Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Introduction

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a veritable Garden of Eden and a naturalist's heaven. The clean environment, roads, greenery as well as unpolluted fresh air attract all nature lovers. The tropical rain forests and waters of Bay of Bengal are the home of a vast collection of plant, animal and marine life. Topographically the islands are hilly in places fringed with coconut palm, covered with tropical jungle and interspersed with flat stretches of crescent shaped beaches. Adventure tourism like trekking, Island camping, snorkeling, SCUBA diving etc. and other water sports are the real attractions. A marvelous mix of nature's most precious delights, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a once in a lifetime holiday experience.

These are the paragon of beauty and present a landscape full with scenic and picturesque extravaganza. These islands shimmer like emeralds in the Bay of Bengal. The dense forest which cover these islands and the innumerable exotic flowers and birds create a highly poetic and romantic atmosphere. "Here the white beaches on the edge of a meandering coastline have palm trees that sway to the rhythm of the Sea. The beats of tribal drums haunt the stillness and Technicolor fish steer their way through crystal clear water." This addition of strangeness to beauty which is responsible for creating the infinite romantic impact may be described in the following famous lines of Keats.

Tourist Attraction

• Andaman Water Sports Complex (External website that opens in a new window)
• Diving (External website that opens in a new window)
• Islands (External website that opens in a new window)
• Beaches (External website that opens in a new window)
• Monuments (External website that opens in a new window)
• Fun at a Bay (External website that opens in a new window)

Beaches

Corbyn's Cove & Chirya Tapu

Corbyn's Cove & Chirya Tapu can be named as one of the most picturesque sea-beaches in this region. It is ideal for sea bathing and sun-basking as well. Invariable humming of the sea and sweet chirping of the birds create a musical rhythm for the visitors. The dense mangrove forest which is home for large variety of birds is also a part of attraction for visitors.

Harminder Bay Beach

Sunbathe in the mellow sun as you sip from a fresh coconut. Or swim out into the waves where dolphins and many-hued fish accompany you. Welcome to Harminder Bay beach. It is situated at Hut Bay Island at a distance of 100kms from Port Blair and are connected by Inter-Islands shipping services.

Karmatang Beach

Apart from swimming and water sports, if you want to see lots of turtle, Karmatang beach is perfect destination for you. This beach is situated at Mayabunder, northern part of Middle Andaman, 240 kms by road and 136 kms by boat from Port Blair. Sandy beaches of these islands are famous for turtle nesting. Important species of turtles include: Leather Back Turtle, Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle and Olive Ridley Turtle. Water Monitor Lizard, Salt Water Crocodiles, and Reticulate Python etc. are also seen here.

Radhnagar and Vijaynagar Beach

Radhanagar and Vijaynagar Beaches in Havelock are pristine, unspoilt beaches and will appeal to every beach enthusiast and nature lover. Apart from sun, sand and sea, this beach offers exotic marine life, lush tropical greenery and isolation from the hustle and bustle of urban life - they are the perfect holiday getaway.

Ramnagar Beach

Blessed with beautiful sand, Ramnagar beach is the perfect getaway from your mundane schedules. Get out your suntan and sunglasses to explore the wide and varied avifauna and diverse lifestyle of this resplendent beach. The clear waters and serenity of palm-fringed shores waits for you. So pack your bags and get ready for the perfect tropical- beach-holiday experience at Ramnagar beach.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Wandur National Park

Wandur National Park comprises of about 12 islands and is located about 30 km southwest of Port Blair, the capital city of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and are also the home to India's best marine parks.

Most of the islands in the park are densely forested; the open spaces are covered with scrub and creepers. A casual glance around and one can spot brilliant tropical flowers including orchids, broken branches and fallen leaves spread over the jungle pathways. One can also hear the bird calls, but unless in the open, it is difficult to spot the terns, gulls, ospreys, serpent crested eagles, wood pigeons and of course the swifts.

The most striking feature of all these islands is the vegetation. Very dense, it comes right down to the shore, seeming to merge into the sea. Branches and creepers overhang and dip into the seawater.

Source: National Portal Content Management Team, Reviewed on: 19-02-2010