If you are planning your next solo trip full of adventure activities, your honeymoon, or a family tour with your loved ones, then try out the Andaman Islands. It is an island group of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Union Territory of India. Both the Islands are popular as holiday destinations and could be visited together as part of your holiday package.
However, you could just visit either the Andaman Islands or the Nicobar Islands to soak in the complete beauty of each island. The Andaman Islands is an archipelago of 300 islands. Combined both Andaman and Nicobar Islands have 572 islands, but only 50 of them are inhabitable.
The beaches, the mesmerizing landscape, the many amazing sightseeing places, and a bunch of adventurous activities make the Andaman Islands a must-visit on your bucket list of places to travel. So, here are the top destinations you must travel to in the Andaman Islands.
Radhanagar Beach
This beach was ranked No. 8 on the list of the world’s most beautiful beaches. And hence, it must be a part of your Andaman tour packages. This beach is located on Havelock Island, which is one of the most popular islands in the Andaman archipelago.
What makes Radhanagar Beach a must-visit place is its white sand, the clear blue water, the beautiful sunset, and simply, its natural beauty. The beach is also a hub of adventurous activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
Whether you are traveling solo with your family or as a holiday couple, Radhanagar Beach’s beauty captivates one and all. The beach is always buzzing with activity, with travelers strolling, locals walking their pets practicing yoga, or playing volleyball. You can even spot elephants here. The place is also famous for its cafes and restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines.
Cellular Jail
The Cellular Jail in Port Blair on Andaman Island was constructed by the Britishers to jail political prisoners. A few freedom fighters who were jailed here include Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Batukeshwar Dutt, and hence, this place holds historical significance.
In 1979, it was declared a National Memorial by the then Prime Minister of India, Moraji Desai, and now it has become a big tourist attraction, and no Andaman tour package is complete without a visit to this place.
Now, it has been turned into a museum where it depicts India’s freedom struggle through a photo gallery and artifacts. It also houses a library with various books on India’s fight for freedom. The Cellular Jail also conducts light and sound shows that should not be missed at all.
Timings: Open on all days from 9 am to 5 pm except Mondays and public holidays.
Fees: Rs 10. You have to pay extra for electronic devices such as cameras.
Chidiya Tapu
As the name suggests, this place is an island of birds. If you are a bird lover, you would love to spend your precious time here. Located about 30 km from Port Blair on Andaman Island, Chidiya Tapu is home to many different species of birds including parakeets, sea eagles, and emerald doves.
Chidiya Tapu also houses many different species of plants and trees such as manuals and padauk. Chidiya Tapu could be the best place to spend some quality time in the company of the birds. You can also indulge in various adventurous activities such as trekking, scuba diving, snorkeling, or just picnic with your family or partner here.
There is also a mini zoo here, and a sunset point where the evening is mesmerizing with the sun setting on the horizon and birds chirping and flying all over the place.
Charges: The entry fee is Rs 20 for Indians and Rs 50 for foreigners.
Timings: You can visit the place from 10 am to 5 pm on all days except Monday.
Mount Harriet National Park
This park is an important tourist attraction on Andaman Island. It is home to various species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and moths. You can find Andaman wild pigs, and saltwater crocodiles among the many species of animals found here. It also has a butterfly hotspot that is home to various species of this small insect.
Mount Harriet National Park is carved out of forests, and Mount Harriet, the highest peak in the Andaman Islands, forms the backdrop to this park. It is named after a British lady, Harriet Tytler. She was the wife of the Superintendent of Andaman Islands, Robert Christopher Tytler.
You can also view various islands such as Ross Island and Neil Island from the top here. You can indulge in a lot of fun activities here with your family or your partner and can do nature walks or trekking here. Bird watching is a major activity among tourists here. You can also picnic with your family here.
Charges: Tickets are priced at Rs 25 for adults and Rs 10 for children.
Timings: It is open all day from 7 am to 5 pm.
Baratang Island
If you like to explore uncharted territories and discover something that you have never experienced before, then Baratang Island in the Andaman group of islands would suit you best. Located about 100 km from Port Blair, Baratang Island is home to beautiful beaches, mangrove creeks, and limestone caves.
These limestone caves have been naturally forming over millions of years thanks to various deposits of marine life, their skeletons, and algae. These caves offer trekking trails that will leave you with an unforgettable experience. You can also visit Parrot Island here, which is home to various species of parrots.
You can spend some quality time with nature in the company of flying parrots all around. Another adventure activity to do here is hiking at Mud Volcano. Jarawa Creek is another popular tourist attraction here. Hence, Baratang Island should be a part of your Andaman tour packages.