Andaman and Nicobar Islands are blessed with clear waters, beautiful coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. This guide will help you plan your dive trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, what to expect underwater, and where to find the best dive sites.
Location and Geography
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of about 572 islands in the Indian Ocean, located at the southern end of the Bay of Bengal. Only about 38 of these islands are inhabited. The Andaman Islands are home to the indigenous Andamanese people, while the Nicobar Islands are inhabited by the Nicobarese people.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 34 degrees Celsius. The rainy season lasts from May to October.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a number of interesting animals, including turtles, dolphins, and dugongs. The islands also have a rich birdlife, with over 150 species of birds being recorded on the islands.
History
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a long and rich history. The first settlers of the islands were the aboriginal Andamanese people, who are thought to have migrated from Africa some 60,000 years ago. The Andamanese were a nomadic people, living off the land and sea. They were skilled hunter-gatherers and expert boatbuilders.
The Andamanese were eventually joined by other groups of people, including the Malays, the Chinese and the Indians. These settlers brought with them their own culture and traditions, which have all helped to shape the unique culture of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands today.
The British first arrived in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in 1788, when they set up a penal colony on Chatham Island (now called Ross Island). The penal colony was used to house political prisoners and convicts from all over the British Empire. Many of these prisoners died due to the harsh conditions on the island, but some managed to escape and made their way to other parts of the islands.
Diving in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are one of the best places to go diving in India. The clear waters and rich marine life make for an amazing diving experience. There are many dive sites around the islands, so there is something for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, you will find plenty of great dives to explore.
Some of the best dive sites in Andaman and Nicobar Islands include Havelock Island, Neil Island, and North Bay Island. These three islands offer a variety of different dive sites, so you can find one that suits your level of experience. There are also many other dive sites around the islands, so be sure to ask your dive instructor for recommendations.
When diving in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, be sure to take caution as there are strong currents around the islands. Also, be aware of the wildlife as there are many dangerous creatures that live in the waters off the coast of India. But with a little bit of caution, you will have an amazing time diving in these beautiful islands.
What to See When Diving
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a world-renowned dive destination, offering scuba divers the chance to explore some of the most beautiful and varied underwater scenery in the world. The islands are home to an incredible array of marine life, from colourful corals and tropical fish, to rare and endangered species.
There are over 50 dive sites around Andaman and Nicobar Islands, so there is something to suit all levels of experience. For those who want to explore the shallower reefs, there are many sites that are suitable for beginner divers. more experienced divers can head out to deeper waters where they can see some of the more unusual creatures that live in these waters.
Some of the must-see sights when diving in Andaman and Nicobar Islands include:
-The Great Barrier Reef: This massive reef is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including turtles, sharks, rays, and thousands of different types of fish. It is also one of the most beautiful reefs in the world, with its spectacular colours and formations.
-The Blue Hole: This is a deep underwater sinkhole that is popular with experienced divers. It is surrounded by coral walls and is home to many different types of fish.
-Barracuda Point: This is a great spot for seeing barracudas, as well as other big fish such as tuna and mackerel.
-Shark Point: As the name suggests, this is a good place to see sharks! There are also many other types of fish to be seen here.
Best Times to Dive
The best time to dive in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is from November to May. The water temperature is around 27-29 degrees Celsius and the visibility is good. There are many Dive Centers and Resorts which offer various diving courses.
Dive Operators and Resorts
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer some of the best diving in the world, with crystal clear waters, an abundance of marine life, and a variety of dive sites to choose from.
There are many dive operators and resorts located on these islands, so it is easy to find one that suits your needs and budget. Be sure to do your research before booking, as not all dive operators are created equal.
Some of the more popular dive sites in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include Havelock Island, Neil Island, North Bay Island, and South Bay Island. These islands offer a variety of dives, from beginner to advanced.
Whether you’re looking to take a scuba diving course, rent equipment, or go on a guided tour, there’s an operator or resort that can accommodate your needs.
Safety Considerations
When diving in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards. The waters around these islands are home to some of the most venomous creatures in the world, including box jellyfish, stonefish, and sea snakes. In addition, the strong currents can make conditions very dangerous for even experienced divers.
Before diving in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, be sure to check with local dive shops and guides about the current conditions and any potential hazards. Be sure to heed all warnings and take all necessary safety precautions.
Additional Travel Information
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of over 600 islands in the Indian Ocean, lying just off the coast of India. The islands offer some of the best diving in the world, with clear waters, beautiful coral reefs and an abundance of marine life.
The Andaman Islands are home to the only live volcano in India, while the Nicobar Islands are home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, bird watching and fishing on these idyllic islands.
With so much to see and do, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a perfect destination for a dive vacation. Check out our travel guide for more information on planning your trip.
Conclusion
Diving in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an unforgettable experience. With crystal clear water and an abundance of marine life, it’s no wonder that this region is one of the most popular diving destinations in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for an unforgettable diving adventure.