India, Nicobar Islands, India

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The Nicobar Islands are part of the island state of India, along with the Andaman Islands. Nicobar and Andaman Islands separated by the Tenth Degree Strait. There is a ferry service between the islands. These islands of India are a protected area of ​​pristine nature, sandy beaches and exotic flora and fauna. Also, some of the islands are still inhabited by indigenous tribes that have not been touched by civilization.

How to get to Nicobar Islands

You can reach the Nicobar Islands through the Andamands. Airplanes fly to the Andamand capital, Port Blair, from Kolkata and Chennai. From Delhi to the islands you can only get through Calcutta. Planes land in the capital of Andaman - Port Blair. From Kolkata, Chennai and Visakhapatnam, you can travel to Port Blair by boat (about 60 hours, which takes 4 days).

For a long time, entry to the islands was prohibited; exceptions were made only for researchers and scientists. Now you can visit the Nicobars Islands only after receiving special permission. Those flying to the islands by plane will be able to obtain such permission at the Port Blair airport. If you decide to sail to the islands by ship, you will have to take care of permission at the embassy (upon obtaining a visa) or at the port of departure. The permit is issued for a period of 30 days. Your permit will be checked when visiting all the islands, and when checking into a hotel - handle this important document carefully.

Geography and history of the Nicobar Islands

The archipelago in India has 22 islands, of which only 12 are inhabited. The main village of the island is Nankowri, and the largest islands are Car Nicobar, Great Nicobar, Chaura, Teressa, Nankowri, Katchal and Little Nicobar.

Europeans landed on the Nicobar Islands in 1745 - the Danish East India Company was the first to appear here. Austria owned this land for several years, and in 1868 the islands were sold to Great Britain and became part of British India. With the declaration of independence by India, they became part of the union territory of Andamand and Nicobar Islands.

A group of 19 islands in the Indian region, between the Bay of Bengal. and Andaman Sea. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are part of the Union Territory of India. 1.6 thousand km². Large islands the tops of the underwater ridge (height up to 642 m), small coral...

Nicobar Islands- a group of 19 islands in Indian Ocean, between the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. They are part of the Union Territory of India. 1.6 thousand km2. Large islands are the tops of an underwater ridge (height up to 642 m),... ... encyclopedic Dictionary

Nicobar Islands- (Nicobar Islands, in Malay Poolo Sambilong) a group of islands in the Indochina waters of the Indian Ocean, south of the Bay of Bengal, between 6°45 and 9°16 N. w. and 92°50 and 94°E. d.; belong to England. Together with the Andaman Islands they serve... ... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron

Nicobar Islands- (Nicobar Islands), a group of 19 islands in the northern Indian Ocean, between the Bay of Bengal. and the Andaman Sea. Prol. Tenth Degree are separated from the Andaman Islands, which lie to the north, and belong to India. Pl. 1.6 thousand km². Large mountains are peaks... ... Geographical encyclopedia

Nicobar Islands- a group of 19 islands (12 of them inhabited) between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea in the Indian Ocean. Indian territory. Area 1.6 thousand km2. They are a continuation of the Arakan Mountains and the chain of the Andaman Islands. Height up to 642… …

Nicobar Islands- NICOBAR ISLANDS, an archipelago located in Indian. ocean, in front of the entrance to Malacca. prol., between 61/2 9° N. latitude, on both sides 93° east. duty. from Greenwich. There are 7 digits and a lot of small ones in the group. about vov with the community. area OK. 1700 sq. ver. And… … Military encyclopedia

Andaman and Nicobar Islands- Hindi English Andaman and Nicobar Islands Status Union Territory Administrative center Port Blair ... Wikipedia

Andaman and Nicobar Islands- a union territory of India, on the islands of the same name. 8.3 thousand km2. Population 279 thousand people (1991). The administrative center is Port Blair. * * * ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS (Andaman and Nicobar Islands),… … encyclopedic Dictionary

Andaman and Nicobar Islands- territory (administrative unit) within India. Area 8.3 thousand km2. Population 79 thousand people. (1966). The administrative center is Port Blair. For nature and economy, see the articles Andaman Islands, Nicobar Islands ... Great Soviet Encyclopedia

ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS- a union territory of India, on the islands of the same name. 8.3 thousand km². Population 279 thousand people (1991). Adm. c. Port Blair... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

Books

• Sunlit Islands by Suresh Vaidya. The book by the famous Indian writer and journalist Suresh Vaidya tells about the author's journey to the once shrouded in mystery Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In a lively and entertaining way...

Geographical position

Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an island union territory within India. The administrative center and largest city is Port Blair. Population 379,944 (2011).

Area 8249 km²(1st place among union territories). The territory is located in the southeastern part of the Bay of Bengal of the Indian Ocean. It consists of two groups of islands (Andaman Islands and Nicobar Islands), separated by the Tenth Degree Strait. The total number of islands is about 570, of which about 550 are in the Andaman Islands. There are only about 40 inhabited islands in the territory, including 26 in the Andaman part.

How to get there

By plane
The capital of the islands, Port Blair, receives flights from Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai. It’s worth booking tickets in advance, as their prices increase significantly during the season, and there’s also a chance you’ll end up without them at all. International flights are planned to open soon (in particular, from Bangkok).

Indian Airlines flies every day from Chennai (travel time 2 hours 5 minutes) and Kolkata (travel time 2 hours). In addition, JetLite airlines fly from Chennai and Delhi (via Kolkata, the journey takes about 4 hours) and Kingfisher Red from Chennai (one of the most budget companies).

On the ship
There are regular boats from Kolkata, Chennai and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) to Andaman, which takes several days and is an adventure in itself. As a rule, Port Blair receives 4 to 6 flights per month from Kolkata (56 hours journey, MV Akbar), and in season - another flight per week from Chennai (60 hours, MV Nancowry and MV Swarajdweep) . MV Harshavardhana operates from both ports. There is a flight from Visakhapatnam (Vizag) once a month.

Visa

A special permit is required to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which is issued upon arrival in Port Blair, at the immigration office at Haddo Jetty. However, when traveling to the islands by sea, it is necessary to obtain this permission in advance, on the mainland (Foreigners’ Registration Office in Chennai - tel.: 044-28278210, in Kolkata - tel.: 033-22473300), or when applying for a standard Indian visa. The permit is usually issued for a period of up to 30 days; travelers who do not have return tickets or an invitation from the hotel can receive a “permit” for only 15 days.

In addition, the permit can be extended in Port Blair, but only for a maximum of 15 days.

Climate

The climate in the Andaman Islands is humid tropical, without significant seasonal fluctuations in temperature, which on average ranges from +23 to 31 degrees. Air humidity is quite high and sometimes reaches 90%. During the summer and winter periods, quite a lot of precipitation falls on the islands in the form of short-term heavy rains. The period of storms and tropical cyclones begins at the end of summer and lasts until mid-autumn.

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Population

Population of the Andaman Islands, mainly focused on 22 officially inhabited islands and its population is more than 340 thousand people. The bulk of the population are Indians and Europeans who inhabited the islands during their colonization. The indigenous inhabitants of the Andaman Islands include ten tribes and nationalities, the most numerous of which are the Onge and Jarawa Sentinel. The latter continue to lead a lifestyle secluded from civilization, hiding in hard-to-reach places. mountainous areas islands. Of the Nicobar Islands, only 12 islands are officially inhabited. Their population before the deadly 2004 tsunami was estimated at 36 thousand people. In addition to Indians and Europeans, the islands are mainly inhabited by their indigenous tribes. They live secluded from civilization, hiding from others in the mountains. Cannibalism and tribal relations flourish in Aboriginal tribes. The exact number of Aboriginal people in this moment unknown, due to their secrecy from the world. official languages - Hindi and English. The indigenous population uses languages ​​belonging to the Nicobar and Andaman language groups.

Nature

Tropical forests cover more than 93% of the islands of the archipelago. They are home to more than 3,000 species of woody plants and herbs, as well as more than 150 species of ferns, more than 100 species of orchids, palms and tropical fruit trees.

The offshore coral reefs are home to a countless variety of fish and sea snakes.

Animal world The tropical forests of the islands are quite rich and contain more than 200 species of mammals alone, the largest of which are elephants. Huge eggs are laid in the coastal areas of some islands and on beaches. sea ​​turtles, which are unique to of this region. In general, there are 9 parks on the islands that have national status, and more than 90 reserves in which flora and fauna are protected by Indian laws.

Hotels, hotels, prices

5* hotels located at the main resorts of India, amaze guests with their splendor: these are not just vacation spots with a wide range of services, but fairytale palaces on the coast, where the staff tries to fulfill almost all the wishes of tourists. Here they will find magnificent gardens and beaches, luxurious rooms (almost all 5* hotels are created in the best traditions of Indian national architecture), Ayurveda, yoga, massage centers, beauty salons and fitness centers, enchanting evening parties entertainment programs and even sessions with an astrologer. Perhaps the most sophisticated of this category include hotels belonging to the international chains Taj group, Mariott, and Hyatt. In large cities, 5* hotels do not always correspond to this category - often their service leaves much to be desired.

The beautiful dark emerald waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are surrounded by pristine jungle and mangrove forest; snow-white beaches melt under the rays of crimson sunsets; friendly people - immigrants from the South and South-East Asia and the Negrito ethnic groups, whose appearance on the islands is still an anthropological mystery. Geographical position The Andamans are more like Southeast Asia: 150 km from Indonesia and 190 km from Myanmar, which is even more intriguing.

The Nicobar Islands are closed to tourists, but there are still hundreds of islands to explore.

Story

It is unknown when the first settlers appeared in the Andamans and Nicobars. According to anthropologists, stone tools have existed here for 2,000 years. And experts on human migration believe that the local tribes come from Southeast Asia, from the Negrito and Malay ethnic groups. In other words, the islands have become an inexhaustible source of legends for foreigners.

The word "Andaman" is believed to be derived from the name of the monkey god Hanuman, who Hindus believe used the islands as a bridge between India and Sri Lanka. According to anthropologists, stone tools have existed here for 2,000 years, but exactly when the first settlers arrived is unknown.

The Persian traveler Buzurg Ibn Shahryar wrote in the 10th century about a chain of islands inhabited by cannibals; Marco Polo later added that the aborigines had dog heads, and in those found in Thanjavur (formerly Tanjore), that in the state of Tmilnad the archipelago was called Timaittivu - “dirty islands”.

This information, of course, is not for a tourist brochure, but nevertheless, travelers continued to arrive: at the end of the 17th century - the Marathas, and another 200 years later - the British, who used the Andaman Islands as a penal colony for political criminals. During World War II, some islanders welcomed the invasion of the Japanese military, seeing them as liberators. Despite the formation (puppet) government from Indian politicians, the Japanese turned out to be brutal conquerors.

After Indian independence in 1947, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands became part of the Indian Union. After migration from the mainland (including Bengali refugees who fled the post-Partition chaos) the population of the islands increased from several thousand to 350,000 people. During this relocation, tribal rights, as well as environmental protection, were often neglected. And, although some improvement is currently being observed, the situation of the native tribes still leaves much to be desired.

In 2004, the islands were destroyed by an Indian Ocean earthquake, coastal aftershocks and subsequent tsunami. The Nicobar Islands were particularly hard hit, with some estimates saying that a fifth of the population died, some fled to Port Blair, and many have yet to return. Despite the fact that life has now returned to normal, and tourists have returned with it, there are places like Little Andaman, which guests are still in no hurry to visit (by the way, visit it here).

Climate

Thanks to the sea breeze, the temperature in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands remains between 23-31°C and humidity is 80% all year round. It's very humid here when the south-westerly blows (wet) monsoon - somewhere from mid-May to early October, and in November-December the northeast makes its rainy contribution (dry) monsoon.

Geography and nature

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands form the Arakan Mountains, a range that begins in Eastern Myanmar (Burma) and stretches across the ocean to Sumatra in Indonesia.

The isolation of the islands led to the evolution of many plants and animals characteristic only of this area. Of the 62 mammals found here, 32 live only on these islands, including the Andaman wild pig, cynomolgus macaque, Himalayan civet, several species of tupaya and bats. Of the 250 species of birds found here, almost 50% can be found only in the Andamans and Nicobars, including Nicobar greatfoots, swiftlets and the emerald Nicobar pigeon. Turtles lay eggs on deserted beaches, and saltwater crocodiles await prey in rivers. You can often see dolphins here, but dugongs, which used to be abundant in this area, are now almost never seen.

Mangrove trees form a protective barrier between sea and land. The forests contain valuable tree species, such as the famous padauk, a hardwood with light and dark texture.

Things to do

Thanks to its certain isolation, clear, clean waters, magnificent corals and diverse underwater world The Andaman Islands are considered one of the best places in the world for diving.

The main season for divers lasts somewhere from November to April, but people also come here in the summer during the rainy season (June August) However, they are moving closer to the coast. Basically, the most favorable conditions for diving occur in September and October. The only thing you have to take into account is the rain.

Local diving centers offer scuba diving training courses (from 4000 rupees), PADI open water courses (Rs. 18,000) and courses for advanced (Rs. 13,500), as well as Divemaster training. Prices vary depending on location, number of participants and course length. In general, you can dive in the Andaman Islands from a boat for 2000/3500 rupees for one or two dives. In national parks you have to pay an additional 500 rupees per person per day.

Havelock Island is located far from the main diving centers, although appropriate equipment and equipment can be found on Neil and South Andaman. For more detailed information, see the relevant sections.

It is much easier and cheaper to organize snorkeling lessons. Havelock Island is one of the best places for snorkeling, where almost all tourist destinations offer boat trips to reefs and islands that are otherwise inaccessible. There are also excellent snorkeling opportunities around Neil Island and Kalipura.

Because of what happened in Lately Due to coral bleaching, some reefs have been damaged, but despite this, diving here remains world class, and new places are being discovered.

Information

Despite the fact that the Andaman Islands are located a thousand kilometers from the mainland, they live according to Indian time. Therefore, at 5 o'clock in the evening it is already dark here, and at 4 o'clock in the morning it is already light, so people here usually get up quite early. All phone numbers you need to dial with the regional code - 03192, even when making a local call. Andaman & Nicobar Tourism (IP 232747; www.tourism.andaman.nic.in; Kamarai Road (Kamaraj Rd), Port Blair; 8:30-13:00 and 14:00-17:00 Mon-Fri, 8:30-12:00 Sat) Grab the helpful Emerald Islands travel brochure (100 rupees) here or at the airport.

Accommodation

Prices in this chapter are for mid-season (from October 1 to April 30, excluding high season). Prices rise sharply during peak season (from December 15 to January 15). From May to September is low season. Camping is currently prohibited on public lands and in the islands' national parks.

Permission

Most government officials from the mainland serve two years of service in Port Blair. With so much staff turnover, be prepared for unexpected changes in permitting rules and regulations.

All foreigners are required to obtain a permit to visit the Andaman Islands, which is issued free of charge upon arrival. 30-day permit allows tourists to stay in Port Blair, South and Middle Andaman , in North Andaman (Diglipur), on Long Island, Northern Passage, Little Andaman (except in native territories), on Havelock and Neil Islands. You can extend your permit for 15 days at the immigration office in Port Blair (03192-239247; 8:30-13:00 and 14:00-17:30 from Monday to Friday, on Saturdays until 13:00), and at the police station on Havelock.

This permit also allows day visits to the Jolly Boy Islands (lolly Buoy), South Sink (South Cinque), Red Skin (Red Skin), Ross, Narcondam (Narcon-dam), Interview (Interview) and Rutland and Brothers (Brothers) and Sisters (Sisters).

To obtain permission, tourists arriving by air must present their passport and fill out a form upon arrival at Port Blair Airport. Permits are usually valid for a maximum of 30 days (be sure to check).

Tourists arriving by ship are usually met at the port by an immigration officer. Otherwise, you will need to go to the Immigration Office at Haddo Wharf immediately upon arrival. (Haddo Jetty). Keep your permit for the entire trip - without it you will not be able to move around the islands. Police often ask to see your permit, especially when going ashore on their island, and it must also be presented when checking into a hotel. Check current rules sea ​​travel to any of the following services: Andaman & Nicobar Tourism (03192-238473)

Registration Service foreign citizens Chennai (044-23454970, 044-28278210) ; Kolkata (033-22470549, 033-22473300)

Shipping Corporation of India (SCI; www.shipindia.com) Chennai (044-5231401; Jawahar Building, 6 Rajaji Salai); Kolkata (033-2482354; 1st Floor, 13 Strand Rd)

National parks and reserves

To visit some national parks and nature reserves require additional permits. The Department of Tourism has a branch in Port Blair. forestry (9:00-15:00 Monday-Friday, until 13:00 Saturday), where you can find out whether a permit is needed to visit a particular island, how you can get it, how much the service costs and whether it is even possible to get it.

If you are planning something complex, you will be sent to the Chief Wildlife Warden (CWW; 233321; Haddo Road, Port Blair; 8:30-12:00 and 13:00-16:00 Monday to Friday), where is your application, consisting of a letter indicating the nature of your case, the name of the ship and the dates of the visit. If you do everything in accordance with the requirements, you will be issued a permit in less than an hour.

With most day permits, the problem is not so much the red tape, but the cost. Permission to visit areas such as Morskoy national park them. Mahatma Gandhi (Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park) , Ross and Smith Islands near Diglipur, costs 50/500 rupees for Indian citizens/foreigners. A permit to visit Saddle Peak National Park, also near Diglipur, costs 25/250 rupees.

Students who have a valid student ID will be charged a minimum fee, so don't forget your student ID.

The Nicobar Islands are closed to everyone except Indians involved in research, government work, and trade.

Road to the Andaman Islands and back

Airplane

Port Blair has daily flights from Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai, although flights from Delhi and Kolkata very often pass through Chennai. A return ticket costs between US$250 and US$500, depending on the time of booking. Some airlines offer one-way flights for as little as US$80, but tickets must be booked months in advance. At the time of the study, Kingfisher Airlines had the cheapest last minute tickets to the islands (1800 2093030; www.flykingfisher.com). You can also use the services of Air India (Chennai 0044-28554747; Kolkata 033-22117879; Port Blair 03192-233108; www.airindia.com) and JetLite (Chennai 080-39893333; Kolkata 033-25110901; Port Blair 003192-242707; www.jetlite.com).

There are no direct flights from Port Blair to Southeast Asia, although at the time of research there were chartered flight from Kuala Lumpur. But don't count on it too much.

Motor ship

Some believe that the infamous Port Blair ships are “the only real way to get to the Andaman Islands”, while others think that it is just unnecessary difficulties. The truth is somewhere in the middle. There are usually 4-6 flights monthly between Port Blair and mainland India: fortnightly from Kolkata (travel time 56 hours), once a week (during high season) from Chennai (60 hours), once a month from Vizag (56 hours). Chennai tickets can be booked through the Deputy Director of Transportation (044-252268/3; Rajaji Salai, Chennai Port). Shipping Corporation of India (SCI; www.shipindia.com; 033-22482354 in Kolkata, 0891-2565597 in Vizag) operates flights from Kolkata and Vizag. Flight schedules vary, so call in advance. All ferries from the mainland dock at Haddo Pier.

(Phoenix Bay)

Don't take the reported travel times completely for granted: tourists have reported spending almost 12 hours aboard a ship in Kolkata harbor, while others near Port Blair waited several hours before docking. Due to delays and various shipping and weather conditions the journey may take 3-4 days. Return tickets can be purchased from the Phoenix Bay Ferry Ticket Office (Phoenix Bay). You will need 2 passport photos and a photocopy of your permit. For updated information on prices and tariffs, please visit www.and.nic.in/spsch/sailing.htm.

Classifications of places on different ships differ little. The cheapest place on a bunk berth costs 1700 - 1960 rupees, then 2nd class B cabins - 3890 rupees, 2nd class A cabins - 5030 rupees, then 1st class cabins - 6320 rupees, luxury class cabins - 7640 rupees. M/S Akbar also has air-conditioned dormitories where a bed costs INR 3,290. Tickets for more expensive places They cost the same as plane tickets, if not more. If you choose a shared cabin, be prepared to wake up to a chorus of people “humming” and sniffling, an almost complete lack of personal space and a toilet that, after three days of travel, is...unpleasant to enter. But on the other hand, it's a great way to meet locals.

Nutrition (local snacks for breakfast, thali for lunch and dinner) costs about 150 rupees per day and almost always contains rice. Take something with you on the road (especially fruits) to somehow diversify your diet. Some bedding is provided, however if you are sharing a shared cabin please bring your own sheet. Many travelers take hammocks with them and stretch them on the deck.

Officially, there are no ferries between Port Blair and Thailand, but try to hire a yacht on this route. You will not be able to legally cross from the Andaman Islands to Myanmar. (Burma) by sea, although they say that someone managed to do this on their own boat. But be careful: if caught by the Indian or Burmese navy for such an attempt, you risk ending up in prison or worse.

Bad weather can seriously disrupt your plans: if the sea is too rough, ferry trips are cancelled. Have a couple of days in reserve in case you miss your flight as a result of a delay on the island (though maybe that's not always such a bad thing...).

Traveling around the islands

Airplane

A helicopter runs between the islands. From Port Blair he flies to Little Andaman (Rs 1488, 35 minutes, Tue, Fri and Sat), Havelock Island (850 rupees, 20 minutes) and Diglipur via Mayabunder (2125 or 1915 rupees from Mayabundera, one hour). Preference here is given to government employees and passengers with luggage less than 5 kg, which prevents most tourists from using this service. Although you can try your luck by submitting an application to the Secretariat (230093) in Port Blair and returning to see if you're lucky at 4 p.m.

Ferry

Most of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands can only be reached by boat. It sounds romantic, of course, but ferry ticket offices are a real hell: be prepared for waiting in the heat, slow service, attempts to jump the queue and fights at the ticket window. To maintain your place in the queue and advance in it, you must either behave a little aggressively (but don't be a jerk), or be a woman (queues of women are a great success, although they only happen in Port Blair). You can buy tickets on the day of the trip by arriving at the pier an hour before the trip, but this is quite risky in high season, and on Havelock there are no guarantees all year round. In cities like Rangat, ferry ticket office hours are fluctuating and unreliable. At the time of the study, there was a requirement to provide a copy of the permit. Arrange this before arrival.

There are regular sea services to Havelock and Neil Islands, as well as to Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur and Little Andaman. If all else fails, there are still fishermen who are ready to take you, for example, from Port Blair to Havelock for 2000 rupees. The schedule of ships plying between the islands can be found on the website www.and.nic.in/spsch/iisailing.htm.

Bus

All roads (and ferries) lead to Port Blair and you will definitely spend a day or two here while booking your future trip. The main group of islands - South, Middle and North Andamans - are connected by road, ferry crossings and bridges. Cheap government and more expensive private buses run from Port Blair south to Bandur (Wandoor) and north to Bharatang (Bharatang), Rangat, Mayabunder and finally to Diglipur, 325 km north of the capital. Most of the Jarawa Game Reserve closes to traffic around 3:00 p.m., so buses passing through it depart between 4:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Personal jeeps and minivans

Cars travel from village to village and can be hopped on and off throughout the route. You can also rent the entire car at an inflated price.

Train

You can buy a train ticket to the mainland at the railway ticket office. (233042; 8:00-12:30 and 13:00-14:00) located at the Secretariat office south of Aberdeen Market (Aberdeen Bazaar) in Port Blair. Hotel owners can provide their guests with all the necessary information on this issue.

Islanders

The indigenous people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands make up only 12% of the population, and in most cases this percentage is declining. The Onge, Sentinelese, Andamanese and Jarawa are tribes belonging to the Negrito ethnic group, which is very similar to African peoples. It's sad, but over the last century many tribes have died out. In February 2010, the last representative of the Bo tribe died, taking his language with him and putting an end to the history of the people, which lasted 65,000 years.

Onge

Two-thirds of Onge Island in Little Andaman was brought under the jurisdiction of the Forest Department and settled in 1977. The approximately 100 remaining Onge tribesmen are confined to two 25 sq km reserves: Dugong Creek (Dugong Creek) and South Bay (South Bay). According to anthropologists, the decline in Onge numbers was due to the decline in morale of its representatives associated with the loss of territories.

Sentinelese

Unlike other tribes living on this island, the Sentinelese resist contact with the outside world. For years, delegations have arrived on the shores of North Sentinel Island, the last stronghold of the Sentinelese, bearing donations of coconuts, bananas, pigs and red plastic buckets, only to be met with a hail of arrows. Although some of the natives were not so hostile. There are currently about 150 Sentinelese left.

Andamanese

Now the Andamanese number only about 50 people and it seems that this tribe will not be able to avoid extinction. In the mid-19th century, there were about 7,000 Andamanese, but friendship with the colonialists led to the death of the tribe: by 1971, its number had decreased to 19 people due to epidemics of measles, syphilis and influenza. The Andamanese were resettled on the tiny island of Straight.

Jarawa

Currently, the 350 remaining Jarawa live on a 639 square kilometer reservation. km in the South and Middle Andaman Islands. In 1953, the Chief Commissioner proposed bombing the Jarawa settlements, and their territories were destroyed due to the Andaman Highway, deforestation and incursion of invaders and tourists. Most Jarawas are hostile.

Shompen

Only about 250 shompen remain in the forests of Great Nicobar. This semi-nomadic hunter-gatherer tribe lives along river banks. They resisted integration and now avoid areas occupied by Indian immigrants.

Nicobarese

The Nicobarese are the only tribe whose population is not decreasing and amounts to 30,000 people. Most of them converted to Christianity and almost assimilated into modern Indian society. They live in villages where they raise pigs and grow coconuts, sweet potatoes and bananas. The Nicobarese, who probably descended from peoples who inhabited Malaysia and Myanmar, live on several islands of the Nicobar group centered on Car Nicobar (Car Nicobar), the region hardest hit by the 2004 tsunami.

Be careful with corals!

In general, snorkeling in the Andaman Islands should only be done during high tide. At low tide, you can accidentally step on the coral, which can irreversibly destroy this delicate organism. Even the touch of a flipper can cause harm. In addition, you risk getting a painful prick from a thorn. sea ​​urchin when you hit the bottom. Divers should use extreme caution when diving near reefs. A serious collision with coral while wearing full gear can be detrimental to the environment.

Port Blair

Green, tranquil, and at times attractive, Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman Islands, is a vibrant mix of cultures such as Bengalis, Tamils, Nicobarese, Burmese and Telugus. Most tourists don't stay here for long (usually one or two days to book onward travel or go home), and rush at full speed straight to the islands. Although Port Blair cannot rival Havelock's beaches, the city's fascinating history has contributed to its outstanding attractions.

Most of the hotels in Port Blair are located in the Aberdeen Bazaar area. The airport is located 4 km south of the city. Typically, middle-class housing is fully purchased for the period from September to December and included in tour packages to India.

Sights of Port Blair

National Cellular Jail Memorial (GB Pant Road (GB Pant Rd); entrance 10 rupees; photo/video shooting 25/100 rupees; 8:45-12:30 and 13:30-17:00 Tue-Sun) This is a former British prison, and now a museum dedicated to all the political prisoners who once served time here. Cellular Jail is worth a visit to understand how important the Andaman Islands are in Indian history. Construction of the prison began in 1896 and ended in 1906. Initially in seven buildings (some of which were destroyed by the Japanese army during the Second World War), diverging like rays from the central tower, there were 698 cameras. Like many political prisons, the Honeycomb Prison became a kind of university for freedom fighters, who were awaited by the dungeons and guards for their books, ideas and disputes.

Music and light shows are held here on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. (entrance for adults/children 20/10 rupees) in English.

Anthropological Museum (03192-232291; MG Road (MG Rd); entry 10 rupees; 9:00-13:00 and 13:30-16:30 Fri-Wed) This is the best museum in Port Blair and describes in great detail the tribes inhabiting the islands. Glass display cases may be outdated, but they are not nearly as ancient as the simple geometric Jarawa breastplate, or the skull left under a Sentinelta canopy, or the totemic spirits represented by Nicobarian shamanic sculptures. A brochure is sold in the souvenir shop. (20 rupees) about Aboriginal culture, written by local anthropologists.

Samudrika Maritime Museum (Haddo Road (Haddo Rd); entrance for adults/children 20/10 rupees, photo/video filming 20/50 rupees; 9:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00 Tue-Sun) The museum was founded by the Indian Navy. A variety of exhibits are exhibited here, telling about the ecosystem of the islands, their indigenous population, plants, animals, and marine life. The museum has a small aquarium. Outside is the skeleton of a blue whale washed ashore on the Nicobar Island of Camorta. (Kamorta Island).

Chatham sawmill (entrance 10 rupees; 8:30-14:30 Mon-Sat) The plant, located on Chatham Island, which is connected to Port Blair by a road bridge, was built by the British in 1836. It was one of the largest timber processing enterprises in Asia. The plant is still operational, and although not everyone likes it (especially environmental activists), a visit here is an interesting excursion into the history and economy of the island. There is also a huge crater left by a bomb dropped by the Japanese during World War II and a rather bleak forest museum.

Nobody goes to Port Blair for the beach, but if you do need to lay on the sand, Corbina Bay, 7 km south of the city, is the best option. This small stretch of coastline hidden behind palm trees, which is very popular among the local population and tourists, is perfect place to swim and sunbathe. The cost of a trip from the city by autorickshaw is 200 rupees. On the other hand, in addition to being a great way to travel along the coastal road, you can see many Japanese bunkers left over from the Second World War.

Burmese Buddhist mission - small bell-shaped stupa (tomb), may not be very impressive, but it is an example of Burmese Buddhist architecture, unusual in India, and a reminder that geographically you are closer to Southeast Asia than the Hindustan subcontinent.

Information

Port Blair is the only place in the Andamans where you can change currency or traveller's cheques. There are ATMs throughout the city, and the Western Union office is located in the post office building. Aberdeen Bazaar has several internet access points.

Aberdeen Police Station (03192-232400; MG Rd)

Andaman & Nicobar Tourism (1P 232694; www.tourism.andaman.nic.in; Kamaraj Road Kamaraj Rd); 8:30-13:00 and 14:00-17:00 Mon-Fri, 8:30-12:00 Sat) The main island tour operator. Here you can book public housing and obtain permits to visit wild places. The staff is helpful and unhurried.

e-Cafe (Internet at 30:00; 8:00-00:00) In Aberdeen Market, right in front of the clock tower.

GB Pant Hospital (03192-233473, 232102; GB Pant Rd)

Main Post Office (MG Road (MG Rd); 9:00-19:00 Mon-Sat)

State Bank of India (MA Road MA Rd); 9:00-12:00 and 13:00-15:00 Mon-Fri, 10:00-12:00 Sat) Here you can exchange traveler's checks and currency.

Neighborhoods of Port Blair and South Andaman

Ross Island

Visit Ross Island (not to be confused with island of the same name in North Andaman)- it's like finding something hidden in the jungle Lost City like Angkor Wat; however, the ruins here are more Victorian than Khmer. To the former headquarters of the British government in the Andamans - Ross Island (permit 20 rupees)- half a day's journey from Port Blair. At one time, small Ross was affectionately called the “Paris of the East” (along with Pondicherry, Saigon, etc.). But the cute name, social life and tropical gardens- all this was destroyed in a double blow in 1941: an earthquake and the Japanese invasion (who left behind several machine gun nests that became a local landmark).

Today, the old English buildings can still be found, despite the fact that they have been almost completely swallowed up by the green wave of the rapidly growing jungle. There is a small pocket where exhibits and photographs of Ross Island from its heyday are displayed, and a small park where deer nibble leaves from bushes.

Ferries to Ross Island (75 rupees, 20 minutes journey) departs from Port Blair Aquarium Jetty at 8:30, 10:30, 12:30 and 14:00 every day except Wednesday. Please check the timetable when purchasing your ticket as departure times may be affected by tides.

You can also take the 9:30am ferry to Viper Island (75 rupees), where you will see the remains of the gallows built by the British in 1867. But to be honest, this is not the most memorable excursion.

Vandoor and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Bandur is a small village 29 km southeast of Port Blair. There is a nice beach here, although at the time of the study swimming was prohibited as crocodiles were seen in the area. But Bandur is better known as the starting point for a trip to the Marine National Park. Mahatmas (Indian/foreigner 50/500 rupees). Situated on an area of ​​280 sq. km, it occupies 15 islands with mangroves, tropical forests and reefs, home to 50 species of corals. There are two places for sporkling in the park: Jolly Boy (November 1 - May 15) and Red Skin (May 16 - October 30). Accessible by popular daytime flight from Bandura Jetty (450 rupees; Tue-Sun). Still, if your Andamans itinerary includes Havelock or Neil Islands, it may be easier and cheaper to go scuba diving there - unless you're going to pay through the nose, of course. It’s just that the ships don’t stay here for long, and you simply won’t have time to swim to your heart’s content. If you want to thoroughly explore the region, we recommend contacting Lacadives (9679532104; www.lacadives.com). There are several hotels in Wandur. Permits can be obtained from Bandura jetty or the travel office in Port Blair.

There are buses from Port Blair to Bandur. (12 rupees, 1.5 hours).

Chiriyatapu

Chiriya Tapu is located 30 km from Port Blair. It is a small village with beaches and manfa trees. 2 km south you'll find some of the best snorkeling outside of Havelock and Neil. This is a great place to watch sunsets. There are 7 buses running here from Port Blair daily. (^10, 1.5 hours). You can also get here by ship from Sink Island. New biological park (Indian/foreigner 20/50 rupees; 9:00-16:00 Tue-Sun) not yet completed (it is planned to be completed in 2015), but here in the forest there are already several spacious naturally fenced areas where crocodiles, deer and warthogs live.

Sink Island

The uninhabited islands of North and South Sinc, connected by a sandbank, form part of the South Bandura Wildlife Sanctuary. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs and are considered the most beautiful in the Andamans.

Daytime visits are allowed here. But, if you are not coming from travel agencies that periodically organize trips here group tours, you must obtain permission to visit from Chief Wildlife Warden in advance. The islands can be reached by boat from Chiria Tapu (2 hours) or from Bandura (3.5 hours). Here the permit to visit the Seaport is considered valid national park them. Mahatma Gandhe (Indian/foreigner 50/500 rupees).

Havelock Island

Snow-white sandy beaches, turquoise shallows, dark jungles, a shore lined with shacks, and many tourists from all over the world - this is Havelock, a tropical pearl of budget tourism. In a few years, its status will correspond to the Thai Koh Phangan (Ko Pha-Ngan), not counting night entertainment. Here, in coastal hotels and resorts, life is quite vibrant, but it never comes to crazy parties under the moon. Apart from lazing around, Havelock offers diving and snorkeling activities and many tourists spend most of their time here in the Andaman Islands.

What to see and do

Havelock - main island for lovers of scuba diving in the Andamans. There is no shortage of dive operators who are located along the main tourist road. You just need to chat with some and choose the one you like best.

The snorkeling here is simply amazing. The best way go diving - order dungeons through the hotel (wooden motor boat). The trip costs from 1000 to 2000 rupees depending on the number of participants, distance, etc. -if there are many people in the group, you may be charged only 250 rupees. Snorkeling equipment can be easily obtained on Havelock - in hotels, restaurants - but it is usually of rather low quality.

Fishing is another popular activity here. It is also better to organize it through the hotel. There are several sport fishing operators in the city.

Some hotels organize jungle walks for hiking and bird watching enthusiasts. Be careful, after rain the soil in the forest is greatly eroded. From inside the rainforest is a stunning emerald cave and bird watching (especially at the edge)- a worthwhile endeavor. Note the blue-black Racket-tailed Drongo with its stunning tail and, for contrast, the striking Oriole.

About 5 km from village no. 5 is Kalapathar, where the elephant training camp is located. At the time of the study, there were plans to show elephants at work. Beyond Kalapathar, the road passes another pristine beach and then gradually disappears into the forest.

The most beautiful and popular sandy beach is the much lauded Radha Nagar, also known as Beach No. 7. Snow-white sand, perfect spiral sea ​​wave, the forest, just like in the picture, is Radha Nagar. What about sunsets? Yes, they are simply magnificent! The road to the beach, located in the north-west of the island 12 km from the pier, lies through the interior of Havelock - a green dream (an autorickshaw will take you there for about 150 rupees). Or, if you prefer, you can get here from Village No. 1 by bus. 10 minutes north-west of the beach you will find the magnificent "lagoon" at Neil Bay, another paradise with pristine sand and clear water. There was a crocodile attack here in 2010, so it might be worth checking how safe it is to swim here. During high season, you can ride elephants (adults/children 25/15 rupees; 11:00-14:00 Mon-Sat) along the beach, posing and grinning for photos.

Elephant Beach (Elephant Beach) Elephant Beach, a great snorkeling spot, is further north. It takes about forty minutes to get there along a path made by elephants. There are signs on the road, but after the rain it is quite difficult to walk. The beach itself literally disappeared after the 2004 tsunami and is now inaccessible during high tides. There are lifeguards on duty on the shore who reprimand anyone who litters. (God help them!).

Where to stay and where to eat

Most of Havelock's hotels are beach huts. They all claim to be "eco-lodges" (“eco” obviously means “cheap building material”), but it is excellent value for money, especially in low season.

All of the accommodations listed will offer a passable tourist-oriented menu with Western and Indian dishes. If you want something traditionally Indian, head to the food stalls in the city (village no. 1) or to the main bazaar (village no. 3). There is a liquor store in village No. 1.

Almost all housing is located on east coast between villages No. 2 and No. 5.

Crocodiles

The tragic death of an American tourist on Havelock in April 2010, who was attacked by a saltwater crocodile while snorkeling, shocked the entire community. In many areas of the Andaman Islands, crocodiles have become a part of daily life, but in Neila Bay near Radha Nagar, where the incident took place, crocodiles had not been seen before. Moreover, the attack took place in the open ocean on coral reefs, which is considered extremely unusual. There is a lot of speculation about how the crocodile ended up there. It was most likely driven out of its mangrove habitat on the western side of the island after losing a battle for territory. As a result, the crocodile was caught (It is now in the Port Blair Zoo). These reptiles have not been seen here since, but the area is still treated with great caution. The general consensus is that this was an isolated incident and should not discourage people from swimming here. However, it is important that you stay informed. Follow government warnings, don't swim alone in the western part of the island, and stay out of the water at sunset and after dark.

This warning also applies to places like Corbina Bay, Wandur Beach, Baratang and the entire Little Andaman.

Information

Village No. 3 has two ATMs side by side. Here you can use the extremely slow Internet (80 per hour).

Road there and back

Ferry schedules vary, but there are always direct services from Port Blair to Havelock and back, at least once a day, but usually two or more times (ticket for a foreigner 195 rupees, 2.5 hours). It is best to book your ticket at least a day before your trip. The ticket office is open from 9.00 to 11.00. You can also take the more comfortable Makruzz ferry (from 650 rupees, two hours).

Several government ferries a week operate between Havelock and Neil (Rs. 195). This is also the most convenient way get to Long Island (Rs. 195), which, moreover, stops at Rangat, from where you can take a bus further to North Andaman.

Moving around the island

Local bus (7 rupees) runs between the pier and the villages about once an hour, but here it’s a good idea to have your own transport. You can rent mopeds or motorcycles (from 250 rupees per day) and bicycles (40 to 50 rupees per day) in your hotel or in village No. 3.

Neil Island

Nestled comfortably in the shadow of its more famous neighbour, Neil has everything you need for a holiday and more. Its beaches may not be as luxurious as Havelock's, but it is spacious and has excellent cycling routes. The rhythm of life here is leisurely. During bicycle rides through picturesque villages, both children and adults local residents They will greet you in a friendly manner. From Neil Island it's about 40 km to Port Blair, a short ferry ride to Havelock and a few miles to the house.

At the time of the study there was no Internet and there was nowhere to change currency. There is a post office on the territory of the bazaar.

What to see and do

Neil Island has five beaches (numbered 1 to 5), each of which has its own unique charm.

Beach No. 1 is the prettiest and most accessible. Located 40 minutes walk west of the marina and village. At high tide you can enjoy some of the best snorkeling on the island near coral reef in the distant (western) end of the beach. On the territory of Pearl Park Resort there is a great place to watch sunsets. In the early evening, tourists and locals gather here.

Beach No. 2 is located in the northern part of the island. Here the rocks form a natural bridge, which can be reached at low tide by walking around the rocky cove. To get here by bike, take the side road through the bazaar and then turn left at the fork. The best place to swim is at the beach! although its proximity to the pier is slightly annoying.

Beach No. 3 is a secluded bay with sandy shores. The most convenient way to reach it is from Blue restaurant Sea Restaurant. Next is more wild beach (5 km from the village). You can get here along the village road leading to the eastern part of the island. This is a great place for a walk along the coast. At low tide you can visit small limestone caves.

You can go diving with India Explorers (9474238646; www.indiascubaexplorers.com) or rent snorkeling equipment (150 rupees per day) in your hotel or in the city. You may be lucky and at Beach No. 1 you will see a dugong foraging for food in the shallow waters at high tide. For 1000 - 2000 rupees you can rent a fishing boat and go snorkeling or fishing on it. The cost depends on the distance of the trip, the duration of the dives, etc.; Usually several people are taken on board.

The main bazaar has a pleasant atmosphere and is crowded in the evenings. You can take cooking classes at the Gyan Garden Restaurant (from 200 rupees). Behind the restaurant there is a path that will lead you up the hill to observation deck, from where you can see the entire island all the way to the sea.

Where to stay and where to eat

In the low season, simple bungalows on the shore are very profitable. Most popular places- this is Nango Beach Resort: (03192-282583; bungalows 50-350 rupees, cottages 600-1000 rupees) and Pearl Park Resort (03192-282510; bungalows 100-250 rupees, cottages and rooms 400-1600 rupees), both on beach No. 1. They are like reflections of each other - this impression is created due to their close proximity and external similarity. Both offer cute thatched bungalows or less interesting but more comfortable concrete rooms. The main difference is that Tango offers sea breezes and ocean views, while Pearl Park offers sunsets and lush gardens.

A-D Beach Resort (214722; bungalow 300-700 rupees)- another great option on beach no. 4.

The food on Neil Island is surprisingly good. You will find cheap and delicious Bengali food in the market.

Moonshine (main courses 40-150 rupees) on the way to beach No. 1 - this is a favorite restaurant among tourists. Excellent homemade pasta and dishes made from it are prepared here. (the shrimp pasta is amazing) and serve cold beer. Located in the market Chand Restaurant also popular. Here you will be served strong coffee and very tasty grilled fish. Gyan Garden Restaurant (main dishes 50-200 rupees) offers a wonderful selection of seafood dishes.

How to get there and get around

A ferry departs every morning from Phoenix Bay Jetty in Port Blair to and from Neil. (195 rupees, two hours). There is also a daily ferry to Havelock, which departs in the early afternoon.

Bicycle rental (from 50 rupees per day)- an excellent way to get around the island: the roads here are smooth and the distances are short. An autorickshaw will take you from the jetty to Beach No. 1 for 50 rupees.

Middle and North Andamans

The Andaman Islands are not all sun and sand. It is also a jungle, dense as the Amazon forests and ancient as Jurassic Park, as if created by Mother Nature on a whim. This lush, wild side of the islands can be seen during a long ride on a bus on the Andaman Highway. (ATR). Traveling overland to Diglipur involves rough roads lined with ancient trees and views of ferries plying the tannin-red rivers where saltwater crocodiles live.

But there is also a negative side to traveling along the ATR: the road passes through Jarawa settlements, which is why the tribe is forced to constantly contact the outside world. Modern India and tribal life cannot seem to coexist—every time the Jarawas and visitors interact in any way, misunderstandings occur, leading to discord and unrest or, in the worst case, acts of violence and death. Indian anthropologists and local human rights organizations such as Survival International are calling for ATR to be shut down. At the time of the study, the status of the highway was under discussion. Currently, vehicles are only allowed with an escort and at designated times. from 6:00 to 15:00. Photography is strictly prohibited, as is stopping and interacting with the Jarawa, who are becoming more and more dependent on handouts from passing tourists.

The most interesting place north of Port Blair are impressive limestone caves (closed on Mondays) in Baratang. They can be reached by boat (200 rupees) from the pier, which takes 45 minutes. The path lies through a picturesque mangrove forest. A permit is required and can be obtained at the marina.

Rangat - second main city, a transport center, unremarkable in anything else. If you find yourself stuck here, we recommend the PLS Bhawar hotel (1-seater/2-seater from 150/250 rupees), the best of many bad hotels. There is an ATM nearby. Ferries depart to Port Blair and Havelock Island (50/195 rupees, 9 hours), as well as Long Island (7 rupees), from Eratga pier, which is 8 km from Rangat. There is a daily bus service to Port Blair (95 rupees, 9 hours).

From December to March hawksbill (Mshe turtles) nest on the beaches of Cuthbert Bay, a 45-minute drive from Rangat. A northbound bus will take you here. Hawksbill Nest (03192-279022; bedroom for 4 people 600 rupees, double bedroom 400 rupees, with air conditioning 800 rupees)- the only place where you can stop. The room must be booked from the A&N Tourism office in Port Blair. Permission (250 rupees) can be obtained from the Forest Officer's office in Betapur.

Long Island

The friendly people and leisurely pace of life on Long Island make it ideal place for those seeking peace and quiet. There are no motorized vehicles on the island Vehicle, and sometimes it seems as if you are the only tourist here.

One and a half hour walk in the jungle (not recommended after rain) will lead you to the secluded Lalaji Bay with snow-white sandy beach and a comfortable bathing area. Hiring Dungi (deposit 1500 rupees), you can get to the bay much easier, especially if you don’t like leeches. You can also rent dugouts and head to North Passage Island for snorkeling in the stunning Merc Bay, with its dazzling white sandy beach and clear waters. You can also go to South Batgon from here (South Button).

Blue Planet (9474212180; www.blueplanetandamans.com; room with/without bathroom from 300/700 rupees) is not only an excellent hotel, but also an excellent example of architecture using discarded bottles. Around the simple rooms there is a paduk tree with hammocks on it. They serve food here and provide very slow internet. Follow the blue arrows to get here from the pier. There are separate cottages (from 2000 to 3000 rupees) nearby. They don't sell alcohol on Long Island, so you'll have to buy it in advance.

There are ferry services from here to Havelock and Port Blair three times a week. (Rs. 195) and once a week in Rangat (8 rupees).

Mayabunder and its surroundings

In the "upper" Middle Andaman there are several villages inhabited by the Karen, a Burmese hill tribe who were resettled here during British colonial rule. In Mayabundera, stay at Sea"n"Sand (03192-273454; [email protected]; room from 200 rupees), it's a simple lodge, restaurant and bar overlooking the ocean. Located 1 km from the city center. The hotel is run by Karen Titus and Elizabeth with their large family. This discreet place is suitable for those who want to be away from the crowd. Here are a number of day walks on the boat (500-2500 rupees per excursion), which, depending on the season, may include trips to the Forty-one Cave, where swiftlets build their prized edible nests, snorkeling off the coast of Avis Island, a jungle trip to spooky island An interview with a small population of wild elephants that were released after a timber mill closed in the 1950s. You will feel very unusual. Permission required (500 rupees). which is best obtained through Sea"n"Sand.

Mayabunder is 71 km from Rangat. There is a daily bus from Port Blair (l30 rupees, 10 hours) and three times a week - ferry (on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays). There is an unreliable ATM here.

Diglipur and surrounding areas

Those who make it to these distant northern lands will be rewarded with spectacular sights. Although don't expect much from Diglipur, the northernmost large city in the Andaman Islands, which is a long, sandy bazaar town with an ATM and slow internet (40 rupees per hour). You should head straight to Kalipur, where you will find accommodation and views of the ocean and outlying islands.

The ferry arrives at Aerial Bay Jetty, which is 11 km southwest of Diglipur, the bus station and the administration building where you can book tickets for the ferry. Kalipur is located on the coast 8 km southeast of the pier.

What to see and do

Ibis, leatherback, olive and green turtles nest on the Diglipur coast from December to April. Tourists can help collect eggs for incubation; behind additional information contact Pristine Beach Resort. There are also several caves in the area.

Connected by a strip of sand, the twin islands look like beautiful tropical scales. As this area is considered a marine reserve, you will need to obtain permission from the Forestry Department to visit it. (Indian/foreigner 50/500 rupees; 6:00-14:00 Mon-Sat), which is located opposite the Aerial Bay Marina. These islands are some of the best in the Andamans; and there is excellent snorkeling here. You can rent a boat to sail out of the village for 1000 rupees per day.

Kraggy is a small island near Kalipur where snorkeling is also nice. Strong swimmers can get there on their own, or you can rent dungas (200 rupees round trip).

Saddle Peak Mountain - highest point Andaman Islands (732 m above sea level). The walk through the subtropical forest from Kalipur to the summit and back takes 6 hours; From above there is a magnificent view of the archipelago. Permission from the Forestry Department is also required here. (Indian 25 rupees, foreigner 250 rupees), and a local guide will help you not to get lost - more detailed information can be found at Pristine Beach Resort. Otherwise, follow the red arrows painted on the trees.

How to get there and get around

There is a daily bus service from Diglipur, 80 km north of Mayabundera, to Port Blair. (170 rupees, 12 hours) and back, as well as to Mayabunder (50 rupees, 2.5 hours) and Rangat (70 rupees, 4.5 hours). There is also a ferry from Port Blair to Diglipur which returns from Diglipur at night (seat/bed 100/295 rupees, 10 hours).

Buses from Diglipur to Kalipur run every half hour; An autorickshaw costs about 100 rupees.

Little Andaman

Gaubolambe is the name given to Little Andaman, located in the southernmost part of the archipelago, its inhabitants are from the Onge tribe. Here you feel like you are at the end of the world (V tropical paradise) : There are almost no tourists, the locals are so friendly that you treat them like family, and the island itself is lush mangroves and jungle that have existed here since the creation of the world.

Little Andaman was heavily damaged by the December 26, 2004 tsunami and is now slowly recovering. But, despite the fact that the tourism infrastructure here has not yet been developed, new hotels are already beginning to open. The main settlement here is Hut Bay, a small town 120 km south of Port Blair, inhabited mainly by smiling Bengalis and Tamils. North of here you will find secluded beaches, clean and fresh.

What to see and do

Netaji Nagar 11 km north of Hut Bay and Butler Bay another 3 km north are beautiful desert (unless you meet a cow by chance) beaches and great waves for surfers.

A little further from the shore in the forest there are White Surf and Whisper Wave waterfalls (the latter involves a 4 km walk, for which we highly recommend taking a guide). You'll see magnificent waterfalls and might want to swim in their lakes, but beware of the crocodiles.

Little Andaman Lighthouse 14 km from Hat Bay is another worthwhile excursion. 41 m up, exactly 200 steps - and a magical view of the coast and forest opens up in front of you. The easiest way to get here is by motorcycle, but you can work up a sweat and get there by bike. You could also hire an autorickshaw and then, when the road becomes impassable, walk along the peaceful, deserted beach. The walk will take no more than an hour.

Harbinder Bay and Dugong Creek are the tribal areas of the Nicobarese and Onges respectively; visiting them is prohibited.

Rumors about Little Andaman have been circulating among intrepid surf tourists since it opened to foreigners a few years ago. In the intervals between reefs, only experienced surfers are recommended to surf, and sharks and crocodiles are not uncommon here. Contact the surf-mad Muth (9775276182) from Havelock, he will provide you with the necessary information about the waves around Little Andaman and surrounding areas. There are several habitable surf yachts sailing here that can take you to more remote, inaccessible areas. Contact Surf Andamans (www.surfandamans.com).

How to get there and get around

Ferries arrive at Hut Bay Pier on the east coast; the beaches are north of here. Buses (10 rupees) go to Butler Bay whenever they want. You can rent a local jeep (100 rupees).

Water transport runs to Little Andaman from Port Blair daily. You can choose an overnight 8-hour slow boat trip or a daytime 6-hour speedboat trip (seat/bed 25/70 rupees).

If you are planning to fly in a helicopter, this is a great opportunity for you. This way, you can not only avoid the 7.5-hour boat ride, but also enjoy incredible views from above - although the luggage limit of 5 kg makes things a little more difficult.