I went to Andamans in December 2006. Since then, I have changed a lot and so would have Andamans. However, I think there are some basic pointers that can be shared with people who would like to go to Andamans.
Reaching there: Let me start by saying that do not even think about taking a ship. One can take a ship to Port Blair from Kolkata or Chennai. However, I have been told that the journey is not very comfortable. These are not luxury cruises, they are normal passenger ships and there is nothing out of the world about the journey. You may not be sea sick but others may have that problem!!! Not worth it.
By the best of my knowledge, the only airport in Andamans is in Port Blair and there are direct flights from Chennai and Kolkata. Several airlines connect Port Blair with other major cities through flights via Chennai/Kolkata.
Port Blair: If you are going to Andamans, do not plan for more than two days (at max) in Port Blair. There is not much to do over there. You can go to the Cellular Jail in late afternoon and can watch the Sound and Light show in the evening. It is a good experience.
Port Blair has a 100 metre beach. That is the only beach in Port Blair and it is nothing great. The water there is pretty muddy. Moreover, all the people who come to Andamans without proper planning and with a long stay planned in Port Blair, try to make the most of it by spending time on the beach. It remains crowded and overall it is not a great experience. Moreover, it is a little far from the city.
One can take half/full day tours to islands nearby. We went to Viper Island, which is pretty close. Again, do not spend a lot of time doing all that.
Staying in Port Blair: The city offers several options for all budgets. If you have a friend/relative working in State Bank of India or in Army, do leverage the connection. Not only can you get a place that is insanely inexpensive, those guest houses have great location.
Where to go in Andamans: Ok, I have been discouraging people about spending too much time in Port Blair. Does that mean Andaman has nothing to offer? Not really, one of the most beautiful beaches in India (it was also voted at the best beach in South East Asia in 2004) is in Havelock Island. Radhanangar Beach. That is a place that you do not want to miss.
Havelock is 2.5 hours away from Port Blair and one has to take a ferry. Though there are several resorts in Havelock and it attracts a lot of tourists, it still is pretty much a virgin island. It offers several options for staying. The best option and probably the costliest one is Barefoot Resort, right on Radhanagar Beach. This resort also has scuba diving training facilities.
Other options are Wild Orchid (though I did not personally like the place. Ya, food is great over there) and Dolphin Resort. Dolphin is a government resort and has aweful service. But it is cheap. If you are not staying at Barefoot, stay at Dolphin and have food at Wild Orchid, which is next door.
(Please note that all this information is for 2006. There may be several other better options now)
What to do in Havelock: Relax and enjoy on Radhanagar Beach and go for snorkeling on Elephanta Beach. Elephanta beach is not connected by road and one has to hire a boat to get to Elephanta Beach. That is a 30-45 minutes boat ride.
Weather: It is never cold in Andamans. However, due to all the greenery, nights can be cold especially if you are riding two-wheelers.
Something to be careful about: Sea around Havelock has some unfriendly creatures....Salt Water Crocodiles. People die or get injured but it is hardly reported as it may affect the only industry in Havelock...tourism!!! I know it is dangerous but do not get too far in the water and you would be okay. If I am not mistaken, this danger is only on Radhanagar beach. Elephanta is safe. Thats what I was told by the boat man. Use your own judgement.
Do not miss a trip to Havelock. You wont regret it!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment