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Historical and Cultural Sites Travelling Passion

All about Andaman and Nicobar islands

Traveling to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an exceptional choice! Situated in the Bay of Bengal, these islands are renowned worldwide for their rich marine biodiversity and unspoiled ecosystems. A paradise for marine enthusiasts, they offer an unparalleled view of some of the most vibrant and diverse underwater habitats on the planet. Through a thoughtful balance of sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands stand as a crucial center for marine biodiversity and a testament to ecological resilience. Below is a detailed, island-wise guide to help you plan your visit effectively.

General Information

  • Location: A union territory of India in the Bay of Bengal.
  • Languages Spoken: Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, English.
  • Best Season to Visit:
    • October to May: Pleasant weather, ideal for water activities.
    • Avoid monsoons (June-September) due to heavy rains and rough seas.
  • Connectivity:
    • Air: Direct flights to Port Blair from major cities like Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata.
    • Ship: Passenger ships available from Kolkata, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam (takes 3-4 days).

Best beaches:

  • Radhanagar Beach, Neil Island’s Laxmanpur Beach, Ross & Smith Islands beach, Bharatpur Beach (Neil Island), Elephant Beach (Havelock), Corbyn’s Cove (Port Blair).

Sunrise & Sunset Points

  • Sunrise: Kalapathar Beach (Havelock), Sitapur Beach (Neil).
  • Sunset: Radhanagar Beach (Havelock), Laxmanpur Beach (Neil), Chidiya Tapu (Port Blair).

Activities and Fun

Underwater:

  • Scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea walking (Havelock, Neil, North Bay).
  • Submarine tours (available in Port Blair).

Overwater:

  • Kayaking (Havelock).
  • Parasailing (North Bay).

For Children:

  • Ross Island: Exploring ruins and deer sightings.
  • Chidiya Tapu: Birdwatching.
  • Glass-bottom boat rides at Bharatpur Beach.

Certainly! Here’s a comprehensive guide to the various transportation options and night shows in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including their fees and booking links:

1. Night shows in Port Blair

Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show:

  • Timings & Languages:
    • Hindi: 5:50 PM, 6:50 PM, 7:50 PM, 8:50 PM
    • English: 6:50 PM (on specific days)
  • Fees:
    • Adults (Above 12 years): ₹300 per person
    • Children (5-11 years): ₹150 per person

2. Ferry Services Between Islands

Port Blair to Havelock Island:

  • Operators & Fares:
    • Makruzz:
      • Premium: ₹1,675 per person
      • Deluxe: ₹2,200 per person
      • Royal: ₹3,050 per person
    • Nautika Lite:
      • Luxury: ₹1,650 per person
      • Royal: ₹1,850 per person
    • Green Ocean 2:
      • Premium: ₹1,300 per person
      • Premium Plus: ₹1,650 per person

Havelock Island to Neil Island:

  • Operators & Fares:
    • Makruzz:
      • Premium: ₹1,550 per person
      • Deluxe: ₹1,825 per person
      • Royal: ₹2,525 per person
    • Green Ocean 2:
      • Premium: ₹1,200 per person
      • Premium Plus: ₹1,550 per person
    • Nautika:
      • Luxury: ₹1,500 per person
      • Royal: ₹1,700 per person

Neil Island to Port Blair:

  • Operators & Fares:
    • Makruzz:
      • Premium: ₹1,575 per person
      • Deluxe: ₹1,950 per person
      • Royal: ₹2,850 per person
    • Green Ocean 2:
      • Premium: ₹1,200 per person
      • Premium Plus: ₹1,650 per person
    • Nautika:
      • Luxury: ₹1,350 per person
      • Royal: ₹1,500 per person

Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)

  • Access: Ross Island is just 3 km from Port Blair.
    • By Ferry:
      Ferries operate frequently from the Aberdeen Jetty (Port Blair).
      • Fares: ₹150–₹200 per person (round trip).
      • Duration: Approximately 15 minutes.

Booking: Tickets can be purchased directly at the jetty or via local tour operators.

Viper Island:

  • Access:
    Viper Island is about 4–5 km from Port Blair and can be reached by boat.
    • By Ferry/Boat:
      Boats operate from Phoenix Bay Jetty or Junglighat Jetty in Port Blair.
      • Fare: ₹50–₹100 per person (round trip).
      • Duration: Around 15–20 minutes.
    • Booking:
      Tickets are available at the jetty or through local tour operators.

3. Sea Plane Services

  • Routes & Fares:
    • Port Blair to Havelock Island: Approximately ₹4,100 per person (one-way)
    • Port Blair to Neil Island: Approximately ₹4,100 per person (one-way)

4. Inter-Island Ship Services

  • Routes & Fares:
    • Port Blair to Havelock Island: Approximately ₹900 to ₹1,300 per person (one-way)
    • Port Blair to Neil Island: Approximately ₹600 to ₹1,000 per person (one-way)

Note: Fares and schedules are subject to change. It’s advisable to check the latest information and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Here’s a list of authorized ticket vendors and platforms where you can book tickets for various services in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including ferries, light and sound shows, and other activities:

1. Ferry and Cruise Tickets

Makruzz

  • Services: High-speed catamaran for routes like Port Blair to Havelock, Havelock to Neil, and more.
  • Website: https://makruzz.com

Green Ocean

Nautika

Government Ferries (DSS)

  • Services: Affordable inter-island transport operated by the Directorate of Shipping Services.
  • Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the DSS counters in Port Blair. Online booking is not available for government ferries.
  • Details: https://www.andaman.gov.in

Andaman Ferry Ticket

2. Light and Sound Show Tickets

Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show

3. Water Sports Activities

Sea Water Sports

Experience Andamans

Scuba Diving

4. Air Travel and Seaplane Tickets

Pawan Hans Helicopter Service

Sea Plane Services

  • Booking Platform: Through local vendors or tourism operators.
  • Details: Available at Sea Water Sports.

5. Sightseeing and Packages

Andaman Holidays

Andaman Bliss

6. Online Travel Portals

Tips for Booking:

  • Always verify the authenticity of the vendor before making payments.
  • Book in advance during peak travel seasons (October to March).
  • For government services like DSS ferries, physical booking at counters is often necessary.

For government employees planning to utilize the Leave Travel Concession (LTC) for air travel, the Government of India has authorized the following three travel agents for booking air tickets:

  1. Balmer Lawrie & Company Limited (BLCL): A public sector enterprise offering travel and vacation services.

Address: Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd. NBCC Centre, Plot No 2, Okhla Phase 1, New Delhi – 110020.   

  • Direct Phone: 011 42524176
  • Mobile: +91 9748343969
  • Fax: 011 42524177
  • Email: travel.sales@balmerlawrie.com
  • Customer Care Phone: 0124 628 2500

Website: https://www.balmerlawrie.com/

https://services.india.gov.in/service/detail/book-ltc-ticket-1

  • Ashok Travels & Tours (ATT): A government-approved travel agency providing comprehensive travel solutions.

To book tickets, you can contact their offices directly:

Delhi (Air Ticketing):

  1. Phone: +91-11-24361874
    1. Email: travel@attindiatourism.com

Delhi (Transport):

  • Phone: +91-11-26118745
    • Email: atttransport@itdc.co.in

For more information, you can visit their official website:

Ashok Travels & Tours – ITDC

  • Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC): The official tourism and catering arm of Indian Railways, also authorized for LTC air ticket bookings.

IRCTC Air: https://www.air.irctc.co.in/air-services/air.ltc.html

Employees are required to book their air tickets through these authorized travel agents to ensure compliance with LTC rules and facilitate the settlement of claims.

When booking, employees should select flights with the Best Available Fare in their entitled travel class, preferably opting for non-stop flights within the desired time slot.

It’s advisable to book tickets at least 21 days prior to the intended travel date to secure competitive fares and reduce expenses.

For detailed guidelines and instructions on LTC air travel, employees can refer to the official memorandum issued by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT).

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are equipped with a network of medical facilities to address emergencies across the archipelago. Here’s an overview of the available healthcare services:

1. Centralized Ambulance Services:

  • Availability: The islands maintain a fleet of 56 ambulances distributed among district hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and select sub-centres.
  • Access: Emergency ambulance services are available free of charge, operating 24/7. Residents and visitors can dial 102 to summon the nearest available ambulance.

2. Major Hospitals and Health Centres:

  • South Andaman District:
    • G.B. Pant Hospital (District Hospital): Located in Port Blair, this is the primary referral hospital offering multi-specialty services, including surgery, medicine, gynecology, pediatrics, ENT, pathology, and ophthalmology. It has a bed capacity of 412 and handles an average outpatient attendance of 1,200 patients per day.
  • AYUSH Hospital: Situated in Junglighat, this facility provides Ayurvedic and Homeopathic treatments.
  • Community Health Centre (CHC) Bambooflat: Offers emergency and routine healthcare services to residents and visitors.
  • Primary Health Centres (PHCs): Located in Garacharma, Chouldari, Ferrargunj, Havelock, and Neil Island, these centers provide essential medical services and act as referral units for sub-centres.
  • North and Middle Andaman District:
    • Dr. R.P. Hospital (District Hospital): Situated in Mayabunder, this hospital caters to the medical needs of the district’s population.
  • CHCs and PHCs: The district is served by multiple CHCs and PHCs equipped with laboratory, X-ray, and blood transfusion facilities to ensure comprehensive healthcare.
  • Nicobar District:
    • BJR Hospital (District Hospital): Located in Car Nicobar, this facility provides medical services to the local population.
  • CHCs and PHCs: The district’s healthcare infrastructure includes CHCs and PHCs with 10 to 70 beds, offering laboratory, X-ray, and blood transfusion services.

3. Emergency Contact Numbers:

  • G.B. Pant Hospital Ambulance: 03192-232102
  • Pillar Hospital Ambulance: 03192-233193, 240987
  • Amritha Health Centre Ambulance: 03192-222222

4. Specialized Services:

  • ANIIMS (Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences): Established in 2015, ANIIMS is a medical college in Port Blair affiliated with Pondicherry University. It offers undergraduate medical education and is associated with G.B. Pant Hospital for clinical training.

5. Recent Initiatives:

  • The Nicobar district administration has launched programs to train residents of remote islands in handling health emergencies, enhancing the community’s capacity to respond to medical crises.

6. Accessing Medical Services:

  • Emergency Response: In case of a medical emergency, dial 102 to access the centralized ambulance service.
  • Hospital Visits: For non-emergency medical needs, visit the nearest PHC, CHC, or district hospital. Outpatient departments (OPDs) typically operate from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM on working days.

Note: While the islands have a robust healthcare infrastructure, certain specialized treatments may require evacuation to mainland facilities. It’s advisable for visitors to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation if necessary. For more detailed information, you can visit the Directorate of Health Services, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Tips for Travel:

  1. Book ferries and accommodations in advance (especially during peak season).
  2. Respect local culture and the environment.
  3. Carry cash, as ATMs may be limited.
  4. Pack light, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and waterproof cover for mobile phone.
  5. Advance Booking: Due to limited availability, especially during peak seasons, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance.
  6. Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on local seafood delicacies available at various eateries across the islands.
  7. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and the natural environment, especially when visiting areas inhabited by indigenous tribes.

Tips for Booking:

  1. Always verify the authenticity of the vendor before making payments.
  2. Book in advance during peak travel seasons (October to March).
  3. For government services like DSS ferries, physical booking at counters is often necessary.

Tips for Restaurant and Food:

  1. Communication: Clearly specify your dietary preferences when ordering, as some establishments may not have a dedicated vegetarian menu.
  2. Local Markets: Exploring local markets can be rewarding, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and regional vegetarian delicacies.
  3. Advance Planning: In remote areas, vegetarian options might be limited. It’s advisable to plan meals ahead or carry suitable snacks.

Itinerary (6-Days, 7 Nights)

Day 1: Port Blair

  • Arrive, visit Cellular Jail, attend Light & Sound Show.
  • Relax at Corbyn’s Cove Beach.

Day 2: Port Blair to Havelock

  • Morning ferry to Havelock Island.
  • Relax, explore and seabath at Radhanagar Beach (sunset).

Day 3: Havelock to elephanta beach and kalapathar beach

  • Visit Elephant Beach for snorkeling and sea walking.
  • Explore Kalapathar Beach (sunrise).

Day 4: Havelock to Neil Island

  • Morning ferry to Neil Island.
  • Visit Bharatpur Beach and Natural Rock Bridge.
  • End the day at Laxmanpur Beach (sunset).

Day 5: Neil Island to Baratang (via Port Blair)

  • Return to Port Blair.
  • Day trip to Baratang Island (Limestone Caves, Mud Volcano).

Day 6: North Bay, Viper and Ross Islands (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)

  • One day trip to explore North bay’s marine lige, Chain Gang Jail (before construction of jail at portblair), gallows at viper island, Ross Island’s history.

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning at leisure in Port Blair before heading back.

Island-Wise Guide

1. Port Blair (Capital)

Historical Significance:

  • Cellular Jail: Also known as “Kala Pani,” this colonial prison was used by the British to exile political prisoners during India’s struggle for independence. Today, it stands as a national memorial.

Highlights:

  • Cellular Jail (Light & Sound Show).
  • Sightseeing at Corbyn’s Cove Beach.
  • Samudrika Naval Marine Museum.
  • Chidiya Tapu: Best for sunset views and birdwatching.

Activities:

  • Light and sound show at Cellular Jail.
  • Water activities at Corbyn’s Cove Beach.

Markets and Famous Items:

  • Aberdeen Bazaar: A bustling market where you can find souvenirs, handicrafts, and local artifacts.
  • Sagarika Emporium: Government-run outlet offering authentic handicrafts, including shell artifacts, wooden crafts, and pearl jewelry.

Best Restaurant and Food:

  • Annapurna Cafeteria

A well-known pure vegetarian restaurant offering a blend of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines.

  • Icy Spicy

Offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, including North and South Indian cuisines, along with delectable sweets.

  • Kattabomman
    Specializes in authentic South Indian vegetarian meals, particularly dosas and thalis.

Beachfront Hotels offering luxurious rooms with stunning sea views, known for its excellent hospitality and proximity to local attractions and modern amenities and easy access to nearby markets and tourist spots:

Sea Princess Beach Resort

  • Location: Wandoor Beach, Port Blair.
  • Features: Beachfront cottages, swimming pool, and private beach access.

Munjoh Ocean Resort

  • Location: Corbyn’s Cove, Port Blair.
  • Features: Luxurious sea-facing rooms, restaurant, and water activities.

Fortune Resort Bay Island

  • Location: Marine Hill, Port Blair.
  • Features: Overlooks the sea, elegant rooms, and proximity to Ross Island.

Things to Note About Beachfront Hotels

  • Advance Booking: Beachfront hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Amenities: Look for hotels offering direct beach access, water sports, and family-friendly options.

2. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

Historical Significance:

  • Primarily known for its natural beauty, Havelock Island doesn’t have significant historical landmarks but is renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.

Highlights:

  • Radhanagar Beach: Best for swimming and sunsets, often ranked among Asia’s best beaches.
  • Elephant Beach: Popular for snorkeling.
  • Kalapathar Beach: Serene environment for couples and families.

Activities:

  • Scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea walking.
  • Kayaking through mangroves.
  • Trekking to Elephant Beach.

Best Restaurant and Food:

  • Shakahaar Pure Veg Restaurant
    Located on the way to Kalapathar Beach, this establishment offers a range of vegetarian snacks and meals.
  • Full Moon Café
    While not exclusively vegetarian, it provides several vegetarian options in a serene beachside setting.

Beachfront Hotels:

Havelock Island Beach Resort : A premium resort offering beachfront cottages, water sports activities, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.

Location: Govind Nagar Beach.

Features: Beachfront huts, swimming pool, restaurant, and spa.

Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, and jet skiing.

Barefoot at Havelock

Location: Radhanagar Beach.

Features: Eco-friendly luxury cottages amid a rainforest, close to the beach.

Silver Sand Beach Resort

Location: Vijay Nagar Beach.

Features: Beachfront cottages and villas, sea-facing dining.

Things to Note About Beachfront Hotels

  • Advance Booking: Beachfront hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Amenities: Look for hotels offering direct beach access, water sports, and family-friendly options.

3. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

  • Historical Significance:
  • Named after British Brigadier General James Neill, the island is now officially known as Shaheed Dweep, reflecting India’s post-independence identity.

Highlights:

  • Bharatpur Beach: Perfect for snorkeling and family-friendly bathing.
  • Laxmanpur Beach: Best for sunsets and photography.
  • Natural Rock Bridge (Howrah Bridge): Unique rock formation.

Activities:

  • Coral-viewing glass-bottom boat rides.
  • Snorkeling and cycling around the island.

Best for: Couples, photography lovers, and families.

Best Restaurant and Food:

  • Garden View Restaurant
    Offers a variety of vegetarian dishes amidst a tranquil garden ambiance.
  • Gan Garden Restaurant
    Known for its vegetarian-friendly menu, including Indian and Continental options.

Beachfront Hotels:

Here are some recommended beachfront hotels in Neil Island:

  • Beachfront Hotels:
  • Pearl Park Beach Resort
    • Location: Near Bharatpur Beach and Laxmanpur Beach.
    • Features: Beachside cottages, a restaurant, and a beautiful sea view.
  • Tango Beach Resort
    • Location: Laxmanpur Beach.
    • Features: Sea-facing rooms and family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Sea Shell Neil Island
    • Location: Close to Sitapur Beach.

Features: Modern amenities, swimming pool, and private beach access.

Things to Note About Beachfront Hotels

  • Advance Booking: Beachfront hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Amenities: Look for hotels offering direct beach access, water sports, and family-friendly options.

4. Baratang Island

Historical Significance:

  • Home to indigenous tribes, Baratang offers a glimpse into the ancient ways of life, with its untouched natural landscapes and limestone caves.

Highlights:

  • Limestone Caves: Accessible via a fascinating boat ride through mangroves.
  • Mud Volcanoes: Rare geological phenomenon.

Activities:

  • Trekking and boat rides.

Best for: Nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Best Restaurant and Food:

  • Local Eateries near the Jetty
    While options are limited, small eateries near the Baratang Jetty serve simple vegetarian thalis comprising rice, dal, vegetables, and chapati.

Beachfront Hotels:

Dew Dale Resorts

Location: Nilambur.

Features: Eco-friendly cottages close to Baratang attractions like mangroves and mud volcanoes.

2. Things to Note About Beachfront Hotels

  • Advance Booking: Beachfront hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Amenities: Look for hotels offering direct beach access, water sports, and family-friendly options.

5. Ross and Smith Islands

Historical Significance:

  • These twin islands are connected by a natural sandbar and are known for their pristine beauty rather than historical landmarks.
  • Once the administrative headquarters of the British, it now houses ruins of colonial structures, offering a glimpse into the past.

Highlights:

  • Twin islands connected by a natural sandbar.
  • Crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming.

Activities:

  • Snorkeling, beachcombing, and sunbathing.

Best for: Couples and families seeking solitude.

Best Restaurant and Food:

  • Pristine Beach Resort Restaurant
    Offers vegetarian dishes upon request, focusing on local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Beachfront Hotels in via Diglipur:

  1. Pristine Beach Resort
    1. Location: Kalipur Beach, Diglipur.
    1. Features: Comfortable cottages and proximity to Ross and Smith Islands.
  2. Saddle Peak View Resort
    1. Location: Kalipur.
    1. Features: Stunning beach views and easy access to snorkeling spots.

3. Things to Note About Beachfront Hotels

  • Advance Booking: Beachfront hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Amenities: Look for hotels offering direct beach access, water sports, and family-friendly options.

6. North Bay Island

Historical Significance:

  • Famous for its lighthouse, which is depicted on the reverse side of the Indian 20-rupee note, North Bay Island is a popular spot for water activities.

Highlights:

  • Famous for coral reefs and vibrant marine life.

Activities:

  • Sea walking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
  • Glass-bottom boat rides.
  • Scuba diving and snorkeling at North Bay Island.

Best Restaurant and Food:

  • Food Stalls near the Beach
    Primarily known for water activities, North Bay has limited dining facilities. However, temporary food stalls may offer vegetarian snacks and refreshments.

Beachfront Hotels in Port Blair for North Bay Access:

  • Sinclairs Bayview
    • Location: Port Blair, overlooking the sea.
    • Features: Sea-facing rooms, a restaurant, and proximity to North Bay ferries.
  • Hotel SeaShell Port Blair
    • Location: Marine Hill.

Features: Luxurious stay with rooftop sea views and fine dining.

Things to Note About Beachfront Hotels

  • Advance Booking: Beachfront hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Amenities: Look for hotels offering direct beach access, water sports, and family-friendly options.

7. Little Andaman Island:

Historical Significance:

  • Home to the Onge tribe, one of the indigenous peoples of the Andaman Islands, Little Andaman offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Highlights:

  • Butler Bay Beach: Known for surfing and tranquil vibes.
  • Waterfalls like White Surf and Whisper Wave.

Activities:

  • Surfing, trekking, and elephant rides.

Best Restaurant and Food:

  • Whisper Wave Restaurant
    Provides vegetarian options, including local Andamanese dishes and Indian cuisine.

Beachfront Hotels:

  1. White Surf Bungalows
    1. Location: Butler Bay Beach.
    1. Features: Beachfront cottages, surfing facilities, and serene ambiance.
  2. Palm Grove Eco Resort
    1. Location: Netaji Nagar.
    1. Features: Close to the beach, eco-friendly stay, and trekking options.

3. Things to Note About Beachfront Hotels

  • Advance Booking: Beachfront hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Amenities: Look for hotels offering direct beach access, water sports, and family-friendly options.

8. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island):

Ross Island, officially renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, is a picturesque island located near Port Blair, Andaman. It is renowned for its historical significance as the former administrative headquarters of the British during their rule in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Here’s a detailed guide to everything about Ross Island:

1. History

  • British Era:

Ross Island served as the administrative hub of the Andaman Islands during British rule until it was abandoned after the 1941 earthquake and Japanese invasion during World War II.
The ruins of the British buildings, including the Chief Commissioner’s bungalow, church, and hospital, narrate the colonial story.

  • Post-Independence:
    The island became a heritage site maintained by the Indian Navy, which has preserved its historical structures.

2. Attractions

  • Historical Ruins:
    • Chief Commissioner’s House
    • Presbyterian Church
    • Bakery and Printing Press
    • Hospital
  • Japanese Bunkers:
    Built during World War II by the Japanese when they occupied the island.
  • Peacocks and Deer Sanctuary:
    The island is home to freely roaming deer and peacocks, providing a serene and picturesque environment.

3. Markets and Famous Items

  • Markets: None. Visitors can buy snacks and souvenirs from small stalls managed by local vendors near the ferry terminal.
  • Famous Items: Handicrafts made from seashells, coral, and bamboo are sold at shops in Port Blair.

4. Hotels Near Ross Island

            Ross Island does not have accommodation facilities, but visitors can stay at nearby hotels in         Port Blair:

5. Activities

  • Photography:
    The colonial ruins and natural beauty make it a haven for photographers.
  • Walking Trails:
    Explore the island on foot through its shaded trails.

6. Medical Facilities

Ross Island has no medical facilities. In case of emergencies, visitors must return to Port Blair, which has hospitals like G.B. Pant Hospital and private clinics.

7. Dining Options

There are no formal restaurants on Ross Island. Visitors are advised to carry water and snacks or dine in Port Blair before or after the trip.

8. Tips for Visiting Ross Island

  • Carry sunscreen, hats, and water bottles as the island gets sunny during the day.
  • The island is a no-plastic zone, so avoid carrying disposable plastic items.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
  • Purchase ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

9. Viper Island:

            Viper Island is another historically significant island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located near Port Blair. The island is known for its role during the colonial era and offers a glimpse into the struggles of India’s freedom fighters. Below is a detailed guide covering everything about Viper Island

1. History

  • Colonial Era:
    Viper Island was used by the British to house a jail, court room before the construction of the Cellular Jail.
    • The jail on Viper Island, often referred to as the “Viper Chain Gang Jail,” was infamous for its inhumane treatment of prisoners.
    • Many freedom fighters were imprisoned here and subjected to harsh punishments.
    • The gallows on the island were used to execute prisoners.
  • Name Origin:
    The island is named after the vessel H.M.S. Viper, which met with an accident and sank near the island.

2. Attractions

  • Colonial Gallows:
    The gallows are the main historical attraction and a stark reminder of the sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters.
  • Ruins of the Jail:
    Explore the remnants of the prison where freedom fighters endured harsh conditions.
  • Scenic Views:
    The island offers serene views of the sea, mangroves, and nearby islands, ideal for photography.

3. Beaches

Viper Island does not have beaches suitable for swimming or bathing. However, the surrounding waters and coastal areas are scenic and ideal for short walks.

4. Markets and Famous Items

  • Markets: None. Visitors are advised to shop for souvenirs and essentials in Port Blair before visiting the island.
  • Famous Items:
    • Historical books and souvenirs related to the Andaman Islands (available in Port Blair).
    • Handicrafts and shell items from nearby Port Blair markets.

5. Hotels Near Viper Island

Since Viper Island has no accommodations, visitors can stay in Port Blair. Some nearby hotels include:

6. Activities

  • Historical Exploration:
    Walk through the ruins and learn about the island’s history.
  • Photography:
    Capture the scenic views and the historical ruins.
  • Boating:
    The ride to and from the island is a pleasant experience, offering views of nearby islands and Port Blair.

7. Medical Facilities

Viper Island has no medical facilities. Visitors must return to Port Blair for medical emergencies, where facilities like G.B. Pant Hospital and private clinics are available.

8. Dining Options

Viper Island does not have dining facilities. Visitors should carry snacks and water or plan to dine in Port Blair before or after the trip.

9. Tips for Visiting Viper Island

  • Carry sunscreen, hats, and water as there are limited shaded areas.
  • Wear comfortable footwear for walking around the ruins.
  • Avoid carrying disposable plastic items as the island is a no-plastic zone.
  • Plan a combined visit to other nearby attractions like Ross Island or North Bay Island for a full-day experience.

            The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are renowned for producing high-quality pearls, celebrated for their exceptional luster and variety of colors, ranging from white and cream to silver and golden hues.  The waters surrounding the islands are teeming with life, hosting over 1,200 fish species, including iconic reef species such as clownfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and groupers.  The islands offer world-class diving and snorkeling experiences, providing an unparalleled opportunity to explore vibrant coral ecosystems and diverse marine life.

Enjoy your trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands!

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