Surreal Beauty of Andaman As a Major Tourist Attraction
The Andaman Islands are a breathtaking tropical paradise, famed in the game of travel and tourism. Most of its stellar gorgeousness comes out of its stunning natural beauty, a perfect orchestrated magic or sand and sea. With their pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green forests, these remote islands offer a serene escape into nature. The vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life make it a haven for divers and snorkelers, while the tranquil lagoons and secluded coves provide perfect spots for relaxation. The untouched wilderness and rich biodiversity, combined with the unique charm of the indigenous cultures, make the Andaman Islands a truly enchanting destination. The mystery and the magnetism of these islands are human beyond imagination. The beauty is to be felt
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Aves Island, Andaman: A Charming Vacation Destination
Aves Island: Location
Aves Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India in the Bay of Bengal. Specifically, it lies in the North Andaman region, close to the more popular destinations such as Diglipur and Ross & Smith Islands. The island is an integral part of the larger archipelago that is known for its pristine natural beauty and rich biodiversity.
Aves Island: Obscure History
Aves Island is quite remote and lesser known to people. It does not have a particularly detailed recorded history due to its small size and uninhabited nature. Historically, it has remained largely untouched by human activity, which has helped preserve its natural environment. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as a whole, have a history dating back thousands of years, with indigenous tribes such as the Great Andamanese, Onges and Jarawas inhabiting the islands long before colonial powers arrived. Aves Island, however, has remained relatively obscure, serving more as a site of natural beauty rather than historical events. The remoteness of the island makes it even more alluring and attractive to visitors and travellers.
Beauty of Aves Island
Aves Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by dense tropical forests, clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. The island is a haven for birdwatchers, as it is home to a variety of avian species. This fact does complete justice to the island which is fitting given its name Aves, meaning ‘birds’ derived from Latin. The lush greenery and untouched landscape make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude in a pristine environment. The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkelling and diving, offering a glimpse into the rich marine life that thrives in the coral reefs around the island. The island’s remote location and lack of human habitation add to its charm, providing a sense of unspoiled wilderness.
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Aves Island: Accessibility
Aves Island is a coveted tourist destination and since it is a remote island, it can be approached only via waterway. It requires special permission from the local authorities, as the area is protected to preserve its natural ecosystem. Visitors typically reach Aves Island via boat from Diglipur or other nearby islands. The journey itself offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the vast expanse of the Bay of Bengal.
Aves Island: Ecological Significance
While Aves Island may not be as well-known as other islands in the Andaman archipelago, it holds significant ecological importance due to its unspoiled environment and the biodiversity it supports. The island is a critical habitat for both terrestrial and marine species, and its conservation is vital for maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
Places to Stay in Aves Island
Aves Island, being a small and uninhabited island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, does not have accommodations or places to stay. Visitors typically explore the island on a day trip and return to nearby islands or the mainland for lodging. The nearest accommodations can be found in Diglipur, the largest town in North Andaman, which offers a range of options from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For those seeking more luxurious stays, nearby Ross & Smith Islands also have some options for eco-friendly resorts and beachfront lodgings. Visitors to Aves Island often combine their visit with stays in these nearby locations to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while having access to comfortable amenities.
Suggested Read : Andaman beaches
Places to Stay in Diglipur
1. Pristine Beach Resort: Kalipur Beach, Diglipur
Pristine Beach Resort is an eco-friendly resort which is located near Kalipur Beach. It offers rustic cottages surrounded by lush greenery on all sides. It provides a peaceful environment with easy access to nearby attractions like Saddle Peak and Ross & Smith Islands. The resort offers basic amenities, including a restaurant serving local cuisine, and is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to explore the natural beauty of Diglipur.
2. Turtle Resort: Kalipur, Diglipur
Most of the stay options in this island are basic facilities. Managed by the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Forest and Plantation Development Corporation, Turtle Resort is a government-run property located near the famous Kalipur Beach, which is famously known for turtle nesting. The resort offers comfortable rooms and basic facilities, making it a good choice for budget travellers who want to explore the area’s natural attractions.
3. Saddle Peak View Resort: Diglipur
Located close to the base of the favourite tourist spot Saddle Peak, which is the highest point in the Andaman Islands, this resort provides stunning views and is close to some of the popular trekking trails. The resort offers simple but clean rooms and is a suitable option as a base for adventurers and trekkers attempting to explore this picturesque location.
4. Diglipur Eco Village: Diglipur
Diglipur Eco Village is an eco-friendly stay option that focuses on sustainable tourism. The resort offers basic but comfortable lodging in a peaceful setting. This option is perfect for people who want to experience the natural beauty of Diglipur while being conscious not to disturb the surrounding ecosystem much. This would be a gleeful contribution to minimize the environmental impact.
5. Aerial Bay Eco Resort: Near Aerial Bay Jetty, Diglipur
Close to the jetty where boats depart for Ross & Smith Islands, Aerial Bay Eco Resort offers comfortable and eco-friendly accommodations. The resort focuses on sustainable practices and provides guests with basic amenities, making it a convenient base for exploring the nearby islands.
2. SeaShell Beach Resort, Kalipur: Kalipur, Diglipur
This is a beachfront resort which is its special attraction. It offers more upscale accommodations with well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant and direct access to the beach. It is located a bit further from the Ross & Smith Islands, and provides a more luxurious stay with beautiful surroundings.
3. APWD Guesthouse: Diglipur
The Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) runs this guesthouse, which offers basic but affordable accommodation. It’s a good option for budget travellers and those looking to be centrally located for easy access to both Diglipur and the surrounding attractions.
4. Green Valley Resort: Kalipur Beach, Diglipur
A budget-friendly resort near Kalipur Beach, Green Valley offers basic cottages with essential amenities. It’s well-suited for travellers looking for an affordable and comfortable stay close to nature and within reach of Ross & Smith Islands.
Tip for a Hassle-free Stay
It is important to book accommodations in advance. Especially during peak tourist seasons, lodging options in these remote areas can be a veritable challenge with not too many options. These resorts offer facilities that are more basic compared to those in the more tourist friendly and developed areas. But these simple resorts offer a unique opportunity to be one with nature and to feel and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty of the pristine sea and sand all around uninterrupted and ensconced in heavenly tranquillity.
Best Time to Visit Aves Island
The best time to visit Aves Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, calm seas and temperatures ranging between 23°C and 30°C. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkelling, diving or enjoying the island’s natural beauty. The dry season brings minimal rainfall, ensuring that your visit is not disrupted by tropical downpours. The humidity is also lower, making it more comfortable for travellers. The sea is calm during these months, and is thus perfect for boat trips around the seas surrounding Aves Island. Calm waters also facilitate the visibility for underwater activities, allowing you to fully enjoy the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The favourable weather conditions make it easier and safer to travel to Aves Island, which is covered by boat trips from the nearby islands like Diglipur.
The monsoon season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, making travel more challenging and less enjoyable. The island’s remote location and the potential for unpredictable weather during this time make it less advisable to visit. Thus by planning your trip between November and April, you can experience Aves Island at its best, with ideal conditions for exploring its pristine environment and enjoying the surrounding marine life.
Conclusion
Aves Island is a hidden gem in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, offering untouched natural beauty, rich biodiversity and a sense of serenity that is hard to find in more commercialized destinations. Its remote location and protected status make it a unique spot for those looking to experience the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Andaman Islands.
