Great Nicobar Island: India's Southern Frontier

Great Nicobar Island, the largest of the Nicobar Islands, marks the southernmost point of Indian territory. Located in the Bay of Bengal, north of Sumatra, it's a world away from the bustling mainland. The island is a part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India. Covering 921 square kilometers, Great Nicobar is sparsely populated, with much of its area cloaked in dense rainforest. This lush environment is a biodiversity hotspot, home to unique and endangered species. The Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site, protects a significant portion of the island's ecosystem. Here, you might spot the Nicobar megapode, Nicobar tree shrew, or even the elusive coconut crab. The island's history is rich and complex. It has been known to Indian mariners since the time of the Chola dynasty. The island was also known as "Cui Lan island" in the 15th century during the voyages of Zheng He. Later, the islands were claimed by Denmark in 1755 and subsequently sold to the British in 1868. Great Nicobar was significantly impacted by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Great Nicobar is home to indigenous communities, including the Shompen and Nicobarese people. The Shompen are a particularly vulnerable tribal group who live in the forests and maintain a hunter-gatherer lifestyle. The Nicobarese are the more dominant group, with many now living in settlements along the coast. Visitors to Great Nicobar can explore Campbell Bay National Park, hike nature trails, and discover the diverse birdlife. Indira Point, the southernmost tip of India, is another key attraction, featuring a lighthouse that guides ships. Note that permits may be required to visit certain areas, including the Biosphere Reserve and Galathea National Park.