Looking for the most unique places to visit in Andaman? Interview Island, a North and Middle Andaman district secret, is an extraordinary escape 125 kilometers north of Port Blair. As one of the most amazing things to do in Andaman, the exploration of Interview Island rewards its visitors with rare wildlife encounters and pristine natural beauty.The Interview Island Sanctuary was established in 1985 and protects 80-90 feral elephants originally brought from mainland India for logging operations. The majestic creatures can often be spotted during jungle treks, making wildlife photography in Port Blair, Andaman a must-do activity.
Adventure lovers looking at our Andaman Tour Packages will love Interview Island. The uncharted wild offers some of the best trekking opportunities in dense tropical forests, with nature’s music ranging from the call of the elephant to sea breezes, creating a memorable experience. This beautiful destination in Mayabunder offers an opportunity to have an exciting experience of wildlife and landscape, which is perfect for photographers who would love to capture the natural beauty of the island.
The clean surroundings, abundant wildlife, and sense of adventure make Interview Island an essential addition to any Andaman itinerary, especially for those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences in this tropical paradise.
Interview Island Highlights
The wildlife sanctuary in Interview Island was established back in 1985. It was initiated to protect elephants. Observing wildlife is among the best activities you can enjoy in Interview Island if you are in Andamans for wildlife observation. The sanctuary area encompasses semi-evergreen, littoral forests and mangroves. The flora and fauna of the place are richly varied. Night trips to Interview Island Mayabunder are not allowed by the forest department to protect this marvelous wildlife sanctuary. There are visit timings in the day, and you have to get special permission from the office of the forest department for a day trip. Interview Island is in Mayabunder and a very hotbed of wildlife for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Rich in flora and fauna, this island can cast its spell with beauty. Here’s the top thing to do on the island.
It is one of the main attractions of this Indian Union territory and is actually the largest island sanctuary in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Interview Island Wildlife Sanctuary was constructed in the year 1985 to protect elephants along with flora and fauna to maintain a balance in the picturesque beauty around. So if you are someone who wants to enjoy nature and wildlife at their best, then it is a must-visit for you.
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Climatic Conditions at Interview Island
Climatic conditions at Interview Island need to be understood to plan your trip. The island has a tropical climate, which means it is warm and humid throughout the year.- Summer (March to May): Summers are hot and humid with temperatures reaching as high as 34°C. Though the season is not suitable for exploration because of the heat, mornings and evenings can be pleasant for short hikes or wildlife spotting.
- Monsoon (June to September): It rains heavily on the island during this time. The ground becomes slippery, and activities are not very easy, making it less tourist-friendly.
- Winter (October to February): It is the best time to visit Andaman, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The warm weather makes it possible to trek and watch wildlife while taking leisurely walks through the island’s beautiful trails.
Knowing the climatic conditions at Interview Island enhances the visitors’ tour experience while ensuring a comfortable tour experience.
Best Time to Visit Interview Island
The best time to visit Interview Island is during winter, from October to February when the season is relatively not so cold as well as there is only a slight rainy season.Visitors will be in a position to view the woods, see a lot of animals, and soak in the misty atmosphere because of the gentle temperatures without much hot or too wet weather around. Avoid it when it’s monsoon time; heavy rains disrupt movement and might prevent access to certain parts of the island.
By planning your trip during the best time to visit Interview Island, You can fully realize the natural attributes of Interview Island.
How to Reach Interview Island
If you’re wondering how to reach Interview Island, it is accessible by chartering a private fishing Dunghi from the Mayabunder jetty. It will take nearly three hours to reach Interview Island. To reach Interview Island, follow these steps:1. Travel to Port Blair: First, you will reach Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. Many flights are operating from major cities of India, such as Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi to Port Blair.
2. Travel to Mayabunder: From Port Blair, you have to go to Mayabunder, which is a town situated in the northern part of Middle Andaman Island. It can be covered either by road or by sea:
- By Road: A taxi or a government bus from Port Blair is available to go to Mayabunder. This road journey will be around 242 kilometers, which will take you around 6 to 8 hours according to the conditions of the roads.
- By Sea: Inter-island ferry services operate between Port Blair and Mayabunder. This sea route provides a wonderful scenic journey; however, this might take much longer maybe weather permitting.
3. Arrange Boat Transfer to Interview Island: After Reaching Mayabunder, you would be required to make an advance arrangement for you to travel to Interview Island, which lies around 20 kilometers away from there. Since regular ferry services to the island are unavailable, the alternative option left to the travelers is hiring a private boat called the “dunghi”, popularly termed the small fishing boat. Travel by boat to reach the interview island usually takes between 2-3 hours, considering sea conditions.
Important Considerations:
- Permits: Interview Island is part of a wildlife sanctuary, and access may require special permits from the local Forest Department. It’s advisable to check the latest requirements and obtain the necessary permissions before planning your visit.
- Supplies: Carry sufficient food, water, and other essentials, as there are no shops or facilities on the island.
- Safety: Always check weather conditions before embarking on the boat journey, and consider hiring a local guide for a safer and more informative experience.
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Accommodation at Interview Island
While there is no direct accommodation at Interview Island, It is not allowed to stay at Interview Island. You have to go and come back on the same day. You will have to book your stay at a hotel in Mayabunder. Here are some options for accommodation at Interview Island or nearby areas:1. Blue Bird Resort: An eco-friendly resort near Vijay Nagar Beach, featuring bamboo and cane cottages in greenery. Guests appreciate its proximity to beaches in Andaman like Radhanagar and Kalapathar.
2. Hotel Aashna: A budget-friendly hotel offering basic amenities, suitable for travelers exploring the northern parts of the islands.
3. RG Hotel: Provides comfortable rooms with essential facilities, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
4. Hotel Landfall: Offers simple accommodations, ideal for visitors planning to explore nearby attractions like Austin X Island.
5. APWD Guest House: These accommodations provide a range of options for travelers seeking to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Andaman Islands.
Things to Do at Interview Island
The untouched beauty of Interview Island provides plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Here are the top things to do at Interview Island:1. Wildlife Spotting
Spotting feral elephants is the most popular activity on the island. These are roaming in the wilderness and providing visitors with a rare opportunity to spot them in their natural habitat. Other than the elephants, one can spot deer, wild boars, and various birds.
2. Trekking and Nature Walks
The densest forests are apt for trekking and nature walks. Go out on trails carpeted with grass, hear birds chirping out, and listen to the gentle silence the island has in it.
3. Photography
Whether you are a professional photographer or only a novice in photography, at Interview Island, you can capture beautiful wildlife or tropical flora-vegetation shots and beautiful shots of scenic backgrounds. It indeed is the dreamland of every photographer as tranquility is marked by this particular island full of natural scenic beauty.
These things to do at Interview Island allow visitors to connect with nature and create memories.
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Tips for Visiting Interview Island
To make the most of your trip, here are some important tips for visiting Interview Island:1. Plan in Advance: Interview Island is remote, so plan your visit well ahead. Check ferry schedules and permits.
2. Pack Essentials: Carry food, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy shoes for trekking, as no commercial services are available on the island.
3. Respect Nature: The island is rich in wildlife. Keep a safe distance from animals, and avoid disturbing the ecosystem.
4. Permits and Permissions: You may need special permits to visit. Contact local authorities or tour operators for entry requirements.
5. Hire a Guide: A local guide can help navigate the island and enhance your experience by pointing out wildlife and explaining the ecosystem.
6. Carry Cash: There are no ATMs or commercial services on the island, so bring enough cash for any expenses.
7. Stay Safe on Boats: Wear life jackets during boat rides and ensure your boat operator is reliable.
8. Respect Local Culture: If visiting nearby islands, be respectful of local communities and their traditions.
9. Leave No Trace: Carry all your trash back with you to preserve the island’s natural beauty.
10. Limited Connectivity: Expect limited or no mobile service while on the island. Plan accordingly.
Why Visit Interview Island?
Interview Island is not just a destination; it’s more about an experience to bring one closer to nature. The unique island landscapes and its wildlife, as well as the environment, offer the most fantastic escape into unexplored serenity amidst the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.Interview Island is the real gem that ranges from spotting its famous feral elephants to even staying in absolutely eco-friendly accommodations at Interview Island or doing quite a few interesting things that can be experienced at Interview Island.
In your next visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, don’t forget to feature Interview Island among your itinerary attractions. With so much undiscovered beauty surrounded by high wealth in biodiversity, it promises an adventure without parallel.
