Andaman and Nicobar Islands

For a true nature lover, Andaman and Nicobar Islands will definitely be heaven on earth. This Union territory of India which lies on the Bay of Bengal is known for its lush forests and unique wild as well as marine life. Although it is one of India's main Union territories, it is 1000 km away from the east coast of India. On the other hand, these islands are closer to South East Asia, especially Burma and Indonesia. If you are planning to travel to this part of India, it is crucial to know everything about these islands in detail.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Geography of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

This Union territory, which is together called Andaman and Nicobar islands, is actually divided into two islands, Andaman and Nicobar. The Andaman group of islands is situated north of 10 degree north latitude, whereas the Nicobar group of islands is situated south of 10 degree north latitude. The two islands are separated by the Ten Degree Channel which is 150 km wide.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, also called consists of 572 islands altogether, out of which only 38 islands are inhabited. The total area of these islands is 8,249 sq. km from north to south. 92% of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is covered with dense forests of different types. Almost half of the forest area is been preserved for Wildlife Sanctuaries, National Parks and also for Tribal Reserves. Apart from marine and wild life, these Islands are also known for its 150 species of plants and birds.

History of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The first documented archeological evidence of these islands goes back to 2, 200 years. Nevertheless, there have been isolated studies that talk about habitation in these islands since 30,000 to 60,000 years ago.

Presently, the Andaman Islands are inhabited by four tribal groups, namely the Great Andamanese, Jarawas, Sentinatese and Onges, all of which are of the Negrito origin. On the other hand, the Nicobar Islands consist only of two main tribes which are the Nicobares and the Shompens who belong to the Mongoloid stock.

These islands were first inhabited by British in 1789; however they abandoned the land in 1796. Nevertheless, later in 1858 they started using this land as a penal settlement for freedom fighters and criminals. Refugees from Burma, East Pakistan and Srilanka also later settled in this land. They were later joined by ex-servicemen. Hence, now you will find a diverse population in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Important Information about Andaman and Nicobar Islands

  • The language spoken in Andaman and Nicobar Islands include Hindi, Telugu, Bengali, Tamil, Malayalam, Nicobari and Punjabi.
  • One will also find people of different faiths including Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, etc. living in peace and harmony.
  • Unlike in rest of India, here you will not find any political or communal riots. Moreover, inter-regional and inter-religion marriages are also acceptable here.
  • As Andaman and Nicobar Islands have such an amazing cultural and racial mix, it is called Mini-India.

Tourism in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also known as eco friendly tourist's destination. Apart from exploring the silver sandy beaches, evergreen rainy forests and wealthy marine life, you can also indulge in different kinds of water and adventure sports.

Due to all these positive aspects about Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it is considered to be the hottest tourist spot in India. So if you are a nature lover, book your tickets, pack your bags and get ready for an adventurous and at the same time refreshing and relaxing experience of your life in this beautiful Union territory of India.