The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are set to mark World Tourism Day 2025 with a series of events highlighting the global theme “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation.” The Department of Tourism has drawn up a diverse calendar of activities aimed at raising awareness on responsible travel while engaging tourists, stakeholders, and local communities in cultural and recreational programmes.
The celebrations have already begun with an underwater photography contest that opened on September 20 and will run until September 25. The competition showcases the Islands’ rich marine biodiversity, offering a platform for photographers to capture coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and unique seascapes. This initiative ties into the administration’s broader message of conservation and appreciation of natural resources.
A volleyball tournament is also scheduled at the Mini Stadium in Wimberlygunj on September 25 and 26. Open to participants across the Islands, the event aims to combine sports with tourism promotion, creating an atmosphere of community interaction. Registrations are being facilitated through local contacts, ensuring accessibility for both seasoned players and amateurs.
On September 27, the day will begin with a traditional welcome for tourists at the main entry points of the Islands, including the airport, National Memorial Cellular Jail, and jetties at Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. These gestures, blending cultural hospitality with modern tourism practices, are intended to create memorable first impressions for visitors arriving on the Islands’ shores.
To make the day inclusive, the Department has announced free entry to several museums on September 27. The list includes Chatham Saw Mill, Samudrika, Anthropological Museum, Fisheries Museum, and the National Memorial Cellular Jail. By opening these heritage sites to the public, authorities aim to encourage both residents and visitors to engage with the Islands’ history, biodiversity, and cultural narratives.
A thematic seminar will also be held on September 27 at the Megapode Nest Conference Hall in Haddo between 10 am and 12 noon. The session will feature discussions on sustainable tourism practices, with expert talks from industry stakeholders. Key initiatives of the Department of Tourism are expected to be launched during the seminar, further aligning with the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s call for sustainability-driven policies.
The grand finale of the celebrations will take place at the ITF Ground on the evening of September 27. The “Cuisine of India Festival,” combined with a cultural programme, will run from 3 pm to 10 pm. The event promises an evening of music, dance, and performances, along with culinary showcases from different parts of the country. This concluding programme aims to celebrate diversity while offering entertainment and leisure to locals and visitors alike.
Prizes for various competitions, including the underwater photography contest and the volleyball tournament, will be distributed on September 27 at the ITF Ground. The awards are meant to recognize talent and participation while reinforcing the theme of responsible tourism.
By offering free museum access, engaging communities in contests, and focusing on sustainable travel in seminars, the Department of Tourism has highlighted the Islands’ commitment to protecting their environment while promoting economic growth through tourism.
World Tourism Day 2025 thus brings together the natural beauty, cultural richness, and community spirit of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, positioning the destination as one that values both its heritage and its ecological future.
