India’s most remote state, the Andaman Archipelago, is a land of wonder surrounded by breezy turquoise waters. These groups of islands are also one of the most ethnically diverse and mysterious places on planet Earth since so many of the indigenous communities currently live there without an explanation as to their origins. Being so close to India as an island beach destination is one of the strongest points of the Andamans. Its seclusion means that one can truly take in the best of the Bay of Bengal.
With such mystery lying around both Andamans and its neighboring Nicobar islands, the best tour experience comes from people with decades of experience planning trips to these isles. Such as us! Here’s the Andaman guide for 2021 to get you dreaming of spending days on the sunny beaches and sands, swimming among pristine coral reefs, and sipping coconut water while lazing on a hammock!
About The Andamans:
Because this archipelago is distanced from the mainland and it was initially difficult to gather information as to the origins of the islands, the Andamans remain a mystery. The indigenous populations of the Andaman are said to be as old as 30,000 years, dating back to the middle paleolithic ages. While most of these communities have unfortunately been replaced, you will find remnants of their legacy here and there.
The Andamans eventually became a strategic base for most kingdoms throughout; Raja Raja Cholan used it as a naval base and there were plenty of Dutch and British colonies that used these islands as well. It was also a significant region during World War 2 when the Japanese were allowed to use the islands with the help of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Today, the Andamans are home to a mixed group of people: The Andamanese, which consists of tribes like the Jarawas and the Onge. There are also immigrants from India itself and other small minorities.
These sunny islands are the perfect spot for observing marine wildlife by snorkelling among the colorful reefs, and maybe you’ll even find a Dugong shyly grazing on seagrass. The Andamans are the perfect place to unwind and rewind for the year ahead. If you’re planning a long vacation with your family, our Andaman Guide For 2021 should help.
Getting To Andaman:
For Indian Nationals flying to Andaman, a passport is not required although we do recommend you get yours as it makes ID and check-ins a lot easier compared to carrying a local ID. Foreigners are required to carry their passport and a valid India Visa.
Given the coronavirus pandemic, Andaman had initially shut down travel to the islands but is now opening up flight and border restrictions for tourists. However, all tourists are required to submit a negative COVID report that was taken less than 72 hours before the flight along with a health undertaking. Of course, we do advise that you follow all safety protocols when on your Andaman trip as well!
When it comes to what mode of transport to choose, there are two main ways to get to the Andamans. The main port of entry is usually Port Blair for a lot of travelers as it is connected by both air and sea. Flights are quicker and most major cities in India have flight connectivity to the Andamans but taking a luxury cruise to these islands provides an exclusive experience during your Andaman trip. Talk to us to find out what option is best for you!
Places In Andaman:
Port Blair is the administrative capital of Andaman. It is the main entry point for most tourists visiting the Andamans. The laid-back streets and lifestyle are true indicators that this is an island town!
Havelock is one of the most popular places in Andaman and usually where people spend most of the time on their Andaman trip. This isle is located perfectly for your dose of culture, beachside extravaganzas, and exploring! You will have to take a ferry from Port Blair to Havelock and the last ferry is at 2:00 PM, so plan accordingly.
Neil Island is one of the more quaint islands located around 37km from Port Blair. This tiny but perfect piece of land is perfect for scuba diving and exploring the various coral reefs of the Andamans. The crystal clear yet shallow waters mean snorkeling is also very much an option.
