Among the dream vacation destinations of many travellers, is the Andaman Islands, known as the land of impeccable beaches, shimmering oceans, and vibrant coral reefs. Its true gems could be hidden in places that perhaps are even more genuine and serene than popular ones like Cellular Jail and Radhanagar Beach. These secret sites allow you to create a genuine bond with the island’s unadulterated nature and cultural vitality. The focus of this blog is to discuss the top-secret sites in the Andaman Islands, a must-visit place by every traveller.
1. Diglipur: The Northern Treasure
North Andaman has its “best kept secret,” which is often overlooked by tourists, and that is Diglipur. This lovely village dotted with hills and beautiful beaches harbors some of the best Andaman features for tourists who are after something different.
Another important feature of Diglipur is the Saddle Peak National Park which contains the most elevated mountain of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The hike to Saddle Peak is not to be overlooked by outdoor enthusiasts. It offers spectacular views of the Bay of Bengal and the forestry. The trek takes you through clear streams and green cover where one can find unique birds.
Tucked away in Diglipur are two islands, Ross and Smith Islands that are connected by a natural sandbar. During low tides, most of the islands can be explored, as tourists can walk between them and the Andaman Sea’s clear waters surround them. Plus, the islands have pretty good diving and snorkelling options as they have stunning colourful corals.
2. Long Island: A Peaceful Retreat
Not as popular as some other Andaman destinations, Long Island is not a full-fledged tourist center and a wonderful opportunity for a stress-free and calm vacation among the local nature. The island is not overrun by commercial entertainment for tourists, fully preserving the atmosphere of a leisurely resort.
Lalaji Bay Beach is considered to be the main landmark of Long Island, a picturesque secluded beach to which you can get by a quick boat ride and trekking through the forest. The beach is surrounded by thickets of green trees and has clear, calm waters.
Yet another unusual location, close to Long Island, is Guitar Island, a small and deserted island that gets its name from the overall shape of the island which is that of a guitar. The island is an ideal place for a short getaway because of its natural beauty and calm environment that allows guests to have peaceful strolls on the beach, go swimming, and even have some quiet time.
3. Little Andaman: The Wild Frontier
Most tourists, however, keep Little Andaman off their radar. This neglected island is a nature lover’s and thrill-seeker’s dream of clean and quiet beaches, lush forests, and flowing waterfalls.
Butler Bay Beach is one of Little Andaman’s main attractions. This beach of the crescent moon is arguably one of the greatest surf spots in India. It is a popular surfing location for many surfers from all over the world and it is one of the finest Little Andaman swimming spots. It is also an excellent place to sunbathe and experience the island’s splendid natural surroundings.
Yet another hidden gem in Little Andaman, the White Surf Waterfall is located in the deep of the island’s rainforest. This remarkable waterfall is a great way to spend your day walking and trekking. On your way to the fall, you will go through a lush jungle, see and hear the calls of exotic birds, and even see some animals. When the trek is over, you reach the cool, cold waters of the fall where you can relax and enjoy your time.
Located in the center of the island, Whisper Wave Waterfall on Little Andaman is another beautiful cascade. Not as popular as other waterfalls on the island, tourists can enjoy their peace and relax, listening to nature sounds.
4. Baratang Island: A Natural Wonderland
Baratang Island may be the tourist half-sibling often overlooked in favor of its more famous brethren, but delve beneath the surface and you will soon discover its multifarious beauty. Nestled between South and Middle Andaman lies Baratang, an island renowned for its dense mangrove forests, limestone caves, and mud volcanoes.
Of all the places to visit in the Andaman Islands, the Limestone Caves of Baratang are worth the boat ride through the mangroves followed by a short hike. The ancient caves take you to an alternate universe with fantastic stalactite and stalagmite formations that transport you back to the geological roots of the Andamans.
Baratang Island also has unique features such as the Mud Volcano which is the only one of this nature available in the Indian subcontinent. These small ponds forming on the ground, bubbling mud and gas spewing onwards and bringing forth varying volumes, are disturbing yet intriguing. Watching these mud volcanoes is a special activity that is surreal and hardly ever experienced in one’s lifetime.
Baratang also houses Parrot Island, famous for its uncountable number of parrots, which with the sunset return to the island in their hundreds converging into a series of magnificent arrays. The parrot island excursion is a fantastic action on its own. However, the only way to access the place is through the river.
5. Mayabunder: A Cultural Mosaic
Mayabunder, situated in the northern area of Middle Andaman, is a diverse town that offers natural beauty and cultural melting with a Burmese, East Pakistani, and Karen community.
One of the best places to visit in Mayabunder is Karmatang Beach. The beach is excellent for the natural nesting of turtles. People who wish to evade the difficulty of a crowded beach can spend a day here. One can walk along with the seashores or grill a fun-packed picnic. Beachcombers will delight in their time here away from the competition.
To experience a deeper cultural awakening, you must pay a visit to the Karen Village in Mayabunder. The Karen are originally from Myanmar and have conserved their unique cultural heritage and way of life. One can engage with the villagers, learn about their community, and even try their traditional food.
Another hidden spot in Mayabunder would be Avis Island. It is a small, unoccupied island with crystal clear water and beautiful coral reefs. It is the perfect getaway for snorkeling, swimming, and experiencing the marine life of the Andamans. Avis Island offers the untouched beauty and silence that lets you delve into its spectacular views.
6. Rangat: The Center For Biodiversity
Rangat town in Middle Andaman is often skipped by tourists, but it is one of the best places to enjoy the rich diversity of the Andaman Islands. The town is surrounded by dense forests mangroves and pristine beaches. The town is a dreamland for nature lovers.
Amkunj is Rangat’s popular attraction and eco-friendly beach. The beach is home to turtle nesting sites and travelers can also take a swim and enjoy snorkeling in its clear waters surrounded by lush green vegetation. The beach has eco-friendly huts and benches so that visitors can feel connected with nature.
Dhani Nallah is a wooden walkway that meanders through the dense mangrove forests. The mangroves are the habitat of a wide range of bird species. The path leads to Dhani Nallah Beach. This peaceful beach is where tourists can enjoy the serene beauty of the island.
7. Rutland Island: A Hidden Paradise
Located on the southern side of Port Blair, Rutland Island is one of the less explored islands in the Andaman Sea. It is this offbeat place that gives a complete Andaman experience devoid of the crowds.
Considering the fact that Rutland Island is surrounded by all the warmth of nature’s self, it also serves as a prime spot for diving and snorkeling. The island has almost untouched living coral and the sparkling waters are home to a variety of underwater life like colorful fish, turtles and through the clear waters, one may even spot dolphins too.
Also, several trekking trails are running across the verdant forests, alongside the freshwater streams and to the breathtaking views situated on the island. There is a popular trek to the Rutland Lighthouse, from where the trekkers can view of the Bay of Bengal and other islands in the distance.
Conclusion
The Andaman Islands are well-known for conventional tourist hotspots, but visitors who are willing to look further find several hidden gems. Tourists will pick from the modest irresistible attraction of Little Andaman to the modest cultural haven of Mayabunder. The off-beaten centers are a must-visit if you are a nature-lover, an adventurer, or a culture enthusiast. The Andaman Islands do a great job of offering something special for all of us. Bring your bag, take the course less wandered, and explore everything that Andamans has to offer.