Visit Karnataka and Tamil Nadu
The Andaman Islands are India’s secret paradise: stunning beaches, pristine coral reefs, dense forests, active volcanos, swimming elephants, elusive dugongs and big, big fish all in one place. Located to the east of the mainland in the Indian Ocean the islands are part of India but geographically closer to Myanmar and Thailand. Marco Polo visited the islands in the 13th century and in the late 19th century the British took control and established a penal colony. Today their remoteness is their blessing and the white sands are frequented by visitors prepared to make the journey to enjoy their simplicity and snorkel and dive in the clear seas.
Flights land at Port Blair, the island's administrative centre, where an overnight stay is usually necessary before travelling on to another island.