The Andaman and Nicobar islands form an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal. The islands are renowned for their lush green rainforests, untouched beaches, the fascinating coral reefs with unique marine life, and is home to various species of birds. It is also an abode to indigenous tribes like Great Andamanese, Jarawa, Onge and Sentinelese. The capital, Port Blair, is a tourist hub and is connected to major cities in India. Andaman with its beaches and adventure water sports has become a popular tourist destination in the recent times. Book Andaman and Nicobar Islands tour packages at Yatra for an invigorating experience of the Islands and explore the many attractions some of which are mentioned below:
- Baratang Island – It is one of the main islands among the cluster of Islands in Andaman and is approximately 98 km from Port Blair. It is accessible by bus or boat. The famous Limestone caves are located here. Undertaking the journey to reach this island has many enjoyable moments.To get to the caves, one has to walk through a stretch of mangrove forests making it an adventure packed trip. The Limestone caves have some very interesting stalactites and stalagmites formation. The caves remain closed on Monday. Travellers need a special pass to visit the island issued by the Forest Department at Baratang. Other main attractions include the active Mud Volcano, the Parrot Island and the blue beach at Baludera.
- Chidiya Tapu – Also known as ‘Bird Island,’ Chidiya Tapu is at a distance of 25 km from the Central Bus stand at Port Blair. It is well connected to the city with an efficient roadway. The tranquil islands are home to around 46 species of birds like emerald dove, white-bellied seagulls, drongos, hanging parrot, scarlet minivet to name a few. Other than a panoramic view of the sunset the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park, the Sylvan Sands and the Munda Pahad are other attractions.
- Elephant Beach –Another popular spot in the Andaman, Elephant Beach is at a distance of 65 km from Port Blair. Travel to this secluded island includes a ferry ride from Havelock Ferry Ghat. The crystal clear water and the coral reef support a unique ecosystem. It is the ideal spot for snorkelling and enjoying the amazing marine life. One can also get a taste of water sports activities like scuba diving, banana boats, Jet Ski and underwater sea walk. The glass-bottom boats offer a chance to view the amazing sea life without getting drenched. However, the island is open only during the day between 9:30 am to 4 pm.
- Radhanagar Beach –This is considered to be one of the top ten beaches in the world by T.I.M.E Magazine and for all the right reasons! It is located 65 km from Port Blair Central Bus Stand and 11 km from Havelock Ferry Ghat. Lush green forests line the white sandy beach, and turquoise blue waters attract the weary heart making it the most favoured spot amongst tourists. The beach is considered safe for swimming and offers a wide range of flora and fauna for the nature lover.
- Ross Island –Ross Island is a defence base and open to tourists only during the day. The old ruins of churches, barracks, distillery, tennis court etc. are an echo of the British occupation. The sound and light show at sunset is of about 30-45 mins duration with narrations in Hindi/English. Tickets for the show are available at IP&T (Information, Publicity and Tourism department). Those more inclined to enjoy nature’s marvels can observe the exotic wildlife that will leave you enthralled.
