Andaman Nicobar

Quick Facts & Information About Andaman Nicobar

Region

Indian Union Territory

Establishment Year

November 1, 1956 (as a Union Territory)

Capital City

Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly known as Port Blair; renamed in September 2024).

Major Towns & Islands

Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), Diglipur, Mayabunder, Rangat, Baratang, Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), Little Andaman (Little Andaman Island) and Car Nicobar.

Climate

Tropical maritime climate, characterised by warm temperatures, high humidity and abundant rainfall. The islands experience a monsoon season, with refreshing sea breezes throughout the year.

Famous Festivals

Island Tourism Festival, Block Mela, Subhash Mela, Monsoon Festival, Beach Festival, Durga Puja, Christmas and the Nicobari community's traditional festivals.

Unique Experiences

Scuba diving, snorkelling, sea walking, underwater marine exploration, glass-bottom boat rides, kayaking through mangrove creeks, witnessing bioluminescence, visiting limestone caves, exploring tropical rainforests and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Speciality

Renowned for their turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, rich marine biodiversity, tropical rainforests, fascinating tribal heritage and exceptional opportunities for water sports and island exploration.

Location

Situated in the Bay of Bengal, south-east of mainland India. The Andaman Islands lie towards the north, while the Nicobar Islands extend further south.

Area

Approximately 8,249 sq. km, comprising around 836 islands, islets and rocky outcrops, of which only a small proportion are inhabited.

Languages Spoken

Hindi and English are widely understood, while Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Nicobari languages are also spoken.

Key Attractions

Cellular Jail (National Memorial), Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Bharatpur Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep), North Bay Island, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.

Best Time to Visit

October to May is generally the best time to visit the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. During this period, it has pleasant weather, calmer seas and favourable conditions for sightseeing, beach activities, scuba diving and snorkelling.

Cuisine

Fresh seafood, fish curry, grilled fish, prawn masala, lobster, crab curry, coconut-based curries, fish fry, rice preparations, and Bengali-style fish dishes.

Economy

Driven by tourism, fisheries, agriculture, horticulture, coconut and arecanut cultivation, handicrafts, small-scale industries and government services.