How Safe Is Andaman And Nicobar Islands?

Blue waters, powdery white sand, and lush greenery, Andaman is an epitome of beauty and tranquillity. It is the ideal gateway for travelers who want to embrace solitude amidst a tropical paradise. No wonder, a holiday in Andaman Island is a blend of relaxation, adventure, delicious food, and island-shopping.

Although the island is a part of the Indian subcontinent, travelers are often unsure when it comes to safety. It is important to know that with the increasing tourist influx, the government is doing its best to ensure the safety and security of each of the travelers visiting this region.

Ray Hill, Andaman

Also, the locals are friendly and it is very safe to be on the roads. Even if you are a solo female traveller, you can roam around Andaman with ease.

How To Reach Andaman

By Air

The best way to reach Andaman is to hop on a flight to Port Blair, the capital city. It has good connectivity to prominent Indian cities namely Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai and Delhi.

By Sea

Ship sails three to four times a month from Kolkata, Chennai and Vizag. The journey time is around seventy hours and it is often tedious to travel with kids.

Andaman Travel Guide

Restricted Areas And Islands

The Nicobar Islands, as well as some of the islands in Andaman, are not open to tourists. These islands belong to the tribal communities and the Indian Government is trying its best to not disturb their way of life. It is a way of protecting the indigenous people. Also, it is not considered safe for tourists to explore these places. If tourists do not obey the orders, they are often fined or imprisoned.

Also Read: Top Things to do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Avoid Planning A Trip During Monsoon

The best time to soak up the charm of the Andaman Islands is in the winter months from October to February. For a hassle-free experience, you must avoid planning a trip in the monsoons. Not only you have to carry a rain jacket everywhere you go but also ferries get cancelled due to the harsh weather conditions resulting in unnecessary delays.

Besides, some of the water activities are closed during this time of the year. However, the only advantage is that the island is not crowded and there are discounts on flights and accommodations.

Get Complete Info : Best Time to Visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Water Activities

Apart from sightseeing, water activities are one of the many highlights of Andaman. The island is brimming with marine life and watching them in their natural habitat is sheer bliss. Sea walking and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities.

Snorkelling Andaman
Marine Life

Other activities include jet-skiing, speed boat rides, snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides and many more. All water sports are performed under expert supervision. Hence, taking part in these activities is extremely safe.

Glass Bottom Boat
Glass Bottom Boat

Also Read : List of Water Sports Activities in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Safety Measures For Your Andaman Holiday

  • Do not enter the tribal zones.
  • Do not take pictures of the tribal people or interact with them. It is a punishable offense.
  • Do not camp or light a bonfire on the beaches.
  • Throwing plastic bottles and bags are strictly prohibited in some of the islands.
  • Get necessary permits for exploring certain places.
  • Wear life jackets especially when your trip involve boat rides.
  • Swimming in the sea during monsoon is strictly prohibited.
  • Collecting shells and carrying them back home is a punishable offence.

Also Read : 10 Best Unexplored Islands In India

Highlights

  • There are several health care centers on the island.
  • Professional safety standards are maintained when it comes to adventure activities.
  • The crime rate on the island is extremely low.
  • The people are cooperative and help tourists in case of emergency.

Must Read: Top 20 Places You Must Visit In Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman Travel Checklist

1. Check The Latest Weather Update

As Andaman is an island destination, the weather is often unpredictable. Also, weather changes can have a great impact on your holiday. Hence, it is necessary to check the latest weather report before planning a trip. Also, check out the timings and local restrictions for each of the islands that you are planning to visit. For example, Jolly Buoy Island is only open for six months in a year.

2. Keep Your Belongings In The Hotel

As most of your Andaman holiday will involve pristine beaches, you must keep your valuables in the hotel before coming to the beach. If you want to take part in water sports, carry a little cash and only carry the items that you need.

3. Choose An Expert Tour Guide

A lot depends on who is planning the trip for you. An expert tour guide can provide you with all the information that you need so that you have an eventful journey.

4. Emergency Contact

Keep a hard copy of an emergency contact number. This can be helpful in case your mobile phone is lost. Also, keep a list of all the helpline numbers before travelling. This will come as a savior in case you have an emergency.

With a very low crime rate, Andaman is extremely safe and peaceful. Also, there have been no reports of communal violence. Tourist's best time visiting the Andaman Islands have never faced any kind of safety issue. If you have any questions regarding Andaman safety, you can always reach us. We would love to address your queries.