Subhasis Banerjee

ANDAMAN ISLANDS Stretching along the southern expanse of the Bay of Bengal, the emerald archipelago of Andaman and Nicobar Islands appear like a string of pearls amidst an azure environment. This isolated chain of 570 undulating islands of more than 8,249 sq km enjoy a tropical humid climate with intermittent showers and is home to three of the oldest tribes of Homo-sapiens in the world – Jarwa, Sentinel and Onge. Existing in isolation, their dwindling population still eke out of primitive living in the densely forested islands of exotic birds and indigenous flora. Out of the 2000 variety of plants found in these islands, 221 are not found anywhere else on earth. Andaman is an ideal destination for those who are inclined to take a bit of sun and wind and enjoy a laid-back holiday amidst the silver-sandy beaches and creeks spread over the meandering coastline, offering an excellent variety of water sports. Port Blair is the capital of this union territory and has a bleak historic pa...

NORTH RIFF ISLAND This sanctuary is situated near Mayabandar in the Andaman archipelago and is home to some rare species of birds such as Andaman Teal and Nicobar Pigeon. The spectacularly coloured coral islands scattered around this island sanctuary on the sapphire sea are an added attraction. Accessibility : A 30kms boat ride from Mayabandar reaches the sanctuary. Accommodation : There is no accommodation inside the sanctuary. Visitors have to stay in the Government Guest House at Mayabandar. Season : November to March.

MIDDLE BUTTON Founded in 1979 AD, this National Park is famous as a Dolphin, Dugong and Water Monitor Lizard reserve. Encompassed by the sea on all sides, this Park with a few rocky islands along with its azure surroundings hosts a number of other reptiles and aquatic fauna. The park will be a fascinating experience for those with a fetish for adventure. Accessibility : The sanctuary, which is 65kms away into the sea from Long Island, can be reached by boat. Accommodation : There is no available accommodation inside this sanctuary as well. Forest Rest House at Long Island is the only available accommodation. Season : October to March.

ANDAMAN ISLANDS Stretching along the southern expanse of the Bay of Bengal, the emerald archipelago of Andaman and Nicobar Islands appear like a string of pearls amidst an azure environment. This isolated chain of 570 undulating islands of more than 8,249 sq kms enjoy a tropical humid climate with intermittent showers and is home to three of the oldest tribes of Homo-sapiens in the world – Jarwa, Sentinel and Onge. Existing in isolation, their dwindling population still eke out of primitive living in the densely forested islands of exotic birds and indigenous flora. Out of the 2000 variety of plants found in these islands, 221 are not found anywhere else on earth. Andaman is an ideal destination for those who are inclined to take a bit of sun and wind and enjoy a laid-back holiday amidst the silver-sandy beaches and creeks spread over the meandering coastline, offering an excellent variety of water sports. Port Blair is the capital of this union territory and has a bleak historic p...