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Andaman is intriguing in more than one way. Of 572 islands only 36 are inhabited and that leaves 93.7 percent of it unexplored. It hides within its waters, lands, and forests the secrets of fascinating underwaters, layers of political conspiracies, and painful, yet inspiring stories of brave patriotic men. Besides, it also holds dear certain tribes untouched by civilization, and their dying culture, customs, and languages. Let’s unravel the secrets of Andaman Islands!

Of many secrets, we bring you some really beautiful and controversial ones. This is a quick run-through of Andaman’s natural wonders, troublesome past, facts about the soon-vanishing tribes, and developments in the state in the post-independence era.

14 Secrets Of Andaman Islands

Here are the secrets of Andaman Islands that will leave you awestruck. Keep scrolling down and read along to know more about these islands!

1. Islands Named After British Officials

Many places in Andaman are named after British officials

2. Active Lava Volcano Of India

A view of the active volcano at Barren Islands

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Suggested Read: 14 Thrilling Water Sports In Andaman


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3. Home To The Mud Volcanoes

Many views of the mud volcanoes at Baratang

4. Bioluminescence Can Be Witnessed At Havelock Island

Bioluminescence can be witnessed at Havelock Island

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5. Ross And Smith Are A Single Island

The sandbar between the twin islands of Ross and Smith in Andaman

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Pristine islands Ross and Smith are connected by a natural sandbar, which hides during high tide making two separate islands. During low tide, the water recedes from the sand bar making them one single piece of land.

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6. Had It Not Been For Ross Islands, Port Blair Would Have Been Destroyed By Tsunami

A view of the church in ruins at the Ross island

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Suggested Read: 53 Best Places To Visit In Andaman For A Mesmerizing Holiday Experience!

7. The Native Tribes Do Not Interact With Outsiders

Sentinelese tribesman aiming arrow at the relief helicopter

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When the government of India sent relief helicopters after the Tsunami of 2004, the Sentinelese people aimed arrows at them to scare the helicopters away.

8. The Islands Are Called Timaittivu

Many native tribes of Andaman are known to be cannibals

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In the Chola Chronicles the islands were called Timaittivu, meaning the impure islands, due to the cannibalism that existed on these islands

9. The Native Language, Andamanese, Is Nearly Extinct Today

Current situation of the Andamanese family of languages

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The extinction is the result of an epidemic disease that wiped off a major chunk of the native population about 200 years ago.


Planning your holiday in Andaman but confused about what to do? These Andaman travel stories help you find your best trip ever!


10. Andaman & Nicobar Islands Were Occupied By Japan 

Men of the Azad Hind Fauj hoist the tiranga at Andaman after it became independent in 1943

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Japan occupied the Andaman Island in 1942. Though they continued to rule for the next three years, the Japanese theoretically gave up control over Andaman and Nicobar Islands handing them over to Subhash Chandra Bose on 8th November 1943. He renamed them as “SHAHEED” and “SWARAJ” islands respectively.

Must Read: Pranav’s Solo Trip to Andaman

11. Rumor: Japanese Made A Secret Tunnel From Ross Island To Port Blair

A view of the Ross Island from Port Blair

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While it is assumed that one of the bunkers on the Ross Island leads to the opening of a tunnel to Port Blair, there is no evidence of its existence.

12. The Andaman Islands Were Originally A Part Of Burma

Satellite view of the Coco islands gifted to Burma

In 1948, India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru gifted Coco Island of the Andaman & Nicobar group of islands to Burma only in turn to be gifted to China by the Burmese. Coco Islands are the only islands in the Bay of Bengal that are in China’s possession since then. However, Myanmar (erstwhile Burma) continues to list Coco Islands as a part of their territory. Another theory states the presence of Chinese base in the Coco Islands that are still in possession of Burma. The ambiguity continues to exist with no concrete information.

Suggested Read: 19 Best Hotels And Resorts In Andaman That Fit Under Every Budget

13. Jal Hans, India’s first commercial seaplane was launched in the Andaman Islands

The sea plane run by Jal Hans in Andaman

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14. The Popular ‘Light And Sound Show’ In Cellular Jail 

The peepal tree that is shown to narrate the story during light and sound shows at Cellular Jail

The light and sound show tells the poignant stories of Kala Pani prisoners, who were tortured to death in the cellular jail. Features veteran actor Om Puri narration as the peepal tree.

Further Read: Honeymoon In Andaman: A Handy Guide With Legit Tips, First-Hand Experiences And More!

So which of these secrets of Andaman Islands totally blew your mind? Share with us any similar secrets of the isles that we forgot to put on our list. To witness this gorgeous destination, plan your vacation in Andaman Islands right away!

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Secrets Of Andaman Islands

Do you need a visa for Andaman Islands?

Indians do not need a visa to go to Andaman Islands, as this place is an Indian union territory. Foreigners not only require a passport and visa to reach this holiday destination, they also need a Restricted Area Permit in order to visit as well as stay in this Indian union territory.

Which is the best island in Andaman?

There are various amazing islands in Andaman. However, Havelock Island is considered the one that is definitely a must visit.

What should I not miss in Andaman?

There are some of the best things that can be tried out in Andaman and you surely should not miss out – light show at Cellular Jail, glass bottom boat ride, scuba diving, watching the sunset, and more.

How do I get to the Andaman Islands?

In order to get to Andaman, you must book a flight to the capital city of Port Blair. This airport is well connected to the major cities of India like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, and more.

How many days are sufficient for Andaman?

You need 10 days to explore all the best attractions in Andaman and try out most of the activities in this famous tourist destination.

Is Andaman beautiful?

Yes, Andaman is one of the most beautiful places in India. Since the place is known for its picturesque islands that are enveloped within lush greenery. Moreover, the marine life here is worth witnessing. The beauty of this place is also reflected in some of the most amazing beach resorts where a perfect stay in peace is easily ensured.

Is Andaman safe?

Yes, the tourist destination is quite safe for all kinds of travelers from friends and families to honeymooners and solo travelers. The place is also ideal for the female solo travelers as well.


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Category: Andaman, Secrets

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