ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLANDS
572 Islands 4.3 Lakhs Population 8249 Sq Km. Area 6 Indigenous Tribes
Necklace of Pearls in the Bay of Bengal
“Where the sea sings ancient ballads, and every island holds a story
written long before history found its’ pen.”
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are not just a destination—they are a living chronicle of time, isolation, resilience, and breathtaking natural beauty. Floating like emerald jewels in the Bay of Bengal, this archipelago of over 500 islands tells a story that is as ancient as humanity itself and as vibrant as the coral reefs that surround it.
A Journey Through Time: History of the Islands
Ancient Origins and Indigenous Legacy
Long before maps were drawn and empires rose, these islands were home to some of the oldest surviving human communities on Earth. Archaeological and genetic evidence suggests human presence here dating back thousands of years, with some tribes possibly isolated for over 30,000 years.
The islands are still inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Great Andamanese, Jarawa, Onge, Sentinelese, Nicobarese, and Shompen—each with their own language, customs, and deeply rooted connection to nature.
Colonial Shadows and the Freedom Struggle
The arrival of Europeans changed everything. The Danish first colonized parts of the islands in the 18th century, but it was the British who left the deepest imprint.
The islands became infamous as a penal settlement, where Indian freedom fighters were exiled to the dreaded Cellular Jail.
Known as “Kala Pani”, it symbolized suffering, resistance, and sacrifice. Many revolutionaries endured brutal conditions here during India’s freedom struggle.
During World War II, the islands were occupied by Japan before eventually becoming part of independent India in 1950.
Culture — Confluence of Colours
The culture of these islands is as layered as the coral reefs beneath their waters. You will find a Bengali grandmother making hilsa curry next to a Tamil fisherman preparing Chettinad spices, both watching the same turquoise sunset. Festivals like Island Tourism Festival, Subhash Mela, and Pongal are celebrated with equal gusto.
CUISINE
Fresh seafood dominates — crab, lobster, fish curries made with coconut milk. Bengali, Tamil, and Telugu flavours blend into a distinct island cuisine.
CRAFTS
Shell craft, wood carving, and cane & bamboo products. The Nicobarese create beautiful tribal artefacts from natural materials.