Latest Information on Travelling to Andaman Islands?
  • Runway Status for Port Blair Airport From October,22 to February, 23

    Updated: 19 Sep 2022
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  • Andaman Tourism Opens

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    Andaman Tourism Opens: The Andaman & Nicobar administration has announced that all tourist spots in the South Andaman district will be opened for tourism activities with immediate effect 8 Feb 2022.

  • RT PCR report on arrival

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    A negative RT PCR report has to be presented by all passengers on arrival.

  • What is the advisory to travel to North & Middle Andaman District?

    Updated: 14 Aug 2021

    The tourists are allowed to visit Baratang/North & Middle Andaman on production of double dose covid certificate/ All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report

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  • All asymptomatic fully vaccinated persons coming to these islands from mainland are exempted from the requirement of carrying RT-PCR negative test report,irrespective of the type of vaccine received and country of origin. Such fullyvaccinated individuals shall produce the final vaccination certificate at the origin airport, sea port in the mainland and at Port Blair Airport / sea port.
  • Alt asymptomatic children below 5 years of age are exempted from carrying RT-PCR negative test report and further RT-PCR testing at Port Blair Airport.
  • All other passengers viz. unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers (those who have taken only 1S1 dose of COVID vaccine) shall have to produce RT-PCR negative test report to travel to Port Blair from the mainland, as is the practice now. Such an RT-PCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to commencement of journey from the origin airport connecting Port Blair. Such passengers will also have to undergo additional RT-PCR test on arrival at Port Blair. Such passengers shall remain in self-quarantine till the arrival of the test report.
  • If a passenger on arrival is tested positive then, the prescribed quarantine protocol is to be followed.
  • All Airlines shall ensure strict compliance of this order and observance of COVID Appropriate Behaviour. Any non-compliance shall invite action under Disaster Management Act and other applicable laws. 
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General Guidelines defined for traveling to Andaman Islands during COVID :

  1. The Tourism Activities are permitted only in South Andaman & North & Middle Andaman District except Nicobar District.
  2. Persons above 65 years of age, persons with home co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years advised not to travel for tourism purposes.
  3. Tourists/Visitors who are at higher risk due to some medical history are advised to take extra precautions.
  4. Tourists/visitors shall minimize contact with other staff and visitors as far as possible and zero contact policy should be followed at all tourist destinations.
  5. All tourists/visitors shall be briefed by the hotel concerned about do’s & don’ts to be mandatorily followed during their stay and movements.
  6. While travelling tourists/visitors should wear a face mask and carry their own sanitizer and wet wipes for personal use.
  7. At all tourist destinations, staff must wear face masks and wash/sanitize hands regularly while performing their duties.
  8. Arogya Setu App shall be mandatory for all incoming tourists/visitors.
  9. Respiratory etiquettes to be strictly followed. This involves strict practice of covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with a tissue handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing off used tissues properly after use.
  10. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/ visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&%N Administration, on rate as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid 19 care centre on case to case basis.
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What are the guidelines for testing for tourists coming to Andaman after August 03 2021?

On arrival at Port Blair :

1. The tourists need to carry COVID-19 negative test report from mainland based 1CMR approved lab using Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). However, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken within 48 hours prior to starting the journey from the origin station. (For e.g. if the tourist takes a flight from Delhi at 0600 hrs. on 1st September, 2021, the sample for RTPCR test should have been taken not before 0600 hrs. on 30th August, 2021).

2. The tourists/visitors on arrival at Port Blair airport have to undergo mandatory Covid-19 screening with RTPCR test free of cost. Thereafter the tourists/visitors are allowed to move to their respective hotels. However, they will have to be under quarantine at Port Blair in their hotel rooms until the result of RTPCR tests are received. In case of RTPCR positive test results, the tourists/visitors shall remain in
institutional quarantine in hotels notified by the Hoteliers Association in consent with the A&N Administration, on rates as specified or to the designated hospital/ Covid-19 care centre on case-to-case basis.

3. Tourists may also have to undergo random Rapid Antigen Test conducted from time to time on payment basis as prescribed by A8N Administration.

What if the tourists test positive after arriving at the Andaman Islands?


If the tourists tests positive during their stay in the Islands, he/she will need to undergo institutional isolation as per existing health protocols. The
cost of such isolation for govt. facility will be paid by the tourists as fixed by the administration from time to time.

If the patient wants to stay at hotels, he/she can stay in the hotels if all the conditions below are met:

a) Patients are not symptomatic and not more than 60 years old.
b) Request/ undertaking is made by patient in writing.
c)lf allowed by doctors.

Hotels will make necessary arrangements to designate a part of their rooms for institutional isolation for this purpose.

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  • Regular flights to Port Blair (the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands) are operational now.
  • There are direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Delhi.
  • Public transports like cabs, taxis, and bus services are also functional.
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Travellers should carefully follow social distancing norms and wear masks as well. Also, before making any booking, they should refer to the latest travel news on the government website of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Sightseeing Spots in Port Blair

  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are famous for their beaches, corals, forests, marine life, and water sports. It is home to gorgeous flora and fauna that is one of its kinds. Being the one-stop destination for history buffs, the islands are perfect for nature lovers as well, who are seeking to spend some quality time in the lap of nature. Along with numerous beautiful beaches present here, there is one more that can instantly allure you—Collinpur Beach. Nearly 36 kilometers from Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this beach is can be easily accessed via road. It is the closest beach to the town, after Corbyn’s Cove Beach.

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    Highlights

    If you are looking to spend some quality time in seclusion with your partner, then Collinpur Beach is among the most preferred beach in the Andaman Islands. It is remotely located, less commercialised, and definitely an ecstasy for nature lovers. It is the closest beach to the city of Port Blair and is an amazing attraction for honeymooners and couples. Its untouched beauty brings solace to your heart. The beach is home to cobalt waters, smooth sands, thick vegetation, and palm grove trees. If you are a water baby and love swimming, then this beach is perfect owing to its shallow waters. 

    Collinpur Beach is a secluded beach and you will not find any crowd there as not many people know about this hidden gem. If you are a solo traveller or a couple seeking privacy, then you are sure to find complete solace here as it is almost empty. You can have the whole beach to yourself. It is a tiny piece of heavenly and untouched beauty. This virgin beach is strategically located and thus, you can easily visit various renowned tourist hotspots from here.

    Overview

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    A lovely natural spot in Port Blair, Collinpur Beach is an extremely beautiful beach in the Andamans. You can go for swimming here and appreciate the most gorgeous sunset. It is not a popular tourist destination and thus, you will not find any crowd there. It promises you a long stretch of pristine white sandy beaches with hues of turquoise waters fringed with a drool-worthy coastline. Adorned by the shimmering crystal clear waters and enclosed by the lush-green jungles, this beach is not less than a hidden treasure.

    Collinpur Beach is only 2.2 kilometers from Veer Savarkar International Airport of Port Blair, which is the only airport in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The beach is known for peace, serenity, shallow water, and flawless white sandy shores. All this make it an incredible place to enjoy swimming and rejuvenate in the lap of nature. It is an untouched beauty of the Andamans that every nature enthusiast must include in the travel itinerary.

    Nearby places to see

    Collinpur Beach is a great place to visit when you are in Port Blair. There are a number of amazing tourist attractions where you can visit from here. 

    • The famous Cellular Jail is only one kilometer far from the beach.
    • The Historical Anthropological Museum is only two kilometers away.
    • The lovely Ross and Smith Island is less than two kilometers from Collinpur Beach.
    • The popular North Bay Island is less than two kilometers away from Collinpur Beach. 
    • Looking for some exciting water sports? Head to Jolly Buoy Water sports Complex that is around 5.5 kilometers from the beach. 

    Nearby places to eat

    The Andaman Islands are known for highly impeccable beaches that promise a perfect island vacation. The cherry on the cake, its food further adds to an amazing travel experience, especially for foodies. Along with being a heaven of natural beauty, it is a paradise of mouth-watering food as well. Port Blair has some of the best restaurants and food outlets that are known for serving a wide variety of cuisines. While tripping here, you have to try and taste lip-smacking authentic dishes to satisfy your taste buds! You will get to choose from many options. 

    There are numerous places to eat nearby Collinpur Beach where you can enjoy authentic seafood and other scrumptious meals. To relish the local and authentic food, try out these places across Port Blair:

    1. New Lighthouse Residency
    2. Annapurna Restaurant 
    3. Ananda Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
    4. Rola Costa Restaurant & Juice Center 
    5. Gagan Restaurant
    6. Icy Spicy family Restaurant
    7. Sea Food Delight 
    8. Tandoor
    9. Cafe Down Under 
    10. TRIO - The family restaurant
    11. Bella Bay Dinner Cruise 
    12. Anju Coco Family Restaurant 
    13. Rajasthani Dhaba 
    14. Happy Belly
    15. Gem Continental 

    These restaurants and eateries offer everything ranging from authentic seafood to homelike Indian cuisines. Having meals here can make your beach vacation even more unforgettable. You can order South Indian vegetarian thali, non-vegetarian thali, chicken biryani, crab fry, prawns, crispy squids, caramel custard, etc. The food is great here and comes in big portions with a nice presentation.

    Nearby hotels

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    There are several luxurious hotels and resorts surrounding the Collinpur region. There are excellent properties where you can have a comfortable and safe stay. 

    • One of the biggest and most popular places to stay is The Rose Valley Port Blair. It is located at a distance of 9.8 kilometers.
    • Located at a distance of 1.2 kilometers, Hotel Shompen is perfect for those who are on a budget trip.
    • Another pocket-friendly hotel located at a distance of less than two kilometers is Hotel Shreesh.
    • An affordable place to lodge in, Hotel Diviyum Manor is only 2.8 kilometers from Collinpur Beach.
    • If you are one of those who like to explore more than coop up in the hotel room, then Classic Regency is one such nearby hotel where you can stay.

    How to reach

    Nearly 40 kilometers from Port Blair, Collinpur Beach has good road links. One can rent private cars or local buses to reach there.

  • Forest Museum is located on the outskirts of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. A popular tourist attraction, it displays a wide collection related to forest and the assortment of trees. If you love visiting different kinds of museums, then this one should be definitely on your list. It is managed by the forest department of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The artifacts that are made from timber, gurjan, oak, satin wood, and paduak are famous attractions here. The rich and dense flora found in the islands is reflected through these. Various research activities are carried out by the forest department and their outcomes are displayed in the museum. The cherry on the cake, there is also a mini zoo and a small zoological garden inside the museum building.

    Highlights

    A wonderful amalgamation of art and plant life, the Forest Museum is situated inside the historic Chatham Saw Mill. It is also maintained by the forest department just like the mill. You can see here a vast collection of lovely wooden art, carvings, and artifacts that are created by the workers of the saw mill. The rich flora and fauna of the region is represented here. Stunning sculptures, carvings, and art pieces made of different types of woods such as oak, satin, timber, etc. are on display here. All these woods are from local trees that are abundantly grown in the Andamans. 

    As a memory of your visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you can buy wooden artifacts as souvenirs from Forest Museum for your near and dear ones. These items are of great value as these are handmade. These are a perfect choice of gifts for your special ones.

    Visiting this museum in Port Blair is definitely worth your time. You will learn a lot about the biodiversity of the islands. Don’t forget to include this in your Andaman itinerary. 

    Overview

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    The Forest Museum is also home to a wide variety of endangered species of plants. Thus, if you are a nature lover, then you are going to appreciate this place so much. Even more value is added to the museum by a mini zoological garden that is inside the same premises. This museum is well-maintained and offers total convenience to tourists. There are boards having details of each and every piece of artwork that is on display. Thus, you don’t even need a tourist guide here. And in case you want any additional information, you can approach the museum officials and they will provide you the required details.

    The best time to visit the Forest Museum in Port Blair is throughout the year. However, the months from November to February are the best months to travel to the Andaman Islands. The weather is pleasant during this duration.

    • Morning timings: From 8:00 am to 12:00 pm
    • Evening timings: From 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm

    Note: The Forest Museum is closed on Sundays.

    Things to do

    The Forest Museum houses diverse artifacts made from timber, gurjan, oak, satin wood, and paduak. Apart from these, you can take a stroll around the museum and appreciate the gorgeous views of the azure waters and feel the cool tropical breeze. After your visit to the museum, you can choose to indulge in a number of activities in and around the museum. A few of them are mentioned below:

    • Visiting the historical Cellular jail, also known and Kala Paani
    • Attending the light and sound show at Cellular Jail
    • Spotting wildlife at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
    • Relaxing, swimming, or enjoying drinks at Corbyn’s Cove Beach
    • Visiting Port Blair’s famous church—Roman Catholic Church
    • Having a glimpse of marine life at Samudrika Marine Museum 

    The museum is located within the premises of Chatham Saw Mill, which is also a very popular tourist place in Port Blair. Near the Forest Museum, there are a number of places that you can visit such as a church, another museum, science center, beach, etc. Some of them are as follows:

    • Anthropological Museum
    • Sri Ayyappan temple
    • Mini Zoo
    • Jogger’s Park
    • Kalapani Museum or Cellular Jail
    • Sunset Point
    • Long Island
    • Japanese War Bunker
    • Science Centre
    • Old Baptist Church
    • Samudrika Marine Museum

    Nearby hotels

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    You will have a number of options ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts when it comes to hotels near Forest Museum. Some of the most popular properties are as follows:

    • Ripple Resort
    • Aashiaanaa Residency Inn
    • Jazeera Resort
    • V-Knot Residency
    • Hotel King Safire
    • Dev Mahal
    • Symphony Palms Beach Resort
    • Hornbill Nest Resort
    • Peerless Resort
    • Hotel Comfort in Blue Whales
    • Mansha Regency
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Hotel Exotica Squares
    • Hotel Hilltop International
    • Sinclairs Bayview

    Places to eat in and near Forest Museum

    The museum has various restaurants and eateries that serve delicious food. Some of the best places to eat near in and around the museum are as follows:

    • Amaya

    Distance- located 2.2 kilometers away

    • Milky Way 

    Distance- located at a distance of 1.4 kilometers

    • Annapurna

    Distance- Located 3 kilometers from the museum

    • New Lighthouse Restaurant

    Distance - 3 kilometers away

    • Cafe Rebel

    Distance - 2.2 kilometers from the museum

    • New India Cafe

    Distance - 2 kilometers

    How to reach

    • From Port Blair

    The Forest Museum is at a distance of about ten kilometers from central Port Blair, that is, on its outer region. It is located inside the Chatham Saw Mill Complex and is accessible from all parts of the town. It is very near to Veer Savarkar Airport. Take the road bridge to reach the museum as it is the straight route for there. You can take a pub transport bus or hire a cab from any part of Port Blair to get to the museum.

    • From Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

    If you are in Havelock Island, then you have to first reach Port Blair using inter-island boat services. After that, take a bus or a private cab to the museum.

  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a number of museums offering diversity to tourists. Along with being a fun destination, the islands are known for giving so much information and knowledge to the visitors. Among several museums in the Andamans, the Zoological Survey of India Museum is a museum that is located in Port Blair. It showcases a wide range of collections from the world of zoology. If you are a research student, scientist, or animal enthusiast, then you are especially going to love this place. The museum houses marine life, other mammals, reptiles, and birds that are native to the island.

    Known for an amazing wildlife collection, there is no entrance fee to visit the Zoological Survey of India Museum in Port Blair. It is a great place to learn about marine life and its importance in our lives. Visiting time is from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days. However, on Sundays, the museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. You will need nearly an hour to explore the whole place. Photography and pets are not allowed inside the premises. 

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    Highlights

    What sets the Zoological Survey of India Museum apart from other museums is the display of wonderful butterflies, beetles, mammals, and birds. Right from the size of mustard to ones that are 5 centimeters long, you can see beetles of all sizes here. The bird section here is incredible. There are stuffed specimens of parakeets, hawks, etc. When it comes to marine specimens, you will have a lot to see at the Zoological Survey of India Museum. The displays are well-labeled and are complete with genetic and species names. The museum gives you are sneak-peek into the assorted animals and plants that the island is home to. Although open throughout the year, the best time to visit the museum is from November to April. In general, it is the preferable time to travel to the Andaman Islands. 

    Overview

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    There are a number of museums in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that offer something different to their visitors. A lot to see in Port Blair, Zoological Survey of India Museum usually does not fit the tourist radar. However, if you have enough time in your hand, then you should pay a visit to this informative museum. It is situated in the same building as the Zoological Survey of India office. The museum showcases a diverse range of collections from the zoological world. It is like a paradise for research scientists and zoology students. Along with marine life, you will see a number of reptiles, lizards, butterflies, beetles, sponges, corals, butterflies, centipedes of different sizes, and birds that are unique to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Preserved specimens of parakeets, a small parrot with green plumage and long tail, can also be seen here. Anemones, starfish, and hawk with labeled displays showcasing their genetic information are some of the highlights here. All the species are captured from the nearby waters of the Bay of Bengal. The guidelines for their preservation are given by the department of marine life in India.

    Nearby attractions

    When you are free from the Zoological Survey of India Museum, then you visit nearby tourist attractions. Some of the most popular ones are as follows:

    • Cellular Jail
    • Samudrika Marine Museum
    • Fisheries Museum
    • Andaman Teal House
    • Jolly Buoy Island
    • Chidiya Tapu
    • Ross Island
    • Corbyn’s Cove Beach
    • North Bay Island
    • Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    Nearby hotels

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    There are a number of good hotels that are located near the Zoological Survey of India Museum. One can book a hotel at Foreshore Road, Aberdeen Bazaar, Junglighat, Goal Ghar, Middle Point, Dollygunj, or Phoenix Bay. If you choose to stay anywhere in these locations, then you will have the option to go out and explore the place locally. However, the hotel tariff is on a higher-end here. Properties in the capital town cater to all kinds of requirements. Whether you are on a budget trip or a luxury holiday, the hotels and resorts here are perfect for you. 

    The tariff varies between peak and low depending on the tourist seasons. Make your booking in advance as the prices may shoot up during peak season and the best properties may get full quite soon. Below-mentioned is a fair idea of the accommodation tariff in Port Blair:

    • Low Budget- INR 500- 3000 (per night)
    • Mid-range- INR 4000- 8000 (per night)
    • Premium stays- INR 9000- 12000 (per night)

    Some of the best hotels and resorts nearby the Zoological Survey of India Museum are as follows:

    • Hotel Kavitha Regent
    • Hotel Rhishabh
    • Hotel TSG Emerald View
    • Hotel Holiday Inn
    • J Hotel 
    • Hotel Aparupa
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Peerless Sarovar Portico
    • The North Reef
    • Hotel Silver Spring
    • Hotel TSG Grand
    • Hotel SR Castle
    • Hotel Luxor Grand
    • Sea Shell Resorts
    • ITC Fortune Resort Bay Island
    • Keys Select Hotel Aqua Green
    • Sea Princess Beach Resort

    Nearby eateries 

    You can have a delicious meal at any of these restaurants that are nearby the Zoological Survey of India Museum:

    • New Lighthouse Residency
    • Annapurna Restaurant
    • Ananda Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
    • Rola Costa Restaurant & Juice Center
    • Gagan Restaurant
    • Icy Spicy family Restaurant
    • Sea Food Delight
    • Cafe Down Under
    • TRIO - The family restaurant
    • Bella Bay Dinner Cruise 
    • Anju Coco Family Restaurant 
    • Rajasthani Dhaba
    • Happy Belly
    • Gem Continental

    How to reach

    Reaching the Zoological Survey of India Museum in Port Blair is very simple. It is nearly six kilometers from Veer Savarkar International Airport and three kilometers from Aberdeen Bazar (Port Blair bus terminus). You can go there by auto or take a bus that starts from Port Blair bus terminal or Aberdeen Bazar towards Haddo or Chatham. 

    Address: 11 Horticulture, Road, Haddo, Port Blair- 744102, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    Contact number: +91-3192237582; +91-3192230115

  • You can include this interesting farm in your Port Blair travel itinerary if agriculture and farming interest you. Sippighat Agriculture Farm was established in 1959 as the ‘Soil Conservation and Demonstration Center’ and converted into a Horticulture farm in 2003. Sippighat Farm is spread across an area of 80 acres. It shows the best cultivation practices that can be adopted on the islands. Along with providing information on multi-cropping, the practice of the same is demonstrated as well. Here, one can see a wide variety of crops ranging from spices like black pepper and vanilla to cash crops like coffee to medicinal plants. Around one to two hours are required to see the entire farm.

    Highlights

    Central Government Agricultural Research Institute administers Sippighat Agriculture Farm, and it pursues scientific studies and methods for improving spice production and cultivation of other plants. Spread over 80 acres of cultivated land, you can see here spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pepper, etc. These are grown here and exported to a number of countries. If you are an ornithologist or a bird lover, then you will love this place as it is a stop-over for many migratory birds. This adds to the attraction of this place. You have a good chance of spotting any of these birds—Eurasian Curlew, Pacific Golden-Plover, Osprey or Fish Eating Eagle, White-Bellied Sea Eagle, Andaman Teal, Large Falcons, and Narcondam Hornbill as these are attracted to the farm. 

    Overview

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    Those of you interested in agriculture and farming should visit Sippighat Agriculture Farm when in Port Blair. Set up as the ‘Soil Conservation and Demonstration Center’ in 1959 and converted into a horticulture farm in 2003, the farm is spread across an area of 80 acres. This cultivated green land is again surrounded by natural lust greenery and beauty. 

    The best cultivation practices that can be adopted on the Andaman Islands are demonstrated at Sippighat Agriculture Farm. Along with providing information about multi-cropping, the farm practices it as well. A wide variety of crops such as black pepper, vanilla, coffee, and various medicinal plants are grown here. The best properties of various medicinal plants can be studied here, and you may get surprised to know all about them.

    Timings:

    Every day (except Sundays): 06:00 am to 11.00 am and 12:00 noon to 2.30 pm

    The farm is closed on Sundays and public holidays.

    Plants grown at Sippighat Farm greenhouse

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    With an area of 16.64 square kilometers, Port Blair has a tropical monsoonal climate. It experiences a dry season and a heavy monsoon for the rest of the year. It is interesting to know that there is no cold season here. Total annual precipitation that averages 2872 millimeters and annual sunshine that averages 2405 hours are the other weather features of Port Blair. The town enjoys an almost steady climate that makes it suitable for all kinds of adventurous activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, boating, etc. round the year. All these conditions are favorable for the growth of a number of crops. Some of the medicinal plants that are grown at the farm are as follows:

    • Aegle marmelos
    • Acorus calamus
    • Aloe Vera
    • Abrus precatorius
    • Cissus quadrangularis
    • Andrographis Paniculata
    • Asparagus racemosus
    • Vitex negundo
    • Piper betle
    • Stevia rebaudiana
    • Mimosa pudica
    • Vanilla planifolia
    • Clitorea teritea

    Things to do

    You can take a stroll around the farm and get to look around different plants that are cultivated here. A small pathway is built around it so that you can easily roam around and gather all the information. Another attraction of Sippighat Agriculture Farm is the presence of several species of migratory birds. Thus, it is a sought-after place among ornithologists and birdwatchers. Owing to the same reason, photographers also love this place. Some of the birds that can be spotted here are Pacific Golden-Plover, Eurasian Curlew, Mongolian Plover, etc. So including this farm in your itinerary when you are in Port Blair would be a good decision.

    Nearby hotels

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    Port Blair has all kinds of hotels and resorts that are perfect for budget travellers as well as luxury travellers. There are a number of good accommodations nearby Sippighat Agriculture Farm where you can enjoy a comfortable stay. Some of the hotels are as follows:

    • Hotel Shreesh
    • Guru International Hotel
    • Andaman Residency
    • Haywizz
    • Anchorage Inn
    • A.R Pride residency
    • Classic Regency

    Nearby places to eat

    There are a number of eateries nearby Sippighat Agriculture Farm where you can enjoy a delicious meal along with refreshing drinks. Some of the restaurants are as follows:

    • Lazeez restaurant
    • Aparupa Paimana Bar
    • Lazeez Restaurant
    • Ammu Restaurant
    • Haywizz Bar
    • Haywizz Restaurant
    • Afloat Floating Restaurant

    Best time to visit

    During the winter season in the Andaman Islands, temperatures sometimes hit a minimum of 20°C and occasionally touch 30°C too. This season is the most favorable time of the year to visit Sippighat Agriculture Farm as it offers a very pleasant feel. You can also catch up on the Island Tourism Festival and the Film Festival on your visit during this time of the year. In general also, this is the best time to explore the Andaman Islands.

    How to reach

    Sippighat Agriculture Farm is situated nearly fifteen kilometers from Port Blair on the road to Wandoor. It is easily accessible by road from the city. You can choose any of the following ways:

    • By local bus- The central terminus is Mohanpura bus terminus. The buses operate between 4:30 am and 12 noon and are available throughout the day. There are tours and travel companies that provide private buses from Mohanpura terminus within Port Blair as well as other parts of the Andaman Islands.
    • By cab- Private car hire and rentals are the most convenient ways to reach Sippighat Agriculture Farm. 
    • By auto- Auto rickshaws and minibuses are also available if you are on a budget trip and want to take any local transport. 
  • During your holidays in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you will get the much-needed seclusion and solace here. The splendor of its clean sands and shallow waters make it perfect for an island vacation. You can collect seashells while beachcombing as these are found in abundance on its lovely beaches. Sit on the sand near the shore and enjoy an awesome sunset with your loved ones. Just a walk on these incredible beaches can bring calmness to your life. Imagine the gentle waves hitting the shore, the scent of salt in the air, and the hues of a sunset brightening your cheeks!

    A pristine beach, hidden away from all the tourist crowds, Bada Balu Beach is a long stretch of grayish sand and blue warm waters in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is ideal for families with small children as well. The seashore is fringed with lush green forest offering plenty of shade and thus, taking long strolls here is highly recommended. The splendor of the beach is further enhanced by the old fallen trees lying there. The best thing about this attraction is that most of the time, you will have the whole beach to yourself as almost no tourists end up here. Also, the locals come here only on weekends to have family picnics.

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    Highlights

    If you are looking to spend some quality time in seclusion with your partner, then Bada Balu Beach is among the most preferred beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is remotely located, not commercialised, and definitely an ecstasy for nature lovers. It is an amazing attraction for honeymooners and couples. Its untouched beauty brings solace to your heart. The beach is home to cobalt waters, smooth sands, thick vegetation, and palm grove trees. If you are a water baby and love swimming, then this beach is perfect owing to its shallow waters. 

    If you are an enticing nature lover, then you should include this beach in your Port Blair travel itinerary. Bada Balu Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in the Andamans. Not many tourists know about this hidden gem. The place has no facilities and thus, you are required to bring enough water and some snacks with you. The whole place is so pristine but there are sandflies that can be very annoying. Therefore, don’t forget to carry a repellent. Please note that night stays or camping is not allowed on this island. This beach is like a tiny paradise on earth where you can enjoy relaxed quality time. Tourists visit Bada Balu Beach owing to its natural charm that makes it an ideal place for every nature lover.

    Overview

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    Port Blair has a number of options for beach bums who are looking for the best beaches and islands to relax under the sun and laze around. Its nearby beaches are perfect for a rejuvenating escape that lets travellers soak in the beauty of Mother Nature. After a long day, all everyone wants is to take a leisurely stroll surrounded by peaceful beach vibes. Bada Balu Beach is one such beach in the Andaman Islands. People come here for relaxing, away from the hustle-bustle of city life. You can spend hours here while chilling.

    Bada Balu Beach is known for its turquoise waters. It is among the lesser-known beaches in the Andaman Islands. Adorned by the shimmering crystal clear waters and enclosed by the lush-green jungles, this beach is a land of hidden treasure. With lazing down at the white sandy beaches, there is a vast option for the water babies to enjoy and explore around. The hidden paradise of this beach is yet to come into the limelight for most of the people. It is an untouched beauty of the Andamans that every nature enthusiast must include in their travel itinerary. 

    Nearby hotels

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    You will have a number of options ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts when it comes to hotels near Bada Balu Beach. Some of the most popular properties are as follows:

    • Symphony Samudra
    • Wild Grass Resort
    • Big Tree Resort
    • Ripple Resort
    • Aashiaanaa Residency Inn
    • Jazeera Resort
    • V-Knot Residency
    • Hotel King Safire
    • Dev Mahal
    • Symphony Palms Beach Resort
    • Hornbill Nest Resort
    • Peerless Resort
    • Hotel Comfort in Blue Whales
    • Mansha Regency
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Hotel Exotica Squares
    • Hotel Hilltop International
    • Sinclairs Bayview

    Nearby places to eat 

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    Bada Balu Beach is so calm and you can actually feel the sea breeze flowing around you. It is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. If you are a naturalist, this beach is a perfect place to see in the Andamans. Retaining its pristine charm, you can spend your time here swimming, photography, and relaxing. 

    Some of the best places to eat near Bada Balu Beach are as follows:

    • Amaya
    • Milky Way 
    • Annapurna
    • New Lighthouse Restaurant
    • Cafe Rebel
    • New India Cafe

    How to reach

    Bada Balu Beach is a little slice of paradise in the Andaman Islands. The beach is a less-frequented area of the island. It is an ideal relaxing haven for satiating nomadic hearts. A secluded beach, usually there are a few backpackers getting tanned or just sitting by the shore. Taking a nap or reading your favorite book under the lush green canopy of palm and coconut trees is like a heavenly retreat here. 

    Reaching Bada Balu Beach is quite easy. You can reach there from Port Blair and Havelock Island in the following ways:

    • From Port Blair

    Bada Balu Beach is located in Chidiyatapu, which is 25 Kilometers from Port Blair. You can hire a private taxi to reach the beach from Port Blair.

    • From Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

    If you are in Havelock Island, then you have to first reach Port Blair using inter-island boat services. After that, take a private cab to Bada Balu Beach.

  • kids with open Manglutan Village is located in the southern region of the Andaman Islands that is known for its rubber plantations. It offers stunning views of natural beauty including a stream that flows through the village. The rubber plantation covers an area of 60 acres, and it is the major source of income for the locals. You can learn about the plantation process, from seed to extraction and production level, during your visit to this village. Coconut, betel nut, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves are also grown here apart from rubber. November to March is the best time to visit the village.

    Reaching Manglutan Village is quite simple as well as convenient. You can hire a cab or take any public transport (taxi, auto, busy, minibus) to reach there. Make sure that you wear comfortable shoes while visiting the rubber plantation.

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    Entrance Fees:

    • For adults: INR 50
    • For children: INR 25
    • Camera: INR 20
    • Video Camera: INR 50

    Time required: Half an hour

    Highlights

    The distinct vegetation supported by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the most unique feature here. Rubber is one of the most significant cultivations on the island. Manglutan Village has the largest areas of rubber trees. If you are looking for something different during your trip, then you should definitely go and see this wonderful plantation. Starting from the entry point, you will be amazed and curious to explore the interiors. You will see innumerable golden color rubber sheets and the collecting jars fitted on each tree. All this exhibits a memorable view. In the Andamans, as much as 931 hectares of rubber plantations are found and Manglutan is the biggest rubber producer in the region. It is located very close to Port Blair. Established in 1960, the plantation sprawls across an area of 60 acres and produces high-quality rubber. The village is a primary rubber plantation place on the island. Moreover, Manglutan has all basic facilities as well such as a school, a hospital, a police station, and other major centers.

    Overview

    As soon as you enter the Manglutan Rubber Plantation, you will be spellbound by the hundreds of golden brown sheets of drying rubber. The sight of rows of elegant trees dressed in tarpaulin skirts is gorgeous. If you want to know everything in detail, then you can ask for a guided tour of the plantation. Your self-appointed guide will share all the details regarding the entire procedure of conversion of raw rubber or ‘latex’ into sheets of rubber. The process begins with the collection of rubber, called ‘tapping’ from the trees. Later in the processing unit, it is rolled through manual rollers into rubber sheets. The whole trip is definitely worth your time.

    Things to do

    • In Manglutan Village, you can observe the process of taking the rubber milk and placing the coconut shells on each tree along with other procedures involved in producing the final rubber sheets.
    • You can take a nature walk through the Manglutan rubber plantations.
    • You can go and see the nearby places—Sippighat, Madhuban, and Chidiya Tapu.

    Nearby hotels

    The hotels nearby Manglutan Village are as mentioned below:

    • J Hotel
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Megapode Resort
    • White Coral Port Blair
    • Hotel Shreesh Port Blair

    To make all your hotel booking, trust nothing but the best— Andaman Island Travels. It is one of the leading travel companies in the most gorgeous union territory of India. Located in the capital city (Port Blair), it is a one-stop destination for tourists and travellers, who are looking to book holiday packages, hotels, transfers, etc. Whether you are on a solo trip, honeymoon, family vacation, or business trip, it offers a broad range of services to its esteemed customers. 

    Nearby restaurants

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    The Andaman Islands are known for highly impeccable beaches that promise a perfect island vacation. The cherry on the cake, its food further adds to an amazing travel experience, especially for foodies. Along with being heaven of natural beauty, it is a paradise of mouth-watering food as well. Port Blair has some of the best restaurants and food outlets that are known for serving a wide variety of cuisines. While tripping here, you have to try and taste lip-smacking authentic dishes to satisfy your taste buds! You will get to choose from many options. To relish the local and authentic food, try out these places after your rubber plantation tour:

    • Icy Spicy
    • Light house Residency
    • New Lighthouse Restaurant
    • Ananda Multi cuisine Restaurant
    • Rola Costa Restaurant & Juice Corner
    • Feel Good Restaurant & Karaoke Night

    These restaurants and eateries offer everything ranging from authentic seafood to homelike Indian cuisines. Having meals here can make your beach vacation even more unforgettable. You can order South Indian vegetarian thali, non-vegetarian thali, chicken biryani, crab fry, prawns, crispy squids, caramel custard, etc. The food is great here and comes in big portions with a nice presentation.

    How to reach 

    Located about 21 kilometers away from Port Blair, Manglutan Rubber Plantation lies in the southeast part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can hire a cab, bus, or auto from Port Blair to reach the village.

    It’s been a challenging year but through adversity, the Andaman Islands remain as bright and cheerful as ever. Blue seas, untouched islands, and colonial past—these describe the miraculous islands the best. In Andamans, happiness finds you in all forms—a fresh coconut drink, cotton candy sunsets, a good melody, or a super cute clownfish (read Nemo!!) that you can spot while scuba diving. And the capital of the islands, Port Blair, has its own fascinating natural attractions. It promises you clear blue waters, lush greens, rich cultural history, and a lot more. If you are a lover of heritage, architecture, and history, then you should visit Cellular Jail, Japanese Bunkers, Chatham Saw Mill, and Murugan Temple along with Manglutan Village. Andamanese welcomearms, so it is a great destination for families!

  • Port Blair—the capital city of the most beautiful union territory of India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, boasts of a number of tourist-friendly places that are spellbinding. It is a gorgeous and awe-inspiring city, and taking a pit stop here never disappoints anyone. It promises you clear blue waters, lush greens, rich cultural history, and a lot more. Along with visiting various places in the city, if you have plenty of time for sightseeing, then you can travel to the unexplored attractions and tiny islands nearby Port Blair as well. The capital city is famous for the historic Cellular Jail that was built by the Britishers in ten years. This was the most dreaded and grueling colonial jail, which was also referred to as Kala Pani. Open to the public as a national memorial, you can see the whole place soaking in the misery and pain of the revolutionaries. The Sound & Light Show at Cellular Jail is a major highlight here and is highly informative. It gives you a glimpse of India’s struggle for freedom. It is a must-watch when you are in Port Blair.

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    Highlights

    Sound and Light Show, also known as Son-et-Lumiere, at Cellular Jail presents the saga of the heroic freedom struggle. The entry fee for kids is Rs. 25 and for adults, it is Rs. 50. You can choose any of the following timings to watch the one-hour show:

    • 05:30 pm to 06:30 pm
    • 06:45 pm to 07:45 pm
    • 08:00 pm to 09:00 pm 
    • 09:15 pm to 10:15 pm 

    Port Blair is famous for the historic Cellular Jail that was built by the Britishers in ten years. It was constructed as solitary confinement for Indian political prisoners. This was the most dreaded and grueling colonial jail, which was also referred to as Kala Pani. It has witnessed the most atrocious punishments imposed on innumerable freedom fighters of India. Open to the public as a national memorial, you can see the whole place soaking in the misery and pain of the revolutionaries. You can climb the stairs, walk through the corridors, get inside the cells, and see the gallows where executions were done by hanging. 

    Overview

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    During the Sound and Light Show at Cellular Jail, various artists enact the life of prisoners when the jail was operational. The show is available in both English and Hindi. Cellular Jail imprisoned many freedom revolutionaries of India. Savarkar brothers, Babu Ram Hari, Pandit Parmanand, Ullaskar Dutt, Bhai Parmanand, Prithvi Singh Azad, Trailokyanath Chakravarthy, etc. were incarcerated here among many others. Many charismatic freedom fighters involved in Alipore Bomb case, Lahore Conspiracy Case, Inter-Provincial Conspiracy Case, etc. were also brought to this jail under long terms of imprisonment. All this significant history is brought out through the informative and famous Sound and Light Show. 

    The Andaman Islands are known for their warm and pleasant tropical climate round the year. Thus, you can visit this paradise at any time of the year. April to June is the summer season here and the weather is sunny. So this is the perfect time to watch the Sound and Light Show at Cellular Jail if you don’t mind sweating a bit. The duration from June to November is the rainy season here. Generally, it is the offseason here and it is quite secluded at this time of the year. Hotels and resorts offer great discounts during this period and thus, it is also the cheapest time to visit the island. You can travel to the Andamans at this time if you are not scared of getting a little drenched in the rain. The most popular season to visit Cellular Jail is the winter season—from November to March. The climate is not too hot and is quite pleasant for tourists to explore the whole place. 

    Water Sports 

    There is no water sport available at Cellular Jail. However, there is Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex nearby and you can try your hand at the following enthralling water activities there:

    Nearby hotels

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    Sound and Light Show at Cellular Jail is a major attraction in Port Blair. Some of the best hotels and resorts located near the Cellular Jail are mentioned below:

    • Blue Bridge Home
    • Ross View Hotels and Resorts
    • Andaman Vacations Home
    • J Hotel
    • Raja Monsoon Villa
    • Hotel Sea View
    • Hotel Royal Palace
    • Atlanta Cottage
    • Deer Park Homotel
    • NH Regency 
    • Kevins
    • Sunnyvale Andaman
    • Hotel Aqua Breeze
    • Guru International
    • Hotel Serene Palace

    There are various good restaurants near Cellular Jail. Some of the best ones are as follows:

    • Ananda Multi-cuisine Restaurant - specializing in seafood and Indian cuisine 
    • Icy Spicy - a vegetarian restaurant specializing in Indian and Chinese cuisines
    • New Lighthouse Restaurant - popular for its mouth-watering seafood dishes
    • Fortune Resort Bay Island - a high-end restaurant known for its great hospitality 

    How to reach

    From Port Blair, Cellular Jail is situated at a distance of around nine kilometers. It is easily accessible and you can reach there by hiring a cab or taking any local transport like taxi, auto, bus, tuk-tuk rickshaw, or minibus. You can also easily hire two-wheelers and cycles in Port Blair. However, travelling via a cab is the most recommended option. Cellular Jail is well-connected and once you are here, you can visit other tourist hotspots as well. 

    You can reach Port Blair either by air or by sea. The best option would be the flight as it is faster and more convenient. 

    A well-known and trusted tour agency, Andaman Island Travels is located in Port Blair and is committed to help you in planning the holiday of your dreams as per your budget and requirements. Whether it is your accommodation, any adventure activity that you want to do, or hire a car for sightseeing, it will take care of all your needs in the best way possible.

  • A well-known tourist attraction in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is located in Port Blair, the capital city. This museum is also known as the Fisheries Museum. Displaying a broad range of installations, the museum highlights informative coverage of the islands’ ecosystem, plants, animals, tribal communities, and marine life. Various collections of fishes, corals, and shells are also housed in a small aquarium at the museum. While entering, you will see a huge skeleton of a blue whale that was washed ashore in Nicobar. Run by the Indian Navy, the museum stores five galleries dotted with history, geography, anthropology, and marine life of the Andamans. Along with all this, there is also a small zoo where saltwater crocodiles are sheltered in Haddo of the Andaman Islands

    The best time to visit Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is the winter and summer months—from October to May. It is also the dry season. At this time, the weather is pleasant and perfect for water sports and outdoor activities as well. June to September is the rainy season and the offseason in Andaman. You should avoid this period as it witnesses heavy rainfall, cyclonic weather, and strong winds.

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    Highlights

    A perfect blend of historical and modern Andaman, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum greets its visitors with the skeleton of a massive blue whale as you enter. You will see there an aquarium with fish of all shapes and sizes ranging from parrotfish to rare and venomous species of stonefish and corals. The place is an ideal visit for kids. If you love collecting souvenirs while travelling, then you can buy a lot of interesting stuff from the gift shop for your loved ones back at home.

    You can visit Samudrika Naval Marine Museum throughout the year. However, the best time to visit the Andaman Islands in general is from November to February. The weather is pleasant during this time and you can explore the place in a better way.

    Overview

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    Situated near the Andaman Teal House in Port Blair, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is designed to create awareness of several aspects of the oceanic environment. It aims to generate awareness about the environment in marine life and the ocean. 

    Travellers are spoiled for choice when it comes to picking a restaurant to satiate the hunger pangs. There are a number of eateries and food joints that offer mouth-watering food to visitors. The closest restaurant to Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is Café Rebel that serves the most delicious burgers in the town. Popular among tourists, Ruchi, Rola costa, Amaya, Annapurna, and Mandalay are other restaurants that are known for their delectable dishes. 

    There are various places in and around the museum that you can explore. These include a mini zoo, Ross Island, and adventurous activities at the Andaman Sports Complex. The Chatham Saw Mill, Forest Museum, and Cellular Jail are also in close proximity. To enlighten yourself of the glorious history of India, you should visit all of them. 

    Entry fee:

    • Rs.50 for adults and Rs.20 for children per head
    • Cameras are charged at Rs.50
    • Entry is free for senior citizens and specially-abled people on providing a valid identity card.

    The timings of the museum are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

    Things to do

    • Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, also known as Fisheries Museum, displays hundreds of marine species of unusual fishes, corals, and shells. There is a mini zoo that is located nearby the marine museum. You can visit that as well.
    • There is a museum shop within the premises. You can buy lovely handicrafts, seashell knick-knacks, bamboo crafts, and other souvenirs from there.
    • There are various adventure activities that you can do around the museum. These are coral cruising, ferrying to islands, nature walks, visiting museums, indulging in water sports, photography, beach walking, shopping, etc. Thus, after you have explored the museum, then you can visit these lovely places.

    Nearby hotels

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    There are a number of luxurious and budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and B&B in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Some of the closest accommodations to Samudrika Naval Marine Museum are Hotel Driftwood, Hotel Hill View, TSG Emerald View, North Harriet View, and Hotel Sentinel.

    There are tons of hotels in the capital city of the Andaman Islands but only a few offer sea views. Staying at a prime location in Port Blair would be a good decision. You can book a hotel at Foreshore Road, Aberdeen Bazaar, Junglighat, Goal Ghar, Middle Point, Dollygunj, or Phoenix Bay. The hotel tariff is on a higher-end at these locations but you have the option to go out and explore the place locally. 

    You can consider staying at any of the following properties in Port Blair as per your budget:

    • Hotel Kavitha Regent
    • Hotel Shreesh
    • Hotel Rhishabh
    • Sun Sea Resort
    • Hotel TSG Emerald View
    • Hotel NK International
    • Hotel Holiday Inn
    • Hotel Blue Sea
    • J Hotel 
    • Hotel Blue Mmarlin
    • Hotel Aparupa
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Peerless Sarovar Portico
    • The North Reef
    • Hotel Silver Spring
    • Hotel TSG Grand
    • Hotel SR Castle
    • Hotel Luxor Grand
    • Sea Shell Resorts
    • ITC Fortune Resort Bay Island
    • Keys Select Hotel Aqua Green
    • Sea Princess Beach Resort

    How to reach

    From Port Blair- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is located at a distance of around nine kilometers from the central Port Blair in the Andamans. Thus, you can reach there via road easily. 

    From Havelock Island- The distance between Havelock Island and the museum is around 65 kilometers. It takes both road and sea to reach. Located in the Haddo area, one takes nearly three hours to reach there. There is a government-run ferry from Havelock Island to Port Blair that takes two and a half hours to reach the capital town. It is scheduled twice a day.

    If you are in the planning stage of your vacation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, then contact Andaman Island Travels to make all your bookings. 

  • Located centrally in Port Blair (the capital town), Murugan temple offers a religious excursion to its visitors. It is the biggest pilgrim site of the Andaman Islands, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva. The temple displays Dravidian architecture at its best. If you want to witness a grand occasion, then you should plan your visit to the temple during festival time. Don’t forget to try the delicious vegetarian or the non-vegetarian platter around the temple complex. Authentic food from different cultures is served here which is surely worth a try if you are a foodie.

    Highlights

    Sri Vetrimalai Murugan Temple, also known as Murugan Temple, in Port Blair is the biggest pilgrim site of the Andamans. It is famous for the splendid Dravidian architecture and intricate artwork that is sure to leave you spellbound as soon as enter the temple arcade. The temple is situated behind the governor place and is dedicated to Lord Murugan or Karthikeyan, the son of Lord Shiva, who is one of the most honored deities of the Tamils. If you are interested in witnessing this historic temple and enjoy the festival first hand, then contact Andaman Island Travels for making all the bookings on your behalf.

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    If you are a foodie and want to satisfy your hunger pangs with lip smacking cuisines, then trying the vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes available at the commonplace to lavish restaurants around the Murugan temple is a must for you. These food joints serve food from different cultures that you should try for sure. The best ones are as follows:

    • Waves
    • Blue Marlin
    • Vegan Creek
    • Punjabi Dhaba
    • Blue Betel Café’
    • Milan Restaurant
    • Adi Bengali Hotel
    • Ananda Restaurant
    • New Lighthouse Restaurant
    • Corbyn’s Delight Restaurant

    Overview

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    The history of Murugan Temple goes back to the time of pre-independent India. It hails as an insignia of India’s rich cultural diversity. Built in the year 1926 in Ross Island by the British rulers for winning the loyalty of the Tamil folks, this temple is a must visit when you are in the Andaman Islands. Post-independence, its venue was shifted to the capital city Port Blair. This colossal sanctum is visited by innumerable tourists and pilgrims for participating in the main festivals— Panguni Uthram, Kanda Shasthi, and Thai Poosam. The Dravidian architecture and paintings inside the temple look like those in the Kanda Kotta temple in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

    Places to visit near Murugan Temple

    There are a number of lovely places nearby the temple and you should include them in your holiday plan if you want to see the best of the islands. These comprise witnessing rich flora and fauna, azure waters, dense tropical forest, and a pleasant climate to offer you mesmerising experiences. 

    Here are some of the best sightseeing places around Murugan Temple are as follows

    • Cellular Jail
    • Diglipur
    • Jogger’s Park
    • Red Skin Island
    • Japanese Bunkers 
    • Corbyn’s Cove Beach
    • Roman Catholic Church
    • Samudrika Marine Museum
    • Mount Harriet and Madhuban Tourist Place

    Things to do

    If you are an architecture lover, then you will love taking a stroll round the Murugan Temple. The exquisite Dravidian architecture displayed in the wonderful gopuram of the temple is something amazingly stunning. There is an exterior garden of the temple where you can forget your stress and worries in the lap of nature by taking a leisurely walk. 

    Murugan Temple conducts charity works and cooking meal for around 40,000 people is a part of their services. In case you visit the temple during the festival time, then you can witness this grand event. You can see Prakash Yatra if you visit the place during Christmas. It is a massive candlelight rally on the eve of Christmas in which nearly 6,000 people participate.

    Nearby hotels

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    Murugan Temple attracts a huge number of tourists owing to its serene holy vibes and the legends associated with its holy shrines. There are several properties around the temple complex that offer all kinds of accommodations—from moderate to plush, as per your budget.

    The best hotels nearby Murugan Temple are as follows:

    • The Lotus Home Hotel
    • Andaman Ocean Breeze Homestay
    • Hotel Royal Palace
    • Andaman Vacation Home
    • Downing Home Inn
    • Coral isle Bed and Breakfast Homestay
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Feel Good Holiday Home
    • Grey Stone Shelter
    • Hotel SKB Lodge
    • Megapode Resort
    • Fortune Resort Bay Island- ITC Hotel Group Member
    • Ross View Hotels and Resorts
    • Aashiana Residency Inn
    • Blue Bridge Homestay
    • The Harriet View
    • Andaman Castle Bay
    • GKM Grand Hotel
    • Andaman Shores Homestay

    How to reach

    Murugan Temple is located close to the Cellular Jail and has smooth conveyance from all corners of Port Blair. If you have already included this in your itinerary, then check out below how you can reach there.

    • From Port Blair: There are autos that will take you to the temple. If you are at Cellular Jail, then you can hire a cab from there and reach the precincts of the temple in less than half an hour.
    • From Havelock Island: From Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) to reach Vetrimalai Murugan temple via SH4, you will take around three hours. Also, there are ferry services available from Havelock Island to Port Blair that are affordable and swift mode of conveyance. After reaching Port Blair, take an auto or a cab to reach the temple. 
  • A well-known national park in the Andaman Islands, Mount Harriet National Park is counted among the most exotic and most visited national parks on the island. This national park is spread across an area of 46 square kilometers, set at a height of 383 meters. It is home to a few species like that of Andaman wild pigs, turtles, and robber crabs. You should choose to avail the facilities of the Forest Guest House also if you are willing to spend quality time amidst the wilderness. 

    Mount Harriet was named after British soldier Robert Christopher Tytler’s wife Harriet. Along with being a soldier, he was a nature lover and a photographer as well. Thus, he captured the splendor of the place in a great way. It has breathtaking beauty and you can witness it as well. From 1862 to 1864, Tyler was served as the superintendent of the convict settlement located in Port Blair as well. It takes nearly twenty minutes via boat from Port Blair to Bamboo flat and another twenty minutes via road from Bamboo flat to Mount Harriet.

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    Highlights

    Counted among the best national parks in the Andaman Islands, Mount Harriet National Park is the highest peak in the Archipelago of South Andaman. It is counted among the main attractions here. The national park is home to wonderful fauna and flora that are hard to be found anywhere else. The park is like a forest and is covered in lush greenery. One of the most interesting things is that you can see Port Blair from the top of the mount’s peak. 

    If you want to spend quality time with your friends or your family, then a trip to Mount Harriet National Park is a great way to do so. Imagine spending a day with them in a natural setting and appreciating the incredible fauna and flora together. Isn’t it great! When in Port Blair, you can travel to this amazing place where you can enjoy fresh air and nature tripping. Staring at the horizon from here is a memorable and priceless experience. The national park is sure to leave you spellbound with its gorgeousness. 

    Overview

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    55 kilometers by road and 15 kilometers by ferry and trek from Port Blair, Mount Harriet was the summer headquarters of the Chief Commissioner during British Raj. If you are a nature enthusiast, then you are going to love this place owing to the fabulous views of the nearby islands and the ocean. It is the highest peak in the South Andamans (365 meters high). For taking rest and refreshment, there is a forest guesthouse at Mount Harriet.

    Mount Harriet National Park is not an ordinary park. It is a reserved area that is protected and administered by the Forest Department of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Before entering the park, you have to secure a pass. Its outstanding beauty features lush evergreen forests. For trekkers and adventure lovers, the curvy mountain ways are perfect.

    Mount Harriet National Park is a natural wealth that boasts of its rich flora and fauna. You can spot so many exotic bird species here that also comprises eleven endemic species that have been recognised by the government as an Important Birds Area in the Andamans. The list also includes reptiles and amphibians with new species of frog recently added. Green marine turtles, moths, and mammals can also be spotted in the national park. With the abundance of trees and plants, Mount Harriet National Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers. 

    Things to do

    Along with appreciating the superb view of nature right in front of you, you can indulge in the following activities at Mount Harriet National Park:

    • Photography: The place has good opportunities to click lovely pictures of scenic views, birds and animals, and the sea. Photographers will love this national park.
    • Trekking: For those who are into long walks, there is a 16-kilometer long natural trail where you can savor the feel of the forest.
    • Picnic: You can enjoy a little picnic with your travel companions at this national park. Just bring your picnic basket and a mat, and have a quality time amidst the sweet chirping sound of the birds. 
    • Bird Watching: You will be mesmerised by the divine beauty of such fantastic birds in their natural habitat.

    Nearby hotels

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    When it comes to the accommodation, then you must know that you have to book a hotel or a resort in Port Blair. From here, you can take the ferry to the national park and come back the same day. Staying at a prime location in Port Blair would be a good decision. You can book a hotel at Foreshore Road, Aberdeen Bazaar, Junglighat, Goal Ghar, Middle Point, Dollygunj, or Phoenix Bay. The hotel tariff is on a higher-end at these locations but you have the option to go out and explore the place locally. As per your budget, you can select from the following accommodations in Port Blair. 

    1-Star

    • Hotel Kavitha Regent
    • Hotel Shreesh
    • Hotel Rhishabh

    2-Star

    • Sun Sea Resort
    • Hotel TSG Emerald View
    • Hotel NK International
    • Hotel Holiday Inn
    • Hotel Blue Sea
    • J Hotel 
    • Hotel Blue Mmarlin

    3-Star

    • Hotel Aparupa
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Peerless Sarovar Portico
    • The North Reef
    • Hotel Silver Spring
    • Hotel TSG Grand
    • Hotel SR Castle
    • Hotel Luxor Grand

    4-Star

    • Sea Shell Resorts
    • ITC Fortune Resort Bay Island
    • Keys Select Hotel Aqua Green
    • Sea Princess Beach Resort

    How to reach

    It is 55 kilometers by road and fifteen kilometers via ferry and trek from Port Blair. Ferry service is available from Chatham wharf to Bambooflat. Vehicles can be taken from Bambooflat to reach Mount Harriet.

    Location: Hope Town, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744107

    Timings: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 5 PM

    Entry Fee: INR 10 per child (Indian), INR 25 per adult, and INR 250 per person for foreigners

  • Light and Sound Show in Ross Island will take you back to the past by presenting the history of how everything was planned and constructed on the islands. The show majorly showcases the penal settlement period including how Britishers came to the islands, what they focused on constructing, and setting the administration to rule the isles. The luxurious lifestyle of the Chief Commander and his family is also showcased in the show. It will also explain the difficulties faced by the inmate Indian workers who build the jail, only to be thrown in their cells later on. We recommend attending this show if you want to add a pinch of history to your vacation.

    Ross Island, now known as Netaji Shubash Chandra Bose Dweep, was originally named after Captain Daniel Ross is a tiny island that is located in the south Andaman District, Port Blair. It is just five kilometers from the Water Sports Complex. It is one of the easiest inter-islands to visit during your trip to the Andaman Islands. When most of the tourist spots in Andamans are popular for beaches, Ross Island is known for its history as well. First occupied in 1782, a sanatorium was built on the island. Britishers used it as an administrative headquarters for a total of 85 years. Various important government offices were made by them on this penal settlement during this time. But after an earthquake in 1941, these were abandoned.

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    Highlights

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    Along with the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Ross Island also offers a light and sound show on all days except Wednesdays and public holidays. The island’s historical events happened during the pre-independent era are depicted in this show. It also showcases the set up of the first administrative settlement. In short, the show presents an insight about several significant historical events that took place on the islands. This thrilling show takes the audience back in time with its impressive music and lighting that presents the struggle of the freedom revolutionaries and the life of the British administrators on Ross Island. 

    The ruins of the old buildings constructed by Indian prisoners can still be seen in Ross Island. These are textured by thick roots of peepal trees that take all the visitors back to an era that is long gone yet still remembered. The place gives out a unique vibe that cannot be found anywhere else in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can witness magnificent man-caves, the old church, and a grim history. The whole experience gets further memorable with its protected forest that is a sanctuary of diverse birds and animals including peacocks and deer. So you are definitely going to have a good time there if you love walking around and enjoy your time in the lap of nature under the shade of tall tropical trees.

    Overview

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    The light and sound show in Ross Island tells the saga of the islands and its people in an innovative manner. Revathi, a well-known film director and actress, and her team have given life to this project. They lived in Ross Island for many days to give shape to the whole concept. 3D mapping for such a project is quite rare in India. Graphics were prepared accordingly. This popular show at Ross Island was created by bringing together 3D mapping, 2D graphics, light, and sound. 

    The story has been scripted by the renowned lyricist in Bollywood, Gulzar. He has also narrated it in Hindi. Shabana Azmi has narrated it in English. The music has been composed by Shankar Ehsan Loy and the background score has been done by Tabi Parekh. Lively graphics are created by graphic artist Aravindan and his team. Resul Pokkutty has done the sound designing for this incredible show in Ross Island. Beautiful poems by Gulzar and a song are used for the show in both English and Hindi. The sound is as amazing as the visual in this show. It is for the first time that 11.1 Dolby Surround is being used for outdoors in the light and sound show at Ross Island. Along with the freedom struggle in India, the show also depicts the earthquake that happened in Ross Islands in 1941. 

    The entry ticket for Sound & Light Show at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island is Rs. 100 per head for adults and Rs. 25 per head for children. Tourists should be present at the jetty by 4 pm for Light & Sound Show of Ross Island. 

    Things to do

    The erstwhile capital of Port Blair during the British regime, Ross Island, is a tiny little gem in the Andaman Islands. It stands as a guard to Port Blair harbor. Currently, it houses reminiscent of the old British regime but all in dilapidated condition. Here, you can visit the ruins of antique structures such as Ballroom, Chief Commissioner’s House, Garden, Government House, Church, Cemetery, Hospital, Bakery, Press, Swimming Pool and Troop Barracks. You can also see a cemetery and a small museum that are managed by the Indian Navy. A collection of old records is on display at the museum.

    You can have a glimpse of the remnants of an affluent past on this island. It is an ideal place for strolling amid sylvan surroundings with a diversity of flora and fauna. If you are lucky, then you can spot here deers, peacocks, exotic birds, etc.

    Nearby hotels

    An important thing to know is that the civilian settlements of any kind are prohibited by the administration here. Therefore, there is no place to stay at night here. Everyone must leave the island before dawn. The nearest place from Ross Island where you can stay is Port Blair. 

    How to reach

    Depending on the sunset time, the Light & Sound Show in Ross Island commences around 5.15 PM. To reach there, you have to board a boat at 4 PM sharp from Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex (Port Blair). You will reach Ross Island in nearly fifteen minutes. 

  • Located nearby the Marina Park, adjacent to Rajiv Gandhi Water sports complex, Fisheries Museum is counted among the top places to see in Port Blair, the capital town of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is around three kilometers far from Port Blair STS bus terminus/Aberdeen Bazar. A renowned tourist destination, the museum displays the ecosystem for tropical plants, underwater creatures, and marine life with detailed and informative coverage. There are small aquariums that showcase various collections of fishes, corals, and shells. You can see marine creatures that are found in waters of the Indo-Pacific Ocean and Bay of Bengal—leatherbacks, hawksbills, rabbitfish, mangrove crabs, Mollusca, reef fishes, butterflyfish, clownfish, ichthyofauna, green turtles, etc. From the surrounding waters of the Andaman Islands, over 1200 species of fish have been reported. As many as 300 out of these are commercial species. The marine life species exclusive to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are rarely found anywhere else across the world. These creatures are not even found anywhere else in the Indian sub-continent. Tourists visiting the islands from different parts of the country visit this museum along with the local people of Port Blair and its surrounding towns. 

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    Highlights

    Fisheries Museum is a renowned tourist hotspot in Port Blair. This attraction in the Andamans has a broad range of installations providing informative coverage of the islands’ ecosystem, marine creatures, plants, tribal communities, and the underwater world. Several collections of fishes and corals and shells are housed in a small aquarium placed inside the museum. Located adjacent to the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, this place displays species of marine life endemic to the islands. 

    A first-rate museum exhibiting specimens from underwater life, Fisheries Museum in Port Blair displays the marine world beginning from little fishes and anemones and takes you to gigantic whales and sharks. The huge collection of specimens here includes nearly 350 species. 

    Overview

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    When in the Andamans, you have to include Fisheries Museum in your Port Blair travel itinerary. Inside the museum, you will be spellbound by fishes of different sizes, ranging from tiny ones to sharks and whales. These incredible specimens are preserved in glasses and are showcased to the visitors. The museum is counted among the most famous places to visit in Port Blair as it displays the remnants of the Great Sperm Whale and turtles. The species of marine life endemic to the Andamans mesmerize the visitors completely.

    Day

    Morning Slot

    Afternoon Slot

    Monday

    Closed 

    Closed 

    Tuesday 

    09:00 AM to 01.00 PM

    02.00 PM to 04.45 PM

    Wednesday

    09:00 AM to 01.00 PM

    02.00 PM to 04.45 PM

    Thursday

    09:00 AM to 01.00 PM

    02.00 PM to 04.45 PM

    Friday

    09:00 AM to 01.00 PM

    02.00 PM to 04.45 PM

    Saturday

    09:00 AM to 01.00 PM

    02.00 PM to 04.45 PM

    Sunday

    09:00 AM to 01.00 PM

    02.00 PM to 04.45 PM

    Second Saturdays

    Closed 

    Closed 

    Public Holidays 

    Closed 

    Closed 

    Entrance fee: Rs.5 for adults and Rs. 3 for children

    Time required: Two to three hours

    Things to do

    Hundreds of marine species of unusual fishes, corals, and shells are showcased at Fisheries Museum. If you are interested in studying marine life, then this is a perfect place to spend your time in Port Blair. You can visit the museum at any time of the year. However, the best season for sightseeing in the Andamans is between November and February. The weather is quite pleasant during this time. 

    Fisheries Museum is situated in a very strategic position as it is close to Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex as well as Marina Park. The park is an amazing picnic spot and a children’s park. So you can spend an entire day there.

    After you are free from the museum, then you can engage yourself in other activities. You can go shopping in the nearby markets. The views around the museum are beautiful and you can capture them with your camera. These memories will be forever.

    Water sports

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    There is no water sport available at Fisheries Museum. However, there is Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex nearby and you can try your hand at the following exciting water sports there:

    Nearby hotels

    Fisheries Museum is a major attraction in Port Blair and there are a number of hotels located nearby. Some of them are as follows:

    • Blue Bridge Home
    • Ross View Hotels and Resorts
    • Andaman Vacations Home
    • J Hotel
    • Raja Monsoon Villa
    • Hotel Sea View
    • Hotel Royal Palace
    • Atlanta Cottage
    • Deer Park Homotel
    • NH Regency 
    • Kevins
    • Sunnyvale Andaman
    • Hotel Aqua Breeze
    • Hotel Guru International
    • Hotel Serene Palace
    • Hotel Mainak 
    • GKM Grand Hotel
    • Hotel Shompen
    • A R Residency
    • Hotel King Safire

    Nearby places to eat 

    There are various good restaurants near Fisheries Museum. Some of the best ones are as follows:

    • Icy Spicy - a vegetarian restaurant specializing in Indian and Chinese cuisines
    • New Lighthouse Restaurant - popular for its mouth-watering seafood dishes
    • Fortune Resort Bay Island - a high-end restaurant known for its great hospitality 
    • Ananda Multi-cuisine Restaurant - specializing in seafood and Indian cuisine 
    • Cafe Rebel
    • Ruchi Restaurant
    • Rola Costa Restaurant & Juice Corner
    • Hotel Milan Manor
    • Amaya
    • SeaFood Delights

    How to reach

    Reaching Fisheries Museum is very easy. It is located at a distance of nearly nine kilometers from central Port Blair. From the capital city, just take any conveyance like a bus, auto, or taxi to reach the museum. 

    You can reach Port Blair via air or via water. There are direct flights available from metro cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, etc. However, ships are also available from Kolkata. Travelling there via air is highly recommended as it is a more convenient and faster mode of transportation. 



  • Reminiscent of World War II, Japanese Bunkers are the relics of the bygone era and can be easily spotted across Port Blair tourist places. These attest to the time when a siege on these islands was attempted. A popular place to be visited in Port Blair, the bunkers are situated on the way to Ross Island and Corbyn Cove beach.

    The capital town is one of the most-visited tourist places in the country and is frequented by people from all over the world. The summer season is the best time to enjoy exciting water sports and activities whereas the winter season is perfect if you want to spend quality time with your loved ones on its serene beaches. Speaking of Japanese Bunkers particularly, you can visit this historic site around the year.

    However, the majority of the tourists visit Port Blair as a port of transit to other islands but the capital city has so much to offer than it has been credited for. The place is home to a number of significant historical places, and one of them is Japanese Bunkers. 

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    Highlights

    Built between 1942 and 1945, Japanese Bunkers is counted among the best places to see in Port Blair. These were constructed when the Japanese army invaded the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for defeating the allied powers which included Britain, France, Russia, and the United States. Including Germany and Italy, Japan was a part of the axis powers. During this time, India was also going through a lot of freedom movements against British rule.

    According to the locals, over 300 bunkers were built till the time the Japanese army stayed on the island. They also claim that nearly 2000 Indians lost their lives owing to Japanese brutality. Lethal weapons were stocked in these bunkers and these were also used for surveillance. Natural calamities have destroyed most of the bunkers now. However, those in moderate and good condition are preserved by the ASI. Travellers from India and abroad add Japanese Bunkers to their itinerary when in Port Blair.

    Overview

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    Situated in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Japanese Bunkers tell the tales of a foreign invasion, a world war, and a struggle for independence. During World War II, the Japanese army invaded and occupied the islands and built these bunkers. Taking you to the intense war times of the bygone era, solid bunkers situated in the pristine surroundings of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are like interesting anecdotes. 

    Port Blair, the capital city, is the entryway to the rich expanse of beauty and serenity that the islands have to offer. Here, you can visit various museums, explore flora and fauna along with the rich marine life, and take a stroll at Marina Park to enjoy the tropical breeze. When in Port Blair, you can walk past the Japanese bunkers, go for exciting water sports, see the island’s high peaks, and know about its rich culture and diversity. Spending a couple of days here is the cherry on the cake of your beach vacation. 

    Major attractions around Japanese Bunkers

    • Forest Museum: The best place to explore Chatham Saw Mill, it is situated on Foreshore Road near Chatham Island. Here, you can see how wood is chopped and designed into different shapes. 
    • Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Visit this popular beach of Port Blair to enjoy various enthralling water activities and rejuvenate yourself. There are several restaurants also where you can try authentic seafood. In the summers, a three-day Beach Festival is also hosted there.

    Nearby hotels

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    Whether you are on a budget trip or a luxurious vacation, properties near Japanese Bunkers cater to all requirements when it comes to accommodation. Depending on the tourist seasons, tariff varies between peak and low. It is highly recommended that you make your booking in advance as the prices may shoot up during peak season and the best places will get full. 

    • Low Budget- INR 500- 3000 (per night)
    • Mid-range- INR 4000- 8000 (per night)
    • Premium stays- INR 9000- 12000 (per night)

    There are a number of hotels located nearby Japanese Bunkers and you can choose anyone as per your requirements and budget. Some of the best ones are as follows:

    • TSG Emerald View
    • Peerless Resort Port Blair
    • Lemon Tree Hotel
    • Hotel GKM Grand
    • Sinclairs Bay View
    • Sea Shell Coral Cove
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Ripple Resort
    • Hotel Shompen
    • Hotel King Safire
    • J Hotel
    • Ami Grace
    • Hotel Horizon Hues
    • Sea Hills Hotels & Resorts
    • Sun Sea Resort

    Contact Andaman Island Travels to make your hotel bookings. Located in Port Blair itself, it is a reliable tour company and a trustworthy name across the island.

    How to reach

    A treasure trove of natural beauty, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their rich history as well. It houses significant incidents and structures related to the era of India’s freedom struggle. Port Blair, the capital of the islands, is a must-visit destination here that features several wonderful historical sites that are worth exploring. As the Andamans are surrounded by water from all sides, it is not connected via roadways and railways from mainland India. You can reach here via airways or airways. Below-mentioned are the best ways to reach Japanese Bunkers.

    By Air

    Veer Savarkar International Airport, the only commercial airport of the Andaman Islands, is located in Port Blair. Direct flights to/from Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore are available easily. Flights are faster and more comfortable. Thus, it is a preferred option. After reaching the airport, you have to cover a distance of three kilometers by any local transport to reach Japanese Bunkers.

    By Water

    You can travel to Port Blair via water from Kolkata, Vishakhapatnam, or Chennai port. Ships are cheaper but general passenger ships are more troublesome. However, if you want to experience a voyage on the sea, then we recommend a ship journey. It is an unusual adventure in itself. After reaching Port Blair, catch any local transport to reach the bunkers. 



  • Lying twenty kilometers south from Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Rutland Island is an idyllic island. It is separated from North Cinque Island by Manner Strait and from Little Andaman by the Duncan Passage. Ferries or government-run or private buses can be boarded to reach this island. Rutland Island belongs to the administrative district of South Andaman. Every possible effort is made by them to boost tourism in this destination.

    Highlights

    The picturesque Rutland Island lies at the south of Port Blair far tip, the far tip of India. It is a heaven for Thalassophiles, commonly called sea lovers. The island makes up the South Andaman district. Out of its six villages, Dani Nallah is the most popular for the memorable marine life and turtle breeding experience it offers. You will never forget such a magical experience. The island is around 110 square kilometers, and is home to nearly 350 inhabitants belonging to the Jangil Tribe. 

    Rutland Island is all about fun, excitement and, natural beauty. There, you would feel as if you are in the lap of nature. You should not miss scuba diving, glass bottom boat ride, fishing, and seeing breeding of turtles when you are there. It is a tiny island. Roadways are not well-maintained or used. Since all spots are well-connected with waterways, jetty is the most common way to explore the island. You can find a wide variety of sovereigns, products of seashells, and many more such things from the markets in the Andamans. They are quite popular among tourists.

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    Overview

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    Rutland Island comprises six villages—Rutland village, R.M. Point village, Bamboo Nallaha, Kichad Nallaha, Bada Khari, and Dani Nallah. With only 347 inhabitants, the island has as many as 119 households. The locals are fluent in Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil. The effective literacy rate is sixty four per cent. The island is slowly gaining popularity as a tourism hotspot for travellers from all over the globe. 

    The island experiences three seasons- summer, monsoon, and winter. Summer season is from April to June. The temperature hovers between 24°C to 37°C. Tourists can enjoy exciting water activities during this time as the water has the perfect temperature. The monsoons fall between May and September. Heavy rains make travel and sightseeing dangerous and inaccessible. Travelling to Rutland Island in this season is not fruitful as it doesn’t have a lot of indoor activities. Winters, between December and February, are quite pleasant. You can enjoy your day to the fullest if you are visiting the island in the winter or summer season. 

    Things to do

    Below mentioned are the top things to do when you are in Rutland Island. Have a look!

    Exploring underwater life

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    With the shallow waters near the island, the destination is extremely rich in marine life. The place offers a good representation of smaller fishes and corals. Its waters are known for keeping some of India’s best treasures. The vegetation of the island is similar to that of North Sentinel Island with dry sandy soils. If you are someone who loves the rush of being underwater, then this is going to be the perfect opportunity for an adventure enthusiast like you.

    Location- Dani Nallah

    Visit a turtle breeding center

    If you want to visit something extraordinary, then visit Dani Nallah. There, you can watch turtle hatchlings making their journey to the water. The turtles are a critically endangered species in India. The park is making every possible effort in order to improve their numbers. It also helps turtles in recovering from injuries sustained by getting trapped in fishnets. This is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Rutland Island.

    Location- Dani Nallah

    Fishing

    The experience of fishing in Rutland Island by casting a fly dipped inside the flowing streams to snap a sweeping fish is unforgettable. Professionals always prefer trying a hand on gracing the three pounders. People from across the country and abroad gather up for fishing on the island. They opt for the summer season to catch fishes. For a delightful fishing experience, make sure that you visit here between the months of April and June.

    Cost- Free

    Water sports

    You can try your hand at these water sports and activities when you are in Rutland Island:

    Snorkeling

    An ideal base for training divers, Rutland Island is visited by adrenaline junkies a lot. First, you will be briefed about the equipment and precautions you need to take by an instructor. After that, you will be given time to get used to it before entering the sea. The dive will be of around half an hour that will take you about twelve meters deep into the ocean. You will be amazed to witness beautiful marine life creatures wading through the sea.

    Haven’t tried snorkeling yet? No problem! Probably, you were destined to do this water activity at the best place in India. You will notice the colorful reefs of the ocean shining through your underwater goggles. You can have a look at the marine life and the rarest corals while performing this activity in the Andaman Islands. 

    Location- Jahaji Beach, Bada Balu, and Manner Strait

    Glass Bottom Boat Ride

    Glass bottom boat rides are immensely visited by the tourists visiting Rutland Island. This water activity offers great opportunities to spot bright and beautiful corals and marine flora and fauna floating on the shallow water. You can witness sea turtles, pipe fishes, and eagle rays along with luxuriant seaweed beds. If you are one of those who are afraid of getting into the water but are willing to experience the colorful aquatic life, then this is a good way to do that.

    To do this, you have to be in a tiny boat with the bottom made up of glass. As it sails through the sea, you can have a glimpse of the water. You have to wear a life jacket. One of the finest sea sports, it is a magical experience for sure. When in Rutland Island, do not miss this activity.

    Scuba Diving

    Andaman Island has a number of scuba diving centres from where you can get your PADI certification (basic and advanced levels). But to go for your first fun dive, you don’t need any kind of certification. If you don’t know swimming, even then it is absolutely fine. So what are you waiting for? The miraculous natural marine life under the enchanting waters of the island is waiting for you. Scuba diving is the best water activity in the world, and doing it for the first time in Rutland Island would be an experience of a lifetime for you. Whether you are a swimmer or a non-swimmer, this activity is an excellent option for you. To enjoy it to the fullest, always listen to your instructor and follow his instructions. 

    Nearby hotels

    There is only one resort in Rutland Island where you can have a comfortable stay. Booking a room at Totani Resort in advance is not that easy as there is no telephone service on the island. Thus, you will have to book your stay there with the help of a local and reliable tour agent—Andaman Island Travels. All round the year, the tariff is quite steep. Therefore if you are on a budget vacation, then you can opt for a day trip from Port Blair to Rutland Island instead of an overnight trip.

    How to reach

    The island is twenty kilometers south of Port Blair, the capital city of the Andamans. If you are in Port Blair, take the road to the jetty point, and then take a boat from Port Blair to reach the island. But if you are in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), then you need to first head to Port Blair by ferry. The ride will take around two and a half hours. After reaching Port Blair, you can buy your tourist permit and complete the required formalities for visiting Rutland Island.

    Travel tips for Rutland Island

    To experience the most of your trip to Rutland Island, follow these tips as recommended by the travel experts of Andaman Island Travels:

    • Traveling via the jetty with old people might get inconvenient for them. In this case, you may rent out a car for aged people. 
    • It is recommended that you carry a substantial amount of food or at least a whole lot of snacks. It will be enough for the day. Especially if you are a vegetarian.
    • Don’t forget to carry a first aid kit along with you as there are no hospitals in Rutland Island.

    There is no telephone service and electricity in Rutland Island. The availability of food is also scarce. Accommodation is also just one, and that too a bit difficult to book on your own. There is only one resort comprising bamboo huts that is equipped enough for a comfortable stay. If you want to save your time, efforts and money, then make sure that you book your tour of Rutland Island with Andaman Island Travels.

  • Enjoying a romantic candlelight dinner on a luxury cruise in the pristine waters of the Andaman Islands is something that not everybody gets to experience in their life. When the cool breeze in the atmosphere touches your face while you take a sip of your favorite wine and eat the delectable dishes, all your worries will vanish in no time. As you enjoy the comforts of this excursion, appreciating the reflection of the moon on the sea would be a memorable experience. 

    An extension group of islands is formed with the island of Andaman and Nicobar. Located in the Bay of Bengal, the capital of the Indian union territory is a small town known as Port Blair. Andaman Island is one of the most remote yet beautiful tourist destinations in the country. It is a perfect vacation place for people who love seclusion or those who seek a little peace and quiet.

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    Highlights

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    Out of more than 500 islands in the Andaman and Nicobar group, only around 40 islands are inhabited. Dense rain forests cover the remaining islands. They are home to nature’s best-kept secrets. When going for a dinner cruise, you can get a glimpse of this hidden paradise. Being away from human habitation, it is an ideal getaway for nature lovers. You are going to be spellbound by the serenity of Port Blair (the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands) for sure. So, are you ready for romance on board?

    Having a dinner cruise in Port Blair is a unique yet preferable option as it offers an extravagant experience that is less likely to be found in any other kind of dinner. The feeling of being on a voyage while sipping on your favorite drink like you are on top of the world is totally worth your money. There are so many cruise packages in the Andaman Islands and you can choose any one of them as per your budget. From the right venue to the right menu, a cruise dinner has everything you desire. 

    Overview

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    There are a number of dinner cruise packages available for you as per the varied requirements. Whether you want to party hard with your besties, enjoy a sunset cruise, or wine and dine with your significant someone, Andaman Islands promise to offer you all these. Imagine being on a lavish cruise for a couple of hours, sipping wine and having a delicious dinner. In the background, melodious music is being played. And the decorations are as per your chosen theme. Wouldn’t it be the most fabulous dinner you have ever had?

    Then there is an option of going on a sunset cruise. You can enjoy the evening tea with snacks while you look at different shades of orange and the setting sun in the sky. Soft music soothing your soul! Moreover, you can get beautiful pictures clicked by a professional photographer while you are having the time of your life. And finally, a mouth-watering dinner is served.

    There is absolutely no need to get worried about your safety even a single bit. The boats are well-equipped with all types of safety devices as per the government norms. They adhere to the prescribed speed limits and follow all safety rules. Moreover, for your enhanced safety and security, lifeguard and security are present on the boats. 

    Things to do

    If you are a party animal, then experiencing a cruise dinner party is something that you have to enjoy at least once in your life. Imagine being a part of an exciting deck party where live music is being played. The decoration is absolutely stunning that serves as a lovely background for the pictures clicked by a professional photographer. Imagine enjoying your favorite drink amid the natural beauty of Port Blair. And finally, a buffet dinner comprising different vegetarian and non-vegetarian food items is served for guests with varied preferences.

    The best seafood can be enjoyed by you while you are having a dinner cruise in Port Blair. For vegetarians, the menu also has some of the best authentic dishes. There will be an in-house chef who will prepare hot and appetising food for you on the boat. To get the fresh food served on board, you can choose from the vast menu before your cruise starts. If you are a foodie, then you are surely going to love the whole experience. 

    Pickup & drop from the hotel

    Complimentary pickup from your hotel in Port Blair to the boarding point can be arranged in luxury cars. Your safe return will also be ensured. With absolutely no hassle at all, you should just focus on enjoying your dinner cruise. The rest will be taken care of.

    How to reach

    To go for a dinner cruise, you have to first reach Port Blair. There are no direct international flights to the Andaman Islands. There are direct flights to Port Blair from Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. 

    If you also want to have the experience of going on a dinner cruise in the Andaman Islands, then you need a local tour operator who can make all the arrangements for you. The peak season is extremely busy here and availability becomes a major concern. Thus, associate yourself with a reliable tour operator who would make arrangements for everything including flights, stays, transfers, etc.

    A trustworthy name, Andaman Island Travels, offers a diverse variety of cruise packages across the islands that are carefully designed to keep in mind the requirements of its esteemed clients. These packages can be customised also to suit individual preferences. The tour operating company has a reputation for planning flawless yacht and cruise dinners and parties in the Andaman Islands. Its experienced team of professionals makes sure that everyone onboard has a gala time. It understands that such a special dinner is among the most awaited days in one’s life and that’s why, the company ensures that all your wishes are fulfilled when it comes to a dinner cruise in the Andamans. It makes sure that even the tiniest thing is taken care of.

  • One of the most famous tourist destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chidiya Tapu Beach is an amazing place to explore. Spend a few hours at this stunning place if you are on a trip to the islands. A haven for bird watchers, Chidiya Tapu Beach is known for its diverse range of birds. Indigenous and migratory birds can be seen flying high in the skies here. That’s why if you are an enticing nature lover or a wildlife enthusiast, then you should include this place in your Port Blair travel itinerary. It is a treasure trove of thick forests and stunning views of the ocean. 

    Since you are there, you can also visit Chidiya Tapu Biological Park. At this biological park that was established in 2001, you can witness the rich biodiversity that comprises beautiful tropical flora and fauna of the Andamans. It aims towards the study and conservation of different species of animals and plants that are found only here. Covered with dense green jungles, the place provides natural habitat to the animals. It overflows with natural beauty and charm.

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    Highlights

    One of the most famous tourist destinations in the Andaman Island, Chidiya Tapu Beach is great place to unwind. Spend a couple of hours at this serene beach to rejuvenate yourself. It is majorly famous for its wide variety of birds and thus, it is a paradise for bird watchers. The clear skies here get decorated by indigenous and migratory birds. Nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers should definitely visit this beach when in Port Blair as they will get to see endemic and endangered species of plants and animals in their natural habitat.

    • Timings: 10 am to 5 pm, open from Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays
    • Time required: Two to three hours
    • Entry fee: Rs. 20 for Indians and Rs. 50 for foreigners

    There are many hidden gems in Chidiya Tapu that you may otherwise miss. Thus, it is recommended that you get yourself a guide. In just Rs. 1500, you will get to know all the relevant details of the place. 

    Overview

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    Chidiya Tapu Beach is a treasure trove of thick forests and gorgeous views of the azure ocean. At every turn, you are welcomed by the jaw-dropping views of the thick lush green blanket and cobalt seawaters. The dense mangroves cover the entire island and the peaceful aura gives you a sense of peace. If you want to take a break from your hectic lifestyle back in your hometown, then don’t forget to take a stroll through the verdant jungles here. 

    A must-see island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that promises to make your vacation super special is Chidiya Tapu Island. The corals spread over this extensive region are majestic. You can spot different fishes on the coral reef. While you are here, you can appreciate the natural beauty of the whole region. If you are a nature lover or marine life enthusiast, then you will be amazed to see this extremely appealing spot. 

    Things to do

    • A paradise for nature enthusiasts, Chidiya Tapu is the perfect place for bird watching. The beach is popular all over India for being the best place to spot a wide variety of bird species. Some of them are endemic and endangered as well. Along with the indigenous ones, one can also see exotic migratory birds. 
    • Adventure lovers can indulge in various enthralling water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, pearl hunting, boating, and undersea walking. 
    • A quiet picnic in the biological park will be an ideal getaway if you are holidaying with your family.
    • Chidiya Tapu is also famous as The Sunset Point. You should not miss the sight of colorful hues splashed around the sky in the evening. 

    Water sports

    Chidiya Tapu is an attractive option for adrenaline junkies. Its underwater sea life is very rich and it comprises colourful corals and vibrant marine creatures. You can try your hand at snorkeling or scuba diving if you want to witness the splendor of the underwater world. You can swim with majestic sea turtles, get caught in the whirlpool of tiny fishes, and explore the labyrinthine reefs under the ocean. You can also go for sea walking if you want an easier option. An experienced diver will be with you at all times under the water. So you are in safe hands.

    Nearby hotels

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    There are several options for a luxurious stay if you have enough time in hand. An ideal blend of modern facilities and stunning views, Sea Princess Beach Resort is a great choice. The property is only fifteen kilometers from the island. Thus, you can go for sightseeing whenever you want. Hotel Blue Marlin is also a great choice if you are looking for spacious and airy rooms at an affordable price. If you are a luxury traveller, then you can stay at Comfort Inn Blue Waves where you will get a truly pampering stay. For backpackers, The North Reef is a cheap and cosy hotel. 

    How to reach

    From Port Blair: Located around 30 kilometers from Port Blair, Chidiya Tapu can be reached easily. You can take a bike and ride to reach the island. The serpentine road is known for spectacular views and lovely vistas. Appreciate the spellbinding beauty of the dense jungles, rolling hills, and the rocky beach of Kalapathar if you choose to take this route. A taxi can also be hired to reach Chidiya Tapu from the capital town.

    From Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep): There is no direct route between Chidiya Tapu and Havelock Island, and you have to reach go there via Port Blair. There are many routes from Havelock Island to Port Blair such as taking a government tourist ferry that leaves thrice a week. You can also go there via an exciting helicopter ride that offers wonderful views of the islands. You can reach Chidiya Tapu Beach via a bike, taxi, or ferry once you reach Port Blair.

  • To have a look at the rustic beauty of the pre-independence days, you should go and see Chatham Saw Mill in Port Blair. The mill was set up in 1883 by the British administration. It is a popular wood processor in Asia. The saw mill is one of the top places to see in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is the biggest and oldest sawmill not only in the country but also in the whole of Asia. Holding a great value in the Indian history, the saw mill is owned by the forest department. It is counted among the top places to visit in the capital town.

    Port Blair is the entryway to the rich expanse of beauty and serenity that the islands have to offer. Here, you can visit various museums, and explore flora and fauna along with the rich marine life. Along with that, when in Port Blair, you can know about the significant history of India by visiting a place like Chatham Saw Mill. The months from November to March are the best time to visit the mill. Between June and September is the monsoon season. However, light showers can be expected even during other seasons in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 

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    Highlights

    Provides timber to furniture units and other industries across the world, Chatham Saw Mill is known for building the largest production of timber with raw materials that are procured from the forest of Chatham Island. There is a museum inside the mill that offers a glimpse into the history of this island along with its diverse biodiversity. A wonderful collection of wood-work and carvings depicting the perfection in craftsmanship is showcased at the mill. Don’t forget to include Chatham Saw Mill in your travel itinerary when you are in Port Blair.

    Constructed in the nineteenth century, Chatham Saw Mill is the oldest sawmill in Asia. The museum here has photographs of different phases the mill has witnessed. Producing nearly 20000 logs every year, the mill generates employment to nearly 800 people in the local community. 

    There are a number of good eateries and restaurants located near Chatham Saw Mill. So when you are free from there and want to eat something delicious, you can go ahead and try the following spots:

    • Amaya: Specialties include Indian, Seafood, and Asian. It is located 2.2 kilometers from the mill.
    • Milkyway: Serves Indian and fast food. Located at a distance of 1.4 kilometers from the saw mill
    • Annapurna: Serves Indian and Asian. Located at a distance of 3 kilometers
    • New Lighthouse Restaurant: Located three kilometers away and serves delectable seafood
    • Cafe Rebel: 2.2 kilometers away from Chatham Saw Mill, it serves international cuisine like American cuisine.

    Overview

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    The majority of the tourists visit Port Blair as a port of transit to other islands but the capital city has so much to offer than it has been credited for. The place has it all ranging from historical museums to water sports. One such incredible place is Chatham Saw Mill.

    The colonial regime built Chatham Saw Mill was constructed in 1883 in order to meet the local requirement of timber for construction work. Huge quantities of timber was later started getting exported by the British for meeting the needs of London, New York, and several other cities. However, later during the years of Japanese rule, the islands were invaded by the rulers and these were bombed in 1942. That led to the collapsing of the saw mill.

    The island was reclaimed after World War 2 and at that time, Chatham Saw Mill witnessed its rebirth. Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Burma, along with various Indian states settled in the islands. They increased the timber producing capacity of the mill. At present, the mill is a storehouse, which is probably the biggest one for different varieties of wood. For the government as well as private agencies, Chatham Saw Mill functions as the major source of timber.

    • Timing: Tourists can take a tour of the Chatham Saw Mill in the first half of the day—8 am to 2:30 pm. It is open on all days except on Sundays and public holidays.
    • Time required: You will need a couple of hours to see the whole place.
    • Entry fees: Rs. 10 per head and Rs. 50 for a tour with a guide

    Things to do in/near Chatham Saw Mill

    One can choose to indulge in various activities in and around the same area as Chatham Saw Mill. Travellers can indulge in the following:

    • Visiting and learning the historical importance of Cellular jail, followed by attending the entertaining light show there
    • Wildlife spotting at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
    • Relaxing, swimming, or sipping a beer or two at Corbyn’s Cove Beach
    • Paying a visit to Port Blair’s famous church—Roman Catholic Church
    • Visiting museums located close to Chatham Saw Mill 

    Nearby hotels

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    Some of the best properties near Chatham Saw Mill are mentioned below:

    • TSG Emerald View
    • Peerless Resort Port Blair
    • Lemon Tree Hotel
    • Hotel GKM Grand
    • Sinclairs Bay View
    • Sea Shell Coral Cove
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Ripple Resort
    • Hotel Shompen
    • Hotel King Safire
    • J Hotel
    • Ami Grace
    • Hotel Horizon Hues
    • Sea Hills Hotels & Resorts
    • Sun Sea Resort

    How to reach

    • From Port Blair: Located very close to the capital town, Chatham Saw Mill is just at a distance of eleven kilometers. You can take any public transport, mainly a bus, to reach there. Two-wheelers can be rented or a cab can be hired easily in case you want to commute via a private mode of transport.
    • From Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep): Government as well as private ferries run between Port Blair and Havelock Island. You can take any kind of ferry to first reach the capital town and then hire a local cab to reach the saw mill. You can also hire a two-wheeler in Port Blair at pocket-friendly charges.
  • The Andaman Islands, the archipelago of hundreds of islands, is extremely rich in natural attractions, wildlife, and biodiversity. For wildlife activists, photographers, and conservationists, Campbell Bay National Park is counted among top tourist attractions owing to its rich nature and a spellbinding underwater world. This park leaves no stone unturned in casting a magical spell on visitors. This is the perfect place for you to spend your holidays if you crave adventure and thrill. The invigorating wildlife of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is sure to take your breath away with its richness and uniqueness. 

    The months between March and October are the best time to visit Campbell Bay National Park. The weather is quite pleasant and orchids and other wild flowers are in full bloom during this time. The park is anyway gorgeous but during this period, it is even more stunning.

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    Highlights

    While vacationing in the beautiful Andamans, you should definitely include Campbell Bay National Park in your travel itinerary. This national park extends across an area of 426 square kilometers. It is located at a distance of about 190 kilometers from the Sumatra region of the Indian Ocean. Campbell Bay National Park is rich in aquatic life and is home to species like Megapode, crab-eating Macaque, Nicobar Pigeon, and Giant Robber Crab. The park authorities also offer camps and cabin facilities for an adventurous day out if you are looking forward to getting close with nature. The national park is counted among the best spots to visit whether you are visiting with your family, spouse, friends, or alone. 

    The climate at the national park is hot and humid. However, it has moderate temperatures in comparison with most parts of India with the mercury reaching 20 degrees Celsius in the winters and 31 degrees Celsius in the summers. You should wear lightweight cotton clothes that are suitable for hot weather conditions while visiting here.

    Overview

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    Established in the year of 1992, Campbell Bay National Park is known for its beautiful variety of orchids and various flowering plants. It is located in an area that is strictly reserved for the betterment of wildlife and biodiversity. Activities like developmental, forestry, poaching, hunting, and grazing on cultivation are illegal here. Their boundaries are well marked and circumscribed. The national park is one of the 96 sanctuaries on the islands. There are a total of 572 islands that form the Andaman and Nicobar stretch.

    The national park has sprawling vegetation of tropical and mangrove forests. It is located in the Great Nicobar Island of the archipelago. Travellers from all over the country visit Campbell Bay National Park owing to the stunning variety of orchids and flowering plants. During the spring season, it looks extremely gorgeous as all the flowering plants in this area are in full blossom. Thick tropical evergreen forests and tree ferns dominate the landscape with beautiful orchids for a wonderful photography experience. The rich ecosystem of the national park is further enhanced with mangrove forests that have their unique ecosystems. The vegetation of this park comprises tropical evergreen forests, orchids, and tree ferns. There is the provision of watchtowers in the forest from where travellers can watch various species of birds.

    Location: Island of Great Nicobar, Nicobar Islands

    Timings: 12 AM to 12 Noon

    Entry Fee: NA

    Things to do

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    The national park is known for its abundant wildlife and if you are fortunate, then you can spot wonderful birds and animals here. It is rich in aquatic life along with flora and fauna. Orchids and tree ferns are present in abundance here. Thus, it is not less than a heaven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

    Wildlife that can be spotted here includes the following:

    • Crab-eating Macaque
    • Megapode
    • Giant Robber Crab 
    • Nicobar Pigeon
    • Olive Ridley Turtles
    • Leatherback Turtles
    • Wild Boar
    • Deer 
    • Civet Cats
    • Nicobar treeshrew
    • Malayan box turtle
    • Andaman wild pig
    • Saltwater crocodile
    • Reticulated python
    • Fruit bat
    • Palm civet
    • Hawksbill turtles
    • Nicobar serpent eagle
    • White-bellied sea eagle

    Some of the best things to do in Campbell Bay are mentioned below:

    • Trekking
    • Sunbathing
    • Bird watching
    • Wildlife spotting
    • Taking a nature walk
    • Relaxing in the lap of nature
    • Enjoying views from the watchtower
    • Visiting Indira Point—the southernmost point of India's territory 

    Places to visit near Campbell Bay National Park are Little Andaman, Nancowry, and Car Nicobar.

    Nearby Hotels

    There are provisions for shacks at Campbell Bay where tourists can stay overnight. But if you want to stay at a luxurious place and do not want to compromise on your comfort, then the best option would be to book a hotel or resort in Port Blair. From there, you can travel to the national park.

    How to reach

    To reach Campbell Bay National Park, you have to take a ferry ride. The whole journey in itself is quite adventurous as the inter-island boat service will take you through Little Andaman, Nancowry, and Car Nicobar. Tourists can also book a seat in MV Campbell Bay, which is a government ship vessel. 

    Campbell Bay National Park showcases the natural magic and beauty at its best. You can make your island vacation even more memorable by including this spot in your travel itinerary. And if you want to just chill and relax while having a stress-free vacation, then contact Andaman Island Travels to get the best of everything. If you are in the planning stage of your vacation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, then contact Andaman Island Travels to make all your bookings. A well-known and trusted tour agency, it is located in Port Blair and is committed to help you in planning the holiday of your dreams as per your budget and requirements.

    Booking everything in advance when travelling to the Andaman Islands is a great idea. Everything cannot be booked in advance and thus, you should trust a local tour agency to make all the bookings on your behalf. Contact Andaman Island Travels today to get the best deals.

  • The Andaman Islands is all about pristine beaches and enthralling water activities. But do you know that this union territory is also the one-stop destination for shopaholics? Along with offering the most amazing rejuvenating experiences and exciting adventure sports, the Andamans houses some of the prettiest and the most exciting markets that you just cannot miss. The shopping lover in you would be completely excited to see the cute little shops that are going to catch your attention for sure. When in the Andaman Islands, be ready to feel your wallet getting lighter as you splurge on some really delightful and exciting items here.

    Sagarika Government Emporium is the place to visit in Port Blair if you want to see some of the best creations of the locals. A platform for showcasing the talent and selling beautiful creations is provided to the locals via this emporium. The people sell handmade stuff that is primarily made with wood, seashells, and jute. You will find everything here ranging from handicrafts to wooden items, mirrors, and even apparel. Everything sold here is completely authentic and stunning that you will not be able to resist. 

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    Highlights

    The markets in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands range from the very popular Aberdeen Bazaar to the unique Andaman Handicraft Emporium. A wide variety of items can be bought from here that you can take back home as cute souvenirs or something that you can gift to your loved ones. The markets are an absolute delight and something you can’t miss out on. You can buy wooden artifacts, pearl jewelry, some really fancy hats, and a lot more. 

    Sagarika Government Emporium is a moderate budget market that is best visited with for its exclusive handicrafts. Whether you are on your own, or with your family, partner, or friends, this is a great place to spend fun time. It is closed on Mondays. An important thing to know in advance is that you should carry cash as cards may not be accepted here.

    Sagarika Emporium has to be your perfect place for shopping if you are willing to buy some pretty handicraft items. Visiting this place should definitely be in your travel itinerary if you plan on visiting the Andaman Islands. One of the most famous markets in the islands features this emporium. It is a paradise for those looking for some pretty seashell articles and handicraft items.

    • Location: DAG Colony, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744101
    • Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM (every day except Monday)
    • Recommended duration: 3 hours 

    Overview

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    Sagarika Government Emporium is located on MG Road in Port Blair. This shopping complex in the Andaman Islands is popular for selling wide variety of lovely handicraft products. These handcrafted items made with bamboo, seashells, coconut shells, and wood are perfect souvenirs, and you can take them back for your loved ones. With its unique heritage of aboriginal tribes, the islands are quite popular for them. If you are a shopaholic, then Sagarika Government Emporium is not less than a dreamland for you. You can purchase many amazing items for sale such as coconut lamp shades, murals made out of sea shells, and tribal artifacts. There is an entire complex dedicated only for the Nicobari tribes found in various islands of the Andaman archipelago. An ideal place for grabbing beautiful souvenirs of your sojourn in the remote islands, Sagarika Emporium has a fixed price policy. Thus, you don’t need to stress about bargaining with the shopkeepers. 

    It is a unique market in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands where you will find all kinds of seashell items ranging from mementos like bamboo cane crafts to very beautiful coconut shell lamps, and many other famous items. You can buy the best variety of seashell earrings, bracelets, lockets, and keyrings here. If you love accessories, then you are sure to lose track of time here. 

    Things to do

    Drop by Sagarika Emporium if you are hunting for souvenirs or gifts for your family and friends back at home. This government-run market offers a wide variety of local goods at fixed prices. The stores here are stocked with handicrafts, furniture, and carvings made from padauk wood. Tribal masks and lampshades made from coconut shells are sought-after items here. You will be amazed to see the products made by self-employed locals. Using mother-of-pearl and seashells, they can create salt and peppershaker sets! You will also find products here that are on sold on discounts. When you are in Port Blair, keep a couple of hours to visit Sagarika Government Emporium.

    Nearby hotels

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    Sagarika Government Emporium is one of the best markets in the Andaman Islands. Tourists from all over the world come to visit this market when they are in the Andamans. Here, you can buy a wide range of products ranging from plain and simplest household goods to some very fancy and distinctive household goods. Your vacation in the Andaman Islands will be complete only after visiting this famous market. 

    Some of the best hotels located nearby the emporium are as follows:

    • Sinclairs Bay View
    • Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Bay Island
    • Seashell Hotel
    • Hotel Megapode Nest
    • J Hotel
    • Ami Grace
    • Haywizz
    • Ashiaanaa Residency Inn
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Sunray Homes 
    • Hotel Shreesh 
    • Hotel Landmark

    How to reach 

    Sagarika Government Emporium is easily accessible from anywhere in Port Blair. Just take an auto or a taxi to reach there. 

    This emporium portrays Andamanese culture in the most amazing way possible. This place is counted as one of the most famous markets in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Ranging from common household items to luxurious items, you can find everything here. You are sure to find something for yourself here even if you are on a budget trip. It is quite vast and showcases a diverse variety of shops. The emporium is located in the close vicinity of various popular eateries and restaurants that you should definitely try.

  • Veer Savarkar Park is located right in front of the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, the capital town of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can come here to get some rest after your visit to the jail or while you are waiting for your chance to attend the light and sound show. You can witness the pride of the past in the form of a really good collection of statues of our freedom fighters. Refreshments like green coconuts and tea are sold by vendors there. The park also has a few rides for kids. 

    The pandemic crisis brought almost the whole world to a standstill. Nations went into lockdown and everyone was restricted to their homes. Companies relying heavily on an office presence for the completion of their tasks found a way to work from home. But this was temporary as industries had to open to prevent an economic meltdown. The world as we know it can’t function at such a slow pace.

    There were a lot of changes. And most importantly, something had to change from our regular way of doing things. As a result, the way we travel changed, the way we communicated modified, and we even altered our way of greeting each other.

    Now when travelling is slowly gaining pace, we would like to recommend that Veer Savarkar Park is a nice place to visit when you are in Port Blair. After getting some time from Cellular Jail, you can include this park in your itinerary of the Andamans. 

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    Highlights

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    Veer Savarkar Park is open for tourists throughout the year. However, the best time to visit there is from October to April when the weather is pleasurable. Most of the people preferring to come here plan their visit during this time. The summer season is likely to be avoided. Visitors can travel to the park at any time as it witnesses comforting weather throughout the year. But when comes to choosing the best season to visit there, winter stands tall as one of the best times of the year to visit the secluded isle. With the dry weather facilitating easy commutation, the summer season is also beneficial for tourists.

    • Recommended duration: 30 minutes
    • Address: Atlanta Point, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744104, India

    Mobile connectivity at Veer Savarkar Park 

    Visiting Veer Savarkar Park in Port Blair and spending some time there is surely a great idea, but you should know that mobile connectivity is a major concern for tourists visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Almost all networks fail to function properly there and the ones that work, offer very basic services, Call drop, bad network, not being able to download applications, etc. are some of the issues that you may face at the island. However, it is found that BSNL provides better service than other networks here. So, make sure that you carry a BSNL sim card on your trip to the Andaman Islands. It is recommended to take the help of a tour operator in order to avoid any kind of risk. In case of an emergency, you can also carry some extra sim cards that you can use. 

    Nearby hotels

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    There are all kinds of properties near Veer Savarkar Park, ranging from budget to luxurious. The best ones are as follows:

    • Lemon Tree Hotel
    • Sea Shell Coral Cove
    • The North Reef
    • Driftwood Hotel & Resort
    • Hotel Mansha Regency
    • Sinclairs Bay View
    • TSG Emerald View
    • SR Castle 
    • Haywizz
    • Hotel Blue Mmarlin
    • Hotel Megapode Nest
    • TSG Grand
    • Hotel Harriet View Bed & Breakfast
    • Hotel Horizon Hues
    • Hotel AT Villa 

    Things to remember when visiting Veer Savarkar Park during COVID-19

    • Everyone has to wear a mark keeping their nose and mouth covered at all times, especially when in public settings.
    • Social distancing should be maintained. You should avoid close contact by staying at least six feet apart (about two arms’ distance) from anyone who is not with you.
    • Regular sanitisation of hands is mandatory. There are dispensers installed everywhere.
    • Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth, especially after touching other surfaces.
    • Wherever available, use contactless payment and no-touch trash cans and doors. Rather than by hand, the cash or card should be exchanged by placing them in a receipt tray or on the counter, wherever possible.
    • Stay away from crowded spaces as much as possible. Avoid group gatherings. 
    • Carry your own essentials such as water bottles, personal sanitizers, etc.
    • The safety rules set by concerned authorities are there to ensure the wellbeing of everyone in the wake of the pandemic. Kindly follow them for your own and others’ safety.

    How to reach

    You can easily reach Veer Savarkar Park from anywhere in Port Blair. You can take any public transport such as an auto or a bus to reach there. There is an option of reaching here via a taxi as well if you need more comfort and safety. 

    There are no direct flights to the Andaman Islands from everywhere. For instance, if you are flying from Delhi or Mumbai, then you will have a layover in Hyderabad or somewhere else. From there, you will be flying to Port Blair, the capital of the island. Its airport is Veer Savarkar Airport. However, there are direct flights also from a few cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. 

    Andaman Island Travels is a reliable tour agent located in the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—Port Blair. The union territory is a perfect holiday destination whether you an adventure lover, nature lover or wildlife lover. Our dedicated staff specialises in preparing customised holiday packages as per your requirements and budget. The holiday experts will make sure that you have a magical vacation time. Moreover, we understand the importance of nature and wildlife, and thus we strongly support environmental conversation.

  • Do you know the Andaman Islands, the union territory of India located in the Bay of Bengal, comprise nearly 600 islands, islets, and rocks? Among these, only around 40 are inhabited to date. Along with major tourist attractions, there are so many other pristine islands also that are capable of mesmerising travellers from around the world. One of them is Cinque Island that promises 360-degree entertainment to you whether you are a history buff, a beach bum, or an adrenaline junkie. Here, you have the most fabulous photo opportunities, enthralling water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and so many others, along with secluded destinations that are waiting to get explored by adventurers like you.

    Let us expand your horizons giving you ideas about what all you can do here and make it a superb beach vacation. Here is a detailed guide to know more about Cinque Island and escape to the gorgeous land of white sandy beaches and azure waters. Are you ready to embark on the most incredible journey of your life? Just hop on!

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    Highlights

    Cinque Island is known for its untouched coral reefs and turquoise waters. It is among the loveliest islands in the Andaman Islands. Adorned by the shimmering crystal clear waters and enclosed by the lush-green jungles, this island is a land of hidden treasure. With enormous diving options and lazing down at the white sandy beaches, there is a vast option for the water babies to enjoy and explore around. The hidden paradise of Cinque Island is yet to come into limelight for most of the people. Segregated into North Cinque and South Cinque Islands, it is an untouched beauty of the Andamans that every nature enthusiast must include in the travel itinerary. 

    This part of the archipelago remains untouched and inhabited as it rests at a distance of 26 kilometers from Port Blair, the capital city. This island is further divided into North and South Cinque islands. It is located between the Passage and Duncan Island towards the north side. These islands also share boundaries with Wandoor Marine National Park. It is a charming experience to explore this place. Cinque Island is home to the beautiful surroundings along with some of the rich and exotic marine life which includes coral reefs, fishes and turtles, and starfishes. 

    Overview 

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    If you crave sunny skies, white silky sand beaches, azure waters and swaying trees, then Cinque Island is the best travel destination for you in India. It is better to leave for the island in the early morning and spend the whole day. You can indulge yourself in some enthralling activities and return in the evening. The island is a tropical region. In order to make sure that your skin is saved from getting tanned, keep a sunscreen, swimsuit, extra set of clothes along with basic medications. 

    Cinque Island enjoys a tropical climate and thus, it is a year-round destination. It is an amazing travel destination for all kinds of people. It is a perfect spot for both- adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. If you want to enjoy each and everything here, then make sure that you visit it when the weather is pleasant so that you can try all the water sports as well. October to May is a good time to visit this place, as during this time, you can go for all the enthralling activities as well as relax at the azure beaches without stressing about rain. Make the most of your beach holiday by relaxing at the pristine beaches, trying the local cuisine, and indulging in various water activities. 

    Cinque Island is a hub of water adventure sports. You can do so many activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. along with exploring the untouched beauty of marine life. 

    P.S. Quick medical facilities are available in Cinque Island despite being inhabited. The tour operators carry a first aid kit in case of emergencies. Also, the island is close to the Gandhi Marine National Park that makes it easily accessible to medical aid. In case of special medications, it is highly recommended to carry your own medicines in order to avoid any mishap.

    Attractions

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    Being a traveller, one of the primary thoughts in one’s mind is ‘Does this place have enough engaging and enthralling activities to keep me occupied happily?” When you think of Cinque Island, the loveliest part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the answer to this question is a resounding ‘Yes!”. The island is a piece of paradise on earth and a perfect destination for solo travellers, especially if you are a nature lover or an adrenaline junkie. If you love to explore places on your own, then a visit to Cinque Island is likely to be the most unforgettable and awesome trip on your travel list. Its beauty and magnificence are appreciated all across the world owing to its oozing gorgeousness. 

    Cinque Island is a highly preferred travel destination among honeymooners and families because of its natural marvels. But you should know that the island has a lot to offer to a solo traveller as well. The place is extremely safe for everyone. Let’s dive right into its awesomeness and see how you can have the best time here during your vacation. 

    Water sports

    Adrenaline junkies, good news for you! The depths of the waters are waiting to be explored by scuba diving that is guided and instructed by the PADI divers. You can also try other water activities like sea walking and snorkeling. There are so many things to do here in this isolated haven. You are sure to fall in love with its splendor.

    Nearby hotels

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    The civilian settlements of any kind are prohibited by the administration in Cinque Island. Therefore, there is no place to stay at night there. Everyone must leave the island before dawn. The island is an uninhabited place that is located inside the premises of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Therefore, there are no resorts pr hotels on the island. Tourists are only allowed for day trips.

    The nearest hotels to the island are in Port Blair. You can consider the following properties:

    • Sinclairs Bay View
    • Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Bay Island
    • Seashell Hotel
    • Hotel Megapode Nest
    • J Hotel
    • Ami Grace
    • Haywizz
    • Ashiaanaa Residency Inn
    • Hotel Sentinel
    • Sunray Homes 

    How to reach 

    It takes two hours from Chidiyatapu and nearly four hours from Wandoor via boat to reach this charming island. However, the boat service is not regular. Also, special permission from the Forest Department has to be taken to visit Cinque Island.

    Cinque Island is located at a distance of 25 kilometers from Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The island rests within the vicinity of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. There is a simple way to reach from Port Blair to Cinque Island. After reaching Port Blair, take a boat or a chartered ferry that transfers to Cinque Island. These ferries run on the same route multiple times a day. The cost of the ferry varies according to the season. If you are traveling through a travel agent, then the cost is usually included in the package.

    Cinque Island is a fascinating virgin island in the South Andaman region. It is surrounded by turquoise blue waters and a shore full of white sands. The two island portions of North and South Cinque Islands are connected by a spectacular sand bar. It was once broken and affected by the tsunami but has reformed naturally over the years. It is a wonderful sight!

    Don’t you want to escape to this unexplored heaven and get set in a mood to holiday at the beaches? Do keep this handy and quick guide with you while you travel to Cinque Island.

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