Port Blair: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are preparing to turn the monsoon season into a celebration of nature, culture and adventure, with the Department of Tourism launching the three-day Monsoon Carnival 2026 from June 26. Conceived as a platform to showcase the Islands’ rain-washed beauty and vibrant traditions, the festival aims to redefine monsoon as one of the most rewarding times to experience the archipelago. As monsoon showers transform the Andaman and Nicobar Islands into a lush tropical paradise, the Department of Tourism is set to unveil a vibrant celebration aimed at showcasing the region’s unique charm beyond the traditional tourist season. The Monsoon Carnival 2026, scheduled from June 26 to 28, seeks to position the Islands as a year-round destination by highlighting the serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage and distinctive experiences that come alive during the rainy months.
Organised by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Departments of Education, Sports & Youth Affairs, RD & PRIs, Tribal Welfare, Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council and other allied departments, the three-day festival will bring together tourism, culture, sports, local traditions, handicrafts, cuisine and community participation under one umbrella. The carnival is designed to offer residents and visitors an immersive experience of the Islands’ vibrant monsoon season through a series of engaging events and activities. One of the major attractions will be the Knockout Beach Volleyball Tournament under the banner ‘Beach Sports Fest #VictoryVibes’, to be held at Corbyn’s Cove Beach on June 26 and 27. The tournament will feature competitions in both men’s and women’s categories, with registrations being coordinated by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs.
Encouraging creative expression, the Department of Tourism will also organise the ‘#MonsoonMomentsANI’ Reel Making Competition, inviting participants of all ages to capture and showcase the beauty of the Islands during the monsoon. Entries must be original, filmed within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and reflect the spirit of the season through compelling storytelling and visuals.
Adding a culinary dimension to the festivities, the ‘#MonsoonFlavours’ Food Fest will be held at the ITF Ground from June 26 to 28. The event will feature a diverse range of local delicacies and cuisines presented by hoteliers, restaurant owners, street food vendors, Self Help Groups, state associations and government departments.
Through the Monsoon Carnival, the Administration hopes to celebrate the Islands’ natural beauty, cultural diversity and community spirit while creating fresh opportunities for tourism promotion and local participation during one of the most picturesque seasons of the year.
