Cycling Tour, Trade Fair, and New Jail Show Highlight Tourism Push

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are witnessing a surge in tourism-related activities as the administration rolls out a series of initiatives aimed at promoting eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and visitor engagement. From a community cycling event under the Fit India Movement to participation in a major national trade fair and the introduction of an additional Sound & Light Show at Cellular Jail, the region is positioning itself for an energetic and vibrant tourism season.

As part of its ongoing campaign to promote fitness and sustainable living, the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, in collaboration with the Department of Education and the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism (IP&T), has announced a community cycling tour on November 9, 2025. The event, themed #Explore. Experience. Enjoy., will begin at the National Memorial Cellular Jail and traverse scenic city landmarks including Water Sports Complex, Dignabad Fish Market, Marine Dockyard, Megapode Chowk, and Chatham before concluding at Netaji Stadium.

Open to cycling enthusiasts, students, and volunteers, the hour-long ride from 6 AM to 7 AM aims to encourage public participation in health-oriented outdoor recreation. Organizers have underlined that the initiative also ties into the broader Clean & Green Islands Campaign, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles and environmental awareness. Participation is free, and safety arrangements are in place to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all age groups.

In another major development, the Directorate of IP&T has invited applications from local tourism stakeholders to represent the Andaman & Nicobar Islands at the upcoming India International Trade Fair (IITF) in New Delhi, scheduled from November 14 to 27, 2025. The Islands’ pavilion at Bharat Mandapam will showcase the region’s distinctive tourism offerings, from pristine beaches and adventure sports to cultural heritage and sustainable travel opportunities. The initiative aims to create new business linkages and expand market visibility for the Islands as a premium destination.

Registered tour operators, hotel associations, water sports providers, and adventure service operators have been encouraged to submit expressions of interest by November 10. Officials stated that participation at such a national platform allows the Islands to strengthen tourism partnerships and attract investment in hospitality and eco-tourism infrastructure.

Meanwhile, in response to the growing influx of visitors during the ongoing peak season, the Directorate of IP&T has introduced an additional Hindi-language Sound & Light Show at the National Memorial Cellular Jail in Port Blair. The new show, held from 8:50 PM to 9:30 PM, adds to the existing three shows scheduled at 5:50 PM, 6:50 PM, and 7:50 PM. The addition is expected to ease congestion and accommodate the rising number of tourists eager to witness the iconic retelling of India’s freedom struggle within the historic walls of the former penal settlement.

Online ticketing for the shows is now available through the official tourism portal (andamantourism.gov.in/etourist), offering greater convenience for visitors planning their itineraries. The Directorate also announced plans to revise the show timings, proposing to start earlier at 5:30 PM to streamline crowd flow and improve the visitor experience.

The collective push across multiple tourism fronts underscores the Administration’s proactive strategy to expand the Islands’ appeal while balancing sustainability and heritage preservation. Each initiative, from community cycling to national-level promotion and heritage site enhancements, illustrates the integrated approach being adopted to showcase the Andamans as a dynamic travel destination.

As the season gathers pace, the blend of physical activity, cultural celebration, and infrastructural innovation is expected to strengthen the Islands’ tourism profile nationally and internationally. Together, these steps highlight the region’s steady transition from a serene archipelago to a bustling hub of experiential travel and eco-friendly adventure.