DESCRIPTION

The Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair is the perfect spot for water sports enthusiasts. The complex, covering approximately 2 km, includes a park that provides an ideal environment for relaxation and wellness activities such as jogging and yoga. The park has two entrances, one being the main entrance to the jetty and the other is in Marina Park. The complex is suitable for all age groups and is an ideal destination for families, with a combination of various options including water sports for both kids and adults, play area for children, and space for relaxing and jogging.

The complex is also home to the monument of the Battle of Aberdeen, a historic battle fought between the British and the people of Andamans in 1859. Additionally, there is a statue of Rajiv Gandhi situated in the middle of the two pathways.

The complex serves as the ferry point to head towards North Bay Coral Island and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose (Ross) Island. Visitors can enter through the main gate and take a walk to the jetty for boarding the boats. The Ross Island can be sighted from the complex, as it is pretty close by.
The manner in which the complex is constructed makes it a great place for taking casual walks or jogging. The open sea space provides an amazing view while relaxing or taking a walk. Although it’s not a beach, visitors can grab some snacks from the small shops around and spend some quality time with their family in this seaside park surrounded by lush greenery. The best time to visit the complex and park is after 3 PM when the sun hides away, and the weather is cool for visitors to go around and enjoy the place.

BEST TIME TO VISIT AT RAJIV GANDHI WATER SPORTS COMPLEX

Visitors can visit the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex throughout the year. However, the best time to visit would be during the winter months of October to February when the weather is pleasant and mild. During this time, the temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for outdoor activities like water sports, jogging, and walking. The monsoon season, which is from June to September, is not recommended for visiting the complex due to heavy rainfall and strong winds.

HOW TO REACH AT RAJIV GANDHI WATER SPORTS COMPLEX

To reach the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex from your hotel, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Most hotels in Port Blair also provide transportation services to the water sports complex. The complex is located in the heart of the city, so it shouldn’t take you more than 15-20 minutes to reach there, depending on the traffic. It is advisable to check the distance and estimated travel time with your hotel reception or travel agent beforehand, to plan your visit accordingly.

THINGS TO DO AT RAJIV GANDHI WATER SPORTS COMPLEX

Things to do near Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, here are a few suggestions:

Water sports: The complex offers a variety of water sports activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, parasailing, and more. These activities are suitable for all age groups and are a great way to experience the thrill of the sea.

Visit Aberdeen Jetty: Located just a few minutes away from the complex, Aberdeen Jetty is a popular spot for tourists to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the sea. You can take a leisurely walk along the jetty and watch the boats sailing by.

Explore Marina Park: The complex has an entrance to Marina Park, which is a beautiful public park that offers a great view of the sea. You can take a stroll around the park or simply relax on one of the benches and enjoy the view.

Visit North Bay Island: The complex is the ferry point to head towards North Bay Coral Island, which is known for its beautiful coral reefs and clear waters. You can take a ferry ride from the complex to the island and spend a day exploring the underwater world.

Visit Ross Island: The complex is also the ferry point to head towards Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose (Ross) Island, which was once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands. You can take a ferry ride from the complex to the island and explore the ruins of the British era buildings.

Enjoy local cuisine: There are many food stalls and small restaurants near the complex that offer local cuisine. You can try out some of the delicious seafood dishes and other local delicacies.

Relax at the park: The complex has a park as well for relaxation and other health/wellness activities such as jogging and yoga etc. Visitors can grab some snacks from the small shops around and spend some quality time with their family in this seaside park surrounded by lush greenery.

FOOD OPTIONS NEAR RAJIV GANDHI WATER SPORTS COMPLEX

There are many food options available in Port Blair, ranging from local street food to fine dining restaurants. Some popular local dishes to try include seafood, fish curry, crab masala, and biryani. Vegetarian options such as chana masala, paneer dishes, and dosas are also widely available.

HERE ARE SOME RECOMMENDATIONS:

Bayview at Sinclairs Bayview Hotel: This restaurant serves a variety of Indian and international cuisine, including seafood. It offers a great view of the sea.

New Lighthouse Restaurant: This restaurant is located near the Cellular Jail and serves delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine.

Annapurna Restaurant: This is a popular vegetarian restaurant located near the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex. It serves delicious South Indian and North Indian dishes.

Kattabomman Restaurant: This restaurant serves authentic South Indian food and is known for its dosas and idlis.

Waves Restaurant: This restaurant is located at Hotel Shompen and serves a variety of dishes, including seafood.

Light House Residency: This is a popular restaurant located near the Cellular Jail. It serves a variety of dishes, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental.

Note that these are just a few recommendations and there are several other food options available in the vicinity of the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex.

TRAVEL TIPS F FOR RAJIV GANDHI WATER SPORTS COMPLEX

Here are some travel tips for visiting the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair:

• Plan ahead: Make sure to plan your visit to the complex ahead of time, especially if you want to participate in water sports activities. Book your tickets in advance and check the weather conditions before heading out.

• Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, especially if you plan to participate in water sports activities. Bring a change of clothes and a towel in case you get wet.

• Carry essentials: Don’t forget to carry essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and drinking water.

• Follow safety instructions: If you are participating in any water sports activities, make sure to follow the safety instructions provided by the instructors.

• Respect the surroundings: The Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex is a beautiful and peaceful place, so make sure to respect the surroundings and keep the area clean.

• Visit during off-peak hours: To avoid the crowds, consider visiting the complex during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon.

• Bargain with vendors: If you are buying snacks or souvenirs from the vendors around the complex, make sure to bargain and negotiate the prices.

• Learn about the history: Take some time to learn about the history of the complex, including the Battle of Aberdeen and the Rajiv Gandhi statue, to fully appreciate the significance of the place.

• Be mindful of the environment: Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their biodiversity, so make sure to be mindful of the environment and do not disturb the natural habitats of the flora and fauna around the complex.

• Water bottle: It’s important to stay hydrated, especially in a tropical climate. Carry a reusable water bottle to refill at the water dispensers in the complex.

• Camera: The Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex offers some stunning views of the sea, the boats, and the Ross Island. Don’t forget to carry your camera to capture some great memories.

• Cash: While there are small shops around the complex where you can grab some snacks and drinks, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash as some places may not accept card payments.

• First-aid kit: It’s always a good idea to carry a small first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic creams, and painkillers.

THINGS TO AVOID AT RAJIV GANDHI WATER SPORTS COMPLEX

When visiting the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair, there are a few things that visitors should avoid to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Coral and shell collecting: It is illegal to take any coral or shells from the beaches in the Andaman Islands, as they are important components of the ecosystem. Taking them can damage the local marine environment and disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

• Littering: It is important to avoid littering while visiting the islands. Please dispose of your trash properly and do not throw it in the water or on the beaches. This can cause pollution and harm the local wildlife.

• Feeding the wildlife: It is not recommended to feed the wildlife in the Andaman Islands. Feeding them can lead to dependency on humans and can also cause health issues for the animals.

• Plucking fruits or flowers: It is best to avoid plucking fruits or flowers from the trees or plants in the Andaman Islands. Doing so can harm the environment and disturb the natural balance.

• Smoking and drinking: Smoking and drinking in public places is strictly prohibited in the Andaman Islands. Please be respectful of local customs and laws and avoid smoking and drinking in public areas.

• Disrespecting local customs: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid behavior that may be offensive to the locals.