Experience Andamans : Top things to do in Andaman

What comes to your mind when you think of Andaman ? Fantastic food and underwater adventure maybe ? Or perhaps the quintessential sea-sun-island trinity of island postcard frame ?

Andaman’s clean air and island breeze offer Indian travellers a respite from the scorching summer temperatures and high levels of air pollution. Though Andaman is gradually becoming an year long travel destination but the winter months continue to be the best time to visit these beautiful islands.

Port Blair

Reaching Andaman :

There are two ways to reach Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands.

By air : There are direct flights to Port Blair from Delhi,Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Bangalore.

By ship : They sail from the ports of Chennai, Vizag and Kolkata.

Staying in Andaman :

Andaman in general is an expensive tourist destination, but you can find variety of hotels and resorts here depending on your budget. Most luxury resorts have their own private beach, but if you are a solo traveler or on a tight budget you can choose to stay in homestays or Eco huts.

Top things to do when in Andaman :

Island Hopping : The islands of Andaman untangle itself from the usual bustle of the city life and build a serene world of its own. Tranquility pervades every part of the island. Every island here is unique. The historic ruins of Ross Island, the water activities of North Bay island, the stunning beaches of Havelock island, the mesmerizing sunsets of Neil island, the corals of Jolly Buoy island, the mangrove forests of Baratang island, the many charms of Andaman make it India’s best travel destination.

Ross Island

Beach Hopping : Andaman islands has some of the most popular beaches, which are postcard-perfect-spotlessly clean and charming. Did you know one of the beaches in Havelock island is not just India’s cleanest beach but also Asia’s cleanest beach ? Radhanagar Beach was crowned as “Asia’s cleanest beach” and “7th best beach in the world” by Time Magazine. Some other famous beaches in Havelock island are the Kala Pathar beach, Elephant beach and Vijaynagar beach. Neil island boasts of some amazing beaches like the Laxampur beach and Bharatpur beach. The only beach in Port Blair, the capital city of Andaman is the Corbyn Cove beach,which is the perfect place to enjoy your evening tea.

Photo of Experience Andamans : Top things to do in Andaman by Wander with Sakshi

Cruising : The only way to reach Havelock island and Neil island from Port Blair is by a cruise. The popular luxury cruise options available are Makruzz and Green Ocean. The tickets can be booked online in advance. Cruising through the emerald waters is pure joy.

Exploring the underwater life : A trip to Andaman islands is incomplete without engaging in one of the thrilling adventures and exploring the unbelievable world underwater. There are different water activities available based on your comfort level.

Scuba Diving : This requires no introduction, Andaman has numerous PADI certified diving schools. The best places to go for scuba diving are in Havelock and Neil island.

Sea Walk : Imagine walking on the sea bed with colorful fishes swimming next to you, sounds amazing, right ? Sea walk is an activity which allows you to walk underwater, touch and feel the corals and witness the blissful marine life. Sea walk is done only in two places- Elephant beach in Havelock island and in North Bay island.

Snorkeling : This one is my personal favorite. Most people think you need to be a swimmer to snorkel but a non swimmer can enjoy it too. Popular beaches for snorkeling are North Bay, Elephant beach, Bharatpur beach in Neil island. Snorkeling gives you a chance to swim like a mermaid and see fishes swimming right before your eyes.

Glass bottom boat ride : If you are someone who is medically unfit or not comfortable to go underwater then Glass bottom boat ride is for you. This ride gives you a chance to see some very rare corals such as the brain coral and mushroom coral. Best places for this activity are Jolly Buoy island, Bharatpur beach and North Bay island.

Jet Ski : This is another crazy adventure that you cannot miss if you are looking for an exciting experience. Speeding around in challenging sea waves is sure to give you an adrenaline rush.

Cellular Jail : For almost a century Andaman and Nicobar islands has been synonyms to Kala Pani or the infamous Cellular Jail. This place has been a witness to the atrocities committed against the Freedom fighters by the British Raj. It stands as a dark reminiscence of the British Rule. One cannot miss the Light and Sound show that happens every evening. The show is absolutely amazing, it brings life to the dark walls of the prison, the narration is brilliant and heart touching, it reminds us of the hardship the freedom fighters faced.

Anthropological Museum : This museum in Port Blair sheds light on the local community of tribes of the island. These tribes are considered to be one of the oldest in the world. The museum offers the highlights of the life of Jarawas, the Shompens and the Nicobarese.

Watch sunsets : Sunsets inspire travel, hope and happiness. Without any doubt beaches are the best place to watch sunsets. The entire view is captivating.

Imagine yourself in the lap of nature- palm trees swaying above you, soft sand beneath your feet and cool breeze soothing your skin. If this is your idea of a perfect holiday then it is time for you to pack your bags and leave for Andamans and discover a piece of paradise that you have never experienced before.