Andaman – Floating in splendid isolation
Andaman and Nicobar Islands float in splendid isolation away from Indian mainland. Although away, it is part of India. Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an archipelago of five hundred and seventy two verdant islands, islets and rocks. Out of these, only thirty six are inhabited. The topography of the islands is hilly and major part is covered by evergreen forests. The islands are home to endless variety of exotic flowers and birds. The sandy beaches that dot the elongated coast line are fringed by swaying coconut trees. Rare flora and fauna, underwater marine life and coral reeves, crystal clear water, creeks lined by mangroves and opportunities for water sports – the bounties of nature Andaman and Nicobar islands are blessed with are such.
Andaman Tourism is a dream for nature lover for it has fresh unpolluted air, clean and wide roads, free of filth and also rare gifts of nature. Also the sea around the island is especially conducive for water sports. There are also provisions for adventure activities like trekking, island camping, snorkeling and scuba diving etc.
Tourism in Andaman is centered around its islands. The prominent of islands are Jolly Buoy, Cinque Island, Red Skin Island, Havelock Island, Barren Island, Ross Island, Viper Island and Chatham Island.
Jolly Buoy is an island which is part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Its sea is apt for bathing and beach ideal for sunbathing. Snorkeling can be tried here and island offers a breath taking underwater view of coral and marine life.
Cinque Island is superb place for scuba diving, swimming, fishing and camping. It has excellent underwater coral gardens. The attraction of unspoiled beaches especially a sand bar joining two islands is irresistible.
Red Skin Island is another one which is part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. It homes a nice beach and offers a spectacular view of corals and marine life.
Havelock Island exists near Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The island provides for an idyllic resort in the lap of a pristine beach and boasts of unpolluted environment. Camping facility is available near Radhangar Beach.
Barren Island is the land of volcano. It is the only active volcano in India . About half a kilometer away from the shore, a big crater of volcano rises abruptly from the sea. Andaman tour operators will arrange for visit to Barren Island on board vessels.
Ross Island was the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands during British raj. Now the old structures are almost in ruins. There is a small museum exhibiting photographs and antiques of British era.
Viper Island is the place where Britishers used to harbor convicts. The first jail was built here, which was abandoned after the construction of Cellular jail. There is a gallows atop a hillock, where condemned prisoners were hanged.
Chatham Island homes the main mainland- island harbor. In a tiny island connected by a bridge built over sea water, there is a Saw Mill. This Saw Mill is one of the biggest and oldest in Asia.
The main tourist places in Andaman and Nicobar islands are Neil Island, Cong Island, Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur, Little Andaman Island, Car Nicobar, Katchal, Great Nicobar, Mahtma Gandhi Marine National Park, Gandhi Park, Sippighat farm, Chiddiya Tapu, Collinpur, Madhubhan, Mount Harriet and a mini zoo in Port Blair.