Hence I prescribe you Vitamin Sea, I prescribe you Andaman. The southernmost part of India will surely welcome you with full warmth. Those splash of cerulean salty water, sea-kissing sunsets and breathtaking marine world is the highlights of this group of islands. October to March is the high time to get wet in Andaman. Andaman has its only tiny airport in Port Blair which is strapped up tightly with rest of the country. Although one who loves sailing can reach the island by ships as well. Andaman strictly demands seven to ten days for being explored. But this time I was on a fugacious trip.
The first day was kept for Port Blair jaunting. A curve of whitish sandbank fenced by beautiful palm trees, the Corbyns Cove beach, is the nearest and the most loved sea point of the main city. Those who are inclined towards tranquillity, should pay a visit to Chidiya Tapu beach. It is rather more compact, and absolute serene. Spend some quick time at the adjacent mini-zoo will be a wise decision. The next three hours expedition to the Cellular Jail was completely worth-while .
The light and sound show in the evening at the jail premises will surely be an once in a life time kind of experience. Veteran Bollywood actor Mr. Om Puri’s voice will take you back to the unfamous history of the jail. The story of Veer Savarkar, Ullas Kar and many more Indian braveheart patriots and how they are persecuted by the British ruler will left you in complete dejection. However, your heart will no longer be heavy as you experience the night life of Port Blair. It is so clean, so vibrant. Sea-food for dinner will not be a bad idea at all.
Next morning I headed to Havelock island ( Swaraj Dweep) which is approximately 70 kms apart from Port Blair. Private and government ferry services are being offered regularly to the various sibling islands of Port Blair. A sip in hot coffee, onboard music, and gentle passing waves, my cruising experience was magical! One has to fasten himself firmly as Havelock island has one of the most mesmerising beaches in the world.
The Elephant beach with beautiful corals all over will left you awestruck. Not experiencing the sunset at Radhanagar beach will be considered as a crime. Andaman has a cool saying “Go Scuba, or Go Home”, and Havelock may provide you the best scuba experience in the universe. Numerous hotels and resorts are waiting for you with open arms . The more you go nearer to sea, the price will take a hike .
The evening ferry took me to the next stop Neil island ( Shaheed dwip ). Neil is surprisingly so lilliputian that you can run from one end to another in a single breath. A scooty would be a better idea though! The beaches here are named after Ramayana . Witnessing the setting sun at Laxmanpur beach will definitely be cherished for long . The Bharatpur beach is known for a vast multifarious water sports. The water bike, sea walk, snorkeling, parasailing, banana ride and what more.
If you have plan to say a quick hello to various anonymous marine species but don’t want to get wet, the glass-bottom-boat-ride is for you. 500 bucks for half an hour , not a deal breaker I guess. The Neil is covered with absolute greenery. Spend few days in here, and your eyes and lungs will be thanking you. But I had to rush, vacation was about to end .
On the very next day, I was on my last voyage to Port Blair. With sudden drizzle on my window glass, slow-moving clouds, disappearing birds; I reached the Huddo jetty, it was so dreamy, just like those utopian music videos.
Andaman has always been at the top of the bucket list of gallivanters. Stunning panoramic beauty offers you a frame in every glance. You hardly get any chance to put your camera down. Pure oxygen, amiable people, great food – everything here is super relaxing. If you want to cheat your frenetic schedule, Andaman is waiting for you.
Believe it or not:
- BSNL and only BSNL will be working in Andaman. Forget 4G
- Most of the things are imported from mainland. Often high priced.
- Travel on rented two wheels will be pocket friendly. Ride safe.
- Weather change is real fast here. Make umbrella your style statement.
- Cellular Jail closes sharp at 4 pm. Only light and sound show afterwards.
- Don’t even think to pocket those corals. Strictly NOT recommended.
- For more information visit Indian Govt. Tourism website
Trisha Mandal
6 Aug 2019Very nice…i will be waiting for more such exciting travel stories.