The Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a group over 500 scattered islands located in the Bay of Bengal about 1000km off the eastern Indian mainland. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands form a part of Indian Territory though they are geographically closer to South East Asian countries like Myanmar and Indonesia. In fact the islands are peaks of a submerged mountain range that is almost 1000 kms long and extends from Myanmar to Sumatra. These islands are known for its unpolluted beaches, crystal clear waters, rare species of plants and animals and lush green forests. An ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts, Andaman Islands offer a range of activities like trekking, island camping, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Tribal Reserves, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands experience a tropical climate with average temperature fluctuating between 23 and 30°C. The average relative humidity is 80%. There are mainly two seasons in these islands - summer and monsoon. The monsoon lasts from May to mid September and November to mid December therefore the best time to visit Andaman would be between the months December to April with Dec-Jan being the peak tourist season.
Foreign nationals can stay in Andaman for 30 days. The stay can be extended by upto 15 days with permission from the immigration authorities Foreign Nationals are not allowed to visit Nicobar Islands and the permit allows only certain places in Andaman for a day halt.
Day Halt :South Cinque Island, Ross Island, Narcondum Island, Interview Island, Brother Island, Sister Island and Barren Island
Night Halt: South Andaman Island, Middle Andaman Island and Little Andaman Island (except tribal reserve), Neil Island, Havelock Island, Long Island, Diglipur, Baratang, North Passage and islands in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (excluding islands – Boat Hobday, Twin, Tarmugli, Malay and Pluto)
Check with the immigration authorities for latest restrictions and regulations.
If you are traveling by boat you can get a permit at the Port Blair Harbour on arrival or from the immigration office at Haddo Jetty.
All foreign nationals also need a valid Visa for India.
Indian Nationals do not need a permit to visit Andaman but a permit is required for the Nicobar Islands and a few other tribal areas. These permits are given only under special considerations.
Cash and travelers cheques can be changed at Port Blair. There are many travel agents and a few banks that offer money changing facilities. Some of the hotels also offer money changing facilities for their guests. Don’t expect to find money changing facilities on the smaller islands.
By Air: Andaman is served by the Veer Damodar Savarkar Airport in Port BlairPresently the only way to get to Andaman by air is through Kolkata, Chennai and New Delhi. Air Deccan, SpiceJet, Indian Airlines and Jet Airways have flights from Kolkata and Chennai. Jet Lite has a direct flight from New Delhi to Port Blair.
International Flights: Currently there are no international flights to the Andaman Islands.
By Sea: Passenger ship services are available from Kolkata and Chennai and less frequently from Vishakapatnam. There are about 3-4 sailings a months from Chennai and Kolkata and about one sailing a month from Vishakapatnam. The schedules are erratic and there may be long delays at the harbours. Check with the Shipping Corporation of India, for the latest schedule.
The journey to Andaman by sea takes about 50-60 hrs hence it is advisable to take a flight unless you want to sail only for the experience on the sea (tariffs are about the same!)
Getting Around:
Passenger ferries are the only way to get between the most of the islands though the main island group (South, Middle and North Andaman) is connected by road with bridges. Auto-rickshaws and Taxis are available in Port Blair and on Havelock Island. Scooters & Motorcycles are available for rent in Port Blair and on Havelock Island.
Port Blair - the laid-back capital of the Andamans and the sole entry/exit point. Spend a day or two here walking around and enjoying fresh seafood and seeing some of the nearby sites like the Ross island and the ViperIsland.
Diglipur - take a road trip to the far north of the island chain, a base for visits to nearby Smith and RossIslands.
Rangat- the capital of Middle Andaman, Rangat is known for its quite village life, and the Cutbret Bay beach which is a turtle nesting ground.
HavelockIsland - the most visited of the islands, with the most (although still minimal) infrastructure. Beautiful beaches, great snorkeling and scuba diving.
NeilIsland - quieter than Havelock with nice beaches and decent snorkeling. You can also walk through the jungles or cycle through the paddy fields.
Wandoor- a relaxed destination in its own right, but known more as the gateway to the MahatmaGandhiMarineNational Park which closed after the 2004 tsunami but has re-opened. A good source of info would be the Anugama Resort which one passes before reaching the Wandoor Jetty. There is a chance for ecotourism on the islands Jolly Buoy and Red Skin which are open during some seasons offering glass bottom boats, scuba diving and snorkeling as a way to see the park's coral reefs and marine life.
BarrenIsland - a volcano island and the only volcano in all of India.
Long Island - great if you're looking for Robinson Crusoe style camping. Nothing exists here, so you must bring all of your own gear and food.
Little Andaman - remote and currently devastated by the 2004 tsunami, it was once popular for surfing. Check to see if things have reopened.
Jarawa Reserve
Port Blair - Ross Island - Viper Island and Jolly Buoy Island/Cinque Island- Port Blair
