Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar chain lies far closer to Myanmar and Sumatra than to mainland India, which explains both the reefs and the isolation. Port Blair is the entry point, and the Cellular Jail, completed in 1906 with seven radiating wings, is the reason many Indians come: the sound and light show in the courtyard recounts the transportation of political prisoners to the kala pani. From there, ferries run to Swaraj Dweep, formerly Havelock, where Radhanagar beach faces west for sunsets and the dive sites off Elephant Beach and Dixon's Pinnacle draw divers all season; and to Shaheed Dweep, formerly Neil, with its natural coral bridge and quieter shore. Baratang has limestone caves reached through mangrove creeks and a mud volcano. Diglipur in the north holds Saddle Peak, the archipelago's high point at 732 metres, and the twin islands of Ross and Smith joined by a sandbar. Barren Island is India's only active volcano. The Nicobars remain closed to visitors. Signature journeys combine Port Blair, Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep.