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Now this is a place that is a must visit if you ever go to India and a “not-to-be-missed” experience for every Indian. Why? It is one the most popular tourist destinations in India. If you’re wondering which are the best places to see in Andaman & Nicobar Islands, then read further as I describe them. Among the beaches and scenic beauty there are many adventure activities, under water experiences and unique things to do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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Some Quick Facts & FAQ’s
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park in the Andaman & Nicobar islands is the best place for divers and tourists to see the natural coral formations under water.
Yes, you can take a helicopter tour from South Andaman to North Andaman. The ride is about 3 hours long and you will be able to view Andaman from an aerial vantage point.
1. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
From the city of Port Blair, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is only 29 kms away. It has 17 islands in total, but unfortunately, a lot of them restrict entry for the general public since they preserve the rainforests, sea turtles, coral reefs, and the general wildlife. The best time to visit here would be between October and February since it will be cool here in the winter months of India. The average temperature would be 23.8 degrees Celsius here in those months.
Among some things that you can do here comes watching sea turtles hatch. This attracts a lot of tourists every year. You can go snorkeling in the tranquil waters among the beautiful coral reefs and numerous species of fish. The fish here are completely safe to be around. The same goes for scuba diving. There is even an option for you to ride banana boats which allows 6 people per boat, but hurry! Only 150 permits are allowed per day. The general entry park has a fee of ₹50 for Indians and ₹500 for foreigners.
2. Mud Volcanoes
Andaman and Nicobar islands consist of a total of 11 mud volcanoes, and 9 of them are in Baratang island. This is around 90 kms away from Port Blair. These are actually microorganisms releasing juices to consume and break down the organic matter below the surface of the earth. They then release gases which lead to bubbling mud through cracked surfaces.
Get the permit for Baratang island before leaving for here. This is a public attraction so there is no entry fee. Another tourist attraction in the Andamans that you should visit which is close to this is the Cellular Jail. Allow me to elaborate on my next point.
3. Cellular Jail
This is a significant historical structure because during the British rule in India, the British officers used to send prisoners here for exile. This jail is also known as Kala Paani, or black water, which signifies the darkness of the actions that have taken place here in the past. This used to be completely isolated.
4. Elephant Beach
This is also a public attraction and you will not have to pay anything to visit here. There are seating arrangements here, so there is absolutely nothing stopping you from having a good time here. The white beach with soft sand, the shallow waters with coral reefs just 1 meter deep, the light breeze, and the elephants, ah! What’s there not to enjoy here?
5. Helicopter Tour
This helicopter tour will take you from South Andaman to North Andaman. The ride is about 3 hours long and you will be able to view Andaman from a height and the beauty your eyes will be able to catch here will be like nothing else in Andaman and Nicobar islands.
You are likely to see dolphins from this view as well. The rates for the ride are very reasonable and the seats are very limited, which is why there is no guarantee that you will get to experience this, but be patient with this. Sadly, these tours cannot be pre booked and you will get confirmation only before a day or two of your desired date of ride, or sometimes even right on that date, so good luck there!
6. Dolphin watching
There are glass bottom boats made especially for the purpose of watching life below the sea. You will clearly be able to see the marine life under and enjoy the view of dolphins, fish, sea turtles and corals. This is a private service and you are welcome to check out more details by clicking on this link.
7. Sea Walking
Imagine being able to walk in water like you walk on land. If this is going to be your first time doing this, you are in for a treat! And don’t worry, this is completely safe. You will be given a short instruction tutorial of about 10 minutes. A helmet will be given to you according to your size through which you will have the provision for breathing underwater. You will then be lowered into the water carefully with the help of a net.
This can be done on the Elephant beach or in the North Bay island. The cost is ₹4500 per person. Before you opt to go for this, know that this is not usually advisable for heart patients. Please confirm with your doctor first.
8. Mangrove Kayaking at Mayabunder
This is a 2 hours and 30 minutes journey. The water is dead silent, just gorgeous. All you hear is the sound of you paddling your boat and the chirping of the birds around while you are surrounded by the serene green beauty of the mangroves and the rich flora and fauna. You will have the option to go solo or with someone. You are provided with a life jacket as well for safety purposes of course.
You are going to need breaks because paddling for 2 and a half hours can get tiring. Try moving along a slow pace from the start so you don’t drain yourself of energy before even reaching the mangroves, which would take about 10-15 minutes at a normal pace.
9. Island Trek
Clear water bodies and water based activities is not all that Andaman and Nicobar islands have to offer that involves nature. If you are a trekker, this is without a doubt one of the most popular trekking destinations in India. You will witness the beauty of rivers, species of insects and trees, limestone cave in Baratang island(another must visit), green forests, beaches with sunsets, rare species of animals, and the list goes on.
Now, keep in mind the basic rules of trekking. Stay hydrated by carrying sufficient water, avoid skinny outfits, and wear a good pair of shoes. Here is a link for you to check out some popular trekking destinations here.