The Indian subcontinent has a diverse range of islands, from the river island in the northeast state of Assam to the breathtaking archipelago, the Andamans & Nicobar Islands and the rock-cut caves at Elephanta Island; the list is endless. Very easily reachable, the beauty of these islands is something that draws tourists again and again. Apart from the rich and varied flora and fauna, the adventurous watersport activities are what make these islands superbly popular.

Andamans & Nicobar Islands

A little over an hour’s flight from Kolkata or Chennai will take you to the most breathtaking archipelago – the Andamans & Nicobar Island. The view from the flight is the most amazing, with the green islands dotting the azure sea. Port Blair, the capital of Andamans, is one of the best places to visit in India with sandy tranquil beaches and a plethora of adventurous watersport activities. The historic Cellular jail is a must-visit, paying tribute to India’s long freedom struggle.

North Bay Island and Corbyn’s Cove Beach in Port Blair are the best places to indulge in all kinds of water sports, such as sea walking, scuba diving, parasailing, semi-submarine rides, and more. Enjoy the breathtaking underwater flora and fauna of the Indian Ocean through these amazing activities. The other important islands that one must visit are Havelock, Neil Island, and Ross Island.

Ross Island, the erstwhile capital of Andaman, is a quaint, nice island strewn with old buildings, churches, and bakeries. Taking a short walking tour with a flock of deer around and amidst tall coconut trees is a surreal experience. Havelock Island is yet another of the must-visit island in India. The white sandy Radhanagar Beach here is ranked as the cleanest beach in Asia. It is a perfect place to enjoy the open sea, with its crystal clear water offering a glimpse of the mesmerizing beauty underneath.

Known as the ‘vegetable bowl’ of Andaman, Neil Island has a wide biodiversity, which leaves a lot of scope for exploring aquatic life and exotic coral reefs.

Lakshadweep Islands

Still pristine and less crowded, the Lakshadweep Islands are among the best islands to visit in India, just 400 kilometres off India’s west coast in the Arabian Sea. If you are looking for a sun, sand, and sea kind of vacation, Lakshadweep is your best bet. Though foreigners are only allowed on the islands of Agatti, Bangaram, and Kadmat, they are all simply spectacular. The clear water and the open sky above engulf you with their serene presence. Agatti island is breathtaking, where calm water lagoons offer the most astonishing views of the underwater flora and fauna. Popular as a watersports destination, Lakshadweep has a plethora of activities such as snorkelling, parasailing, and surfing. The alluring beaches of Kalpeni island have the most beautiful coral reefs and are also great places to sunbathe.

Majuli Island

Majuli is a surreal river island with a breathtaking verdant landscape in the midst of the majestic Brahmaputra River. The biggest river island in the world, this island in the eastern state of Assam is popular among tourists from across the globe. Apart from the most amazing flora and fauna, Majula is known for its religious and cultural significance. The island houses over 25 Sattras or religious centers, which are great hubs for cultural activities. A stay at Majula is a completely new experience where you see the devotees of the Vaishnava sect living a life of peace and abundant tranquillity. The artistic architecture and figurines of Gods dating back to the 17th century are something that really appeals to the aesthetic sense of every visitor. A leisurely tour of the island is a great way to soak in the amazing good vibes that Majuli has to offer.

Elephanta Island

Very close to the city of Mumbai, the rock-cut Elephanta Caves are just a ferry ride away from the Gateway of India. The majestic Elephanta Caves, dating back to the 5th-6th centuries AD, make this a must-visit island in India. The quaint island of Elephanta is dotted with magnificent rock-cut caves dedicated to the Hindu God, Shiva, and is popular among both foreign and domestic tourists. Cave 1 is the centre of attraction, primarily because of its huge structure and amazing workmanship. This grand 39-square-meter structure is supported by huge columns. At the entrance of the gate is an imposing 7-meter-tall rock-cut structure of Lord Shiva, which adds to the mesmerizing beauty of the island.