The glamorous and lively city streets will eventually turn out to
be dull and boring due to a life controlled by routines and stress. Then
the only thing that circulates through your mind would be the word
'break'. Many of us are at that point in life where we need a break from
the busy schedule of work life. Well, that what I did. Took a break. I
took a few days off from my busy life in Kolkata and traveled down to
one of my dream destinations, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and struck it
off from my bucket list. I have always been bedazzled by the silvery
sands and the turquoise water of Andaman. I could think of nothing else
but this beautiful destination for the last few months and finally
decided to fly down to gorgeous archipelago of islands. Luckily for me,
one of the popular travel planners Andaman Tour Travels had been offering direct tour packages to Andaman from Kolkata,
my hometown. I booked the package and in a few days traveled down to
Andaman. I was mesmerized by the immense beauty that surrounded the
place. Luscious vegetation, shimmering white sands, deep blue waters,
coral reefs, a large variety of flora and fauna, the place is blessed
with a unique beauty. I just couldn't take my eyes off such charm and
grace. My guide who as also a native explained to me in detail the specialties and stories behind every destination. I also got the
wonderful opportunity to go scuba diving in the famous Elephant Beach
and the experience was fabulous. Scuba diving among st the thriving
marine life reminded me of the animated film 'The Little Mermaid'. I
never thought such beauty existed in real life. We definitely need to
take a moment to thank God for blessing us with his creativity. I could
go on and on about Andaman and its beauty and I think I should stop
rambling now. Instead, I will help you make the most out of your holiday
to Andaman( if you are planning one soon). Some of us may get only a
few days off from work. Well, we all know that covering up all the
tourist destinations within a few days is simply not possible. To make
things simpler, I have listed out three of the best destinations in
Andaman and Nicobar Islands that should be included in your itinerary.
Cellular
Jail: Cellular Jail is undoubtedly one of the best attractions in
Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The jail houses some of the darkest stories
of British tyranny and the poignant tales of the freedom fighters who
sacrificed their lives for the country's independence. The cellular jail
often called Kaala Pani was a large building that consisted of prison
cells to house the prisoners, who were the freedom fighters of India.
Today, it stands as a memorial to the erstwhile freedom fighters of
India. The Cellular Jail was constructed in the early 20th century,
reportedly from 1886 -1906. The jail is located in the capital city of
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair. The Cellular Jail is open to
the public on all days except Mondays from 9:00 am to 5:00 Pm. Do make
sure that you don't make plans to visit the jail on a public holiday as
it remains closed on such days. The main attractive feature about the
monument is definitely the Light and Sound Show. The show which attracts
thousands of visitors depicts the life of freedom struggles in the
Cellular Jail or Kaalapani. Do make it a point to tour the Cellular Jail
while in Andaman.
Radhanagar Beach: Renowned
for its deep turquoise waters and white glistening sands, Radhanagar
Beach is considered one of the best beaches in the entire world.
Radhanagar Beach was given the title of the 'Best beach In Asia' by the
famous Time Magazine. Millions of tourists, both domestic and foreign
visit the beach situated in the Havelock Island. The beach is maintained
in the most admirable way. You won't find even a speck of dirt on this
beautiful beach, it is that clean. You can take your children to the
beach without a single worry in your mind. It is as safe for the
children as it is clean. There are lifeguards present on the beach to
help any tourist in need. The turquoise water is home to a thriving
aquatic life which makes Radhanagar a great spot for snorkelling, scuba
diving, parasailing, glass bottom boat rides etc. Of all these scuba
diving gives you an impeccable experience underneath the expanse of
turquoise blue. No tour to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is complete
without visiting Radhangar Beach. So, make sure you include this
ravishing beach in your tour itinerary for a wonderful experience to be
cherished for a lifetime.
Neil Island: Neil
Island is clearly one of the three best islands in Andaman and Nicobar
Islands. Its popularity has soared sky high within a few decades.
Tourists are flooding into the island and according to the tourist
guides, Neil Island is the next thing the travellers ask them to show
after visiting Havelock Island. Due to such popularity travel operators
have started including the Island in all their tour packages to Andaman and Nicobar
Islands. Often called the 'Vegetable Bowl of Andaman, Neil Island is
one of the most serene islands in the archipelago, which remains
untouched by the hustle and bustle of city life. Neil Island is located
to the south of Andaman and is a hub of lush green vegetation, tranquil
beaches, a thriving marine life and colourful coral reefs. Due to such
features, Neil Island is perfect for tourist activities like cycling,
scuba diving, swimming and snorkelling etc. Neil Island is so tiny that
you can explore it in two hours. The most popular tourist spots in Neil
Island is Neil Kendra which houses the famous Bharatpur Beach to its
left and Laxmanpur Beach to its right. Neil Island has definitely got a
spot in the must-visit places of Andaman and Nicobar Islands'.