Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Geography and natural features

The territory consists of two principal groups: the Andaman Islands to the north and the Nicobar Islands to the south. These archipelagos separate the Andaman Sea from the rest of the Indian Ocean and are roughly divided by the 10° N parallel. The landscape ranges from low sandy beaches to hilly, forested interiors; many islands are fringed by coral reefs. Notable physical points include Barren Island, the only known active volcano in the territory, and Indira Point, the southernmost tip of Indian territory and one of its lowest coastal points.

Ecology and protected areas

The islands are noted for tropical evergreen forests, rich marine biodiversity and numerous endemic species. Conservation is a priority: large tracts of forest and reef are protected within national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Important conservation and marine zones host nesting sea turtles, coral communities and rare birds. Visitors are encouraged to respect protected-area rules to reduce pressure on fragile ecosystems.

People, culture and history

The islands are home to a mix of indigenous tribes and settlers from mainland India and other regions. Indigenous communities maintain unique languages and traditions, and several groups live with restricted contact policies enforced for their protection. The islands were shaped by a long history that includes colonial-era events — most famously the Cellular Jail near Port Blair used during British rule — and more recent history such as the 2004 earthquake and tsunami, which caused significant changes in coastline and communities.

Administration, population and economy

As a union territory the islands are administered directly by the central government. Official records have periodically reported population and area statistics from national population counts and census operations. The total land area is modest compared with many countries and territories; for context various comparisons are often made using area figures in square kilometers and km² or mi². Economic activity is dominated by fisheries, government services and tourism, with infrastructure focused on a few larger islands while smaller or restricted islands remain off-limits to most visitors.

Islands, travel and notable facts

Major inhabited islands include Great Andaman islands and Car Nicobar; others remain uninhabited or have limited access. Key facts often highlighted in guides and references include the territorial status and strategic location near important sea lanes, comparisons of total area with other territories such as the Palestinian territories or regions like Georgia and its subdivisions such as Abkhazia. Travel to many islands requires permits and adherence to conservation and tribal-protection regulations. The combination of natural diversity, cultural distinctiveness and historical sites makes the Andaman and Nicobar Islands an area of continuing ecological, anthropological and strategic interest.

• Major island clusters: Andaman Islands, Nicobar Islands.
• Notable features: Barren Island (volcano), Indira Point (southern extremity).
• Entry point: Port Blair.