Immerse yourself in the stunning allure of the Andaman Islands, a tropical paradise nestled in the eastern part of the Bay of Bengal. Whether it’s the underwater landscapes, beautiful beaches, or the diverse indigenous culture, island hopping in the Andaman Islands is an unforgettable journey that truly uncovers the treasures of this archipelago. There are over 500 islands in the archipelago, and while you cannot cover all of them, an island This extraordinary expedition will take you across some of the world's most beautiful landscapes, where unspoiled nature comes alive with vibrant colour and exuberant life.
Islands to Visit in the Andaman Islands
Port Blair: Your voyage begins at the bustling capital city of Port Blair, a vibrant destination boasting colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and intriguing museums. Be sure to visit the Cellular Jail, a symbol of India's colonial past and the British Raj's atrocities, now converted into a monument commemorating freedom fighters. The Sound and Light show, narrating the tale of India’s struggle for independence, is a must-see.
Havelock Island: Havelock Island, named after a British General, is a tropical paradise renowned for its world-class diving sites, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. Radhanagar Beach, often hailed as Asia's best beach, is a beacon of serenity, with its pristine sands meeting the crystal-clear azure waters. The island also offers exciting water sports opportunities like scuba diving and snorkelling.
Neil Island: Neil Island, a charming, tranquil spot, is perfect for those seeking peace and solitude. Renowned for its beautiful coral reefs and bio-diversity, Neil Island is a snorkelling paradise. The natural rock formation locally known as 'Howrah Bridge' is a must-visit, especially during low tide when its beauty truly shines.
Barren Island: Embarking on a private boat trip to Barren Island is a mesmerizing adventure into the heart of untouched beauty. Barren Island is a volcanic island in the Andaman Islands. As the boat glides through the azure waters of the Andaman Sea, the towering volcanic cliffs of Barren Island. You can do a variety of water activities in Barren Island like game fishing, snorkelling, and even scuba diving.
Long Island: Located in the Middle Andaman group, this tranquil island offers a perfect blend of pristine beaches, lush greenery, and serene surroundings. With limited tourist infrastructure, it provides an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Long Island's unspoiled charm, coupled with its warm and welcoming local community, makes it a captivating destination for those seeking a peaceful escape amidst nature's splendour.
Little Andaman: Island hopping to Little Andaman in the Andamans is a thrilling adventure to a remote and untouched paradise. You can explore the enchanting Butler Bay, home to an enchanting waterfall, or trek through the lush forest trails to reach the White Surf waterfall. Don't miss the opportunity to ride the challenging waves at iconic surf spots like the famous Harminder Bay and Breakfast Point.
Things to do while you are island hopping in the Andaman Islands
Unique Flora and Fauna: A significant part of Andaman's allure is its unique flora and fauna. The Andaman Islands are a treasure trove of biodiversity, housing various endemic species such as the Andaman wild pig, the Andaman wood pigeon, and the Andaman Masked Owl. The island's coral reefs, part of one of the world's richest and least disturbed ecosystems, also host a plethora of marine life. And you can explore this all while you are on an island hopping in the Andaman Islands.
Thrilling Water Sports: The Andaman Islands are a magnet for adrenaline junkies with their array of water sports. From scuba diving and snorkelling in the clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life to kayaking in the mangroves of Mayabunder and speed boating off the coast of Port Blair, there is no shortage of thrilling experiences.
Snorkelling is a popular choice, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world up close. The coral reefs surrounding the islands teem with colourful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine species. Havelock Island's renowned sites like Elephant Beach and Radhanagar Beach offer excellent snorkelling opportunities.
Scuba diving is another must-try water sport in the Andaman Islands. With professional dive centres and experienced instructors, even beginners can experience the wonders of the deep. Dive sites such as Neil Island, Cinque Island, and South Button Island are famous for their vibrant corals, reef sharks, and manta rays.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, jet skiing and banana boat rides are ideal choices. Zooming across the pristine waters on a jet ski or bouncing and splashing on a banana boat with friends and family creates unforgettable memories.
Kayaking through mangroves is a serene and eco-friendly way to explore the islands. Paddling through the tranquil waters, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a unique perspective on the island's natural beauty.
The Indigenous Cultures and Food: Experience the unique cultural tapestry of the Andaman Islands by interacting with some of the indigenous tribes who call this archipelago home. Notably, the Sentinalese, Onge, and the Nicobarese, who have inhabited these islands for thousands of years, offer fascinating insights into a way of life vastly different from the modern world.
No trip to the Andaman Islands is complete without sampling the local cuisine. The islands offer a diverse culinary scene with influences from Indian, Burmese, and Thai cuisines. Fresh seafood, especially prawns, lobsters, and a variety of fish, are local favourites.
Cost of island hopping in the Andaman Islands
Island hopping in the Andaman Islands provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse beauty of this archipelago. While costs can vary depending on factors such as the number of islands visited and the duration of the trip, it is helpful to have a general idea of what to expect.
Typically, island hopping tours in the Andaman Islands range from budget-friendly options to more luxurious experiences. A full-day group tour to popular islands like Ross Island, North Bay Island, and Viper Island can cost around INR 3000-8000 per person, including transportation, guide services, and entry fees.
For a more personalised experience, private island-hopping tours are available. These can be tailored to your preferences, allowing you to choose specific islands and activities. Private tours generally start at around INR 10000 or above per person and can go up depending on the number of islands and additional services included.
If you take a private boat to go island hopping, you may have to pay anything between INR 20000-150,000, depending on where you are going and what you want to cover. Usually, the cost of island hopping does not cover activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, or water sports, which may have separate charges.
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