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Andaman Islands!

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Population

380000

schedule

Best Time

October to May

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Time Needed

7-10 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Andaman & Nicobar map South India πŸ–οΈ Beaches 🏝️ Islands Beaches Scuba Diving Island Getaways andaman islands andaman nicobar havelock island port blair beaches scuba diving indian islands travel guide

The Andaman Islands are an Indian archipelago in the Bay of Bengal. This remote location is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and world-class scuba diving. The islands offer a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

The Andamans are a tropical paradise, offering stunning natural beauty and a chance to disconnect. However, travel can be expensive and time-consuming due to the remote location. Limited infrastructure and potential for rough seas are other considerations. If you seek tranquility and underwater exploration, the Andamans are worth it.

Reaching the Andamans requires a flight or ferry to Port Blair, the capital. Plan a minimum of 7 days to explore multiple islands. Ferry schedules are crucial and should be booked in advance, especially during peak season.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to May

22-30 degrees C

Dry season with clear skies and calm seas. Ideal for water sports and exploring the islands.

Why Visit:

Perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, and beach hopping. The weather is consistently sunny, and the seas are calm for ferry travel. Visibility is excellent for underwater activities. This is also the best time to see bioluminescence.

Tip: Peak season means higher prices and more crowds. Book flights and accommodation well in advance.

Shoulder Season

September and June

24-31 degrees C

The weather is transitioning, with occasional showers and slightly more humid conditions.

Why Visit:

Fewer crowds and slightly lower prices compared to peak season. Still decent weather for most activities.

Tip: Ferry schedules might be less frequent. Some dive sites might have reduced visibility.

Avoid

July to August

24-30 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during the monsoon season. Many activities are suspended due to unsafe conditions. Ferry services are often disrupted.

Note: Some resorts offer discounted rates, but the weather is unpredictable.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Cellular Jail National Memorial

⏱ 3-4 hours β‚Ή30 (Indians), β‚Ή600 (foreigners)

A former colonial prison used to exile Indian political prisoners. Now a national memorial showcasing the struggle for independence....

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Radhanagar Beach (Havelock Island)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Considered one of the best beaches in Asia, known for its white sand and turquoise waters....

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Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island)

⏱ 2-3 hours β‚Ή30 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

A former British administrative headquarters, now an abandoned island with ruins and historical significance....

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Elephant Beach (Havelock Island)

⏱ Half-day Free

Known for its vibrant coral reefs and shallow waters, ideal for snorkeling and water sports....

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Baratang Island (Lime Stone Cave and Mud Volcano)

⏱ Full day β‚Ή30 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

Home to the unique Limestone Caves and Mud Volcano, offering a glimpse into the natural wonders of the Andamans....

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Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

A popular spot for bird watching and enjoying the sunset views....

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North Bay Island (Coral Island)

⏱ Half-day Free

Known for its coral reefs and water sports activities....

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Things To Do

attractions

Scuba Diving

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή3500-5000 per person

Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of the Andaman Islands....

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attractions

Snorkeling

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1000 per person

A great way to experience the underwater world without diving deep....

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attractions

Sea Walking

⏱ 1 hour πŸ’° β‚Ή3000-4000 per person

Walk on the seabed and observe marine life up close....

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attractions

Kayaking through Mangroves

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-2500 per person

Explore the serene mangrove forests of the Andaman Islands by kayak....

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Cultural Experiences

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Tribal Tours (Permits Required)

Full day | β‚Ή5000-10000

Learn about the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands, such as the Jarawa and the Sentinelese....

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Visit the Anthropological Museum

2-3 hours | β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή50 (foreigners)

Learn about the history and culture of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands....

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Attend the Island Tourism Festival (December-January)

Varies | Free (entry to events may have separate charges)

A celebration of the culture, art, and traditions of the Andaman Islands....

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celebration

Explore Local Markets

1-2 hours | Free (cost of purchases varies)

Experience the local life and culture by visiting the bustling markets of the Andaman Islands....

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Attend Church Services

1-2 hours | Free

Experience the local Christian community and their religious practices....

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Cooking Class (Seafood Focus)

3-4 hours | β‚Ή2000-3000

Learn to prepare local Andamanese cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood....

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Grilled Fish
Grilled Fish

fresh catch grilled with local spices (try at Anju Coco Resto, Havelock)

Amritsari Kulcha
Amritsari Kulcha

flaky bread served with chole (try at Icy Spicy, Port Blair)

Seafood Curry
Seafood Curry

local-style curry with coconut milk and spices

Tandoori Prawns
Tandoori Prawns

prawns marinated in tandoori spices and grilled

Where to Eat

Anju Coco Resto

Anju Coco Resto

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian, Seafood

πŸ“ Havelock Island

Relaxed beachfront restaurant with fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere. A great place to enjoy a sunset dinner.

Grilled Fish

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Icy Spicy

Icy Spicy

β‚Ή

Indian, Chinese

πŸ“ Port Blair

Popular restaurant serving a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. A good option for budget-friendly meals.

Amritsari Kulcha

β‚Ή500-800 for two

Street Food Spots

Aberdeen Bazaar

Aberdeen Bazaar

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-200 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local snacks and street food. Be mindful of hygiene and choose vendors with clean stalls.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Andaman Islands

More restaurants & dishes from Andaman Islands

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Port Blair

Good for first-timers, offering easy access to the airport, Cellular Jail, and ferries. Can be crowded and noisy.

Best For: First-time visitors

Havelock Island

Best for beaches, diving, and a laid-back atmosphere. More expensive than Port Blair and can be difficult to book during peak season.

Best For: Beach lovers and divers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή1200-1800/night

Hotel GKM Grand

πŸ“ Port Blair

Basic but clean rooms, close to the airport. Good for a short stay.

β‚Ή1200-1800/night

Sun Sea Resort

πŸ“ Havelock Island

Simple cottages near Govind Nagar Beach. Offers a budget-friendly option on Havelock.

β‚Ή1000-1500/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή3000-5000/night

Symphony Palms Beach Resort

πŸ“ Havelock Island

Comfortable rooms with beach access and a swimming pool. Conveniently located near Radhanagar Beach.

β‚Ή3000-5000/night

Sinclairs Bay View

πŸ“ Port Blair

Rooms with sea views and a restaurant. Offers a comfortable stay in Port Blair.

β‚Ή2500-4000/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή20000+/night

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Havelock Island

πŸ“ Havelock Island

Luxurious villas with private beaches and a spa. Offers a premium experience with excellent service.

β‚Ή20000+/night

SeaShell Port Blair

πŸ“ Port Blair

Offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and multiple dining options. A top choice in Port Blair.

β‚Ή8000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), 2km from Port Blair

train

By Train

Stations:
Routes:

Booking: N/A - no trains to Andaman Islands

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By Bus

Terminals:
Routes:

Note: N/A - no buses to Andaman Islands

Getting Around

directions

Scooter

πŸ’° β‚Ή500-800 per day

Best for: Exploring islands at your own pace

Wear a helmet and drive carefully. Fuel is readily available.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200 per trip

Best for: Short distances within towns

Bargain for the fare before starting the journey.

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1500 per day

Best for: Comfortable travel for longer distances

Book in advance, especially during peak season.

directions

Ferries

πŸ’° β‚Ή400-1500 per trip

Best for: Traveling between islands

Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Check the ferry schedules carefully.

Practical Tips

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What To Wear

Light cotton clothing is ideal for the tropical climate. Pack swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή8000+

ATMs: Available in Port Blair and Havelock Island, but can be unreliable.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water only. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls.

Common Issues: Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

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Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer decent coverage. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in Port Blair.

WiFi: Available at some hotels and restaurants, but can be slow and unreliable.

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Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken. Hindi is also commonly understood.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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