Middle Andaman Island

Middle Andaman Island, considered the central island and significant part of Andaman Islands is extended to stretch of 1536 sq kms. The population of this island consists of Keralite, Tamil and Bengali settlers. This island is abode to numerous indigenous Jarawa inhabitants, while agriculture and farming are considered to be main occupation.

The island is separated respectively by Austen Strait from North Andaman and by Hamfray’s Strait from Baratang Island. Middle Andaman Island has coastline which was devastated by tsunami in 2004. Though it is said that the impact was very less yet it was severe when compared to other islands. Some popular main towns on this island are the northern town Mayabunder, Betapur, Bakultata, Kadamtala, Billiground and Rangat.

Ferry

To avail the ferry services in Middle Andaman Island, one should be first prepared to face the rough weather of the sea which might turn up any time. You should be patient and a nature lover to ride in ferry. You can obtain ferry services from Port Blair, where the tickets should be booked one day before the ride.

Ferries at times are very comfortable but at times these can be inconvenient too. There can be plastic or wooden seats or leather ones. The ferry takes 6-7 hours to reach the destination and it might stretch more if the sea is rough.

Accommodation

Middle Andaman Island has few but comfortable accommodation alternatives which are frequently opted for, by the tourists. The island has premium, budgeted, luxury hotels and resorts. There are government administered lodges and guest houses too which you can book in advance to have comfortable and convenient stay. Some of the popular hotels here are: Hotel Priya International – Based in Rangat, this hotel has 20 rooms in 4 distinguished categories. The hotel has such impeccable location that it makes the tourists stay here for longer time to relax. Dew Dale Resort – Based in Sundergarh Village, this island offers the best amenities as compared to other hotels and resorts on the island. From free parking to free breakfast, the resort has best for its customers.

Events / Festivals in Middle Andaman Island

Apart from being a multi ethnic state, the island celebrates different festivals with excitement and enthusiasm. Numerous fairs and festivals are organized in the city that pulls thousands of tourists round the year. Infact Middle Andaman is also called “Mini India”. Some of the popular festivals celebrated here include Durga Puja, Diwali, Holi, Janamashtmi, Pongal, Christmas and Onam. Other popular festivals celebrated by natives here are: Island Tourism Festival – One of the largest festivals which includes yearly event. This festival promotes tourism at the island. Held over 10 days in December and January, this festival is loved by people from different walks of life. People come here to enjoy dance, music, delicious food and shopping. Beach Festival – One of the popular events of this island, this festival includes different beach sports like Kabaddi, Tug of War, beach volley ball and other water based activities. There are fun activities, entertainment programs and delicious food. Other festivals include Music & Monsoon Festival, Film Festival and World Tourism Festival.

Places to Visit in Middle Andaman Island

Middle Andaman Island is well known for its exquisite location, waterfalls, beaches and natural beauty which are spell binding. Few tourist destinations on this island are: Rangat – This is the only destination which has private accommodation facility for group of 20 people. There is Amkunj Beach that has best snorkelling activity. The beach is perfect for swimming while the sand here is meant for people to come and relax on it. There is wildlife sanctuary too where you would find turtles all around. Mayabunder – Another place here, which has amenities along the roadside. There is Karmateng beach, forest and boat ride here which attracts people to visit this part of the island. Avis Islands – To the east of Mayabunder, there is a small island called Avis Island. One needs to have permissions set before visiting this island. Interview Island – Perfect abode to the wild elephants, this island has a safeguarded forest now. You can infact come for an overnight stay too, however you need to visit through private boat. Barren Island – To the east of Middle Andaman, there is Barren Island which has active volcanoes that once caused destruction to the ecosystem here.

Climate of Middle Andaman Island

Middle Andaman Islands has tropical kind of weather which means that it faces extreme summers and winters. The island gets adequate rainfall which varies on its different regions. There might be irregular rains at times. The sea breeze makes evenings round the year very soothing and stunning.

Best Time to Visit Middle Andaman Island

Ideal time to visit Middle Andaman Islands is from November to April when the weather is soothing and pleasant.

How to Reach Middle Andaman Island

Middle Andaman Island can be reached via flight or inter land ferry/ship. There are regular flights that operate from Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata for Port Blair. From this place you can take ferry and reach the destination.