a luxurious gateway to a globally significant biodiversity hotspot in the Bay of Bengal

Fringed by strip of mangroves overlooking the beach, the luxury resort in Andaman is a homage to the secluded Andaman and Nicobar archipelago stretching for 700 Kms from the southern tip of Burma towards the north of Sumatra; a magical medley of rainforests, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, unspoilt beaches and ancient tribal cultures.

After arriving on the island, guests are welcomed with a traditional song by our young Nicobari colleagues. Designed to showcase and nurture the island’s natural resources, the luxury beach resort is dotted with 72 modern luxury villas on stilts under a canopy of Coconut and Palmyra trees; a contemporary haven built without cutting off a single tree.

Wi-fi internet at the lobby ensures connectivity, while silent and intuitive service creates a bespoke atmosphere for privacy and romance interrupted only the sound of kingfishers and emerald doves. Taj’s commitment to conservation and sustainable luxury in the archipelago is at the core of the resort’s impeccable facilities and services. Along with their own biogas facility, water bottling plant, a reservoir for rainwater harvesting and partial solar energy, they’ve partnered with the Pollution Control Board to keep the island plastic free while developing a plastic collection centre on the mainland. From biodegradable straws and paper to newer tools developed in training sessions with associates and the islanders, they’re working consistently on reducing carbon footprint on this paradise.

This beach resort offers a bouquet of fun activities for children that engage them in the marine and terrestrial ecology of the island. Between picking mangoes, mud apples and mulberries at our bountiful orchards to jungle treks, beach picnics, supervised scuba diving and shell-craft lessons at the vibrant Recreational Centre with plenty of post-meal snoozes on villa decks, there isn’t a dull moment for young and curious minds.

Location

The Andaman Islands form an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal between India to the west and Myanmar (formerly Burma) to the north and east. The approximately 300 islands are well known for their palm-lined, white-sand beaches, mangroves and tropical rainforests. Beneath the azure sea, beautiful coral reefs support a wealth of marine life including sharks and rays which makes the islands excellent diving and snorkelling sites. Some of the most remote islands are inhabited by indigenous Andamans however do note that many of these particular islands are off limits to visitors.

Havelock Island is known as the Pearl of the Andaman and has seven glorious untouched beaches flanked by sweeping coconut palms. Here, on the renowned Radhanagar Beach, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa sits nestled over 46 acres of land.

Dining

Experiences

Snorkelling & Scuba Diving

The crystal clear turquoise waters of the Andaman’s are home to one of the richest coral reef ecosystems in the world, where over 135 marine species thrive, thanks to an unusually low diving impact. The best diving sites on the archipelago are concentrated on Havelock Island, from Minerva Ledge with a massive, thick-lipped Napoleon Wrasse in residence, to the gently sloping Neil’s Cove and the famous Johnny’s Gorge where massive Manta Rays, coral-chomping Humpback Parrotfish, flamboyant Lionfish, Stingrays and Blue Stripped Snappers abound, divers are always assured of left mesmerizing underwater vistas. For wreck diving fans, the MV Mars site near Havelock is a relaxed 15 metre dive through the remains of a 2006 boat wreck. The resort facilitates itineraries for beginners to professionals – including Bubblemaker sessions for young children – to experience the most magical moments that the island has to offer.

Forest Trek

Unearth more such natural wonders by following a forest trail with the hotel’s naturalist who will introduce you to the exotic flora and fauna thriving in Andaman’s enchanted forest. Who knows? Maybe you will be lucky enough to spot the shy White Collared Kingfisher. Take this magical trail for 2two full hours. It’s a walk in the forest that will stay with you forever.