India is a vast and diverse country with unique geographical landmarks. While many people know about its northernmost peaks in the Himalayas, fewer are aware of the southernmost point of India. This topic explores the southernmost point of India, its geographical importance, history, and interesting facts.
The Southernmost Point of India
Indira Point – The Southernmost Tip of India
The southernmost point of India is Indira Point, located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Coordinates: 6.7460° N, 93.8426° E
- Region: Great Nicobar Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Nearest Landmass: Sumatra, Indonesia
Indira Point lies at the tip of Great Nicobar Island, making it the farthest south one can travel in India. It is a remote location, surrounded by the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal.
The History and Naming of Indira Point
Originally Called Pygmalion Point
Before being renamed Indira Point, this landmark was historically known as Pygmalion Point or Parsons Point. The name “Pygmalion Point” was used during the British colonial era.
Renaming in Honor of Indira Gandhi
In 1985, the government of India renamed it Indira Point in memory of Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India. The change was made to honor her contributions to the nation.
Geographic and Strategic Importance
1. The First Land to Witness Sunrise in India
Since Indira Point is the southernmost land of India, it is one of the first locations in the country to see the sunrise each day.
2. Strategic Location in the Indian Ocean
- Indira Point is situated close to international shipping routes in the Indian Ocean.
- It holds strategic importance for India’s maritime security and is monitored by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
3. Proximity to Southeast Asia
- Indira Point is geographically closer to Indonesia’s Sumatra Island than to mainland India.
- This makes it an important location for trade, navigation, and oceanic research.
Indira Point and the 2004 Tsunami
Submersion Due to the Tsunami
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami caused massive devastation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Indira Point was partially submerged as the sea level rose.
- The lighthouse, one of the key landmarks, survived but suffered some damage.
- The tsunami altered the coastline and affected local communities.
Despite this, Indira Point remains the southernmost point of India and continues to hold significance.
How to Reach Indira Point
1. Permission and Access Restrictions
Indira Point is located on Great Nicobar Island, which is a protected area. Special permission is required to visit due to its ecological sensitivity and strategic importance.
- Visitors need approval from the Andaman and Nicobar administration and the Indian Navy.
- Due to its remoteness, tourist access is limited.
2. Travel Route to Indira Point
- By Air: The nearest airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.
- By Sea: From Port Blair, travelers must take a ship to Campbell Bay, the largest settlement on Great Nicobar Island.
- By Road: From Campbell Bay, a long journey through dense forests leads to Indira Point.
Interesting Features of Indira Point
1. The Indira Point Lighthouse
One of the most iconic structures at Indira Point is the lighthouse, which serves as a navigation guide for ships in the Indian Ocean.
- It was built in 1972 to help with maritime safety.
- The lighthouse stands strong despite the 2004 tsunami and remains operational.
2. Rich Marine and Wildlife Biodiversity
Indira Point is part of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, which is home to:
- Exotic bird species like the Nicobar pigeon
- Unique marine life such as sea turtles and coral reefs
- Lush tropical forests with rare plant species
3. Cultural and Tribal Significance
The Nicobarese and Shompen tribes are the indigenous communities of Great Nicobar Island.
- They have lived in the region for centuries, following traditional ways of life.
- Indira Point is not heavily populated, making it one of the most untouched locations in India.
Common Misconception: Kanyakumari as the Southernmost Point
Many people mistakenly believe that Kanyakumari is the southernmost point of India.
1. Kanyakumari – The Southernmost Point of Mainland India
- Kanyakumari is the southernmost point of mainland India but not the southernmost overall.
- Located in Tamil Nadu, it is famous for the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue.
2. Indira Point – The True Southernmost Point
- Unlike Kanyakumari, Indira Point is farther south, extending into the Indian Ocean.
- It belongs to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is not connected to the Indian mainland.
Fascinating Facts About Indira Point
- It is closer to Indonesia than to mainland India.
- The area was permanently altered by the 2004 tsunami.
- It is one of the least visited places in India due to its remote location.
- The lighthouse at Indira Point is one of the most isolated in the world.
- The Indian government maintains strict environmental protection laws to preserve the island’s biodiversity.
Indira Point is the southernmost point of India, located on Great Nicobar Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It holds geographical, strategic, and ecological importance but remains one of the least accessible places in the country.
Although Kanyakumari is often thought to be the farthest south, Indira Point extends even further into the Indian Ocean, making it the true southernmost land of India.