The Andaman and Nicobar islands are a group of 600 islands located in the Bay of Bengal and have emerged out to be a major tourist destination, thanks to its exotic beaches with crystal clear water. The total footfall in the islands is estimated to be upwards of 6 Lakhs yearly with summer being the most preferable season to plan a trip and spend summer holidays.
Best Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar
There are numerous attractive places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, but if you are planning to visit this paradise for the first time then it could be the best Indian travel experience. Just go through these best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar as follows:
1. Radhanagar Beach – Best Beach of Asia (Trip Advisor Travellers Choice):
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Radhanagar Beach has been chosen as the best beach in Asia as per Trip Advisor Travellers Choice, the beach is situated 12 kms from Havelock Island and it is accessible by government boats from Port Blair as well as Havelock. The beach boasts of a crescent coastline with soft sand and crystal clear water and tourists come to unwind in nature.
- Best Time to Visit Radhanagar Beach: From October to March.
- Activities to Do in Radhanagar Beach: Scuba diving, snorkeling, trekking
2. Jolly Buoy – Most Attractive Tourist Place in Andaman and Nicobar:
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The island is beautiful and famous for experiencing underwater coral reefs by snorkeling or riding on glass-bottomed boats. The island is open for some hours of a day daily and requires prior permission to visit. Tourists can get there either by 3-4 state-run ferries that leave daily morning or can go for private arrangements as well.
- Best Time to Visit Jolly Buoy: Sunrise to Sunset (Except Monday)
- Activities to Do in Jolly Buoy: Book a trip to Joly Buoy from Wandoor Beach and do snorkeling and a glass-bottom boat ride on Jolly Buoy island.
3. Cellular Jail – Among the Famous Places of Andaman and Nicobar
Happens to be a major tourist destination in Port Blair and is known for the “Kala Pani”. The colonial prison was used by British rule to exile political prisoners. Post-independence the prison was converted into a Memorial and is open on all days (except National holidays).
- Best Time to Visit Cellular Jail: 9:30 A.M to 12:30 P.M and 13:30 P.M to 16:45 P.M
- Activities to Do in Cellular Jail: Visit the Exhibition Gallery and the Netaji Gallery. Enjoy the light and sound show in the evening.
4. Laxmanpur Beach – A Popular Andaman Beach:
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Lies 2 kms north of the Neil jetty. The secluded beach is covered with white shell sand and its shallow water offers a good snorkeling option. The tourists enjoy the spectacular sunset while indulging in sunbathing and swimming are other activities. The main attraction here is the natural rock and coral formation, ornamental fish and sea urchins, etc.
- Best Time to Visit Laxmanpur Beach: December to May
- Activities to Do in Laxmanpur Beach: Scuba diving, snorkeling
5. Howrah Bridge – Attractive Place to See in Andaman:
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It is a natural bridge and one of the chief attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located on Neil Island and can be reached by ferry which takes 2 Hours from Port Blair. The spot gives a great view of the sunrise and is highly abundant with many marine lives, such as starfish, corals, small crabs, octopus, and other colorful fishes.
- Best Time to Visit Howrah Bridge: During summer
- Activities to Do in Howrah Bridge: Swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking
6. Elephant Beach
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This elephant beach is located on Havelock Island. By taking a boat from havelock one can easily reach to elephant beach Famous for its coral reefs, the beach is frequented by foreigners as well as Indians for seeking leisure while offering adventure activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and trekking.
- Best Time to Visit Elephant Beach: From November to February
- Activities to Do in Elephant Beach: Snorkelling, parasailing, sea walking, glass bottom boat ride, scuba diving
7. Ross Island – Most Beautiful Island of Andaman:
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The Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island) is situated 3Kms east of central Port Blair. No human habitation is allowed on the island and the place is best known for its thick coconut and palm tree forests also Deer and Peacocks are spotting. Tourists frequently visit this 10-meter-high circular lighthouse.
- Best Time to Visit Ross Island: October to March
- Activities to Do in Ross Island: Explore the ancient ruins, enjoy a light and sound show, see deer, peacocks, and other animals in the sanctuary, and tour the man caves.
8. Sitapur Beach – Must Visit Island in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
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In Neil Island, Sitapur beach is located 5 kilometers to the south and at the tip of the island and this journey in itself is a visual treat with refreshing green fields. The beach forms a part of the open sea, making it prone to high tides, and offers a spectacular background of natural vegetation to watch the sunrise. Sitapur beach is the perfect place to visit during summer in vacation in India.
- Best Time to Visit Sitapur Beach: From January to May
- Activities to Do in Sitapur Beach: Enjoy the breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset
9. Bharatpur Beach – Famous Tourist Attraction at Neil Island:
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Bharatpur Beach is a vast sandy stretch located half a kilometer from the jetty and is one of the best beaches known for swimming and coral-watching. The beach presents many activities and is frequented by youngsters. The sea surrounding the beach is full of corals and colorful fish swimming all around and is bound to soothe the senses.
- Best Time to Visit Bharatpur Beach: October to April
- Activities to Do in Bharatpur Beach: Glass-bottomed boat ride, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing
10. Limestone Caves – One of the Best Andaman Sightseeing Places:
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Limestone Caves can be reached by half an hour boat ride through the wide creek and tropical forests of Breton Island. As the name suggests, the caves are known for massive sedimentary limestone formations hanging from the top as well as growing from the ground. The caves are continuously evolving in shape and size and it is indeed a treat to watch different patterns made of limestone. These are some best places to visit in India.
- Best Time to Visit Limestone Caves: November to February
- Activities to Do in Limestone Caves: Enjoy a boat ride through mangroves to the limestone cave.
11. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is located near Wandoor on the south side of Andaman Island and covers an area of about 280 square kilometers.
The park is home to a diverse range of marine life, including corals, fish, turtles, dolphins, and whales. There are also a number of hiking trails through the park’s lush rainforest. The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a beautiful place to relax and explore the Andaman Islands’ unique natural environment.
- Best Time to Visit Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: November to February
- Activities to Do in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: Visitors can explore the park by snorkeling, diving, or taking a glass-bottomed boat tour.
12. Diglipur Island – Famous Place in Andaman and Nicobar:
Andaman and Nicobar travel guides just can’t be completed without the place named Diglipur. The Andaman Islands are a group of over 500 islands in the Bay of Bengal, and Diglipur is one of the most beautiful and remote places you can visit there.
It’s known for its dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches, and lush forests. So if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers both adventure and relaxation, make sure to add Diglipur to your list.
- Best Time to Visit Diglipur Island: Between October to June
- Activities to Do in Diglipur Island: There’s plenty to do in Diglipur, from hiking and swimming to kayaking and birdwatching.
13. Baratang Island – Beautiful Place to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
The Andaman Islands are a true hidden gem, and Baratang Island is one of the most beautiful places in this archipelago. While it can be tricky to get to (it’s only accessible by boat from Port Blair), the journey is definitely worth it. Baratang Island is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Andamans, as well as lush tropical forests.
There’s also an incredible limestone cave to explore, which is truly unique. Though Baratang Island in Andaman is open for tourists throughout the year, the best time to visit the place is Winter. If you’re looking for a tourist destination in the Andaman Islands that will take your breath away, Baratang Island should definitely be on your list.
- Best Time to Visit Baratang Island: October to May
- Activities to Do in Baratang Island: Visit Limestone Cave, see Mud Volcano, and spend leisurely time at Baludera beach.
14. Barren Island – Must Visit Island in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
Barren Island is one of the Andaman Islands, and it is home to an active volcano. The island is uninhabited, and it is the only place in India where you can see a live volcano. Visitors can take a ferry from Port Blair to Barren Island, and there are plenty of tour operators who offer day trips. The journey takes about three hours, and once you reach the island, you can hike to the top of the volcano or explore the surrounding area.
There are also plenty of opportunities for diving and snorkeling, and you might even spot some turtles and dolphins. So if you’re looking for an adventurous holiday or an eventful honeymoon, visit Barren Island, especially during winter as this season is the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar for a honeymoon.
- Activities to Do in Barren Island: Visitors can do hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc.
Wrapping Up:
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a unique travel experience that combines natural beauty, adventure, & cultural richness. From the stunning beaches & crystal-clear waters to the lush green forests and wildlife reserves, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, a water sports enthusiast, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a lot to offer. So, if you’re planning your next vacation, make sure to consider this tropical paradise as your destination. You will not be disappointed by the beauty & wonder that awaits you in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The tourists visiting the Andaman Nicobar Islands have to first reach the capital city Port Blair and then take a cruise to Havelock or Neil Island. Havelock Island is the most popular tourist destination and is situated 57 km North East of Port Blair which takes 2-3 hrs to reach via Ferry or Ship. Although Indian tourists do not require a permit to travel to the Islands, visiting the tribal areas requires a special permit from the Deputy Commissioner in Port Blair well in advance.
Things to do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The islands provide a mixture of serenity as well as adventure sports such as Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, etc. These islands are so interesting to visit and you would definitely get rid of your boring routine life. Also, it has emerged as the favorite holiday destination for adventure junkies, and newlywed couples as well as a getaway for families.
The Beauty of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Andaman & Nicobar Islands offer probably the best beach experience in India. It has something for everyone; be it a couple heading on a romantic sojourn, a family planning, a getaway, or youngsters looking for water sports activities. It does not disappoint you! There certainly lies some solitude amongst those lush green backgrounds filled with exotic flora and crystal clear water underneath your legs.
The pristine beauty of the islands along with diverse wildlife, unique rainforest, and amazing sea world is sure to stay in your memory for a while. These groups of islands offer you the most secluded beaches in Indian Territory and a glimpse into the rarest of the tribes living in the isolation. The place is so spectacular that a few hours here and you already forget your boring routine life (no matter how exciting it is)! Time to pack our bags!
FAQs about Places To Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
Various fishes and plates of seafood, like lobster, crab, prawn, squid, etc. are the best food items to enjoy in Andaman.
The Winter months are the best for visiting Andaman.
Underwater activities are the best things to enjoy when you are in Andaman. These include scuba diving, snorkeling, underwater sea walking, and whatnot.
The Andaman and Nicobar islands span 8,249 square kilometers in total size. They have 572 islands in total, 38 of which are inhabited.
Yes, there are several historical sites to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, such as Cellular Jail, Ross Island, and Viper Island.
Yes, visitors need a permit to visit certain parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, such as the Nicobar Islands and some tribal areas. The permit can be obtained from the local authorities in Port Blair.
Yes, there are several beaches suitable for swimming in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, such as Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, and Corbyn’s Cove Beach.