Andaman & Nicobar | National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd.

राष्ट्रीय राजमार्ग एवं अवसंरचना विकास निगम लिमिटेड

सड़क परिवहन और राजमार्ग मंत्रालय

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Geographical Location

Located in the Bay of Bengal, far from the eastern coast of mainland India, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands stand in striking solitude. This archipelago, is a breath-taking cluster of around 836 lush, forest-covered islands and islets. Rich in biodiversity, they are home to tropical evergreen forests, nourished by abundant rainfall and teeming with rare flora and fauna. The archipelago is about 8,200 sq km and is divided into two distinct groups: the Andaman Islands in the north and the Nicobar Islands to the south, separated by the 150 km wide Ten Degree Channel. Of the approximately 550 islands in the Andaman group, only 28 are inhabited. The Nicobar group consists of around 22 main islands, with 10 of them supporting human settlements. Steeped in history, these islands played a significant role during India’s freedom struggle. Sites like the infamous Cellular Jail, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, Viper Island, Mount Harriet, and Hopetown serve as reminders of that era.

Capital: Sri Vijaya Puram | Largest City:
Districts: 3 | Total Area: sq km

The Andaman Islands boast a lively tradition of handicrafts, shaped by their diverse cultural roots
and the natural bounty of the region. Local artisans skilfully transform materials like seashells,
driftwood, bamboo, and cane into beautiful creations. Intricately carved wooden pieces, delicate
shell ornaments, eco-friendly bamboo items, and hand woven fabrics showcase the islanders’
creativity and connection to their environment.
The Nicobarese culture is enriched with rhythmic dances, folk music, and artisanal crafts.
Their architecture is equally distinctive—homes are built on stilts and thatched with palm
leaves, designed to withstand the coastal climate and reflect centuries-old wisdom.

The culture of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a fascinating fusion of age-old indigenous
heritage and diverse settler influences, creating a rich and colourful societal fabric. What adds
an air of mystery to the Andaman Islands is the presence of ancient tribal communities who
have inhabited the region for thousands of years. These tribes—such as the Jarawa, Onge,
Sentinelese and Great Andamanese—live in deep harmony with nature, maintaining
traditional lifestyles that rely on hunting, gathering and fishing, untouched by modern
civilization.
Each tribe has its own language, rituals and way of life, deeply rooted in their ancestral
legacy. In contrast, the settler population, originating from various parts of mainland India,
brings in a medley of festivals, cuisines and customs, making the islands a vibrant cultural
mosaic.
In the Nicobar Islands, the Nicobarese and the Shompen represent the indigenous population.
The Nicobarese, in particular, are known for their tight-knit community life, where fishing
and farming are central to their everyday existence. Their coastal environment supports
traditional fishing methods, often involving handmade canoes, nets and generational
knowledge. Agricultural activities include the cultivation of coconut, banana, betel nut and
root vegetables.
While the Andaman Islands see more tourist activity, the Nicobars offer a glimpse into a
simpler, yet deeply rooted way of life that remains largely untouched and authentic.

The culinary scene in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a flavourful tapestry woven from
tribal traditions and the influence of settlers from mainland India. Being a coastal paradise,
seafood takes centre stage in most meals, with an abundance of freshly caught treasures from
the Bay of Bengal. One standout dish to try is curried prawns — a local favourite prepared
using fresh, juicy prawns and a rich blend of regional spices.
Tropical fruits also add a vibrant touch to the island’s food culture. From chilled coconut
water straight from the shell to tangy pineapple juice and other exotic fruit drinks, there's no
shortage of refreshing options for juice lovers.
Wander through the bustling local markets and street corners, and you’ll discover a lively
street food scene. Vendors dish out tempting bites like crispy fish cutlets, golden pakoras,
spiced fried fish, and an array of savoury snacks made using ingredients sourced from the
islands themselves.
Mainland Indian culinary influences are also evident, with popular dishes such as biryani,
dosa, idli and a variety of traditional breads making their way into everyday meals. This
fusion of local island flavours with Indian staples creates a unique and diverse gastronomic
experience that’s worth savouring.

Tourist Places

Cellular Jail

In the breath-taking expanse of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—where turquoise waters kiss golden shores—one might hardly expect to find a symbol of colonial anguish. Yet, rising solemnly amid this tropical paradise stands the infamous Cellular Jail, known grimly as Kala Pani, or "Black Water." Located in the heart of Sri Vijaya Puram, this three-storeyed prison, completed by the British in 1906, has since transformed into a sacred site—now a National Memorial honouring the spirit of India’s freedom fighters. Painted in the sombre hue of puce, its walls echo stories of untold suffering and relentless oppression. This massive structure bore silent witness to the brutalities inflicted upon countless convicts—many of them brave revolutionaries who dared to defy the British Raj. It was with the arrival of James Patterson Walker, the superintendent of the penal settlement that the darkest chapter began. Alongside him disembarked 200 shackled freedom fighters— the first group to challenge the might of the British crown. Forced to build the very prison that would become their tomb, they endured unimaginable torment. Many perished, never to see their homeland again—only holding onto the hope of a free India with their final breath. More than just brick and mortar, the Cellular Jail stands as a living reminder of sacrifice. It compels introspection, evokes deep emotion, and renews our gratitude for the freedom hardwon by those who paid the ultimate price.

Corbyn’s Cove Beach

Corbyn's Cove, located just a short drive from Sri Vijaya Puram, is a picturesque beach famed for its natural charm and tranquil ambiance. This serene, crescent-shaped shoreline is fringed with swaying coconut palms and lapped by crystal-clear blue waters. Its close proximity to the mysterious Snake Island adds to its allure. A favourite among tourists and locals alike, Corbyn’s Cove offers a relaxing escape for swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in thrilling water sports.