Tourism in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Located in the Bay of Bengal, the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an archipelago of over 300 islands, a majority of which are uninhabited. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs, sandy beaches and clear water. The islands were used by the British in the 19th century, mainly for imprisoning Indian freedom fighters in the 'cellular jail'.

The climate in the Andaman and Nicobar is tropical. The native people of these islands are of Negroid and Monogloid stocks. The main tribes are Onge, Andamanese, Shompen, Nicobarese and Jarawa. The number of tribals is fast dwindling.

What To See

Cellular Jail

This three-storeyed prison, constructed by the British in 1906, is a pilgrim destination for freedom fighters. This colossal edifice has mutely witnessed the most treacherous of inhumane atrocities borne by the convicts, who were mostly freedom fighters. Now dedicated to the nation as a National Memorial, it houses a spectacular sound and light show, besides a museum and art gallery.

Andaman Water Sports Complex

This unique complex, the first of its kind in India, has all possible aqua sports facilities including safe water sports like paddle boats, row boats and water cycle, and adventure water sports like wind surfing, wind skiing, water scooter. There is also a memorial for the Battle of Aberdeen, fought between the Britishers and the Andamanese aboriginals in 1859.

Gandhi Park

Laid in record time in the heart of Port Blair, it is an enticing park comprising of a children's park, amusement park, deer park, water sports facilities, Japanese temple, nature walk and a restaurant.

Corbyn's Cove Complex

One of the most picturesque beaches, it is ideal for sun-bathing. It has a tourist complex which offers a range of water sports facilities.

Anthropological Museum

Built in 1975, this small but informative museum showcases the four Negroid tribes of the Andamans, viz, the Jarawas, Sentinelese, Andamanese and the Onges, and two Mongoloid tribes of the Nicobars, viz, the Nicobarese and the Shompens.

Fisheries Museum

With its display of about 350 species of sea-life, rare varieties of coral, the museum reflects the enormous marine life and wealth submerged in the waters of these islands.

Ross Island

Once the seat of British power and capital of these islands, it now stands as an imposing relic, with the old structure almost in debris. A small museum displays photographs and other antiques of the Britishers, relevant to these islands.

M.G. Marine National Park

The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park at Wandoor, is at a distance of 29 km from Port Blair, covering an area of 281.5 sq km. This marine park made up of open sea, creeks and 15 islands, is one of the largest of its kind, in the world. Coral reefs, a plethora of exotic coral fish and other marine life abound in this area. The Directorate of Tourism, and other private tour operators operate conducted tours to the park.

Cinque Island

A superb place for swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing and camping.

Havelock Island

About 38 km from Port Blair, this island boasts of virgin beaches, and an unpolluted environment.

How To Get There

Air: Indian Airlines has regular flights to Port Blair, from Calcutta and Chennai.

Ship: There are regular trips to Port Blair, from Calcutta and Chennai. The trip usually takes three to four days.