Nearly three hours further to Rangat, north by road, perched on a long promontory right at the top of the island and surrounded by mangrove swamps, is Mayabunder, springboard for the remote northern Andaman Islands. The village, which is home to a large minority of former Burmese Karen tribes, who were originally brought here as cheap logging labour by the British, are more spread out and more appealing than Rangat.
Mayabunder (242-km by road and 157-km by sea from Sri Vijaya Puram)
Once a week, the Sri Vijaya Puram ferry also calls here en route to Diglipur.
Checkout Govt.
It is hassle free, and a lot quicker, to catch a bus from Sri Vijaya Puram. Morning bus services are available between Sri Vijaya Puram and Mayabunder.
The APWD rest house, occupying a prime spot above the jetty, is large and very comfortable, with a pleasant garden and gazebo overlooking the sea.
Karmatang Beach
Karmatang beach is 13 Km away from Mayabunder and is hidden from the road. The place is quite enchanting. Eco-friendly sit-outs, and machans offers ideal place for picnic. The water is clean. The waves are not too rough and sand soft under the feet. Karmatang Beach is also a turtle nesting ground. One can view nesting of turtles during December - February season. One can go to Kalighat, Diglipur through the creek by boat from here. The Lagoon Cruise is an enchanting experience.
Rampur Beach and German Jetty
Rampur beach is on the outskirts of Mayabunder town. Rampur Beach is smaller of the two and with less shade. It is right next to the road. Close to the beach, you can also see a portion of mangrove forest. A glorious memory from the past, is the remains of German Jetty.
Avis Island
Avis Island has a small but creamy beach. The water is very calm, placid and clear. So much so that one can easily see fish frolicking in the water and little corals if one walk a bit into the sea.
It is a perfect destination for basking in the sun and sea water by simply sitting in the water. The tall, thick coconut trees provide shade which saves you from scorching heat. Going there early in the morning is always a good idea as the weather supports your trip. Avis Island is not open for tourists. To visit the Avis Island, one has to take prior permission from the local authorities.
Interview Island
Interview Island is about 3 hrs from Mayabundar. Hire a Fiber boat from Mayabunder Jetty.
Uninhabited Island, aqua green sea, tall dark trees and habited by elephants who used to work for British Timber company but now live in solace of Interview Island. Interview island is a delight to visit.
The Island has numerous fresh water sources. On the Western coast of the Island, there is a cave below a hill that gives out fresh water. A thick stream of fresh water erupts from the cave. The numerous sources of fresh water that this Island has make it no less than a wonder. Only day visit is permitted.
More Information and Important Phone No.
Tourist Information Centre : Directorate of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration Port Blair
Phone : 03192: 232694/232747(F)
