In a bid to allure travelers to explore the untouched gems of the archipelago, the Andaman & Nicobar Tourism Department has recently announced the opening of the uninhabited Cinque Islands for day visits.
Nestled in the azure waters of the Andaman Sea and bragging an astounding 80 feet underwater visibility, the North and South Cinque Islands, considered as a single island named Cinque Islands, have long been off-limits to the tourists, and now, the authorities are inviting travellers to experience their unspoiled beauty.
Both the Cinque Islands boast a mesmerizing blend of rocky peninsulas, white sandy beaches, tropical forests and crystal-clear turquoise waters. North Cinque Island, with its three distinct peninsulas interconnected by sand bars, offers panoramic views from hills reaching heights of 154m. The southern counterpart, South Cinque Island, adds to the allure with its pristine beaches and diverse marine life. The passage between them, known as Cinque Strait, invites exploration of their stunning gardens of soft corals, meadows of vibrant boulder corals and rich marine fauna, creating a haven for underwater enthusiasts.
Tourists can embark on a day-long adventure, starting with a boat ride from the Havelock, Port Blair, Manjeri, Wandoor and Chidiya Tapu. The journey itself is a visual feast, with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, passing by the Rutland Island and glimpses of marine life in the Mannar Strait, that lies between the Cinque and Rutland. Upon reaching the the islands, visitors can explore the virgin white sand beaches, undertake snorkeling adventures in the vibrant coral gardens, and hike through the dense tropical forests and play with the deers and sea eagles who are the only inhabitants in the island
To manage the environmental impact and maintain the ecological balance in the Cinque Islands Wildlife Sanctuary, the number of visitors allowed each day is limited and you need a permit from Forest Department in the Andaman and Nicobar. This exclusive access aims to provide a more intimate and sustainable experience, ensuring that the islands, which also fall within the protected area of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, remain unspoiled for future generations.
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Mr. Ravi Kumar, Director of Andaman & Nicobar Tourism Department, expressed his excitement about the initiative, stating, “Cinque Islands are a testament to the raw beauty of Andaman & Nicobar. We believe that opening these islands for day visits will not only contribute to the local economy but also raise awareness about the need to protect and preserve our natural wonders.”
Bordered by lush hills, the South Cinque Island Beach boasts a generous expanse, offering ample space for visitors to explore and unwind. The sand color is a dazzling white, contrasting beautifully with the vivid turquoise hues of the surrounding waters. The beach berm, characterized by its gently sloping sandy ridge, provides a perfect vantage point for taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
Cinque Islands undeniably stand out as the premier diving destinations in the Andaman Islands. Renowned for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes, the dive sites around Cinque Islands offer unparalleled diving experiences. With pristine coral reefs, diverse fish species, and the potential for exciting encounters with sharks and manta rays, diving enthusiasts flock to Cinque Islands for unforgettable underwater adventures. The islands are famous for their exceptional visibility, with waters offering clarity of up to 30 meters, making them ideal for open-sea diving. Renowned for their safety and accessibility, these islands provide divers with a secure and immersive experience amidst the vast expanse of the open sea. Whether exploring the diverse marine life or admiring the breathtaking underwater landscapes, divers can enjoy peace of mind knowing they are diving in safe and crystal-clear waters at Cinque Islands.
The Cinque Islands, with their unique geography sculpted by nature, promise an immersive experience for those seeking a sanctuary of serenity and adventure amidst the untouched wonders in a island hopping tour of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
