India is endowed with varied terrain and topography. Lofty mountain peaks, deserts, sea beaches or islands- India has it all. Andaman and Nicobar Islands are an archipelago located in the Bay of Bengal. Once notorious for its cellular jail during colonial rule, it is now one of the favorite haunts of tourist. With its white sandy beaches, blue glistening water caves and creeks it is a paradise for adventure seekers. So all the adventure enthusiasts out there, head to Andaman and Nicobar islands. You can dive into the tempting water or explore the uncharted lands.
Some of the things to do in Andaman & Nicobar Islands are as follows:
Scuba Diving
With its enticing waters, and lively marine life Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer the perfect venue for scuba diving. Whether you are a first timer or an experienced diver, there are ample diving sites in Andaman offering a unique diving experience. Dive in and watch schools of tropical and endemic fishes like Hammerhead, leopard shark, grey shark, Andaman damselfish and Andaman sweetlips. Andaman has one of the richest coral ecosystems in the world. And the underwater marine life and coral system is still untainted by the humans. Some of the popular dive sites in Andaman are Havelock Island, Port Blair, Long Island and Neil Island.
Best time for Scuba Diving: December to April
Snorkeling
Snorkeling in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is another popular activity. Experience the diverse life forms thriving under water. At Andaman Islands, you will be mesmerized by the myriads of fishes their colors and shapes. Snorkeling provides you an opportunity to do that without venturing into the deep. Snorkeling is done on the water surface. And those of you, who do not know swimming, worry not as even you can go Snorkeling. Some of the snorkeling sites in Andaman are at North Bay, Port Blair, Red Skin, Jolly Buoy and Havelock Islands.
Best time for Snorkeling: Throughout the year at Port Blair. However, at other sites avoid the monsoon season (June- September).
Trekking and Camping
Not only Andaman Islands offer you underwater adventure activities, but there are also adventurous things to do on the land. The dense mangrove forests are habitat to a large number of tropical and endemic plant and animal species. Some of the popular trails are from Mt. Harriet to Madhuban, Kalipur to Saddle Peak and in Little Andaman. You can also go camping on the beaches. All Trekking equipments can be availed from the tour operators.
Creek Safari
Enjoy the mangrove forests and the creeks. There is a dense network of creeks flanked by mangrove forests on both the sides. Experience the thrill of venturing into the dense mangrove forests. Savor the views of the pristine forests, the wildlife and the strips of water encapsulated by the forests. You may also find sea water crocodiles lurking there. Some of the well known creeks are in Baratang Island, Uttara, Kalighat, Panghara and Yeretta.
Water Sports
Apart from these, thing to do, you can also enjoy the water sports such as parasailing, windsurfing, kayaking, or water-skiing. Apart from that, you can also enjoy water scooter, speed boat rides, paddle boats, rowing boats, water cycles, banana rides and loads of other options. You can enjoy these activities at the Rajiv Gandhi Sports Complex at Port Blair. These facilities can also be availed at other sites at Port Blair, Carbyn’s Cove beach, and Radha Nagar beach at Havelock Islands.
Other things to do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands include Game fishing, Sea Walking and Bird Watching. You can also go visit an active volcano at Barren Islands. So pack your bags and let the adrenaline get the best of you!