Andaman Tourism

About Andaman Tourism

Located in the Bay of Bengal, North Bay Island stands out as a captivating destination within the Andaman & Nicobar Islands archipelago, boasting 572 picturesque isles. As a Union Territory of India, this region is celebrated for its pristine white beaches and the mesmerizing turquoise waters that enchant every visitor. North Bay Island, often referred to as the Coral Island, is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, particularly its magnificent coral reefs and the rich marine life that thrives beneath its waters. These coral reefs are among the island's most cherished treasures and serve as a primary draw for tourists seeking unforgettable underwater experiences.

The island's main allure lies in its array of water sports activities, offering enthusiasts opportunities for exhilarating adventures. From scuba diving and snorkeling to glass bottom boat rides and dolphin excursions, there's no shortage of thrilling options to explore the vibrant marine ecosystem. Accessing North Bay Island is typically accomplished by boarding a sharing or charter boat from either the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex or the Junglighat Jetty, depending on the operational schedule. While tours often combine visits to North Bay Island with nearby Ross Island, travelers can also opt for a dedicated excursion to solely explore the wonders of North Bay Island by chartering their own boat.

History Of Andaman

The history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands remains cloaked in mystery, with limited documented records. Legend suggests that Marco Polo may have been among the earliest Western explorers to set foot on these remote islands. In the early 18th century, the Maratha Empire, led by the formidable admiral Kanhoji Angre, established a strategic base on the islands. From here, Angre launched audacious attacks on Portuguese, Dutch, and English merchant vessels navigating the waters of the East Indies. Despite concerted efforts by British and Portuguese naval forces, Angre remained undefeated until his demise in 1729. In 1789, the British East India Company established their initial settlement in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, only to abandon it in 1796. Following the Great Indian Mutiny of 1857, control of India passed from the Company to the British Crown, leading to the formal annexation of the islands in the 19th century.

They were transformed into a dreaded penal colony for Indian freedom fighters, earning the infamous moniker "Kalapani" or "Black Waters." It was a common threat among parents to discipline misbehaving children by warning them of being sent to Kalapani. The construction of the notorious Cellular Jail was completed in 1908, where countless anti-British activists faced brutal torture and execution. During the Second World War, Japanese forces occupied the islands, prompting local tribes to launch guerrilla warfare to resist their presence. Following India's independence in 1947, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were integrated into the newly formed Indian Union, marking the end of colonial rule and the beginning of a new chapter in their history.