Andaman is a place where beauty in a true sense really enthralls. Not only it is blessed with drop- dead gorgeous beaches but also its a crowning glory of India in terms of biodiversity. Tourists from all over the world love to visit this ecological paradise.
For some it is a place where one can behold the gorgeous beauty of nature and seek solace, for some it is a treasure trove of thrilling adventures. For some it is an inspiration to create an amazing art, for some it is a place to cherish the moments of togetherness.No matter what the beauty, Andaman has always been luring different kinds of tourists for ages. People never get bored here. Stunning wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, awesome beaches, museums and primitive jungles and Mangrove forests makes sightseeing in Andaman so interesting and engaging. Andaman is truly a place worth visiting for memorable holidays.
Havelock Island or Swaraj Island is a most popular Island in Andaman. It’s a wonderful paradise of white beaches, lush green forests, amazing aquatic life and beautiful coral reefs. It has three awesome beaches Radhanagar Beach, Vijayanagar Beach and Elephant Beach. Azure waters of the stunning Andaman Sea all around, less crowded, lush tropical greenery- it’s a perfect scenery you can only imagine in your dreams or see in movies. If you are looking for a secluded place with abundance of beauty and tranquility, you must visit Havelock Island for a relaxing Beach holiday in Andaman.
Do you know Barren Island houses India’s only active volcano? Located in the active tectonic plates in the Andaman Sea, Barren Island is one of the most unique tourist attractions that you can ever behold. No one is allowed to visit this island; one can only see it from far. The last volcano erupted here around the year 1994-95. From your ship you will witness the enchanting sight of a smoking volcano. Uninhabited by humans as the name suggests, this place will enrich your travel experience to a different level. You will also need a visiting permit from the forest department.
Highlights
- The enchanting waters around Barren Island is ideal for Scuba diving and witnessing the amazing aquatic life.
Best Time to Visit- November to February
Also Read: Must Visit Museums in Andaman
Cellular Jail – The dark and bright Kalapani
An historical tour to the land of beautiful beaches is not a bad idea, isn’t it? Cellular Jail is one of the best tourist places to visit in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is a place where the dark past of Indian freedom struggle and the first war of independence comes alive. Known as ‘Kalapani’ it was constructed by the Britishers in 1906 to torture and exile Indian freedom fighters. It was constructed to keep only an individual in each cell for the purpose of solitary confinement so that the prisoner would not be able to communicate with one another. This is one of the most important historical landmarks and popular tourist attractions to visit in Andaman as it showcases the dark period of Indian history and the life of Indian freedom fighters.
Highlights
- Don’t miss the sound and light show of the evening.
- It also houses freedom fighters’ photo and exhibition gallery, an art gallery and a library to honor the freedom movement and freedom fighters.
- There is a Swatantrya Jyoti at the center of the jail constructed in the memory of the freedom fighters.
Timing – 9:00am to 12 noon and 1:30pm to 4:45 pm Open all days except National holidays)
Also Read: Explore Heritage Tourism in Andaman
Chidiya Tapu – Bucket full of serenity and picturesque vistas
If you are planning to visit Andaman Islands, you must include Chidiya Tapu in your list of top places to visit in Andaman. Why? because if you don’t you would miss the most beautiful location to soothe your eyes and seduce your senses. Chidiya Tapu is a carpet of lush greenery all around as it is surrounded by enchanting Mangrove forests. Numerous species of migratory birds and exotic floral and faunal wealth makes this place the best to visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Moreover, you will also behold amazing sunset views, delightful trekking trails and wonderful picnic sports- Isn’t it an amazing travel destination for a soulful family holiday?
Highlights
- You must visit the mesmerizing Sunset Point for stunning sunset views.
- Trekking trail that leads to the Black Mountain would be interesting.
- It is one of the best adventure destinations to visit in Andaman& Nicobar Islands. Snorkeling, scuba diving, sea walking and trekking are some of the most thrilling adventure activities to do here.
- Enjoy a wonderful picnic in the middle of dense forests and enjoy the exotic wildlife of Chidiya Tapu Biological Park
- Chidiya Tapu Biological Park houses endangered species of flora and fauna indigenous to the island.
- Bliss of natural beauty in abundance also makes this place one of the best honeymoon destinations in Andaman. Do visit Mandapahad Beach and spend some romantic moments with your loved one.
Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Andaman
Ross Island- Beauty in Ruins
Ross Island is one of the most popular tourist attractions to visit in Andaman. This place has an amazing history. It is very popular for the ruins of British and Japanese buildings. This small magical island used to be the capital of the British from 1858 to 1941 but the Japanese occupied it and converted it into a POW site.
Once flourished as a very powerful capital for the Britishers, today you can only witness the remnants of those times in the form of Church ruins, Cathedral, British Graveyards, swimming pool, printing press and chief Commissioner house etc. A place different from any normal tourist place, Ross Island will take you back to the time of Britishers. If you are interested in exploring something unique you must visit Ross Island for a unique travel experience in Andaman.
Highlights
- There is no place to stay at night here. You can plan a morning trip and come back by ferry in the afternoon. The timings for the Ferry are 7:00am to 3:00pm.
- You will also witness Peacocks, Deers, and many ducks calling with their soothing voices.
- Man caves in Ross Island showcases how the Britishers used to run from attacks through man caves.
Best Time to Visit – October to March
Also Read: Religious Tourism in Andaman
Wandoor Beach – Relax and Revive Your Toil-Weary Soul
Wandoor Beach is a major tourist attraction in Andaman for beach lovers. Those who are planning a beach holiday on very calm and serene beaches, Wandoor Beach is one of them. It is less crowded. White sandy beach, the gorgeous shoreline, tranquil vibes and forests all around will rejuvenate your soul from the chaos of the city. You will find lots of shops for snacks and souvenirs which will make your day the most delightful one. This Beach is perfect for a family vacation in Andaman.
Highlights
- You can witness colorful corals and enjoy swimming
- It is a plastic free zone. So, don’t throw any plastic garbage here.
- Natural caves formed over the decades by high tides would be awesome to trek and satisfy adrenaline desires.
Best Time to Visit – October to May
Also Read: Popular Beaches in Andaman
Jolly Buoy Island – For Beautiful Coral Reefs
Ecologically preserved and less crowded, Serene and beautiful – Jolly Buoy Island is a paradise of joyful vistas. It is one of the cleanest tourist attractions of Andaman. After reaching here you will be mesmerized by its cleanliness, tranquil vibes, beautiful coral reefs and stunning forests. One side of the Island is open to a cliff which ends in water. So, don’t stand at the edge of the jungle.
The beauty of the coral reefs found here is unparalleled with the other coral reefs found in the tourist attractions of Andaman. This island comes under Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. You will need a visiting permit to enter this Island. The Island is rich in biodiversity and it is a plastic free zone. The secluded serenity and beautiful vistas of the ocean will melt your heart. This is an ideal place for a calm and relaxing beach holiday in Andaman.
Highlights
- Snorkeling, scuba diving and Glass Bottom Boat Ride in the most clear and shallow waters of Jolly Buoy would be an amazing travel experience in Andaman. The water is so clean and transparent that you will be able to witness the magical underwater world.
