Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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10 Days in Viper Island for a Slow-Paced Getaway
Viper Island is a tiny gem in the Andamans, perfect for those who want to unwind and soak in the quiet beauty of nature. I’ve spent days here just listening to the waves and watching the sunsets, and it’s the kind of place that makes you forget about time. With its historic ruins, clear waters, and lush greenery, it’s ideal for a laid-back escape.
Trip Highlights
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Day 1
Day 1 in Viper Island
A relaxed introduction to Viper Island, covering its historic sites and scenic beauty, with plenty of time to soak in the island's quiet charm.
Activities
Explore Viper Island Jail
Start your day with a visit to the historic Viper Island Jail, a remnant of the British colonial era. The jail, though in ruins now, has a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere with its crumbling walls and overgrown vegetation. It's a great spot for history buffs and photographers alike.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
- Carry water and sunscreen as shade is limited.
Stroll along Viper Island Beach
After the jail, head to the small but serene Viper Island Beach. The beach is perfect for a quiet walk, with its soft sand and clear waters. It's less crowded than other beaches in the Andamans, making it ideal for some peaceful time by the sea.
- Bring a hat and sunglasses for the beach.
- Don’t expect many facilities here, so pack snacks if needed.
Visit the Gallows Point
End your day with a visit to Gallows Point, a somber yet significant spot where the British executed prisoners. The view from here is stunning, overlooking the sea and surrounding islands. It’s a quiet place to reflect on the island’s dark history while enjoying the natural beauty.
- This spot can be a bit eerie, so it might not be suitable for everyone.
- The path to Gallows Point can be slippery, so watch your step.
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Day 2
Day 2 in Viper Island
A mix of history, nature, and local flavors to dive deeper into Viper Island's charm.
Activities
Visit the Old British Bungalow
This colonial-era bungalow, tucked away in the island's greenery, offers a glimpse into the British past. The architecture and the surrounding gardens make it a peaceful spot to wander around. It's less crowded but full of stories.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths
- Bring a hat and water as shade is limited
Relax at the Hidden Cove
A small, secluded beach area perfect for a quiet afternoon. The water here is calm, and the views of the surrounding islands are stunning. It's a great place to unwind with a book or just soak in the serenity.
- Pack a light snack and drinks—there are no vendors here
- Carry a small towel or mat to sit on the sand
Sunset at the Island's Viewpoint
A lesser-known spot with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. The sunset here is breathtaking, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. It's a quiet alternative to more crowded sunset spots.
- Arrive a bit early to secure a good spot
- Bring a camera—the views are worth capturing
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Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Viper Island
A slower-paced day diving into the island's lesser-known spots and local flavors, with a mix of nature and history.
Activities
Birdwatching at Viper's Mangrove Trail
Viper Island's quiet mangrove trails are a haven for bird enthusiasts. Early mornings bring out kingfishers, herons, and sometimes even the rare Andaman woodpecker. The trail is shaded and peaceful, with occasional glimpses of crabs scuttling through the roots.
- Carry binoculars if possible
- Wear mosquito repellent—mangroves are bug-friendly
Local Fishing Village Visit
A short walk to the island's tiny fishing settlement lets you see daily life beyond the tourist spots. Watch fishermen mend nets, kids play by the water, and maybe even buy fresh catch (if you're staying somewhere with a kitchen). Locals are shy but warm if approached respectfully.
- Ask before photographing people
- Try the tiny tea shack—their ginger chai is legendary
Picnic at the Abandoned Quarry
Few visitors find this overgrown British-era stone quarry, now a serene spot with emerald-green pools. Pack lunch from the local stalls (try paratha wraps with egg or fish) and enjoy the solitude. The water’s too deep for swimming, but perfect for dangling your feet.
- Wear sturdy shoes—path is uneven
- Carry water—no vendors nearby
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Transportation
Day 4
Day 4 in Viper Island
A slower day diving deeper into Viper Island's natural beauty and local culture, with a mix of relaxation and light exploration.
Activities
Kayaking through the Mangroves
Paddle through the quiet, winding mangrove creeks that fringe Viper Island. The calm waters and dense greenery make for a peaceful morning, with chances to spot crabs, small fish, and maybe even a water monitor lizard. Local guides can point out the unique ecosystem and share stories about the mangroves' role in island life.
- Wear quick-dry clothes and sandals—you might get a bit wet.
- Bring a waterproof bag for your phone or camera.
Beachcombing and Shell Collecting
Viper Island's less-visited northern shore is a treasure trove for beachcombers. The quiet, rocky stretches here wash up unique shells, coral fragments, and sometimes even old glass smoothed by the sea. It’s a meditative way to spend the afternoon, with the sound of waves and seabirds as your soundtrack.
- Wear sturdy sandals—some areas are rocky.
- Leave live shells and creatures undisturbed—take only empty shells.
Evening at a Local Tea Stall
Wrap up the day at one of the island’s tiny tea stalls, where fishermen and locals gather at dusk. Sip on sweet, milky chai or fresh coconut water while snacking on crispy pakoras or banana fritters. It’s the perfect spot to chat with islanders and hear casual stories about life here.
- Try the 'special chai'—it’s often spiced with local ginger or cardamom.
- Carry small change—these stalls rarely accept large bills.
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Transportation
Day 5
Day 5 in Viper Island
A slower-paced day diving into the island's lesser-known spots and local flavors, with a mix of history and relaxation.
Activities
Morning at the Old British Cemetery
Start your day with a quiet walk through the Old British Cemetery, a hidden spot with weathered tombstones telling stories of the colonial era. The overgrown paths and serene atmosphere make it a peaceful place to reflect on the island's past.
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths
- Bring water as there are no shops nearby
Local Cooking Class with a Fisherman's Family
Spend the late morning learning to cook Andaman-style seafood with a local fisherman's family. They’ll teach you how to prepare dishes like coconut fish curry and grilled lobster using fresh catch from the day. It’s a hands-on experience that ends with a hearty lunch.
- Ask about their favorite fishing spots
- Try the homemade tamarind chutney—it’s a family secret
Afternoon Hammock Time at a Secluded Beach
Head to a quiet, lesser-known beach on the island’s western side, where a few hammocks are strung between palm trees. It’s the perfect spot to nap, read, or just listen to the waves with a fresh coconut in hand.
- Bring a book or podcast for lazy downtime
- The beach gets shade by mid-afternoon—ideal for avoiding sunburn
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Transportation
Day 6
Day 6 in Viper Island
A slower-paced day to soak in the island's natural beauty and local culture, with a mix of light activities and relaxation.
Activities
Morning Yoga by the Shore
Start your day with a peaceful yoga session on a quiet stretch of Viper Island's shoreline. The soft sound of waves and the gentle morning breeze make it the perfect spot to unwind. A local instructor guides you through simple poses, blending relaxation with the island's serene vibes.
- Bring your own mat if possible, though some locals may provide one
- Wear light, comfortable clothing
Coconut Craft Workshop
Learn how locals turn coconuts into beautiful crafts in this hands-on workshop. A skilled artisan shows you how to carve simple designs into coconut shells, a traditional craft passed down through generations. You’ll leave with a small souvenir you made yourself.
- Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little messy
- Ask the artisan about the history of coconut crafts in the Andamans
Evening Stargazing at the Cove
With minimal light pollution, Viper Island offers stunning night skies. A local guide points out constellations and shares island folklore about the stars. Lay back on the sand at Hidden Cove (visited earlier in the trip, but now experienced at night) with a cup of chai for a tranquil end to the day.
- Bring a light jacket as it can get breezy
- Ask the guide about the Southern Cross constellation, visible here
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Transportation
Day 7
Day 7 in Viper Island
A laid-back day diving deeper into Viper Island's lesser-known spots and local flavors, with a mix of history and relaxation.
Activities
Morning at the Forgotten British Pier
Start your day at the remnants of an old British pier, a quiet spot where you can see rusted anchors and weathered planks. It’s a great place to sit with a book or sketch the serene views of the water. Locals sometimes fish here, and you might even get a chance to chat with them about the island’s past.
- Bring a hat and water—shade is minimal here.
- Ask the fishermen about their catch; they’re usually happy to share stories.
Local Canoe Ride to Ghost Island
Take a short canoe ride to the tiny, uninhabited Ghost Island, just a 15-minute paddle away. It’s named for the eerie silence and the abandoned ruins of a small colonial outpost. Pack a light snack and enjoy the solitude—this is one of the least-visited spots near Viper Island.
- Wear sturdy sandals—the island has rocky patches.
- Carry a waterproof bag for your phone and snacks.
Sunset at the Coral Graveyard
End the day at a unique stretch of shore littered with bleached coral fragments, known locally as the Coral Graveyard. It’s a surreal, almost otherworldly spot where the setting sun casts long shadows over the skeletal remains of coral. Perfect for quiet reflection or some moody photography.
- Watch your step—the coral can be sharp.
- Stay until dusk for the best light.
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Transportation
Day 8
Day 8 in Viper Island
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and indulging in local flavors, perfect for unwinding after a week of adventures.
Activities
Morning at the Whispering Rocks
Head to the secluded Whispering Rocks, a quiet spot where the wind creates eerie, whisper-like sounds through the crevices. It’s a great place to sit back with a book or just listen to the natural symphony. The rocks also offer a unique vantage point for spotting dolphins in the distance.
- Bring a light jacket—it can get breezy
- Pack a snack and enjoy a quiet breakfast here
Local Pottery Workshop
Visit a small family-run pottery workshop where you can try your hand at making traditional Andaman clay pots. The artisans use local clay and techniques passed down through generations. It’s a fun, hands-on way to connect with the island’s craft traditions.
- Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty
- Ask the artisans about the symbolism behind the designs
Sunset at the Driftwood Beach
End the day at Driftwood Beach, a lesser-known stretch of shore where the tide brings in beautifully weathered pieces of driftwood. It’s a surreal spot to watch the sunset, with the silhouettes of the wood adding to the drama. Locals often gather here for evening chats, making it a great place to mingle.
- Bring a camera—the lighting is magical
- Look for small crabs scurrying among the driftwood
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 9
Day 9 in Viper Island
A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and soaking in the island's quiet charm, with a mix of nature and local culture.
Activities
Morning at the Silent Lagoon
Head to the Silent Lagoon, a serene spot tucked away from the usual tourist trails. The water here is so still it feels like a mirror, reflecting the lush greenery around. Perfect for a quiet morning of reflection or some light sketching. You might spot a few rare birds if you’re lucky.
- Bring a small mat or towel to sit by the lagoon
- Carry binoculars for birdwatching
Visit the Island’s Old Lighthouse
The old British-era lighthouse, though no longer operational, offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Climb up for a panoramic view of the surrounding sea and the dense mangroves. The rusted machinery and weathered walls add to its charm.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the climb
- The view is best on clear mornings
Evening with Local Storytellers
Spend the evening at a small gathering with local storytellers who share tales of the island’s history, myths, and fisherman’s lore. It’s a cozy experience, often held under a banyan tree near the village, with cups of spiced chai passed around.
- Arrive early to get a good spot
- Ask about the legend of Ghost Island
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Transportation
Day 10
Day 10 in Viper Island
A leisurely final day soaking in the quiet charm of Viper Island, with a mix of reflection and local flavors.
Activities
Morning Meditation at the Silent Lagoon
Start your day with a peaceful meditation session by the Silent Lagoon, a serene spot where the water is so still it feels like a mirror. The early morning light filtering through the mangroves creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for some quiet reflection before heading back home.
- Bring a light shawl—mornings can be slightly cool.
- Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Breakfast at the Fisherman’s Hut
Head to a small, family-run fisherman’s hut near the beach for a hearty breakfast. Enjoy freshly caught fish grilled with local spices, served with coconut rice and a side of tangy tamarind chutney. The simplicity and authenticity of the meal make it a memorable experience.
- Ask the family about their daily catch—they might share interesting stories.
- Try the homemade coconut water—it’s incredibly fresh.
Farewell Walk Along the Whispering Rocks
Take a slow, reflective walk along the Whispering Rocks, a lesser-known stretch where the waves create a soft, whispering sound as they crash against the rocks. It’s a peaceful way to say goodbye to the island, with plenty of photo opportunities of the rugged coastline.
- Wear sturdy sandals—the rocks can be slippery.
- Keep an eye out for rare seashells—they’re often washed up here.