The azure sky, the glistening turquoise water and calming blue lagoons, looks as if a scene from your dream or a picture from a post-card, right? The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with its picturesque beauty, is indeed a dreamland.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an Indian archipelago is located in the Bay of Bengal with its nearly 500 islets. You may even find uninhabited islets among these. It is difficult to find the indigenous Andamanese as they inhabit far from the fluttering lives of the islands that are converted into commercialised tourist hubs. Port Blair, Nethaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island, Swaraj Dweep, Long Island, Rangat Island and Shaheed Dweep are some of the most significant and famous destinations in Andaman that boast about the enchanting beaches which are the parts of their alluring souls. These islets are known for their palm-fringed, sugar-like sand beaches, mangroves and tropical rain forests. Many of these islets have been converted into tourist destinations, owing to the spectacular sceneries, melange of colours, long-stretched sands, crystal – clear waters and the unrivalled varieties of flora and fauna present there. This commercialisation has not touched the pristine beauty of these islands.
One can enjoy extreme tranquillity and novelty in the lap of nature here by being one with the heavenly beaches and the amiable atmosphere of beauty, love and seclusion. The exotic sceneries and the unique landscapes can be explored in their true essence at these beaches. The climate is never at its worst in these islands. One can experience moderate summers, not so chilly winters and enough amount of rainfall throughout the year. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been declared as the two of the 218 endemic bird areas of the world. There are almost 96 Wildlife Sanctuaries, nine National Parks and one Biosphere Reserve in the islands.
Other than these enthralling visions, there is an adventurous side also to these islands as they promote various water sports, welcoming those who want to unbridle the daredevilry in them and to challenge themselves to push their limits. If you want to cater to your photographic skills, these islands can provide you with the out of the world frames, unmatched by anything, that is earthly! One can also get a glimpse of the glorious past of the Andaman by visiting Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Cellular Jail, etc. Apart from the life-long memories that you are going to take home as souvenirs, you may also come across various things like shells, show-pieces, historical artefacts, jewellery, etc. That can be collected as souvenirs from Andaman Handicraft Emporium, Aberdeen Bazaar, etc. You may even have a wonderful shopping experience here. The Island Tourism Festival that happens in January, being held in Port Blair, is another attraction to the tourists. These places are not only aesthetically appealing but also a solace to your soul.
If you are looking for an experience of the lifetime, the beaches in Andaman are beckoning you. Here’s a list of the most beautiful beaches in Andaman. It’s not all, but we tried slotting in a few.
Some Must-see Beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
1. Savour the Seclusion at the Radhanagar Beach
With its scenic charm, lush green palm trees and sugar-like foreshore, Radhanagar beach in Havelock Island is one of the most popular beaches on Andaman and is counted one among the most beautiful beaches of Asia. In spite of being one of the most sought-after beaches in Andaman, one may find the crowd getting blended away while walking further. One may get awestruck seeing the breath-taking view of the sunset. One can luxuriate in the seclusion and savour the tranquillity of this nature’s bounty by just perambulating through the sea-shore. No wonder, it is being rated as one of the seven best beaches in the world! The best time to visit would be from October to February when you can swim in the azure waters and enjoy bathing in the sun. Other than sightseeing, one can also get indulged in various water sports in and around the beach.
Where: Havelock Island / Swaraj Dweep
2. The Picture-perfect Chidiya Tapu Beach
This beach literally impersonates its name by being a retreat for the bird-watchers. One may find a wide array of migratory birds adorning the skies here enthralling the nature lovers. The soothing breeze that comes through the dense mangroves not only gives solace to your physical self, but also to your inner self. The splashing waves reveal the deepest secrets of the ocean-life here. If you are looking for some adrenaline rush, this is definitely ‘your best bet’ as you can enjoy the underwater life by diving into the deep ocean or by snorkelling or by sea-walking. If you prefer being on the land, you can walk through the scenic trails leading to the Black Mountain or you can visit the biological park to befriend the tropical flora and fauna.
Where: Near Port Blair
3. The Majestic Elephant Beach
The beach in Havelock Island got its name as Elephant Beach because of the elephants transported from the mainland were taken for a walk here. The magnificence of the coral reefs and the grandeur of the marine world definitely add majesty to this ‘elephant’. One can either take a hitch-hike on a jungle trail or use a boat to reach the beach. You cannot resist the sandy-shores and the blue waters that can leave you fully rejuvenated. The emerald flora adds to the delightfulness of the place. Hence, it is an important part of the eco-tourism in Andaman, still untouched by the commercial aspects. The peak-season would be from November to March.
Where: Havelock Island / Swaraj Dweep
4. Kaala Pathar Beach
As the name denotes, this beach is painted black by the big black rocks and it is believed that the name is derived from a nearby village called ‘Kaala Pathar’. The contrasting hues of these mighty rocks and that of the turquoise waters make the view enchanting and the glittering white sands adds more charm to it. Though it is a small beach, it is less crowded than other beaches in Havelock Island and hence, one can enjoy the amazing view of the sunset to their soul’s contentment. This is an ideal place for those who wish to reflect upon their inner-selves. The ideal time to visit Kaala Patthar is in the spring season. With all the water sports, photogenic spots and other activities, this beach will definitely cater to all the desires of the traveller in you.
Where: Havelock Island / Swaraj Dweep
5. The Scenic Vijaya Nagar Beach
With its iridescent palm foliage and blue waters, this beach indeed satiates your heart’s craving for tranquillity. A scent of romance is what the beach gives you, a place to express your love to your beloveds; the ambience is truly romantic. The Vijaynagar Beach in Havelock Island is well known for its dazzling sun-sets, transporting you to another world. The sea-water resonates along with the calming breeze that flows all the time here. It has got a long coastline and it is surrounded by a lot of beach resorts and restaurants. Still you may feel that it is less crowded and hence, you can enjoy this nature’s bounty at its best.
Where: Havelock Island / Swaraj Dweep
Activities: Kayaking, beach combing, game fishing, sunbathing, surf riding, trekking, sailing
6. The Land of Corals: Lakshmanpur Beach
One may find the nature’s unfathomable richness at its best at this beach with its cornucopia of corals and shells. It is also called as the ‘Sun-set Point’ where the hues of the sun rays blend with the gigantic waves. The Beach in Neil Island provides a high chances of spotting sea-animals and hence very popular among the underwater divers. The best time to visit the beach is from December to May, owing to the pleasant climate. Nothing can stop you from engaging some of the best water-sports activities. You can be the part of an array of water sports.
Where: Neil Island / Shaheed Dweep
Activities: Sun bathing, sea-walking
7. The Dream-like Bharatpur Beach
This beach indeed looks like a scene out of your dream. The vast expansion of flora caressing the bluish-green waters is unparalleled. Like most of the beaches in Andaman, this one is also surrounded by the towering palm trees. One can also find a variety of corals and shells here, making it the ‘coral capital’. There is a plethora of fishes and other aquatic animals, making it a perfect spot for sea-walking and one can enjoy swimming with the vibrant fishes underwater. You can explore the underwater world by engaging yourself in glass-boat rides, snorkelling and scuba diving. The weather is at its best from January to April.
Where: Neil Island / Shaheed Dweep
Activities: Jet Ski Ride, Snorkelling, Glass Boat Ride, Scuba Diving
8. Kalipur Beach: The Turtle World
Situated near the Diglipur Village, this beach is chiefly known for the nesting of turtles. The government has built a hatchery in order to preserve the species and to help them multiply. The species like Oliver Ridley, Leatherback, Hawksbill and Green Turtles are a common sight here mainly from the months of October to March. The greyish sand and the clear waters make it a picturesque beauty bewitching the onlookers. The serenity of the beach makes it an ideal location for a relaxing nap or a deep meditation. Other than watching the turtles, you have some great that can tickle your taste buds.
Where: Diglipur
Activities: Trekking, sea-walking, swimming, snorkelling
9. Avis Island Beach: The Coconut Island
This island, situated in Mayabunder, is away from all the hustle-bustle of the other beaches. Known for the coconut plantations around, this beach is famous for savouring the underwater life as well. An early morning visit is preferable to enjoy the waves at their pristine glory. A walk through the creamy waters relaxes your body and soul. You can relish the serenity with the sun rays caressing your cheeks, greenery giving solace to your mind and the waves kissing your feet. The ideal time to visit is from October to March when you can take a long stroll through the beach and bathe in the sun rays.
Where: Avis Island
Activities: Swimming, fishing
10. Butler Bay Beach: The Ultimate Surfing Spot
This beach in Little Island with its sky-kissing waves is an excellent spot to rejuvenate. The luxurious foliage situated next to it adds to the beauty of it and exhorts the tourists to embark upon a trek as well. You may also find a lighthouse, 41 metres tall, nearby, that offers an awe-inspiring view of the unfathomable waters and the long-stretched coastline. One can also spot giant coconut trees adorning the shorelines. You can pay a visit in the months from April to June, to enjoy the beach at its best. Swimming and surfing are the favourite activities here along with the sightseeing, trekking, a visit to the Oil Palm Plantation and elephant riding.
Where: Little Andaman
11. The Sandbar Beach
With its wondrous sun-set view, palm-hemmed coastlines and the sandbar separating the twin islands, this beach is indeed very pleasing to the eye. It’s located on the Ross & Smith Island. One can also spot spacious bamboo huts providing enough shade to the tourists. The crowd is comparatively less and hence, one can imbibe the scenic beauty of the gem-green waters, sandy beach and the bordering forests, without any disturbance. This makes it suitable for island camping. You can swim and snorkel here in this beach. You can also enjoy a banana-boat ride. You can even embark upon a nature trail hiking. You can also get acquainted with the beautiful coral reefs and the colourful underwater species at the Marine Sanctuary situated on the island.
Where: Ross & Smith Island
If you want to come out of all the hustle-bustle of the city – dwelling, Andaman is the ideal location as it can bring mirth and peace into your lives of boring routines. Let us grab every opportunity to explore and be ready with your action-packed itinerary as Andaman has got everything that the travellers look for in an unforgettable vacation. Get ready to be spellbound by the radiant marine life, allowing you to discover a whole new dimension of the nature. With its ice-blue waters and cyan skies, it is indeed a piece of paradise on earth which will exhort you ‘to strive, to seek, to find and not to yield’.