On the Andaman Islands, few aborigines remain, less than a thousand, while on the Nicobar Islands there are about 30,000. Tourists can visit no more than 10 of the Andaman Islands; a few more islands are open for day trips or viewing from a boat. The Nicobar Islands were completely closed to visitors until recently; now individual excursions without overnight stays are possible.
How to get permission and how to get there
It is best to visit the islands in October or from January to May. The rest of the time is the rainy season.
The flow of tourists is artificially limited, so it is necessary to obtain permission to visit the islands and stay there for an extended period. Tourists arriving by plane are issued a permit in the state capital, Port Blair, at a special immigration office. Those who decide to use water transport must arrange all paperwork in advance on the mainland and register with the Forest Department upon arrival.
Another option is to order a permit when obtaining a visa at the Indian embassy in your country. This document must always be carried with you – it is often checked, even upon departure. The permit is valid for 30 days, but only 15 if the tourist cannot show a return ticket. The names of the islands you wish to visit must be written in the official document.
You can reach the islands only by flights from Indian airports. Travel time is about 2 hours. It is better to buy tickets in advance, otherwise there may be none. The journey by ship takes 2-3 days and is intended for thrill-seekers – amenities are minimal. It is recommended to bring your own bedding and dry rations. The advantage of the sea route is that some ships call at the Nicobar Islands.
Travel between the islands can be done by tourist ferries or by helicopter. In the capital, you can order a taxi to the airport, rent a bicycle or a motorbike (scooter).
Sights of Port Blair
For a long time, English convicts were brought to the Andaman Islands to serve hard labor. The Political Prisoners Memorial now reminds of the past. Although you cannot see the indigenous locals, complete information about them is gathered in the Anthropological Museum.
For those who fear walks in the real jungle, the capital has numerous natural science museums: the Fisheries Museum, the Marine Museum, the Zoo, and the Forest Museum. There you can learn about the unique flora and fauna of this region.
Natural attractions of the islands
Tourists planning a trip to the Andamans should remember safety: it is an area with a humid climate, and a malaria vaccination is advisable. For walks in the forest, it is better to wear closed clothing so as not to attract unpleasant leeches.
And of course, the island beaches enchant all tourists. Near the capital is Corbyn's Cove with a sandy coast. The swimming spots on Havelock Island are interesting. There is a diving center there, and thus the opportunity to admire coral reefs, and if you're lucky – dolphins and turtles.
Rutland Island seems made for ecotourism. Cozy cottages, diving, snorkeling, and walks through mangrove thickets are available to vacationers. But the volcanic island of Barren can only be viewed from a boat – landing is prohibited. Amateur ornithologists will like the village of Bird Island on South Andaman – from where you can go on a forest excursion to observe exotic birds.
Surfers must definitely visit Little Andaman Island. The Mount Harriet National Park is for physically fit people capable of a two-kilometer uphill climb to enjoy a beautiful view. Here you can also watch elephants working in logging.
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