Little Andaman Island | Hotels, Map, Best Time, Images

Little Andaman, Andaman Overview

Little Andaman, a beautiful island with crystal blue waters and clear sand beaches all around, is the fourth largest island of the archipelago of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It lies to the southern end of the archipelago over an area of 730 square kilometres. The island is home to an extensive rainforest and rare species of marine turtle. If you explore enough, you could also come across some breathtaking waterfalls. This mesmerizing Little Andaman is a traveller's paradise with numerous hotel stay options by the beach.

Little Andaman is part of the Indian Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and belongs to the administrative district of South Andaman. It is also known as Gaubolambe in the native language, Onge which is spoken by the Onge aboriginal tribe. The island is also called Ebu Belong, and these people have been the island's native residents since 1957. So far the population of over 18,000 inhabitants occupies 18 villages on the island along with the main village, Kwat-tu-kwage on the Hut Bay.

Geography and Climate of Little Andaman

The island is spread on an area of 734 square kilometres. It lies at the southern end of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago and is separated from the Rutland Island by the Duncan Passage. The place has a tropical climate and maintains a moderate temperature within the range of 23°C to 31°C all throughout the year.

It is a low lying island and is home to a variety of species thriving in the widespread rainforest and in the sea, especially the rare species of marine turtle. The island is also home to two gorgeous waterfalls, the White Surf Waterfall and the Whisper Wave Waterfall which is located at a distance of 6.5 and 25 kilometres respectively from the Hut Bay Jetty.

Things To Do at Little Andaman

Little Andaman offers some interesting options to suit every mood of the travellers. The barrelling waves during March to May are apt for intermediate to advanced level surfers, and the island is considered as one of the best-surfing destinations. If you wish to explore the waterfalls, a trek through the forest is much recommended.

Elephant Safaris are also available through the forest. The place has more than 30 elephants that are trained for this purpose. Elephant lumbering activities are held inside the forest, and the camp where elephant calves are trained is open for visitors too. For the convenience of the tourists, there are guest houses and tourist huts constructed on the beach.

The ones who wish to explore the marine flora and fauna including the coral reefs can indulge in scuba diving or snorkelling in the sparkling blue ocean waters. Glass Bottom Boat Ride is another option for the people who want to explore the marine life but do not wish to get into the sea. Ocean lovers can also book boat rides for a romantic evening in the ocean or watch the beautiful sunsets from the sandy beaches.

Best Time To Visit Little Andaman

The best time to visit Little Island is during the winter season, between November and May. The weather is pleasant for exploring the island and the continual rains and monsoon high tidal waves can be avoided.

Tips For Visiting Little Andaman

1. A permit to travel to Little Andaman is required. One can get it on arrival at Port Blair.
2. Surfing may not be safe between May and August due to heavy monsoons.
3. Carry necessary trekking and water sports gear.
4. Keep yourself hydrated and wear caps and sun protection.
5. Tourists can rent two or four wheeler vehicles to explore the island.
6. Try to fill fuel in your vehicles early in the morning. Many petrol pumps may run out of fuel or sell it in black.
7. Camping is prohibited on the island; however, hammocks can be used to nap or rest.
8. Wear mosquito repellents and always sleep under a mosquito net. The beach flies could become a nuisance at times.
9. Crocodiles can be spotted at some locations. Be safe and vacate the area immediately.
10. Do not enter the sea if you have consumed alcohol.
11. One can find some eateries offering basic food at Hut Bay. Other than that, if one wants to cook their own food, they will have to carry the necessary groceries and cookware.

How To Reach Little Andaman

One can avail daily ferries managed by the Government. These ferries connect Port Blair (Haddo Wharf and Phoenix Bay) to Hut Bay in Little Andaman. These rides could take 6 to 8 hours depending on the sea and weather conditions. Ferry Rides to Little Andaman is available every morning on all weekdays. Some ferries also arrange for return trips to Port Blair on weekends.
Some ferries may not have sun shades.

Private Helicopter Services can also be availed to reach Little Island in about an hour.