Ancient History
of the Andaman Islands:
The Andaman Islands, situated in the Bay of Bengal, have a rich and intriguing ancient history. The islands were inhabited by indigenous tribes like the Andamanese and the Sentinalese for thousands of years, leading a hunter-gatherer lifestyle in harmony with nature. The exact origins of these tribes are still shrouded in mystery, but they are believed to have migrated from Africa thousands of years ago. The islands also played a significant role in maritime trade routes, attracting traders from India, Southeast Asia, and beyond. Ancient travelers and explorers, including Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta, mentioned the Andaman Islands in their writings, highlighting their strategic location and abundant natural resources.
Andaman Tourist Places:
Famous Places
• Port Blair: The capital city and gateway to the Andaman Islands, known for its historic Cellular Jail, Corbyn's Cove Beach, and the Anthropological Museum.
• Havelock Island: Famous for its pristine beaches, including Radhanagar Beach, considered one of the best beaches in Asia, and adventurous water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling.
• Neil Island: Known for its tranquil ambiance, stunning beaches like Bharatpur and Laxmanpur Beach, and opportunities for glass-bottom boat rides and coral reef exploration.
• Ross Island: A historic island known for its British colonial ruins, including the remains of old buildings, churches, and a cemetery, along with scenic walking trails.
• Baratang Island: Famous for its limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and dense mangrove forests, offering unique eco-tourism experiences.
Off-Beat Places
• Long Island: A secluded paradise known for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and trekking.
• Little Andaman Island: Less explored compared to its counterparts, known for its surfing beaches, waterfalls like White Surf and Whisper Wave, and the picturesque Butler Bay Beach.
• Diglipur: Located in North Andaman, known for its serene beaches, Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andaman Islands, and attractions like Ross and Smith Islands connected by a natural sandbar.
Where to Go
• Port Blair: Explore the historic Cellular Jail and attend the light and sound show depicting India's struggle for independence. Visit the Anthropological Museum to learn about the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands.
• Havelock Island: Relax on the pristine beaches, go scuba diving or snorkeling to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life, and indulge in seafood delicacies at beachside shacks.
• Neil Island: Enjoy leisurely walks on the beaches, go for glass-bottom boat rides to observe coral reefs, and witness stunning sunsets at Laxmanpur Beach.
• Ross Island: Explore the colonial ruins, visit the British-era cemetery, and take a nature walk amidst lush greenery and scenic viewpoints.
What to Eat
• Seafood: Indulge in fresh and flavorful seafood delicacies like grilled fish, lobster, crab, and prawns, available at local eateries and beachside shacks.
• Coconut-Based Dishes: Try coconut-based dishes like fish curry, coconut rice, and coconut chutney, reflecting the coastal cuisine of the Andaman Islands.
• Local Fruits: Taste exotic fruits like mangosteen, rambutan, and jackfruit, available at fruit stalls and markets across the islands.
How to Reach
• By Air: The Andaman Islands are accessible by air from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore, with regular flights to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.
• By Sea: Regular passenger ferries and ships operate between Port Blair and mainland cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam, offering a scenic journey across the Bay of Bengal.
What to Pack
• Light Clothing: Pack lightweight and breathable clothes like cotton and linen, suitable for the tropical climate of the Andaman Islands.
• Swimwear: Don't forget to pack swimwear for beach activities like swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
• Sun Protection: Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun's harsh rays, especially when spending time outdoors.
Best Time to Visit
• Winter (November to February): The best time to visit the Andaman Islands, with pleasant weather, calm seas, and ideal conditions for water sports and beach activities.
• Summer (March to May): Although the weather can be hot and humid during summers, it's a good time for budget travelers to visit and enjoy fewer crowds.
• Monsoon (June to September): The Andaman Islands experience heavy rainfall during monsoon, leading to rough seas and water activities being restricted. However, it's a great time for nature enthusiasts to witness lush green landscapes and enjoy discounted hotel rates.
Dos and Don'ts
• Dos: Respect the local culture and customs of the indigenous tribes, seek permission before photographing them, and dispose of waste responsibly to protect the pristine environment.
• Don'ts: Avoid littering on beaches and in the sea, refrain from touching or disturbing coral reefs and marine life while snorkeling or diving, and follow safety guidelines for water activities to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience
