Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a recognised Union Territory of India consists of 572 islands of which 38 are currently inhabited. It is located at the junction of the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. These islands today are on the march – developing their resources, preserving tribal cultures and basking in their recently discovered geo-political importance.
If the traveler in you is longing for change, adventure and a fresh experience, it’s calling for a trip to the Andamans. If there is one place in India with geography, architecture and history that is colossally different and unique compared to the rest of the cities and states, it’s Andaman. Being here can feel like a trip and a vacation at the same time and that’s how you must approach being in this bountiful land.
It is impossible to run out of things to do in Andaman. Not only are there lovely buildings, roads, streets and food to indulge in and visit here; but also, an extensive marine life to discover, learn about and explore. These islands boast of dense rain forests stacked with priceless timber, of rich fish harvests off the coastline, and might one day become booming oil wells.
Andaman is a vessel that contains nature’s best delights. Even going on a simple nature walk or sinking your feet in the soft white sand begins to feel like a brand-new experience. Of the endless list of things to do in Andaman, it has in recent years become a huge hub that hosts and nurtures water sports; the most popular ones being scuba diving, water skiing, sea walking and snorkeling. Besides this, catching the bioluminescence, parasailing, individual island tours, marvelling at South Asia's only active volcano – Barren Island Plateau and shopping for souvenirs at Aberdeen Bazaar are quintessential Andaman experiences to catch. No matter what you don’t do, remember to catch the beauteous sunrises and sunsets here.
Since COVID-19, the government and citizens part of the hospitality and service sector have taken strict and informed measures to ensure safe travels for their people, future tourists and visitors so we can continue to share in their joy of being at paradise.
Being at Andaman redefines sightseeing entirely. An archipelago of islands to the east of the Indian mainland, it is home to the Andamanese, the most majestic forests and exotic flora and fauna that take your breath away. However, the most prominent feature there are the never ending, supremely blue beaches. Remember, sightseeing in Andaman begins the minute you’re there. It proves to be one of the hardest itineraries to put together simply because there is so much to see but once you’re there, it is hard to not take in every sight of wonder.
The island holds so much life and culture but the jewel in the crown, however, is the marine life here. Sightseeing in Andaman underwater is the most thrilling experience this place has to offer. The incredible corals and the myriad creatures that inhabit their ocean leave you spellbound. Exploring the marine life first-hand through activities like scuba diving and fishing guarantee an enriching experience of coming just an inch closer to nature.
Marine life in the Andamans is a sight to behold. Surrounded by some of the largest and bluest water bodies, the extent of aquatic life here are not to just be experienced and marvelled at but also safeguarded through responsible decisions made as travellers. The locals and the instructors here have worked tirelessly to leave everyone with a safe and life-changing experience underwater. All the scuba diving guides are PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) or SSI (Scuba Schools International) certified.
Scuba Diving in the Andamans is ritual act – it must be performed if you’ve stepped foot here and is the best way to witness the marine life in all their glory. Scuba Diving is the closest we will come to flying and having to deal with a negligible amount of gravity makes this an adrenaline filled experience. Be certain that each time you dip under the surface, you will learn something new and life on the land will never look the same. The most popular sighting are the corals. There have been 500 species of corals recorded here till date. Most corals live below the depth of 5 meters so there is a good chance you will not encounter them all in your first few dives but with a little guidance and practice, here's some of the aquatic family you will encounter - snails, clams, sponges, anemones, crabs, worms, starfish, shrimps, lobsters, sea cucumbers, sea lilies, surgeonfish, damselfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, clownfish, sharks, turtles, dolphins, green algae, brown algae, red algae and sea grasses.
Scuba Diving in Andaman is a great place to begin your encounter with the seas and the life it holds. There are safe and equally thrilling options for those of you who are not frequent swimmers or comfortable with water. Dive right in and have yourself a moment that will stay in your memory archives forever!
Is scuba diving safe in Andaman?
Scuba Diving is absolutely safe in the Andamans and there are various options for beginners and experienced swimmers. Before you participate in anything, check for PADI or SSI certification of the guide divers.
What is the cost of scuba diving in Andaman?
This varies according to place, number of dives, season and the package you pick but it typically costs around 6000 rupees to have a two-day experience with scuba diving.
What can we shop in Andaman?
Pearls, Spices, Fishbone Articles, Timber Crafts, Shells, Jute Items and Nicobari Mats are some of the most popular handicraft, local items that double as souvenirs. Aberdeen Bazaar is a shopping hotspot.
Is Andaman a dry state?
Alcohol is available on the islands but the availability of imported alcohol is extremely limited. Except for a few IMFL (Indian Made Foreign Liquor) bottles, the alcohol availability is restricted to mostly Indian brands.
Can non swimmers do water sports in Andaman?
Definitely. There are versions customised for non-swimmers to engage in water sports here. Make sure to specify your requirements and the guides there will work out the best alternative for you.
Which place is best for scuba diving in Andaman?
For beginners, there is the Aquarium and for others, there are Havelock Islands that have many dive destinations.
What is the best time to visit Andaman?
That would be anytime during October and May or during their annual tourism festival in January.
How to reach Andaman?
Andaman has great connectivity by air and by water. Frequent flights are available from Kolkata and Chennai to reach in 2-3 hours. The longest travel time would be from Delhi which takes about 5 hours. Alternatively, you can board a ship to get there from Vizag, Kolkata or Chennai which typically takes around 2-3 days.
What are the best activities to engage in at Andaman?
Andaman is an admixture of many things. You can explore the lovely buildings in Port Blair, the pristine beaches or spend time underwater with the extensive marine life this place is home to.
What is the ideal duration for a trip to the Andaman Island?
5 nights and 6 days is a perfect duration for a trip to the Andamans. This will leave you with enough time to cover the best destinations this place has to offer and board a flight back.
Where is Andaman located?
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a union territory of India consisting of 572 islands, of which 38 are inhabited, at the junction of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea.
Is a visa required to travel to Port Blair?
Andaman is very much a part of India and Port Blair is the capital city. No visa is required while travelling to Andaman.