water, white silk sand and colourful corals. You should definitely do one or both the water activities to enjoy the underwater corals and fishes up close and get amazed.

All the water junkies, North Bay Island is the perfect place for you. It has all the water activities- Scuba Diving, Semi submarine, Glass boat, Snorkeling, Sea Walk, Dolphin Boat Ride. Fun Fact- The scenery printed on the back of a 20Rs note is of this island. North bay may remain closed due to bad weather so you should confirm once before planning your trip.

The boat in the picture is the famous Glass bottom boat in Andaman through which we can enjoy the colourful reefs, corals and variety of fishes without going into the water. This is a good way for people who are afraid to go for a swim themselves or the elderly citizens. The bottom of the boat is made of clear glass to give you a underwater view.

Chidiyatapu also know as Birds Island is 30km away from PortBlair. It is famous for Bird watching. There is a trekking trail that goes up to Munda Pahad (Black Mountain). It’s advisable to travel in groups while hiking on this trail as you will pass through dense forest. At the end of the walk you will be greeted with a mesmerising view of the sunset. Do carry food for the trek.

You must visit the Cellular jail when in PortBlair. Even the thought of this place gives me goosebumps as I can replay the entire Light and sound show in my mind. The light and sound show portraying the prisoners story during the freedom struggle starts at 5:30 p.m.(first show) and the last show is at 9:15 p.m. But if you want to visit the Jail and see it from the inside you must visit during early hours. The Museum closes at 4:45 p.m.

Last but not the least other places you must visit while in Andaman are Neil Islands, Laxmanpur Beach, Dilgiri Beach, Madhuban and Mahatama Gandhi Marine National Park. Also do try the Local Seafood. ☀️ ☀️

I have come to the end of our week long trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Hope you enjoyed it. Will meet you soon At the next destination. Stay Tuned!