Radhanagar Beach

Tucked in Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach is regarded as the best beach in India. It is a pristine stretch of sand backed by turquoise water and lush forest. Radhanagar Beach is commonly called Beach No. 7 and it looks straight out of the postcard. Times Magazine has awarded it the title of the ‘7th best beach in the world’. Radhanagar Beach is one of the many highlights, not only in Havelock but also in the Andaman Islands.

Dotted with palm trees, the beach offers tourists a tranquil ambiance to relax and unwind amidst nature. Take a walk barefoot and relish the sight of the aqua waves brushing against the feet. The scenery is so surreal that it will allow you to reconnect with the poet within yourself. No wonder, you can choose Radhanagar Beach for a complete makeover of mind.

Another attraction of Radhanagar Beach is Neil’s Cove. A 10 minutes walk along the beach will take you to this spot. Neil’s Cove is a pristine lagoon and also one of the lesser-known spots. This attraction also offers immense photography opportunities. However, swimming in the water is strictly prohibited after sunset. Hence, with a dazzling array of offerings, Radhanagar Beach is an undeniable bucket list destination.

Etymology

Havelock Island was previously named after a British general, Sir Henry Havelock, who served in India.[5]

In December 2018, it was renamed, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as Swaraj Island as a tribute to Subhas Chandra Bose. Bose had hoisted the Indian flag at Port Blair on 30 December 1943 and proclaimed the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as liberated from British rule. He had subsequently named Neil Island as Shaheed Dweep and Ross Island was renamed as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep as well.[6]

History

Havelock is one of the few places that the administration of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands union territory of India has permitted and encouraged development of tourism, with a focus on promoting eco-tourism.

Havelock Island avoided much of the devastation by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and its resulting tsunami and there were no documented casualties.

There is a lighthouse at the northern point of the island, near Govinda Nagar, established in 2005. [7]

On 30 December 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Havelock Island would be renamed as Swaraj Island.[8]

Geography
The island belongs to the Ritchie’s Archipelago and is located between Peel Island and Neil Island.