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Panorama of the natural coral bridge in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Things to do in  Andaman and Nicobar Islands

India’s treasured islands

Off the coast of Thailand—and many hundreds of miles east of the Indian subcontinent—the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an island chain and union territory of India that draws in visitors with its sugary white-sand beaches and warm and clear waters. Some of the most popular things to do in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include scuba diving, snorkeling, cycling, and even parasailing, though there are plenty of historic sites, too—especially in and around the capital city of Port Blair.

Top 4 attractions in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

All about Andaman and Nicobar Islands

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When to visit

The best time to visit is between October and May when the weather is driest and at its most pleasant. Avoid coming to the islands during the rainy monsoon season, which runs from June to September, when a lot of tourist facilities are closed and heavy rains keep people indoors. If you come during the period between Christmas and New Year's, you'll be able to attend the Island Tourism Festival in Port Blair, a 5-day celebration featuring everything from DJ nights to dog shows.

Getting around

Getting between islands involves boat rides, and there are both private and government-run options available. There's regular boat service between Port Blair (the territory’s capital city, where the airport is located) on South Andaman Island and popular Havelock Island. Many people who visit Havelock Island rent bicycles or motor scooters, although taxis and auto-rickshaws are also widely available. On South Andaman Island, taxis and auto-rickshaws are the norm.

Traveler tips

If you're looking for a lovely place to stay on Havelock Island, Barefoot at Havelock is a great option. Sitting next to Radhanagar Beach, its cottages and villas are constructed largely from renewable materials such as bamboo and thatch. It’s among the oldest and best-known resorts on the island, so rooms do fill up quickly; it’s a good idea to book your stay well in advance.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the top things to do in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A:

The top things to do in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and just hanging out on the beach. There are also quite a few historic sites, including the Cellular Jail and Viper Island, as well as natural wonders such as the Limestone Cave Baratang.

Q:How many days do you need in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A:

It depends on what you want to do. Many people just visit Port Blair and Havelock Island, and you could theoretically get a feel for each in as few as four days. However, if you can, give yourself longer to take things slow and get on island time.

Q:How can I reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A:

Although you can take a ship to the Andaman Islands, most tourists fly (the ship takes three or four days). IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara all operate flights from major Indian hubs such as Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad to Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport.

Q:What are the best beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A:

Many of the best beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are on Havelock Island. Radhanagar Beach is among the most popular, offering white sand and easy access to warm, clear waters. Slightly more secluded Elephant Beach is also popular, though to get there, you'll need to hike or take a boat tour.

Q:Are the Andaman and Nicobar Islands worth visiting?
A:

Yes, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are worth visiting. This destination is like nowhere else in India, and as it’s geographically in Southeast Asia, many natural features are more similar to what you’ll find in Thai islands. There’s also plenty for history buffs, particularly those interested in British colonial history.

Q:Are there any historic sites in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
A:

Yes, there are lots of historic sites in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In Port Blair, don't miss the Cellular Jail, a three-level colonial prison founded by the British, which is now a museum. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island is worth visiting, and it was once home to the British capital in the islands.