By Ayushi Pandey
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been a must-visit location for most Indians and are one destination that is perfect for family getaways. With ease of travel, a diverse culture, beautiful greenery, vast beaches, and scrumptious food, this is one vacation spot that must not be missed! With a plethora of places to visit, surprise your kids with an exotic beach vacation to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for a family vacation that will help you make memories of a lifetime.
Perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city
Andaman and Nicobar’s economy is largely dependent on tourism and it is also known for its devotion to ecotourism. There are ample forests and wildlife that offer exquisite views and beautiful green surroundings, perfect for your kids to explore and feel one with nature. Luscious forests are spread across almost 86% of its total area with around 96 sanctuaries and nine national parks. Some of the most famous sanctuaries that are a must-visit are Narcondum Hornbill Sanctuary, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park which has a large variety of aquatic animals, Nicobar Pigeon Sanctuaries, South Sentinel Island Sanctuary, and North Reef Sanctuary which has a large variety of water birds.
Although the national parks themselves are a huge attraction, it surely is not the only factor that helps the Andaman and Nicobar economy thrive and make it what it is. It is also a perfect spot to go with your family because of the open beaches where one can spend an entire afternoon with kids who can play around the beach or go for a swim in the beautiful water. There are also numerous activities that families can indulge in. North Bay island and Havelock Island are two of the top Islands that provide the most activities like Scuba Diving, Sea walking, Kayaking, Game fishing, Semi submarine, Parasailing, Night cruising, and more.
Explore the best options for a beautiful stay
There are several kinds of accommodations available in Andaman and Nicobar at different locations and with varied price ranges. Some of the most well-known places are Hotel Bay Walk (3-star), Hotel Olive (3-star), TSG Emerald view – Phoenix Bay (3-star), Symphony Samudra (5-star), Welcome Hotel ITC (5-star), Sea Princess (4-star), among others. With the rampant use of Airbnb, you can also find rental apartments or shared spaces to say in if you are on a tight budget.
Attractions that are worth visiting
The Cellular Jail – The Cellular Jail is infamous among Indians as ‘Kala Pani’ and is known as the place where the British used to exile people, sometimes even some very famous people, on charges of dissent during the independence struggle.
Radhanagar Beach – Located on Havelock Island, this is a peaceful and beautiful beach that was voted the best beach in Asia by Time Magazine in 2004 and is still considered to be one of the top 100 beaches in the whole world.
Andaman FlyAir Parasailing Marine Trail – This trail is perfect for kids and adults to indulge in nature. With the help of a local guide, the whole family can walk through the mangrove forest which is an absolute beauty, and learn about the ecosystem, corals, and the sea. The time duration of the tour is approximately 2 hours.
Nature trail to the tropical forests of Andaman curated by Historian and naturalist Mr. Krishna Dhulipala – An interesting and immersive activity for kids where they can get a guided tour with lots of interesting facts about the endemic flora and fauna, culture, folklore, and much more. The best part is that one does not need trekking skills to participate in this experience.
3-hour guided tour of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep – Formerly known as Ross Island this guided tour is for kids that find history interesting. The guide will take you along on a ride to the remains of colonial times. The place is also perfect to take pictures with its old, vintage architecture. The time required for the tour is 3 hours.
Give your kids a taste of new cuisines
Something Different-A Beachside Cafe – This spot has a spacious open-air dining room and is famous for its pudding with caramel sauce, fish ajwain tadka, and lobster if you are willing to spend a little more.
Full moon cafe in Havelock Island – This cafe is famous for its seafood range as well as its huge breakfast spread. They have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
High Tide – This is an amazing place that has a cottage theme and offers Indian and seafood, as well as bar and pub facilities.
Shop till you drop at the local markets
Pick up cute knick-knacks, local artefacts, and gifts for yourself or friends and family back home. Take back a piece of Andaman and Nicobar to always keep your memories fresh! You can shop for wooden artefacts, coconut-carved decor and accessories, beautiful pearl jewellery, decorative items made from cane, jewellery made of shells, and so much more. Some of the most popular areas to shop include Aberdeen Bazaar, Sagarika, and Queen Sea Shell Craft for gorgeous jewellery.
Andaman and Nicobar is a gorgeous holiday destination for you and your kids with its luscious green forests, clean and peaceful beaches, amazing trekking opportunities, as well as delicious food. They are also very particular about safety and follow COVID-19 safety protocols including mandatory masking and sanitisation of all areas and surfaces. Book your tickets and stay at Andaman and Nicobar for the upcoming Diwali vacations with your kids. For help related to bookings and any other travel services email getintouch@buffyfish.com or call +91-9158351185 for assistance.
