This big group has about 570 islands on Bengal Bay, very near Sumatra but more than 1000 kilometres from continental India beaches, and is famous for the transparent water and an environment full of unique species of native plants and animals among which we find the well known butterflies.
The most important islands of the group are: Interview island, where you can see elephants walking around on the spectacular beaches; Havelock Isle, with mangroves which make it ideal for diving; Viper Isle, which was once a place of detention for political prisoners; Barren Isle where you can see the only active volcano ; Ross Island where you will find deserted gardens and buildings from the British period. The islands also have a dream place for diving and snorkelling: the Mahatma Gandhi Marine Park, which includes 15 excellent islands for the practice of these sports.
The ideal place to stay is Port Blair, which offers hotels to suit the most demanding travellers.
Visiting Samudrika Marine Museum is a great joy for those interested in marine biology, flora and fauna and a place to get information about the different tribal communities of the area.
Another interesting option is a journey to Mount Harriet where you will observe exotic birds and animals.
Once in Andaman, it is highly recommended to go on a glass bottom boat tour and observe the amazing fauna while you tour the island.
The best time of the year to visit Andamar and Nicobar is between November and May. To get there you need to take a ferry from Kolkata or Chennai where you can fly from Calcutta.
