Eco-Tourism's New Horizon: Unveiling Andamans' Untapped Islands

Prominent hospitality companies, including Tata's IHCL and Hyatt, plan to develop eco-tourism resorts in Andaman Islands. Aves Island will welcome tourists for the first time. Resorts are designed under public-private partnerships to boost sustainable tourism, with significant investments planned for infrastructure and accommodation across multiple picturesque locations.

Leading hospitality companies, including IHCL from the Tata group and Hyatt Hotels Corp, are set to embark on eco-tourism projects in the Andaman Islands, with Aves Island opening to tourists for the first time. Authorities confirmed this move during a virtual meeting on Saturday.

Planned as public-private partnerships, the projects will span Neil Island, Aves Island, Long Island, and Smith Island. A redevelopment of Megapode Resort in Port Blair is also in the works. ANIIDCO invited bids on July 28 for the development of these properties under a design, build, finance, operate, and transfer model.

The resorts aim to highlight the region's natural beauty and foster sustainable tourism. Authorities are hopeful Aves Island will become a top destination after Havelock Island, thanks to its coconut plantations, coral beds, and extensive coastline.