A Complete Guide to Travel in Andaman & Nicobar Islands with Family
Summer is here, and so are the vacations. So where are you planning your holidays?
One of the best places to spend your holidays is the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The islands are a perfect holiday destination if you want to spend your time in a serene and relatively untouched area. The sun-kissed islands offer not only historical but also fun-filled options for a complete family outing and experience.
Following are a few reasons why the Andaman and Nicobar Islands make an ideal place to visit with family:
1) The islands have a calm and serene view
2) Located in the Bay of Bengal, the islands offer a unique getaway from the normal mundane of life
3) The islands are full of coral reefs and exotic marine life which add to a new level of knowledge and breathtaking splendors of the seas.
4) These islands offer historical sights as well as adventurous options for those who love the adrenaline rush.
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Some of the popular islands amongst the Andaman and Nicobar are:
1) Port Blair
2) Havelock Island
3) Neil Island
4) Baratang Island
5) Long Island
6) Barren Island
7) Ross Island
8) Viper Island
Port Blair
A rugged coastline surrounds Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands. A beautiful tropical forest provides a picturesque environment. The climate is pleasant but for most times the island has a hot and moist atmosphere. The capital attracts a lot of tourists from different parts of the world. The main attraction for the city is the Cellular Jail National Memorial. This Memorial used to be a prison long back; many freedom fighters were locked here during the pre-Independence period. It is also accredited as a clean city and famous for its coral reefs.
When in Port Blair, you can also go for some sports activities such as parasailing, boat ride, underwater activities like scuba diving, sea walking, etc.
Port Blair houses both British-era colonial buildings such as the Cellular Jail and also a few World War II bunkers which belong to the Japanese occupation of the islands. \At present, the Jail serves as a museum.
Havelock Island
Havelock Island is the largest of all the islands in Andaman and Nicobar and is blessed with a quiet serenity. Radhanagar beach on this island is famous for its beauty.
Neil island
Neil island is famous for its white sand beaches and you can rent bicycles to go around the place.
Ross Island
Ross Island used to be the administrative center of the British and even now offers a historical perspective of the British era.
For adventure lovers:
Snorkeling and scuba diving are two most loved sports on the islands. With clear clean waters and an underwater treasure trove, these activities truly provide an exhilarating experience. The Jolly Buoy Island, North Bay, Mua Terra Beach, and Havelock Island are best spots for these activities. Other options include trekking, surfing, and exploring. The most famous trek is at Madhuban Trail. You could also try some offbeat options such as dirt bikes to cater to your adventurous sense. Honda CRF is one excellent bike for such purposes.
How to Reach:
You can reach the Islands by Air and even many cruise services cater to the Islands from Kolkata, Vishakhapatnam, and Chennai also.
Food and Lodging:
Accommodations are easily available in the capital Port Blair. However, if you prefer to stay and interact with the locals, then home stays and rentals are also an option to look for.
The islands offer a range of food services through fancy restaurants as well as roadside eating joints. The most common and much sought after cuisine is seafood, though other cuisines such as fried rice, curry rice, Dosa, etc. are available too.
Best time to visit:
The ideal time to visit these Islands is between October and May. The temperature during this time exceeds up to 30°c. The annual tourism festival is celebrated in the month of January.
Most tourists prefer the months of April and May to indulge in water sports and other summer activities. The weather is warm with a pleasant breeze with temperatures ranging from 24°c – 37°c.
Avoid the monsoon season at the islands as the place experiences heavy rainfalls during that time.
Things to carry:
1. Sunscreen
Needless to say, but sunscreen is an absolute must for visiting these sun-kissed islands.
2. Sunglasses, Hats, and caps
The islands blessed with abundant sunlight and so protecting yourself in the sun is necessary.
3. Insect Repellent
The tropical climate of the Islands makes it an attractive place for insects. So make sure to carry insect repellents.
4. Beachwear
If you plan to take part in water sports and activities, then do carry your beachwear for the same.
5. Flashlight and other accessories
Do carry flashlights and other such items in case of power failures or to use after dark on the streets.
Conclusion:
Make Andaman and Nicobar your next travel destination and enjoy with your whole family!