Andaman and Nicobar

The Andaman group of islands consists of North Andaman, Middle Andaman, South Andaman, Little Andaman, and many smaller islands 1000 km off the east coast of India. The islands form the peaks of a vast submerged mountain range that extends for almost 1000 km between Myanmar (formerly Burma) and Sumatra. The Nicobar group of islands, which begin 50 km south of Little Andaman, comprise Great Nicobar, Car Nicobar, Nancowry, Katchal and Chowra. While geographically and ethnically close to Myanmar, politically the islands belong to India.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an archipelago of 572 islands adrift in the Bay of Bengal, the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands stretches over an area of more than 700 sq. kms. Located in the Bay of Bengal between India and Burma (Myanmar), the topography of the islands is generally hilly with heavy rain forests. Farming and fishing are the main industries of the indigenous people.

Cellular Jail, Andaman: located at Port Blair, is a mute witness to the tortures meted out to the freedom fighters, who were incarcerated in this Jail. The Jail, completed in the year 1908 acquired the name, 'cellular' because it is entirely made up of individual cells for the solitary confinement of the prisoners. It was home to hundreds of freedom fighters whose names are now engraved on the walls of its watch tower, the Cellular Jail stands as a symbol of colonial oppression, cruelty and untold suffering.

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: at a distance of 29 Kms. from Port Blair covering an area of 281.5 Sq.Kms. This Marine Park made-up of open sea, creeks and 15 small and large islands, is one of the best found anywhere in the world. Viewing of rare corals and underwater marine life through glass bottom boats, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling are a lifetime experience for anyone here. The erstwhile Dilthaman Tank, which was the only source of drinking water to Port Blair has been developed into Gandhi Park in an unbelievably short time of 13 days.

Andaman Water Sports Complex: This is a unique sports complex in India in its own kind. There are facilities for safe Water Sports such as Rowing Boats, Paddle Boats, Kayaks, Aqua-cycle, Aqua-glide, Bumper boats, etc., and Adventure water sports such as Water-skiing, Water scooters, Gemini boats, Para-sailing, Sail boats, Wind-surfers, Speed boats, Glass-bottom boats, etc.

Chatham Saw Mill: Chatham Island, at the north tip of Port Blair, houses Asias largest saw mill. Dating back to 1836, the enormous workshops are built in the durable (and expensive) padauk wood.

Anthropological Museum: at Haddo in north Port Blair, was set up in 1975. This small Museum is run by the Anthropological Survey (ASI) of India. It displays wide selection of Andamanese tribal weapons, boats, baskets, clothing, photographs, models and records of exploratory expeditions undertaken over the years. A well-stocked library provides the scholar with invaluable references to tribal culture.There are also many photographs on display.

Ross Island: was once the seat of the British Administration. The Chief Commissioner's residence, modeled on Windsor Castle, now lies in ruins.