The Islands of Andaman Nicobar are a little slice of paradise tucked around 1,400 kilometers away from the east coast of mainland India, complete with turquoise blue water beaches and a bit of history. Port Blair, the capital of this union territory, has a major airport and seaport connected with the rest of the country and with various tourist islands via multiple daily ferries. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands comprise 572 islands, of which only 37 are inhabited, and a few are open to tourists.

 Port Blair is commonly used as a base town for ferries to nearby islands. However, tourists also spend a day or two here exploring the city and nearby beaches. People also take day trips from Ross Island and North Bay Island or Port Blair to Baratang Island and Jolly Buoy.

 The Andaman Islands have some of the most exotic beaches, and some offer a variety of water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, boat trips, and more.

North Bay Island near Port Blair, Elephant Beach on Havelock Island, and Bharatpur Beach on Neil Island offer water sports. These are three popular beaches.

The Islands of Andaman Nicobar have been divided into 5 broad categories and these are:

1. Sentinel

North Sentinel Island is one of the few unexplored places in the Andamans and is home to the Sentinelese people, who have chosen voluntary isolation and want nothing to do with the rest of the world. It is protected under the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Act of 1956, which prohibits any form of travel to the island and any approach closer than five nautical miles (9.26 km). The islanders show no openness to visitors and protect the island by force and have zero immunity to any of our common diseases.

2. Great Nicobar

It is 540 km by sea from Port Blair and is only open to Indian tourists. Great Nicobar Island covers an area of 400 square meters (miles). The southernmost point of India, “Indira Point,” is located on the island of Great Nicobar. Greater Nicobar has discovered a rare Megapod bird. Great and Little Nicobar have a giant thief crab.Campbell Bay is the capital of Great Nicobar Island.

3. The Ritchie’s Archipelago

A group of small islands located about 25–30 km east of the Great Andaman Islands, the Ritchie’s Archipelago is the main island group of the Andaman Islands. The Ritchie’s Archipelago consists of four large islands, seven small islands, and several smaller islands, running along a chain from north to south, roughly parallel to the main group of the Great Andaman Islands.This graceful, abandoned island has allowed nature to take its toll slowly but steadily as banyan trees overwhelm buildings and replace man-made structures. The Indian Navy has restored some buildings such as a bakery and a local shop selling souvenirs. Today, Ross Island is a site of historical significance and importance.

4. Little Andaman

Little Andaman offers some of the best views, although the season is rather short due to the monsoon that hits the area from May to August. From November to February, parts of the Southwest that are accessible from the sea are passable. Surfing as an activity is quickly gaining popularity on the island, with small resorts renting surfboards and setting up surf camps near Butler Bay Beach, where waves have become India’s best surf spot. Little Andaman has been voted India’s best surf spot by Stormrider’s Guide to Surfing Indonesia and the Indian Ocean. There is a private agency running surf schools in Little Andaman.

5. East Volcano Islands

About 135 km northeast of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, lies a barren island that is home to South Asia and India’s only active volcano! Stretching from Sumatra to Myanmar, this active volcano is known as a submarine volcano and rises just above the subduction zone of the Indian and Burma plates. Barren Island is a small uninhabited island 3 km wide. The volcano has not been active here for a long time, but in 1991 there was a rather strong eruption. Barren Island is one of the major tourist attractions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Visit the Best Islands of Andaman Nicobar: The Ross and The North Bay Islands!

1. The Ross Island

Named after Captain Daniel Ross, Ross Island is now renamed the “Netaji Shubash Chandra Bose Dweep” by high minister Narendra Modi in 2018.  It’s a veritably small destination that comes under the south Andaman quarter, Port Blair, and is slightly 5 Km from the Water Sports Complex, making it one of the easiest inter-island to visit during your trip to Andamans.  Although utmost of the lodestones in Andaman is notorious for strands, Ross Island brings a bit of history to the table that makes your holiday complete. 

This island was first Occupied in 1782 and a sanitorium was erected there, and again in 1857 by the British who used it as an executive Headquarters 85 times.  During this time, a lot of important government services were made by the British on this correctional agreement, which was latterly abandoned after an earthquake in 1941.

What to do at Ross Island?

1. Light and sound Show: Ross’s The Light and Sound Show takes us back in time and tells the story of how everything was planned and built on the island.The Full Show is about the prison period showing how the British came to the Andaman Islands and what they mainly focused on creating and establishing an administration to run the islands.
   The show also focuses on the lavish lifestyle of the commander-in-chief and his family and the hardships faced by the inmate Indian laborers who built the prison but were later thrown into the cell.
2. Sanctuary: Sanctuary is located in the center of the island and is full of deer and peacocks protected by the Andaman Authority.
   These animals are cared for daily by government-appointed rangers, making it the island with the largest deer and peacock populations.
   All the animals live in a sanctuary where large tropical trees, including coconuts and palms, are grown and are allowed to go out and play with people.
   It is strictly forbidden to feed or harm the animals here.
   If you love animals in general and want to get to know them better, this is a great place.
3. Human Caves: Unique intertwined human caves were constructed around Ross to help important British officers escape during an attack. Now that the caves have served their purpose, they are abandoned and serve as a showcase for the skills, hard work, and hardships that Indian workers went through to construct the caves.
   The cave runs through several common routes connectingimportant offices and structures across the island, creating a very mystical atmosphere for explorers exploring the cave. We recommend that you always accompany a guide before visiting for a safe and quick return home.
4. Enjoy a relaxing lunch: The island has been built with several cabins and small barns. Stop your tour here and take a breather in the shade of tall trees and shrubs. The island has many birds. A view that chirps and plays around visitors and creates a great atmosphere. Where is the best place to take a break and have lunch?

2. North Bay Island:

The North Bay Islands are the epitome of natural marine beauty amidst the Islands of Andaman Nicobar.This is one of those places where you can’t help but have fun, even if you’re in a really bad mood. The property is far from the hustle and bustle of the city but has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Lie on the shore and imagine the cries of seagulls, the gentle breeze caressing your hair, and the mesmerizing sunset!

Its stunning beauty is a dream come true. The main attraction here is water sports, but the island itself is surrounded by tranquility, making it a place where you can spend a sensational time. It’s hard to describe the beautiful places that beckon you to find your best self.

What you must try?

1. Scuba Diving
   scuba diving in the Islands of Andaman Nicobaris one of the biggest activities after relaxing and tasting the local seafood delicacies. This is one of the activities of the Andaman Islands that take place all year round. There is a whole other world in the sea waiting to be explored. The underwater coastal strip surrounding the Andaman Islands is one of the densest ecosystems of coral reefs and formations. They also offer the best snorkeling experience in the Andaman Islands compared to any other place, complemented by volcanic lava hills that make this experience unique and difficult to obtain.
2. Parasailing:
   Parasailing is one of the amazing things you will experience while in the Andaman Islands. To fly with a parachute, you must float in the air wearing a parachute pulled by a motorboat. For an adrenaline rush, take a dip in the ocean on a parasailing trip. How to fly? You can fly like a kite tied behind a parachute.
3. Sea Walking:
   Sea Walking in the Islands of Andaman Nicobar is a unique experience for non-divers. It is a safe and exciting snorkeling trip on the seabed (approximately 6-7m deep) and witness Mauritius’ magnificent marine life, beautiful fauna, corals, and many fishes in their natural habitat. Certified experienced guides accompany you throughout your underwater boat trip to provide maximum protection. The first boat trip was made on the North Bay Islands and the second Sea Walk starts at Elephant Beach on Havelock Island. Experienced staff will accompany you.
4. Andaman Dolphin Glass Bottom Boat:
   Indulge yourself in the aquatic nobility of the Andaman Sea, without having to get wet. The Andaman Dolphin Glass Bottom Boat lift offers one of the most unique feels in Islands of Andaman Nicobarby letting you watch and explore the rich corals and marine life girding Port Blair, from the comfort of your cabin.  This boat is one of a kind in India, the only other variant of this can only be set up in Australia.   As the tagline says, the boat glides over the ocean and has a clear transparent bottom that offers clean and clear sapience into the ocean.   One of the stylish effects of this exertion is that it can be enjoyed by people of all age groups, hence you can fluently enjoy the complete trip with your family.  Glass-bottom boat lifts are only available on North Bay Island in Andaman Island.
5. Semi Submarine:
   Being able to see aquatic life through large glass is one of the most unforgettable experiences that the Islands of Andaman Nicobar will give you! Anyone of any age can enjoy the coral safari without fear. You will learn a lot of information about corals and their instinctive behavior. Sea creatures will delight you with their colorful skins and patterns. Enjoying coral up close is an experience you don’t want to miss.

Also Enjoy to Read: Best Places To Travel With Family in India For Summer Vacations

You must check out this YouTube video about the best Islands of Andaman Nicobar: The Ross and The North Bay Islands! This video will certainly give you more clarity about the tourist destinations in a precise manner. This virtual tour will also give you a chance to mesmerize the islands just from the comfort zone of your home. Hence, check out this travel vlog in order to obtain more information about the islands.

Where can you stay on your visit to the Islands of Andaman Nicobar!

• Peerless Resort Port Blair
  Peerless Resort Port Blair is located on Corbyn’s Cove Road in Port Blair, Andaman, and Nicobar Islands. This beachfront resort is a 50-room hotel with modern facilities. For tourists, resorts are ideal places to relax, and for business travelers, resorts offer great activities for large groups. Hotel Highlights Peerless Resort, Port Blair, is the only resort in the Andaman Islands and offers a serene setting on Corbyn’s Cove Beach. an active volcano is nearly 75 kilometers to the east.
• Port Blair Sea shell:
  The famous Cellular Jail is just 1 km from Seashell Port Blair. Seashell Port Blair is about 5 km from Corbyn’s Cove Beach. Bir Savarkar International Airport is 2 km from the hotel. Each of the 4,444 air-conditioned rooms is equipped with a work desk, flat-screen cable TV, minibar, and electric kettle. Restrooms are provided in the hotel.
• The Sinclairs Bayview Hotel:
  The Sinclairs Bayview Hotel offers rooms with sea views, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour front desk with luggage storage and laundry services. Bayview Restaurant serves Indian, European, and Chinese cuisine, and the Alto Espirito bar offers cocktails, soft drinks, and spirits. Room service is available.
• Sea Shell Coral Cove:
  Featuring free Wi-Fi and a gym center, Sea Shell Coral Cove is located in Port Blair. Guests can visit the on-point bar. Free private parking is available on point.  Each room at this hostel has air exertion and a flat-screen satellite television. Some apartments have a seating area where you can relax.  Some apartments offer pool or theater views. Apartments have private restrooms. Slippers and free toiletries are handed in for your comfort. The backing is always available. 
• Sea Princess Beach Resort:
  Offering an out-of-door pool and views of the ocean, Sea Princess Beach Resort is located in Manglutan. Guests can visit the on-point bar. Some of the Apartments have a seating area where you can relax. Enjoy a mug of tea while looking out at the pool or theater. Apartments have private restrooms.  Free toiletries and a hairdryer are handed in for your convenience. A flat-screen satellite television is included. The frontal office is open 24 hours a day.  Bir Savarkar International Airport is 29 kilometers down.
• Sentinel Hotel:
  Offering an out-of-door pool and an eatery serving Indian, Chinese, and European cookery, Sentinel Hotel is 600 meters from Phoenix Bay Pier. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas. Each of the ultramodern air-conditioned apartments is equipped with satellite television, a seating area, and a deck. There’s also an electric kettle. The private restroom with shower is equipped with a hairdryer and free toiletries.  This room offers pool and theater views.  The Sentinel has a 24-hour frontal office and a bar. Free parking is handed in.  The Cellular Jail National Museum is 1 km down, and Corbyn’s Cove Beach is 7 km down.  Port Blair Bus Station is 1 km down, Port Blair Harbor is 1.5 km down, and Veer Savarkar International Airport is 2.5 km down.
• Welcomhotel Port Blair
  Lying at the convergence of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, the Islands of Andaman Nicobar offer admiration-inspiring architectural monuments, pristine strands, win-lined props, and some of the finest diving and snorkeling options in Asia. Drawing alleviation from picture-perfect surroundings and original culture, Welcomhotel Port Blair celebrates the definitive island life, the rawness of untouched timbers, the carefreeness of island spirit, and the beauty of indigenous armature. erected on a hill and designed by the famed mastermind, the late Charles Correa, the hostel overlooks lush verdure and the pristine blue waters of the Bay of Bengal. With large overhanging roofs and a series of balconies that waterfall down the hillside, the hostel was erected in 1981 using indigenous accouterments similar to the original timber called Pedauk.

We hope you will now soon plan a trip to the top Islands of Andaman Nicobar, The Ross and the North Bay Islands. You will certainly have a memorable experience!