Andaman has a rich history that goes back to the early 13th century when Marco Polo visited the island and described it as a name of Angamanian. The place was visited by various explorers over the centuries until the British East India Company set up their first colony in 1857, which was later named Port Blair. They also built a prison which was later used to imprison the freedom fighters of India and prisoners of war at the time of Independence.
Andaman is located in the southeastern part of India at the Bay of Bengal and is spread over 6408 sq km of land. With more than 200 individual islands, Andaman has a population of over 380,000 people that inhabit various parts of the island. Although the island has tropical climatic conditions, most of the heat is diverted with the help of cool sea breeze making it ideal for tourism. During summer the temperature can rise as high as 30 degree Celsius, while in the winter the temperature may fall as low as 14 degree Celsius.
Andaman is home to people from diverse communities and religions who have developed the rich culture of Andaman. Dance and music are a major part of their culture and can be seen in various social and religious events. The majority of the people belong to Hindu and Christianity followed by other religions. The island is also home to the sentinels, an isolated tribe of Andaman Islands that is believed to have from ages.
Apart from the mesmerizing beauty of the islands and vastly spread beaches, food is one of the major segments that attract people in huge numbers. Unlike other states of India where seafood foods are expensive and rare, Andaman is a place where seafood and fish are major parts of the food. The island houses numerous restaurants and pubs that serve some of the best food delicacies prepared by leading chefs in the industry. Some of the best dishes of Andaman include:
Although being located in the easternmost part of the Bay of Bengal, Andaman is widely known for its vibrant lifestyle and celebrations that can be witnessed on the eve of festivals. Tourists are treated to a variety of cultural shows, dance and musical events and handicraft exhibitions during those festivals that offer a unique experience. Some of the major festivals of this place include.
Air : Though Andaman is located in the southeastern part of the Bay of Bengal, the island is well connected with the port cities of India and the rest of the world through airways. Veer Savarkar International Airport is the major airport on this island located in Port Blair.
Sea : Andaman Island can be travelled by seaways however it takes around 3-4 days as compared to airways. However, this offers a unique travelling experience. Phoenix Bay Jetty is one of the cruising companies that allow tourists to travel to Andaman from major ports in India.
Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities to do in Andaman; Filled with alluring marine life and vibrant coral reefs, the place offers some exciting and enthralling activities.
Walking in the depths of the sea with an oxygen mask and exploring the wonders of the ocean is one of the most fascinating things to do in Andaman. There are numerous tour operators that can help you to indulge in this exciting activity.
Snorkelling allows tourists to explore the sea world in the most unique way possible. The activity allows you to swim through various marine animals while witnessing the beauty of turquoise water.
Tourists can also rent a kayak from the local tour operators and embark on an exciting journey of island hopping. Andaman being home to more than 200 islands offers one of the best places for exploration of islands.
Riding a seaplane above the sky of Andaman offers one of the best views of the entire island. Witnessing the iconic landmarks of Andaman such as Cellular Jail, Ross Island, and Havelock Island offers you the best view of the island.
Home to numerous dense forests and high isolated mountains, Andaman is a perfect place for tourists to indulge in various treks. Chidia Tapu, Baratang Island, Elephant Beach and Raman Caves are some of the best places for trekking.