Offbeat things to do in Andaman

Andaman is mysterious and alluring. The pollution free, absolutely gorgeous seas around Andaman and Nicobar Islands make for a dream holiday for all Indians and scores of International travellers. Even if you are visiting this well-known Beach destination, there are some off-beat things, you can attempt to get the maximum thrill and satisfaction of doing some off-beat things on these remote islands that not too many people go for. These offbeat activities can provide a unique and immersive experience while you are vacationing in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These ventures allow you to appreciate the natural beauty and local culture of this remote but gorgeous archipelago.

Suggested Read: Travel tips for Andaman and Trekking in Andaman

Off-beat Things to Do in Neil Island

Explore the Natural Rock Formations of Neil Island, Andaman. Visit the Natural Bridge, also known as the Howrah Bridge, a natural rock formation that looks stunning during low tide.
Through an energetic bout of snorkelling and diving, you can discover the beauty of the vibrant marine life around Neil Island. Snorkelling and diving spots like Laxmanpur Beach and Bharatpur Beach offer clear waters and colourful coral reefs.
The lesser-known destination, Pione Island, is worth a visit because of its secluded beach experience and pristine coral reefs for snorkelling.
Neil Island is small enough to explore by bicycle. Simply, rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely ride through its quaint villages, lush greenery and scenic coastline.
Trek to Ramnagar Beach will enable you to meet a quieter and more secluded beach, Ramnagar Beach is ideal for a peaceful walk or trek, being less crowded.
Star Gazing is of utmost fun as the place has minimal light pollution. Find a quiet spot on the beach at night and enjoy the celestial views.
Explore the local eateries and taste authentic Andamanese cuisine. Engage with the friendly locals to learn more about their culture and way of life, which can be quite interesting.
Visit the organic farms of Neil Island to learn about sustainable agriculture practices and sample fresh produce right from the fields and trees.
Increase your excitement by fishing with local fishermen to indulge in the traditional way of fishing on their early morning outings.

Offbeat Things to Do in Havelock Island

Paddling through the serene mangroves on a guided mangrove kayaking tour around Havelock Island is one of the most adventurous things you can do while in Andaman on a vacation. It is a unique way to explore the island’s natural beauty and observe wildlife.
Night Kayaking under the magical influence of bioluminescence as you watch in awe the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton will make your Andaman trip memorable. The water lights up with tiny sparks, creating an unforgettable sight.
Scuba Diving at hidden sites that are not that popular such as Neil’s Cove and Dixon’s Pinnacle for unique underwater landscapes and marine life is tempting.
Instead of taking a boat, trekking through the forest to reach Elephant Beach is a wild option to try. The hike is a great way to experience the island’s lush forest cover.
Visiting local villages and spending time in local villages to learn about the culture and traditions of the islanders can be a unique experience to enjoy. Engage with locals and discover their way of life.
Explore the Underwater World with Sea Walking on the sea bed and interact with marine life without needing scuba diving certification.
Beach camping by setting up camp on one of the island’s quieter beaches to enjoy the serene atmosphere, starlit sky and the sound of waves can be thrilling.
Snorkelling at offbeat beaches such as Kalapathar Beach and Neil’s Cove for snorkelling will offer you with clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Rent a scooter for exploring the island’s hidden gems, scenic routes and lesser-known beaches at your own pace.
Fishing with locals for a traditional fishing experience is always a great way to understand the island’s fishing culture and enjoy fresh seafood.
Attending a cooking class to learn to cook traditional Andamanese dishes from local chefs is a fun and interactive way to spend your vacation day.
Relax with yoga and meditation retreats and get rejuvenated.

Offbeat Things to Do in Port Blair

Exploring the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park proves heavenly for bird watchers. The other name for Chidiya Tapu is Bird Island. Enjoy watching the immense variety of bird species and scenic views. Be a witness to gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.
Take a ferry to Ross Island and explore the remnants of British colonial architecture. The island’s historic ruins, engulfed by ancient trees and vines, offer a hauntingly beautiful experience.
Night Safari at Mount Harriet will offer an ultimate thrill where you can spot nocturnal wildlife. Explore the island’s unique biodiversity.
Attend a tribal dance performance to absorb the rich cultural heritage of the Andaman tribes. These events are often held at the Anthropological Museum or in local villages.
The Underwater Marine Museum or the Samudrika Marine Museum is also known as the Fisheries Museum. It highlights the marine life of the Andaman Sea. Become a part of the beguiling mysteries of the underwater ecosystems.
Gaze in wonder at the Japanese Bunkers that have been preserved till date all across the island. These bunkers date back to World War II and provide a deeper insight into the island’s wartime past.
Take a glass bottom boat ride to experience the underwater world without getting wet. These boats offer clear views of the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Scuba diving at North Bay Island offers a unique experience. The dive sites here are less crowded and offers a more peaceful and private underwater adventure.
Hike to Mundapahar Beach, near Chidiya Tapu, offers a beautiful and less frequented spot for relaxation. The hike to the beach provides scenic views of the coastline and dense forests.
Visit the Sippighat Agricultural Farm to explore and learn about the island’s agricultural practices. The farm grows a variety of spices, fruits and flowers, making it a fragrant and colourful visit.
Experience the Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show in the evening light and sound show is an offbeat way to experience the history of the site. The show narrates the stories of the freedom fighters imprisoned there.
Explore the Barren Island Volcano by setting off on an adventurous trip to Barren Island, India’s only active volcano. It offers a rare experience while you can’t set foot on the island, the boat tours provide a close and thrilling view of the volcano.

Offbeat Things to Do in North Bay Island

Underwater Sea Walking will give you the ultimate thrill of walking on the seabed with a helmet where you can get a clear view of the marine life and corals. It’s a unique way to explore underwater without the need for swimming or diving skills.
Snorkelling in secluded spots away from the popular areas that are often crowded, gives you a chance to explore the lesser-known snorkelling spots around the island. Discover the joy of observing the vibrant coral reefs and a variety of fish in blue and tranquil waters.
Glass Bottom Boat Ride is also there for those who prefer to stay dry. These boat rides offer a glimpse of the colourful marine life and corals beneath the clear waters.
Scuba diving for beginners and certified divers at North Bay offers the joy of exploring the deeper and more advanced sites of the coral reefs.
Jet skiing and other water sports give you the much coveted adrenaline rush of jet skiing or try other water sports like banana boat rides, speed boating, and parasailing.
Trekking to the Lighthouse will gift panoramic and peaceful views of the surrounding sea and islands. The trek offers a scenic journey that brings out the island’s natural beauty.
The passion for photography and videography with the serene settings of clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and picturesque scenery of North Bay Island will see a fresh lease of life. This island is a fantastic location for underwater photography and videography. Capture the stunning underwater world or the island’s surrounding coral reefs.
Relaxing on the beach while most of the tourists vie for an adventure out in the open seas is not a bad idea. Escape the crowds and find a quiet spot on the beach to relax. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, read a book or just soak the warm and beauty of the sun and sea.
Picnicking on the beach and having a hearty by the sea with the waves singing a sweet song and refreshing breeze blowing is indeed blissful. Some of the quieter areas of the island are perfect for a peaceful beach picnic away from the main bustling tourist zones.
Bird watching is a major activity that gives you a chance to enjoy the island’s rich natural environment that is a home to the various bird species. Invest some time to spot and observe the intriguing local birdlife.
Visit nearby islands in search of more adventure. Consider a day trip to nearby islands like Ross Island or Viper Island. These islands offer additional offbeat experiences, including historical sites and unique natural beauty.

Some Off-Beat Places in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Alfred Caves

Visiting Alfred Caves in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is akin to an adventure into the wild. The route will take you through a dense tropical rainforest to explore a series of limestone caves. The caves, located near Diglipur, are well known for their natural formations and massive bat population. The journey to the caves involves a trek through lush vegetation, often under the able guidance of a local expert. Overcome the challenges of harsh terrain and find thrill. Once inside, visitors can marvel at the fascinating stalactites and stalagmites or rock formations, and also observe the bats that inhabit the caves. The experience offers a thrilling and offbeat exploration of the island’s natural wonders, making it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The damp mysterious looking caves along with the dense population of fruit-eating bats make a perfect off-beat tourist experience in Andaman.

Avis Island

Avis Island is located near Mayabunder in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is a serene and not very explored destination. This island is known for its pristine beauty and tranquillity. The island presents clear turquoise waters, soft white sandy beaches and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway. Accessible by a short boat ride from Mayabunder, Avis Island is perfect for activities like beachcombing, picnicking and relaxing amidst nature. Its untouched environment offers a refreshing escape from the more crowded tourist spots, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural splendour and solitude of this hidden destination in Andaman. Go for a day-long picnic or a trip with proper arrangements of food and water and as you walk around on the seafront watch the untouched beauty of the vibrant ocean life under the shimmering clear waters all around you. Feel enchanted with all the fishes swimming all around.

Panchvati Waterfalls

Panchvati Waterfalls, located near Rangat in the Middle Andaman Islands, is a hidden gem that offers a serene and picturesque escape into nature. The waterfalls are surrounded by lush greenery and dense forests, providing a tranquil setting for visitors. To reach the falls, you have to trek through the verdant landscape, which adds a sense of adventure. The cascading waters create a refreshing pool at the base, perfect for a cool dip or simply relaxing by the rocks while listening to the soothing sound of the flowing water. The area around Panchvati Waterfalls is also ideal for picnics and nature walks, making it a wonderful spot for families, nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Andaman Islands away from the crowd.

Baratang Island

Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a captivating destination known for its natural wonders and diverse attractions. A visit to Baratang will take you through dense mangrove forests, leading to the mesmerizing limestone caves with their intricate formations. The island is also famous for its mud volcanoes, a rare geological phenomenon that adds to the island’s allure. Additionally, Baratang’s untouched beaches and vibrant wildlife provide a perfect setting for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Accessible by a scenic boat ride and road trip through the Andaman Trunk Road, which passes through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve, Baratang Island promises an offbeat and enriching travel experience. It is thus known for its mangrove forest, limestone caves and Mud Volcano.

Long Island

Long Island as a part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a serene and less-explored destination known for its unspoiled natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. The island features pristine beaches, dense tropical forests and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Key attractions include Lalaji Bay Beach, a stunning stretch of sand accessible by a short boat ride or a trek through the forest, and the beautiful mangrove-lined creeks perfect for kayaking. Long Island also offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The island’s relaxed vibe, minimal tourist infrastructure and close-knit community provide a unique and peaceful escape from the more crowded parts of the Andaman Islands. From Middle Andaman, you can reach here from Rangat by taking a Government ferry or by hiring a private charter. Long Island is among the remotest in Andaman. Some of the wondrous coastlines surrounding Long Island are Guitar Island, Merk Bay Beach and Lalaji Bay Beach.

Rangat

Rangat is located in the Middle Andaman Island. It is a charming destination known for its natural beauty and eco-tourism opportunities. It offers a mix of pristine beaches, lush mangroves and scenic waterfalls. Visitors can explore the unique flora and fauna at Dhani Nala Mangrove Walkway, a long wooden pathway that winds through dense mangrove forests leading to a serene beach. The Amkunj Beach, with its eco-friendly amenities and tranquil surroundings, is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Another highlight is the Yerrata Mangrove Park and the nearby Yerrata Creek, where you can learn about the diverse mangrove ecosystem. Additionally, Rangat is a gateway to exploring the nearby Panchavati Hills, which feature beautiful trekking trails and cascading waterfalls. The combination of natural attractions and peaceful ambience makes Rangat a wonderful offbeat destination in the Andaman Islands.

Diglipur

Diglipur is situated in North Andaman Island. It is a captivating destination famous for its natural wonders and adventurous activities. The town is home to the highest peak in the Andaman Islands, Saddle Peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Another highlight is the Ross and Smith Islands, twin islands connected by a natural sandbar, providing a unique and picturesque beach experience. Kalipur Beach is known for its turtle nesting grounds, where visitors can witness the nesting and hatching of turtles during the season is indeed an off-beat experience. Additionally, Diglipur is famous for the Alfred Caves, a network of limestone caves that provide a thrilling exploration opportunity through dense forests. The Ram Nagar Beach and the nearby mud volcanoes are also noteworthy attractions, showcasing the geological diversity of the region. Diglipur’s unspoiled beaches, rich biodiversity and adventurous trekking routes make it an ideal destination for those seeking to explore the lesser-known gems of the Andaman Islands.

Conclusion

These offbeat destinations of Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer unique experiences that set them apart from more traditional, crowded tourist spots. They give authentic experiences of less crowded places that have untouched natural beauty, unique attractions, adventure opportunities, privacy and intimacy.