There are a few places in the world where one can see nature unfolding its beauty at each step. The gorgeous rain forests, azure waters, unspoiled seascapes, colorful corals, and above all local culture, all this together makes Andaman and Nicobar a stunning destination. Located about 1,000 km away from the coast of eastern peninsular India, the Red Skin Island in the Bay of Bengal calls for a visit to every wanderlust. Among the many beautiful islands to visit in this archipelago, this island is the most frequented. The island is located in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National park in the village of Wandoor on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Best Time To Visit Red Skin Island
As stated earlier Red Skin Island is one among the 15 islands stranded inside the Mahatma Gandhi National Park. The park is located at a distance of 30 km from the capital city of Port Blair towards the southwestern coast of the archipelago. For traveling to the island one must acquire a permit from the forest department one day before the scheduled visit. The island remains closed on Mondays and tourists can access it only in the months between May-October. On average, the island remains open for 6 months a year during which night stays are strictly prohibited at every cost. Red Skin Island is a one day trip and thus possesses a handful of activities for the visitors.
Red Skin Island: Things To Do
One of the natural and charming aspects of the Red Skin Island is that it is soaked in the glory of diverse flora and fauna. The shallow waters help visitors explore the amazing sea life beneath and provide an aesthetic experience. Also making a perfect combination with the pristine environment is the overall time taken to reach the island which makes you believe in the concept of “Dream Destination”. Now let us take a look at the other activities which steal the show in this mesmerizing piece of land.
1. Snorkeling
It is one of the prime activities to do in Red Skin Island, taking the center stage in every way. The activity is usually carried out with the help of artificial fish fins and lets you take a closer glance at the brimming aquatic life beneath. Indulge in an experience like never before and go swimming with fishes to feel part of the marine ecosystems. The best part of this activity is unlike scuba diving you don’t need any prior training or swimming skills. Just put on the fins and get ready for this visual treat.
Ideal for: Adventure, Family, Friends.
Timing: 1 hour
Price: Starts from INR 550/person, INR 300-500 extra depending on the distance.
Must Read: 53 Best Places To Visit In Andaman For A Mesmerizing Holiday Experience!
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2. Glass Bottom Boat Ride
We know for a fact that there is practically no one who does not wish to get to the depth of the ocean. Getting to view the underwater kingdom e before the eyes are one of the major wishes that everyone secretly harbors. Well, your wish has higher chances to come true when you opt for the Glass Bottom Ride at the Red Skin Island. A powerful combination of thrill and curiosity this ride has till now won many accolades. The small boat can accommodate a few people at a time and has a glass floor beneath revealing the beauty lying at the expanse of the ocean. So tighten your seatbelts and enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity to venture into life in the sea without getting wet.
Ideal for: Adventure, Family, Friends.
Timing: 1 hour
Price: Starts from INR 1850 for 20 minutes, and INR 2600 depending on the distance.
Suggested Read: Snorkeling In Andaman Is All About Witnessing The Magical World Underwater
3. Scuba Diving
It is yet another activity to indulge in Red Skin Island, apart from the above-mentioned activity. The activity gives you ample opportunity to explore the sea world and see amazing coral up close is something that cannot be expressed in words. The island is home to the mesmerizing coral reefs along with a variety of fish that really fascinate travelers to lurk beneath the waters. For exploring the colorful underwater life one has to be certified first as well as accompanied by a guide. A must-try for everyone out there!
Ideal for: Adventure, Family, Friends.
Timing: 30 min-1 hour
Price: Starts from INR 3500 for 30 minutes.
Suggested Read: 8 Best Cruises To Andaman: Guide To Fares And Ferries From Kolkata, Chennai And Vizag!
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4. Sunbathing
The catchy setting with emerald waters is a win-win in all aspects. The island makes up as a perfect avenue to just chill and let’s one soak in views of the nearby ocean with the melting sand under your feet. With all this and more it makes up as the perfect venue to relax and let the sun take over your body while the serene ambiance captivates you.
Suggested Read: Karmatang Beach: A Guide To Know What To Do At This Turtle’s Paradise In Andaman
Tips To Follow Before Visiting Red Skin Island
- The island is off-limits on Mondays and is open on all other days throughout the week.
- While visiting the place one shall carry their own food and water as there is a dearth of eating kiosks on the island.
- Access to the island is strictly prohibited and can only be done after taking prior permission from the administration department at the Wandoor beach.
- Plastic containers are not to be carried to the island as the area is a plastic-free zone.
- If you find any shells or corals on the island before do not bring them back. If you wish to gather anything then take prior permission from the government.
- Carry the other essential things with you like sunscreen, clothes, insect-repellant with you.
- The ferries services depart at 9 am sharp so try to adhere to the timings and reach beforehand.
- Make sure you carry water in Milton jars or something similar to plastic is not welcomed.
- Night stay is not allowed, therefore, one has to come back to the mainland by the end of the day.
- Also, do not forget to carry govt ID proof like Driving License, Passport or Aadhar with you as it is required for the ferry tickets.
Suggested Read: Andaman In March: 15 Best Places To Visit For A Soothing Vacay
How To Reach
The best possible way to get to the Red Skin Island is to travel via road to the Wandoor beach. The beach lies 30 km away from the capital city of Port Blair and from there on one has to board a ferry ride to reach the island. Regular rides are available as the ferry service starts from 9 am in the morning. The return journey to the mainland starts from 2:30 pm onwards. Travelers accessing the road from the city of Port Blair to the village of Wandoor are welcomed by a lush green copse of vegetation that is a treat to the eyes.
Timings: Ferry service to the island starts from 9 am
Cost: Starts from INR 800 including permit charges.
Ticket Prices: The overall cost for the permit fee is INR 50 for adults and INR 25 for children and INR 500 is for foreigners.
Further Read: Kayaking In Andaman: 4 Places For Sailing Through The Serene Blue Ocean
Now that you know what lies in store for you ahead all that is left is visiting the Red Skin Island and see its scenic beauty in real life. Lovely views of the ocean near the island when combined together with the skyline above makes it a dream destination to uncover. To feel the magic within the entwined landscapes plan a trip to Andaman now and get ready to fall in love with this hidden beauty that lies nestled there.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Red Skin Island
How do you get the permit for the Red Skin Islands?
To get the permit for the Red Skin Islands, one has to visit the tourism department at the Wandoor village. The required documents will be a Govt Id Proof.
What are some of the activities to do in Red Skin Islands?
One can indulge in a handful of activities like Snorkelling, Scuba diving and sunbathing at the islands.
Why are the Glass Bottom Boat Rides famous?
These boat rides take in a few people at a time and have a glass base which enables one to see the marine life in the ocean.
What is the distance from Port Blair to Wandoor?
The overall distance from the capital city of Port Blair to Wandoor is approximately 30 km via road.
How much time does it take to reach the Red Skin Islands from Port Blair?
It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach the Red Skin Islands from the city of Port Blair.
Why is Red Skin Islands named so?
The island is blessed with shallow waters and red corals along the shores which gives it a reddish look, thereby earning the name.
How much time is required for Snorkeling on the island?
One can complete the activity in 20 minutes to an hour depending on your interest. Those people who want to continue the activity for long can do so for extra bucks.
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