Well-known for its rich marine life and underwater coral gardens, Cinque Island is one of the most popular destinations of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This isolated island is geologically divided into North Cinque and South Cinque. Both the islands are connected to each other by a sandbar which adds to the charm and beauty of the destination. Both the divisions are a part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, which is also known as Wandoor Marine National Park along with 15 other islands and islets of the Labyrinthine Island Group.
There is no human habitation on the island. The place is rich in flora and fauna. Cinque Island is a declared sanctuary which has a variety of starfish, turtles, coral reefs, colorful fishes, sea weeds, shells, sea anemones, salt-water crocodile and water snakes. A variety of corals are found in the waters of this island such as Montipora, Pocillopora, Acropora, Leptoseris, Porites, Fungia, Gorgonians and Tubipora. One can spot species like fruit bat, wild boar, civet, spotted deer, python, krait, vine snake, cobra, king cobra, serpent eagle, swift, whistling teal, white bellied sea eagle, local teal, pigeon, dove, kingfisher, wader, reef heron, parakeet and more.
The scenic beauty and tranquil ambience of the place allures tourists from all over to the beautiful destination. The island also offers activities such as scuba diving, camping, fishing and snorkeling. The waters of the island are believed to have a visibility range of upto 80 feet. To visit Cinque Island, one needs to take permission from the Forest Department.
Best time to visit Cinque Island
The best time to visit Cinque Island is from the month of October to May.
Getting there
To reach the island, visitors can avail chartered boat service from Port Blair, which is located at a distance of 40 km.
Andaman and Nicobar Tour Packages
