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The tropical paradise of India, that is, Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal. These islands are famous for their clean beaches, clear-turquoise water, and dense tropical forests. But did you know that apart from being a tourist place, these islands also house some ancient tribal cultures, unique wildlife, and colonial secrets? There are so many untold stories and quirky historical-geographical facts about Andaman that this island masks with its breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you’re planning an Andaman trip or simply curious about its hidden wonders, let’s unearth 25 facts about Andaman and Nicobar Islands and learn more about these ‘Emerald Islands’ (yes, it is a nickname!)
1. Home to India’s Only Active Volcano
Barren Island in the Andaman Sea is India’s only active volcano and also one of the very few in all of South Asia. It last erupted in 2018 and is still rumbling quietly. This is one of the lesser-known facts about Andaman that surprises many travelers.
2. North Sentinel Island is Completely Off-Limits
The Sentinelese tribe inhabiting this island has resisted contact with the outside world for centuries. The government protects their isolation by prohibiting any visitation.
3. Over 500 Islands, But Only a Few Are Inhabited
With over 572 islands present, only 38 are inhabited and the rest are untouched by civilization. This has significantly resulted in keeping the ecosystem of this island rich and wild. Among the many fascinating facts about Andaman, this one highlights its untouched natural charm.
4. Home to the World’s Oldest Tribes
The islands are home to five primitive tribes, including the Great Andamanese, Jarwas, and Onge that carry some of the oldest surviving human cultures on Earth.
5. Cellular Jail- The ‘Kala Pani’
This infamous British-era prison in Port Blair once held India’s freedom fighters in solitary confinement which is now a museum and national memorial. Among the historical facts about Andaman, the story of Cellular Jail stands as a haunting reminder of colonial oppression.
6. Andaman’s Sea Cows—Dugongs
The gentle and rare dugong is the state animal of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These sea cows graze in the shallow seagrass beds near the islands.
7. Bioluminescent Beaches
On certain nights at Havelock’s beaches, you can see the sea glowing in the dark due to bioluminescent plankton which look like a starry sky in the water.
8. Ross Island- The Ghost Capital
Ross Island used to be a British administrative capital, that now lies abandoned, overtaken by roots and ruins, creating an eerie yet beautiful scene.
9. Home to Asia’s Best Beach
Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island has been named Asia’s best beach by Time magazine for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Among the many facts about Andaman, this recognition stands out for showcasing the islands’ unmatched natural beauty.
10. A Unique Two-Island Airport System
The Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair handles commercial flights, but Indian Air Force operations run on nearby Car Nicobar.
11. Only Place in India Where Coconut Crab Exists
The Nicobar Islands are home to the coconut crab that are the world’s largest land-living arthropod.
12. No Visa Required for Indian Citizens
Unlike other international tropical paradises, Indian citizens don’t need a visa or passport to visit here. You just need a valid ID and it is enough to explore this slice of heaven.
13. Andamanese Language Family is Endangered
Many of the tribal languages spoken here are critically endangered and have fewer than a dozen speakers left.
Among the lesser-known facts about Andaman is the alarming decline of these indigenous languages, which are an important part of the islands’ cultural heritage.
14. It’s Closer to Southeast Asia Than Mainland India
Geographically, the islands are closer to Myanmar and Thailand than to Chennai or Kolkata.
15. You Can See Coral Reefs Without Diving
Glass-bottom boat rides at places like North Bay and Jolly Buoy offer clear views of colorful coral reefs without getting wet.
16. Andaman Has Its Own Time Zone—Sort Of
While it follows IST (Indian Standard Time), locals often function by “island time,” with sunrise and sunset coming much earlier.
17. The Nicobar Megapode Builds Earth Mounds for Eggs
This rare bird species, found only here, lays eggs in mounds of earth and lets the tropical heat incubate them naturally.
18. A Tsunami Shaped Its Geography
The 2004 tsunami submerged several parts of the Nicobar Islands and changed their coastline forever.
19. No Railways, But Beautiful Roads and Ferries
There are no train services here, but you will find well-maintained roads, bike routes, and scenic ferry rides that makes transportation enjoyable.
20. Andaman Trunk Road is Controversial
This road cuts through tribal areas and has sparked debates over cultural interference and environmental impact.
21. Andaman Hosts Exotic Marine Life
From clownfish and manta rays to sea turtles and even reef sharks, the underwater biodiversity here is incredible.
22. The Nicobarese Follow Christianity and Tribal Traditions
A blend of indigenous customs and Christian faith makes Nicobar’s culture unique and harmonious.
23. Rainforest-Covered Peaks
Mountains like Saddle Peak (732 meters) are draped in tropical rainforest and offer amazing hikes with panoramic views.
24. It’s a Plastic-Free Zone in Many Places
Several islands like Jolly Buoy and Red Skin strictly ban plastic to protect marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
25. Perfect for Digital Detox
Many remote islands have limited network access, making them the perfect escape from noisy notifications and city chaos.
Conclusion
From ancient tribes and scenic beaches to volcanic islands and ghost towns, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are packed with stories that are as fascinating as they are beautiful. These 25 highlights only scratch the surface of what this archipelago has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or thrill seeker, these islands will amaze you in unexpected ways. So the next time someone asks you about tropical destinations, surprise them with these unique facts about Andaman and Nicobar, and maybe even plan your own journey to discover more of this.
