Andaman & Nicobar Island: The land where everything is blue!

With sand in my feet and wind in my hair; I was fascinated by the beauty of this place comprising of 572 islands that make Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

What happens when you get to travel after ages? Your soul is filled with glee and you are on cloud nine. Hell, yeah! The same feeling was intrigued when my father planned to take all of us to Andamans. It was 2009 and I was done with my boards. It was a complete family trip and a proud moment for me to announce it in my friend’s group that I am traveling to Andamans.

We traveled on leave travel concession for 7 days in which we also covered the Tirupati Balaji temple. This comprised of return trips, accommodation, and sightseeing. Although, the best time to visit the Andamans is between October to March; but, we went in June. We had no other option but just to explore this exotic place.

Here is the mentioned-below day-wise itinerary of the trip.

We left from Lucknow in the morning and flew to New Delhi. Then, we traveled to Chennai as New Delhi was just a halt. After reaching Chennai we traveled to Tirupati where we went to Tirupati Temple for darshan. Located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, this temple needs no introduction. To get inside you need be a part of the long queue. After entering into the queue we got the chance to get darshan. The vibe of the temple was so divine. Unfortunately, that day was so crowded that we didn’t get to do darshan comfortably. After darshan we went to our hotel took rest for a night as the next day we had to fly to Port Blair.

Our first destination at Port Blair was Viper Island. This place is a must-visit if you are traveling to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is named after a vessel by the name of Viper who carried Lieutenant Archibald Blair to this island. This was the palace where the political prisoners were imprisoned and tortured until they were hung. Viper Island was abandoned when the Cellular Jail was created. The ruins of this place got even worse after tsunami destruction in 2004.

The next day we headed to North Bay Island. The most valuable thing about this place is the marine life. The pristine blue waters, incredible corals, and the multiple creatures that live in the vast ocean will leave you mesmerized. North Bay Island is mainly known for snorkeling. You can get your costumes and buy equipment on the beach on rent. Delving into marine life with activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling will provide you an enriching experience. If you are scared of going underwater, then you have the choice of viewing the coral reefs from the glass bottom boats. Make sure to wear life jackets while on the boat and going for swimming. After visiting this place, I really felt close to nature.

My next destination was Cellular Jail, known as Kaala Pani is considered as a commemorative to mark the sacrifice of the freedom fighter. The prisoners that have been sent to this jail are forced to work hard and they have gone through torture. They cannot escape from this jail as it is surrounded by water on all sides.

Every evening there takes place a sound and light show, an initiative taken by the Andaman and Nicobar tourism that depicts the agony of the prisoners and history of this spot. This jail today stands as a mark of respect for our ancestors.

The next destination we headed to Corbyn’s Cove that has beautiful blue water and coconut trees. This place was calm as there were few very people present on the beach. You can take a dip and play in the sea waves.

The different beaches have their beauty and a sense of serenity that can make you fall in love with this place. The next most awaited destination in the trip was Radhanagar Beach which is situated on the east side of Havelock Island. This is known as Asia’s best beach and the 7^th most beautiful beach in the world. You will find white sand and turquoise blue water. Enjoy the beautiful sunset and the twilight before the sunsets. The beach is not at all crowded; but, yes you will find some people if you are visiting during the peak season. You can visit this place by ferries or private cruise. The boating services start from 6 am to 2 pm so that visitors can reach this place early. You can get some beautiful sunset clicks from this place.

Traveling and exploring Andamans gave me immense happiness. Now, when today I look back and remember those times I only crave to travel Andamans again. I do not have many pictures from this trip, but the memory is still fresh in my mind. Whenever I see pictures of the place I get the feeling that the water of the sea has become bluer. Maybe that is my vision of being a traveler or this place is calling me again. I do not know when I will get a chance to travel again; but, yes this place has a special place in my heart and memories.