The Andaman Islands are a group of archipelagic islands located in the Bay of Bengal between India to the west and Burma to the north and east. Of the 572 islands, islets and rocks that constitute the Andaman and Nicobar chain, as little as 36 are inhabited. Ritchie’s Archipelago is the name given to the 9 emerald islands east of South Andaman. Of these, Havelock Island is the largest and the most popular holiday destination.

Virtually inaccessible for centuries and long shrouded in mystery and legend - these undulating islands have just started to emerge on the independent traveler's list of must see places in the world. Due to the government's strict controls, the added stigma of a former 'penal colony', and the untiring efforts of environmentalists, the Andamans still retain their original wild untamed character and remain breathtakingly pristine and beautiful till date.

Ever since Jacques Cousteau showcased the stunning underwater landscapes and marine life of this remote destination in his film “Andaman Islands: Invisible Islands” in 1991, scuba divers and snorkelers alike have jumped at the rare chance of being able to dive in these unexplored waters. Don’t miss the opportunity while on these islands to don that tank of air, snap on that mask and view the colourful world beneath the waves.

Wander for miles on practically isolated beaches, simply relax in a hammock or experience a fun-filled family holiday. Complete with an array of exciting activities for all age groups, Havelock has it all and is definitely the place to be!

Quick facts

Administrative capital

Distances

1255 from Kolkatta
1190 from Chennai
1200 from Vishakhapatnam

Altitude

Varies from sea level to 732 meters

Highest peak

Saddle peak - 732 meters

Tropical throughout the year with mean minimum temperature at 23oC and maximum at 30oC. Humidity is relatively high - 70% to 90% with a gentle breeze blowing all the time. The weather is generally pleasant with average annual rainfall of 3,000 mm in Port Blair.

Forest cover

92%, protected forest 86%

Cottons throughout the year

ISD code

+91 3192 (std 03192)

International

Currently there are no direct international flights to Port Blair and all travelers must fly to Chennai or Kolkata in mainland India from where direct, regular domestic flights ply to Port Blair.

Domestic

Port Blair is connected with Chennai and Kolkata by daily flights.

Regular passenger ship services are available to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam and back. There are three or four sailings every month from Kolkata and Chennai to Port Blair and vice versa. There is one sailing from Vishakhapatnam in a month. The voyage takes about 50 to 60 hours. Details about sailing dates etc can be obtained at www.andaman.nic.in

Foreigners

All foreigners need to specify that they intend to visit the Andamans while obtaining the visa to India. Once they have a valid visa, which covers the Andamans, they can stay in the islands for 30 days. This can be extended by another 15 days with permission. They require a permit to stay, which can be easily obtained on arrival at Port Blair from the immigration authorities. In addition, permits can also be obtained from Indian Missions Overseas, Foreigners Registration Offices at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and the Immigration authorities at the airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.

For night halt

South Andaman Island, Middle Andaman Island and Little Andaman Island (excluding the tribal reserve), Neil Island, Havelock Island, Long Island, Diglipur, Baratang, North Passage Island, and islands in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (excluding the islands of Boat Hobday, Twin, Tarmugli, Malay and Pluto). Night halt in the Park is only with permission.

For day halt

South Cinque Island, Ross Island, Narcondum Island, Interview Island, Brother Island, Sister Island and Barren Island (you are not permitted to land on Barren).

Indian Nationals

Indian Nationals need no permit to visit Andamans. However, permits are required to visit Nicobar Islands and other tribal areas, which are given in exceptional cases. Application on a prescribed form may be addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, Andaman District, Port Blair.