Great Nicobar

About: 

Nicobar Islands are the largest islands in India and north of Sumatra. Great Nicobar is sparsely inhabitant with dense and thick forests suitable only for maintaining Reserves.

Located at: South-east Asia;located as a chain of islands in the eastern Indian Ocean. Indira point the southern tip of Great Nicobar is the southernmost tip of India.

History: 

Every place has its own History and Geography which makes it more interesting and makes it the best reason for travelling purpose. These islands refer to the Sri Lankan Pali Buddhist chronicles. The modern name is derived from the Chozha dynasty (Nakkavaram) inscribed in Thanjavur. This was under the Danish East India Company during the Colonization period. And during World War 2 these islands were occupied by Japan.

Geography: 

It consists of 3 divisions each having both habitant and inhabitant places. The population is about 42,000 alone and consists of various indigenous tribes. But the major disadvantage is that Non-Indians are not allowed to visit these islands. A special permit should be required from the government.

Tribes: 

Shompen are the indigenous people of the interior Nicobar Islands. They belong to the Scheduled Tribes. They live on the western side of the islands and call themselves “Kalay” and those who live on the eastern side are known as “Keyet” with both groups referring each other as Buavela.

Divisions: 

It consists of 22 islands approximately.

Northern group: Consists of Car Nicobar & Battimaly. Central group: Consists of 9 islands.

• Chaura

• Teressa

• Bompuka

• Katchal

• Camorta

• Nankowry

• Trinket

• Laouk

• Tillangchong


Southern group: 

Consists of 5 areas namely:

• Great Nicobar

• Little Nicobar

• Kondul

• Pulo Milo

• Meroe

Local Languages spoken: Nicobarese language is the local language spoken by tribes.

Climate: The climate is typically tropical but is moderated by sea breezes. Heavy showers occur due to the southwest monsoon from May to September. And during October to November Tropical cyclones occur.

Tourist Spots: 

Indira point:
 
Named after Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of India. It’s the southernmost tip of Nicobar Islands. Formerly it was known by many names such as Pygmalion point, Parsons Point& sometimes India Point. It’s locates 540km from Port Blair. It takes a day sea voyage to reach here. Kanyakumari (southernmost tip of India) is located slightly north of Indira point.

The lighthouse stands as a beacon in not only for the ships but also to Nicobar. It’s the biggest landmark on the International shipping lane. It also has a helipad.

Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve: 

It has 2 National parks of India namely the Campbell National park in the north and Galathea National park in the south. This reserve is the home for many species of Flora and Fauna. And still the endemic species are also preserved here. The non-biosphere parts have been set for agricultural purposes.

Campbell Bay: 

Campbell bay is a part of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve. One can reach Campbell Bay from Port Blair by PawanHans helicopter service.

Beaches: 

Beaches are sparsely populated give a way to an ocean brimming with interesting marine life and many beautiful Coral gardens are also present.