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archipelago of 572 most beautiful islands, with palm leaves dancing in the
mild breeze, silver
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sandy beaches, the sound of waves breaking on a coral reef, colourful
marine life, lush green rain
forests, and rare bird species, is certainly a perfect tropical
paradise, known as Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Most of these islands are home to some of oldest tribes of India and
only few are open to the foreign tourists. Rest are reserved for dense
forest & indigenous tribal people. The Jarawas, Sentinelese,
Andamanese, Shompens, Nicobarese and Onges lead their own distinct
lifestyles and
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are
now kept protected in their sanctuaries.
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Port Blair, being the administrative capital of these islands, is the
main centre of activity. In centre of the town is the lively &
colourful bazaar of Aberdeen,
constructed entirely of wood. The major
attraction of Port Blair is the famous Cellular Jail, which was
once British India's dreaded penal colony for Indian freedom fighters. The
library here has some interesting books for those interested in knowing
more about the indigenous tribes. The Anthropological Museum
displays some tools, dresses and photographs of the aboriginal tribes.
Another interesting place is Samudrika Marine Museum, where a keen
visitor can enhance his knowledge about
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history & geography of the islands, their people, marine life, and
archaeology.
Day trips from Port Blair offer various natural and historical excursions.
One can sail to Viper Island
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to see
the gallows made for the prisoners before the construction of Cellular
Jail. A further sail leads to Ross Island, which was once beautiful
town of British officers. It is now a deserted scene of crumbling and decaying
buildings.
The other option is to hike up Mount Harriet to enjoy kaleidoscopic
view of surrounding islands or visit Chiriya Tapu- a tiny
fishing
village with beaches & mangroves or lie down on
silver-sandy Corbyn's cove beach to enjoy the sun. However don't
miss National Marine Park (the
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marine park in the world!), which comprises 15 islands. The diverse
scenery includes mangrove
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creeks, tropical
rainforest, and reefs supporting 50 types of corals. One can have
spectacular insight of marine ecology through glass-bottom boats,
snorkelling, and scuba diving. The islands of Jolly
Buoy, Red Skin, and Cinque are very well preserved and
stunningly beautiful.
Looking for more Sea, Sun, Sand, and Surf? Take a boat through crystal
clear water to the pristine beaches of Havelock & Neil Islands.
Rangat, Long Island, Middle Andaman, and Little Andaman also offer
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uncountable virgin
beaches, which will tempt you to elongate your stay. While sailing to these
islands you can be escorted by a school of dolphins or spot giant sea
tortoise and flying fish. The active volcano at Barren Island can
be seen, though disembarkation is not allowed. Besides these, the amazing
variety of seafood at various restaurants- Yummy!! (feeling hungry?)
So, the enchanting Andamans can be understood as a perfect relaxing
destination, blessed with beautiful virgin beaches, lush forests, and
exotic marine life. Such a charisma of Mother Nature is rarely seen
anywhere else. |
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USEFUL INFORMATION |
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Getting there &
away
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Port Blair is
connected by air with Chennai and Kolkata.
Ship travel is not advisable due to irregular sailings (between Port
Blair & Chennai or Kolkata) and hygienic factors. |
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Foreign nationals
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Foreign nationals
need a special permit to visit the Andaman Islands, which can be
obtained on arrival at Port Blair Airport for 30 days. Travellers
arriving by ship will have to obtain permits at Chennai or Calcutta at
Foreigner's registration office.
Foreign Nationals are not allowed to visit Nicobar Islands. |
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Best time to
visit
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December to March
Being the tropical islands, there is little seasonal variation in the
climate. The temperature remains almost the same throughout the year.
From May to November, it rains very heavily. |
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What to bring
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Port Blair market
is small & expansive. Hence bring all your essentials from the
mainland. Also not to forget are- a lot of good books, some strong sun
lotion, a pair of sunglasses, a hammock, and snorkelling equipment (if
possible). |
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Important
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The Andaman Islands
run the same time as Delhi i.e. the Indian Standard Time. |
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TOUR TO THE ANDAMAN ISLANDS |
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TOURS WITH ANDAMAN
EXTENSION |
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