Amazing Andaman
Forget Kokomo. The Beach boys should have really been singing about going to Andaman. You read all about Andaman and hear everyone recommending that one should go there atleast once in their lifetime but once you do land there, the beauty is something that cannot be captured by a camera. It’s indescribable and something that has to be experienced first hand. From the clean pristine sands to the clear blue waters for snorkelling, Andaman is India’s answer to Hawaii or Mauritius. One must keep pinching oneself to realise that this isolated little island is still a part of a country that fights for clean streets and mundane daily problems. A complete stress buster and a favourite for honeymooners. With predominantly Bengali cuisine and a sea food lovers cloud nine, this tiny island is accessible from Chennai or Kolkatta only. Once you land at Port Blair, the jetty is a 2.5 hour ferry ride to Havelock island.
I had rung in the 2016 New Year at Andaman. Unfortunate but true, this island gained popularity only after the 2006 Tsunami almost destroyed it. Curious travellers come to see what happened that fateful morning. Andaman is also a history buff’s paradise. From the Kala pani jail to some of the old British settlement houses, the legacy behind each of these places is very humbling.
We chose to stay on Havelock Island. It’s the most buzzing of all islands with all the happening tourist spots and restaurants. Things you can do around here include:
Elephant Beach:
Named after the fact that elephants used to frequently swim here before the tsunami, this beach is a 20 min boat ride away. A haven for snorkelling, water sports and sea walks (walking under the sea). With corals barely a metre under the water, it doesn’t matter if you do not know swimming. There are enough agencies you can go through to experience these once in a lifetime moments. Plenty of tress that were uprooted during the tsunami are left as it is to add to the natural beauty of the beach. Plenty photoshoot opportunities.
Beach no. 1:
This is right at the main jetty where the boat arrives from Port Blair. Have some coconut water and visit the local market to buy some amazing souvenirs like lanterns and photo frames that are made out of shells.
Beach no 2:
If you are looking at something secluded and away from the hustle and bustle of the tourists that throng this destination, look no further than this beach. And while you are here, you might as well learn a little deep sea diving as most diving schools conduct their training here.
Beach no 7:
Also known as Radhanagar Beach, this is the most popular beach in Havelock. We stayed at Barefoot hotel. Their cottages were so comfortable and beautiful. A home away from home. The staff was extremely warm and friendly. The spa which is situated amongst the trees must not be missed. The sunset views from this place is something I will carry back with me. Every morning we would be greeted by an unbelievably gentle and cute elephant at the hotel.
Kalapathar beach:
Located next to Kalapathar village, this beach is named after the black (Kala) rocks that you find here. This place is also great for snorkelling.
Now coming to the food in the island. If you are a seafood lover, you are in good hands. Full moon cafe, Something different, Anju coco and Barefoot Brasserie serve the most delish prawns, calamari and lobsters. In Indian food, authentic Bengali options like fish with mustard, rice, dal, fried fish are available in dime a dozen shacks found across the island. If you would rather not experiment, Continental and Chinese non spicy food is available. Fear not if you are a pure vegetarian. This is India after all and one is bound to find options and pure vegetarian restaurants too.
A tip while staying in Havelock – the island shuts down pretty quickly after sunset. Public transport is also difficult to find. So do find a hotel which has some great indoor activities as you will need it to keep yourself occupied in the last quarter of the day. Regarding network connectivity, I was on BSNL. While I got signal to make phone calls, data and WiFi was very poor.
We also stayed one night in Port Blair.
Do not miss out on Ross Island. This is a 45 min ferry ride from Port Blair. You get to see some really old British settlements and houses, free range peacocks and deers. It is also called as Paris of the East. Famous for its light house, there is no specific beach per say. Be careful of the boat operators who could literally take you for a ride at high costs.
Cellular Jail:
Also known as Kala Pani, this place was used by Britishers to bring in Political prisoners during India’s freedom struggle. The light & sound show is definitely worth a watch and will bring a tear to your eye.
Port Blair is also a shopper’s paradise with mirrors, pens, a variety of statues including Lord Ganesha made with shells.
On the whole Andaman is more than just a tourist spot to check off your list. Spend enough time here, eat like the locals, unwind and relax amongst the beautiful scenery. Disconnect from the world to connect with yourself.
Cost for a couple for a 5 day stay:
Tickets from Kolkata/Chennai to Port Blair by flight – approx 150 USD per person x 2 people = 300 USD
Barefoot Havelock (during New Years which is peak season. Rest of the year costs are about 60% lesser) – approx 300 USD a night x 4 nights = 1200 USD.
One night in Port Blair = 90 USD
Cost of 1 meal = 25 USD x 10 meals = 250 USD (more economical options are available on the island)
Jetty cost to and fro – approx 40 USD x 2 people = 80 USD
Other expenses, recreation, taxis – max 300 USD
Total cost = approx 2520 USD (for a luxury trip in peak season).
*Costs given above are for a luxury trip taken around the New Year of 2016 which is one of the costliest times to visit any tourist destination. Economical options in food and boarding are also available around the year. Please research before setting out.
June 16, 2017 @ 2:05 pm
What amazing sunsets!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:29 am
thanks so much 🙂
June 16, 2017 @ 2:10 pm
Your pictures are awesome!! I’m jealous!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:29 am
🙂
June 16, 2017 @ 3:27 pm
Wow, I’ve never heard of this place in India. Looks really awesome. Sounds like you had a grand time on New Year’s. India sounds intriguing and I’d like to visit someday.
June 18, 2017 @ 8:28 am
India is gorgeous and u should definitely make a visit
June 16, 2017 @ 4:42 pm
Tourist spot or not, it definitely looks worth the visit. Elephant beach has me sold!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:27 am
elephant beach is mind-blowing
June 16, 2017 @ 4:58 pm
Lovely pictures 🙂 I loved the sunset one .. looks surreal .. great post!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:26 am
thank u so much 🙂
June 16, 2017 @ 5:02 pm
Looks like you had a blast, that water is just gorgeous!!
-Nicole
http://www.wanderlustbrunette.com
June 18, 2017 @ 8:25 am
It was a great trip and the water was lovely 🙂
June 16, 2017 @ 5:14 pm
Nice places to visit. India is amazing.
June 18, 2017 @ 8:25 am
India is surely amazing 🙂
June 16, 2017 @ 9:49 pm
Deer in a tropical setting? This looks like such a unique place!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:23 am
it indeed is beautiful and unique
June 17, 2017 @ 2:13 am
Your trip looks like it was very relaxing. The views, sunsets and everything in between are gorgeous. Another gem in India!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:08 am
absolutely a gem… indeed a relaxing and beautiful trip. thanks 🙂
June 17, 2017 @ 3:10 am
Wow looks amazing. I definitely wanna visit
June 18, 2017 @ 8:07 am
its definitely amazing and worth visiting
June 17, 2017 @ 8:01 am
This looks like a fun site .. I love the greens and blues you captured.
I’m a panoramic fan that makes my eyes stare at it.
Do Visit : Natural Tour
June 18, 2017 @ 8:05 am
thanks so much. will visit natural tour
June 17, 2017 @ 11:16 am
Elephant Beach looks amazing. And I’ve actually never seen such giant trees on a beach before, I’m referring to Radhanagar Beach. Thanks for sharing, l liked most of the photos.
June 18, 2017 @ 8:04 am
thanks so much… Andaman is super pictureous
June 17, 2017 @ 11:21 am
Greenery , sea, animal and so much more, beautiful pictures 🙂 Loved your post!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:03 am
thanks so much 🙂
June 17, 2017 @ 11:44 am
Wow! Such an amazing place. “Island girls” such as myself would love to visit this place someday!
June 18, 2017 @ 8:02 am
it surely is amazingly awesome… must visit 🙂
June 17, 2017 @ 11:27 pm
Your a beach girl, and I am too. Like that elephant beach. Hmmm, feels like im gonna swim,soon.
June 18, 2017 @ 8:01 am
its a great day for a swim… thats what beach girls love to do 🙂
June 18, 2017 @ 4:58 am
Hi there! I love your blog and nominated you for the Blogger Recognition Award!
http://www.eazynazy.com/awards…/blogger-recognition-award/
Congratulations 🙂
June 18, 2017 @ 8:00 am
thank you so much 🙂
June 18, 2017 @ 9:48 am
First time I heard of the place. Looks amazing and pics are great!
June 18, 2017 @ 10:57 am
Beautiful place. Beautiful experience. 🙂
June 19, 2017 @ 6:48 am
I missed your globe on this post :), good share, been there once but for a quick visit, more things to do when I visit next basis your post 🙂
June 19, 2017 @ 8:28 am
So beautiful ! But as an addict of the Kokomo song … I took the first sentence personally ! lol
June 23, 2017 @ 8:56 am
Wow.. such a lovely post (and pics too)… being an Indian, I’v never been to Andaman.. Damn!! Should plan soon 🙂 Cheers!!
June 30, 2017 @ 2:36 am
Gorgeous beaches and gorgeous photos. Thanks for sharing! Elephant Beach sounds amazing. Have the elephants returned at all since the tsunami?
June 30, 2017 @ 2:47 am
It looks really lovely! Would love to go there someday with the whole family! Such serene fine beauty of tranquility
June 30, 2017 @ 2:52 am
Very beautiful spot with oh so clear water! And lovely sunsets 🙂 nothing like a gorgeous and serene beach spot like that!
June 30, 2017 @ 6:50 am
the view looks beautiful! glad you enjoyed!
August 21, 2017 @ 5:47 pm
nice beach!
September 25, 2017 @ 8:32 pm
sounds like a great vacay!
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