After Visiting 20 States & 6 Union Territories Of India, Here’s Why The Andamans Tempt Me Most!

The Andaman Islands are very close to my heart. It is my favourite destination in India due to many reasons – its oozing natural splendour being the most obvious one. This union territory in the Bay of Bengal was my first stop when 5 years ago, I left the corporate world to pursue travelling with more time, focus, and dedication. Driven by my immense love for the Andamans, I recently visited there again and felt a deep sense of nostalgia. It felt like coming back home!

Also, it was in the Andamans that I dived for the very first time and was so fascinated with the experience that I decided to go after it with more sincerity. To date, I have done scuba diving in Thailand, UAE, Indonesia, and Oman as well. The island introduced me to an all-new life-changing experience and I am going to be forever grateful for it.

Let me take you on my journey across this dreamland where I would love to go again and again.

Places To Visit When Staying On Havelock Island In The Andamans

You have to go to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) to see the best beaches in India. It is home to several pristine beaches and my list included the following:

1. Radhanagar Beach

This beach is counted among Asia’s most beautiful and the world’s top ten beaches. The white silky sand and emerald blue sea make it a perfect spot for relaxing amid the natural beauty. There are lush and verdant trees on its side. No water sports are allowed here. This is done to preserve the gorgeousness of this attraction. You can swim and sunbathe at this tranquil beach. I would suggest going there late in the afternoon so that you get to witness the lovely sunset as well which is not to be missed at any cost! This marvellous slice of heaven is my favourite beach on Havelock Island. Your beach vacation is incomplete without including Radhanagar Beach in the itinerary.

2. Elephant Beach

It’s a secluded beach and you can have the entire place to yourself! You can reach here via ferry or by trekking. I chose the latter. The distance is around 2 kilometres and the muddy path is full of crabs, lizards, seashell insects, and other creepy-crawlies. It was a scary experience for me but totally worth it.

This beach is a paradise! It is like a huge, endless blanket of different shades of blue. The grandeur of bright green trees grown on white sand below the white clouds is indescribable. There were a variety of beautiful shells spread all over the place like jewels. The splendour of this beach cannot be described in any words or photographs. You can feel it only by seeing it with your own eyes.

3. Kalapathar Beach

With dense forest in the backdrop, Kalapathar Beach is a long stretch of golden sand beds, turquoise waters, and big black rocks. It is a small but delightful beach. You can stroll here amidst the stunning scenic beauty while feeling the cool breeze on your face. The black rocks along the seashore present a vivid contrast with the bright sand. There are green forests engulfing the beach from all sides. Go to this beach early in the morning to enjoy a mesmerizing sunrise.

4. Vijay Nagar Beach

It’s a quiet beach with white sand, turquoise water, and coconut trees. It is so calm that you can actually hear the sea breeze flowing around you. You won’t find many people here. It is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. You should definitely go there during the nighttime. It will be a different experience altogether.

5. Govind Nagar Beach

The coastline of Govind Nagar Beach is dotted with a number of beach resorts. It is a peaceful beach that is ideal for long leisurely strolls. It is popular for its white sand and cobalt waters. There is a lot to do here. For instance, lazing on a hammock, taking a walk, catching a lovely sunrise/sunset, relaxing with the spellbinding landscape in front, and a lot more.

6. Scuba Diving: A Must-Do In The Andamans

Going under the water’s surface feels like home to me. I get to explore parts of the world that many don’t get to see. Havelock Island is the best destination in India for a scuba diving adventure. I have dived twice here at 2 different locations–Nemo Reef (shore dive) and Tribe Gate (boat dive). The underwater coastal belts here are home to the high-density ecosystems of coral reefs and forms. Diving here is a fascinating experience the memories of which are going to stay with me forever.

Also Read: An In-Depth Backpacking Bahrain Travel Guide For Solo Female Wanderlusters

Places To Visit When Staying In Port Blair

Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is known for its rich history. However, apart from knowing about the historical events this place has witnessed, I also saw a fair share of natural beauty here.

1. Cellular Jail

Port Blair is famous for the historic Cellular Jail that was built by the Britishers over a period of 10 years. It was constructed as solitary confinement for Indian political prisoners. This was the most dreaded and gruelling 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 walk through the corridors, get inside the cells, and also see the gallows. Here, you will get a glimpse of India’s struggle for freedom.

Attend the popular Son-et-Lumiere (Sound and Light Show) if you have enough time. The show presents the saga of the heroic freedom struggle.

2. Corbyn’s Cove Beach

This is one of the most visited beaches in Port Blair where you can indulge in various water adventure activities including parasailing, jet skiing, speed boat rides, banana boat ride, etc. It is a coconut palm-fringed beach and is ideal for swimming and sun-basking as well.

3. Ross Island

Go on a day trip to this captivating island when you are in Port Blair. Officially known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, you can reach here via a small boat journey. Initially, the headquarters of the British colony, today this island houses ruins of the buildings that were constructed during the colonial era. However, for me, the highlight was being surrounded by deer and peacocks in their natural habitat. All this amid the tropical breeze and the splendid vistas of the sea!

4. Wandoor Beach

Located to the east of Port Blair, this lovely beach has large thickets in the surrounding that enhance its grandeur. You can swim in its azure waters or simply relax by the seashore. In addition to that, you can also collect alluring seashells here. The sandy stretch is full of them! Also, don’t miss the incredible sunset here.

Also Read: I Made A Solo Trip To Oman And Here Are The Most Enchanting Places I Explored!

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands will be a great addition to your travel list. It’s a must-visit for every water baby. Surround yourself with an aura of magnificence!

Cover Image Credits: @strolling_shoes/Instagram

First Published: June 12, 2023 9:18 PM