Has Andaman reopened for the Tourists?

The tourism industry in Andaman is breathing a sigh of huge relief as it opens after a long time, after the Covid 19 lockdown. This happened on the day of World Tourism Day. Andaman and Nicobar islands started inviting tourists again, keeping in mind the pandemic restrictions so that they can enjoy a seamless experience of travel in a brand new way.

However, a lot of rules and regulations are still into play. The Standard Operating Procedure or SOP for tourists is different than the other times. Along with a set of defined quarantine rules and guideline, this much loved tourist destination is set for a fresh start again.

Travel  Rules

Flights are plying to and fro, from the Port Blair airport. However, the incoming tourists will have to get the Covid 19 test done at the Veer Savarkar airport itself. The charges are Rs.500 per person and the reports will be delivered at the airport itself. Once the results are negative, the tourists can carry forward their trip, however, if the results are positive, they have to go into mandatory isolation besides seeking institutional treatment. This will continue unless he/she/they are cured of the virus.

Alternatively, the tourists can also carry their negative test reports, directly from the mainland-based on the ICMR approved RTPCR test from an approved lab.

Next, those who are going to visit the Havelock and Neil islands need to get their testing done again. But if the symptoms suddenly start appearing, the tourists would have to report to the nearby PCH/CHC  as per the advice and instruction of the doctor.

As of present, travelling to the Middle Andaman, Little Andaman and Nicobar islands are not permitted at all.

Those tourists testing positive at the Andaman airport will have to go for direct institutional quarantine, following all the necessary health protocols. The fees charged for this is Rs.1000 at the at ITI Dollygunj COVID ward. The patients can also stay in a separate hotel given the following conditions-

• If the patient is asymptomatic and not above 60 years of age
• Take undertaking in writing
• If the doctors allow permission

Mandatory Rules

As a tourist, you have to follow these everywhere you go –

• Wear masks mandatorily
• Thermal and Scanner checking at every entry and exit point
• No group photography allowed
• Beaches open from 10 AM to 5 PM only
• Maintaining two meters of social distance is compulsory

Water Sports Rules

The administration has issued orders to re-open water sports activity for the tourists. But this is only limited to bat rides and snorkelling. Other activities in the water like sea walking, scuba diving, kayaking and parasailing are still under lock and key.

Recommendations

For the best Andaman tourism experience, tourists and visitors are suggested to opt for a chill and relaxed staycation. Since the hotels are managed with proper sanitization and excellent amenities, you can have a gala time sunbathing and enjoying exotic seafood and culinary dishes. The beaches are the best place to hang out with friends and family. You can also visit Andaman for a workation, work during the day and chill by the seaside during the evenings.