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DesiGlobetrotter › Andaman Islands, India
🏝️ Complete DIY Guide for Indians

Andaman
Islands.

Crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, world-class scuba diving, and a fascinating colonial history — all within India. No visa, no currency exchange, just paradise.

📅 Best: Oct – May ⏱️ 5–7 Days Ideal 💰 ~₹55,000 / person ✅ No Visa Required ✈️ ~₹10,000–20,000 Flights
Start Planning Your Trip →
✈️ Flights ✅ No Visa 🏝️ Islands 📍 Places 🤿 Activities 🚢 Cruises 🚗 Transport 🍛 Food 📱 Practical 🗓️ Itinerary 💰 Budget 💡 Tips 🌤️ Best Time
Step 1

Flights to Andaman

Fly directly from Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair's Veer Savarkar International Airport. No layovers needed from most major Indian cities.

🇮🇳 Mumbai
⟶
🏝️ Port Blair (IXZ)
₹10,000 – ₹20,000
Return per person · Varies by season & airline
Direct and connecting flights available. IndiGo, Air India, and Go First are popular choices. Book 2–3 months ahead during peak season (December–January, May holidays). Kolkata & Chennai sometimes have cheaper options.
🌐 Skyscanner 🌐 MakeMyTrip 🌐 EaseMyTrip
💡

Pro Tip: Use Skyscanner's "Whole Month" view to spot the cheapest travel dates. Flying mid-week is almost always cheaper than weekends.

🗓️
Flight Prices by Season

Prices vary significantly by season. The islands see peak demand during December–January, summer school holidays, and Diwali.

Budget (Off-peak)₹9,000–13,000
Mid-range (Normal)₹13,000–17,000
Peak season (Dec/Jan/May)₹18,000–25,000+
🛡️

No passport needed. Andaman is part of India — your Aadhaar card or PAN card is enough ID at the airport.

✅

No Visa, No Foreign Exchange.
Just Pack and Go.

Andaman is part of India — Indian citizens need zero visa formalities. Pay in rupees everywhere. Use your regular UPI apps, Indian SIM cards work (with BSNL and Airtel having the best coverage), and there's no conversion risk.

Carry your Aadhaar card — some attractions like the Cellular Jail ask for ID proof.

🇮🇳 Indian Territory · ₹ Rupee · No Foreign Exchange
The Islands

Which Islands to Visit

Andaman is an archipelago of 572 islands, but only a handful are open to tourists. Here's what each one offers.

Port Blair
🏙️
Port Blair
Sri Vijaya Puram · Base Camp
Your entry & exit point. Home to Cellular Jail, the airport, and Ross Island. Stay 1–2 nights here before island-hopping. More developed, with good restaurants and ATMs.
🏛️ History 🛒 Shopping 🏥 Medical
Havelock
🏖️
Havelock
Swaraj Dweep · The Star Island
The crown jewel of Andaman. Radhanagar Beach (Asia's best), Kala Pathar, Elephant Beach with incredible water sports. Spend at least 2–3 nights here — you won't regret it.
🤿 Scuba 🏖️ Beaches 🌅 Sunsets
Neil Island
🌿
Neil Island
Shaheed Dweep · Hidden Gem
Quieter and more laid-back than Havelock. Famous for the Natural Coral Bridge (Howrah Bridge), Bharatpur Beach, and stunning Laxmanpur sunsets. Perfect for honeymooners.
🌅 Sunsets 🐚 Coral 🏊 Swimming
Baratang
🌳
Baratang
Adventure Island · Day Trip
A very different Andaman experience — dense mangrove forests, limestone caves, and a 3 AM start through the Jarawa Reserve. Only for adventurous travellers. Optional add-on.
🗺️ Adventure 🪨 Caves 🛶 Mangroves
Must-See Spots

Places to Visit

From iconic history to postcard beaches and wild nature — filter by island to plan your days.

Cellular Jail
Cellular Jail
India's most historic prison — walk the same corridors as freedom fighters. Don't miss the Sound & Light Show in the evening. Carry Aadhaar. Closed Mondays.
Ross Island
Ross Island
Once the "Paris of the East" — now a gorgeous ruin overtaken by nature. Friendly deer roam freely, peacocks strut around British-era buildings. Closed Wednesdays.
Chidiya Tapu
Chidiya Tapu
"Sunset Capital of Andaman." A stunning viewpoint at the southern tip of South Andaman. Hire local guide Anuradha (~₹50/adult) for a forest walk to the best sunset spot.
Port Blair Jetty
Port Blair Jetty
The hub for all island ferries. Arrive 45 mins early for boarding. The Aberdeen Bazar area nearby has great local food and souvenir shops.
Sound Light Show
Sound & Light Show
Held every evening at Cellular Jail. A 45-minute narration (in Hindi & English) of India's freedom struggle that will genuinely move you. Book tickets at the jail entrance.
Wandoor Beach
Wandoor Beach
Gateway to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Excellent snorkelling with colourful corals. Glass bottom boat rides available. About 30 km from Port Blair.
Radhanagar Beach
Radhanagar Beach
Frequently ranked among Asia's finest beaches. White powdery sand, turquoise water, spectacular sunsets. No swimming after sunset. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Kala Pathar Beach
Kala Pathar Beach
Black volcanic rocks against crystal-clear water — one of the most dramatic and photogenic beaches in the Andamans. Best at sunrise. Very Instagram-worthy.
Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach
The best spot for water sports in the Andamans — jet ski, banana ride, sea walk, snorkelling and scuba all in one place. Accessible by 20-min boat ride or a jungle trek.
Scuba Dive
Scuba Dive Sites
Havelock has some of the best dive sites in India — Lighthouse, Aquarium, Pilot Reef, Barracuda City. Visibility often exceeds 20 metres. Multiple certified dive centres available.
Coral Bridge
Natural Coral Bridge
Locally called "Howrah Bridge" — a naturally sculpted rock arch formed by centuries of wave erosion. One of Andaman's most unique geological sights. Best at low tide.
Bharatpur Beach
Bharatpur Beach
Calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming. A great family beach. The sheltered bay makes it one of the safest swimming spots in the Andamans.
Laxmanpur Beach
Laxmanpur Beach
Famous for its spectacular sunsets and peaceful atmosphere. Walk along the shoreline as the sky turns orange — one of those Andaman moments you'll remember forever.
Adventures Await

Water Sports & Activities

Andaman is one of the best places in India for underwater adventures. Here's what to do, where, and what it costs.

ACT 01
🤿
Scuba Diving
📍 Havelock Island · Elephant Beach
The absolute highlight of any Andaman trip. Swim among colourful coral gardens, tropical fish, and sea turtles in waters with visibility up to 25m. No experience needed for a beginner dive.
Beginner Dive (Havelock)₹3,500 – ₹4,200
Elephant Beach Scuba₹3,500 – ₹4,200
Certified Multi-dive₹2,500/dive
🔥 Must-Do
ACT 02
🚶
Sea Walk
📍 Elephant Beach, Havelock
Walk on the actual ocean floor wearing a special helmet — no swimming skills needed. Perfect for non-swimmers and families. You'll still see coral, fish, and the underwater world up close.
Sea Walk (per person)₹3,500 – ₹4,200
Duration~20 minutes
👨‍👩‍👧 Family Friendly
ACT 03
🐠
Snorkelling
📍 Elephant Beach · Bharatpur
Snorkelling is often complimentary with boat trips to Elephant Beach. The coral reefs here are incredibly vibrant. Even beginners can spot nemo fish, starfish, and parrotfish easily.
Snorkelling (incl. equipment)Complimentary*
*With Elephant Beach boat trip₹500–700
👨‍👩‍👧 Family Friendly
ACT 04
🚤
Jet Ski & Water Rides
📍 Elephant Beach, Havelock
Elephant Beach is a full water sports hub. Jet skiing across the turquoise lagoon, banana boat rides, sofa rides, and glass bottom boat rides are all available. Great for groups and families.
Jet Ski₹800 – ₹1,000
Banana / Sofa Ride₹500 – ₹700
Glass Bottom Boat₹400 – ₹500
⚡ Thrill Seeker
ACT 05
🦌
Deer Feeding at Ross Island
📍 Ross Island, Port Blair
One of Andaman's most unexpectedly magical experiences — dozens of friendly spotted deer roam freely around the island and eat right from your hand. Peacocks too. Many travellers call this their best memory.
Ferry to Ross Island₹150 – ₹200
Entry Fee~₹50
📸 Photo Moment
⚠️

Closed on Wednesdays. Plan accordingly.

ACT 06
🛶
Baratang Mangrove Safari
📍 Baratang Island
For adventurous travellers only — a 3 AM start, convoy through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve, a boat ride through dense mangrove creeks, and a trek to dramatic limestone caves. Unlike anything else in India.
Full-day guided tour₹1,200 – ₹2,000
Departs3:00 AM
⚡ Adventure
Island Hopping

Cruises & Ferries

Getting between islands is by government or private ferry. Book in advance during peak season — seats sell out fast.

Route Duration Departure Approx. Cost Notes
Port Blair → Havelock ~1.5 hrs 7:30 AM ₹800 – ₹1,500 Makruzz / Green Ocean (private) recommended
Havelock → Neil Island ~1 hr Varies ₹700 – ₹1,200 Private ferry preferred
Neil Island → Port Blair ~1.5 hrs Varies ₹800 – ₹1,500 Book at least 2 days ahead in season
Port Blair → Ross Island ~10 mins 8:30 AM onwards ₹150 – ₹200 Govt. ferry from Aberdeen Jetty
Havelock → Elephant Beach ~20 mins Morning departures ₹500 – ₹700 Local speedboat. Can also trek (45 min)
💡

Book private ferries online in advance — Makruzz and Green Ocean are the most reliable private operators. Government ferries are cheaper but slower and more unpredictable. In peak season, ferries sell out days ahead.

Getting Around

Local Transport

Within each island, transport is relatively simple. Here's the best way to get around each island.

🛵
Scooter / Bike Rental
Most popular way to explore Havelock and Neil Island. Easy to rent near the jetty area. Roads are simple — perfect for a leisurely ride to Radhanagar or Kala Pathar.
From ₹400–600/day · Indian driving licence required
🚕
Auto-Rickshaw
Widely available in Port Blair. Fixed shared rates for popular routes, or hire one privately. Negotiate the fare before you get in — no meters here.
Shared: ₹20–40/person · Private: ₹200–500/trip
🚌
Government Bus
Cheap and reliable within Port Blair. Good for covering long distances across South Andaman island. Not very frequent but budget-friendly. Bus to Chidiya Tapu runs a few times daily.
From ₹15–80 depending on route
🚗
Taxi / Cab
Best option for families with luggage or those doing a full-day sightseeing run. Local operators can be arranged through your hotel. Contact Arun Kumar (9933272701) for reliable local transport.
Half-day: ₹800–1,200 · Full-day: ₹1,500–2,500
Eating in Andaman

Food for Everyone

Good news for vegetarians — Indian food is widely available across all major islands. Here's what to expect.

Vegetarian Restaurants
🌱 Pure Veg
Port Blair · Havelock · Neil Island
Pure vegetarian restaurants are easily available across all three major tourist islands. Indian, Jain, Punjabi, South Indian, and Gujarati options are all available at many places.
Seafood
🦞 Non-Veg
All Islands
Andaman seafood is some of the freshest in India — crab, lobster, prawn, fish all caught the same day. Try grilled fish at beachside shacks on Havelock for an unforgettable meal.
Local Beach Shacks
Havelock · Neil Island
Casual open-air restaurants near Radhanagar and Bharatpur beach serving fresh coconut water, grilled corn, and simple Indian meals. Great sunset dining spots.
Resort Restaurants
Havelock · Neil Island
Mid-range beach resorts typically offer both veg and non-veg Indian and continental menus. Pricier than local joints but convenient, especially for dinner after a full day of activities.
Budget Food Streets
Aberdeen Bazar, Port Blair
Aberdeen Bazar in Port Blair has affordable local dhabas, South Indian breakfast joints, and street food stalls. Perfect for quick lunches between sightseeing. Thalis from ₹80–120.
What to Try
Andaman Specialties
Fresh coconut water right from the tree, fish curry with rice, BBQ lobster, prawn masala, and raw mango pickle are all local favourites. Try the fresh fruits — Andaman grows excellent tropical varieties.
Before You Go

Practical Information

Everything you need to know before landing in Port Blair — networks, hotels, money, and local contacts.

📱
Mobile Network
BSNL – Best overall coverage across all islands.

Airtel – Good connectivity across the main islands and growing fast.

Jio – Excellent in Port Blair but can be patchy on Havelock and Neil. Not recommended as your only SIM.
🏨
Hotel Booking
Prefer a 4-Star Beach Resort on Havelock — waking up steps from the ocean is part of the experience.

Best platform: Agoda — tends to have more competitive pricing and better room availability for Andaman properties than other platforms.

Book early during Dec–Jan and May as resorts fill up fast.
💰
Money & Payments
Andaman uses Indian Rupees (₹) — no currency exchange needed. UPI (PhonePe, GPay) works at most restaurants and shops.

ATMs are available in Port Blair. Limited on Havelock, barely any on Neil — carry cash before heading to outer islands.

Most water sport operators are cash-only.
📞
Local Contact
Arun Kumar – 📱 9933272701

Trusted local contact for:
🚗 Local transport arrangements
🤿 Scuba & activity bookings
🚢 Cruise & ferry guidance
🏝️ Custom sightseeing tours

Highly recommended for first-time Andaman visitors.
🪪
ID & Documents
No passport required — Andaman is Indian territory.

Carry your Aadhaar card or PAN card — required at the airport and some attractions (Cellular Jail).

Keep a digital copy of your ID on your phone. Minors (under 18) should also carry school ID or birth certificate.
🏥
Health & Safety
Andaman is generally very safe for tourists. Water is clean, the islands are well-maintained.

Carry basic medicines and sea-sickness tablets if prone — ferry rides can be choppy.

Wear reef-safe sunscreen — regular sunscreen damages the coral reefs. Apply mosquito repellent at dusk.
Day-by-Day Plans

Sample Itineraries

Two options depending on how many days you have. Both assume you're flying into Port Blair.

DAY
1
Arrive Port Blair → Cellular Jail → Sound & Light Show
Fly in and check into your Port Blair hotel. After freshening up, head to the Cellular Jail — allow 2 hours to walk the corridors and absorb the history. End your evening at the famous Sound & Light Show (7:30 PM) which narrates India's freedom struggle beautifully. Carry your Aadhaar. The jail is closed on Mondays so plan accordingly.
🏛️ History🎭 Light ShowPort Blair
DAY
2
Port Blair → Havelock by Ferry → Kala Pathar → Radhanagar Sunset
Board the 7:30 AM cruise to Havelock (1.5 hrs). Check into your beach resort and freshen up. Head to Kala Pathar Beach in the afternoon for dramatic photos. As the sun gets lower, drive to Radhanagar Beach — frequently ranked one of Asia's finest — and watch one of the most beautiful sunsets you'll ever see. Swimming is not permitted after sunset.
🚢 Cruise🏖️ Beaches🌅 SunsetHavelock
DAY
3
Scuba Diving + Elephant Beach Water Sports Day
Wake up early for your scuba dive — this is the highlight of the trip. Book in advance through your hotel or Arun Kumar. Afternoon, head to Elephant Beach by speedboat (20 min) for snorkelling (often complimentary), jet ski, banana ride, sofa ride, and glass-bottom boat rides. It's the most Instagram-worthy day of the trip. Return by 5 PM.
🤿 Scuba🐠 Snorkelling🚤 Jet SkiHavelock
DAY
4
Havelock → Port Blair → Ross Island Excursion
Take the morning ferry back to Port Blair. After checking in, head to Aberdeen Jetty for the short 10-minute boat to Ross Island. Once the "Paris of the East" — now beautifully ruined and overrun by nature. Feed the friendly deer (one of the best memories many travellers have), watch peacocks roam freely among British-era ruins. Closed Wednesdays.
🦌 Deer Feeding🏛️ British RuinsRoss Island
DAY
5
Baratang Adventure OR Relax in Havelock (Recommended)
Option A – Baratang: Start at 3 AM, convoy through Jarawa Reserve, mangrove boat ride, limestone caves. Exhausting but unforgettable.

Option B (Recommended): Return to Havelock for a relaxed day — another Radhanagar sunset, extra scuba dive, or just beach time. Perfect for honeymooners and families. Most travellers prefer this.
⚡ AdventureOR🏖️ Beach Relax
DAY
6
Chidiya Tapu Sunset → Departure
If your flight allows, visit Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island) — the "Sunset Capital of Andaman" at the southern tip of South Andaman. Hire local guide Anuradha (~₹50/adult) for a forest walk to the best viewpoints. Then head to the airport, your bags full of shells and your phone full of memories.
🌅 Sunset🐦 Bird Watching✈️ Departure
💰

Approximate Cost (5N6D): ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 per person including return flights from Mumbai, 4-star hotels, ferry tickets, meals, and activities.

DAY
1
Arrive Port Blair → Cellular Jail → Sound & Light Show
Same as the 5N6D plan. Land, check in, and immerse yourself in India's freedom struggle story at the Cellular Jail. Catch the evening Sound & Light Show.
🏛️ History🎭 Light ShowPort Blair
DAY
2
Port Blair → Havelock → Kala Pathar → Radhanagar
Morning ferry to Havelock. Settle in, then the classic Kala Pathar + Radhanagar sunset combo. Start with beaches and let the island's beauty sink in.
🚢 Cruise🏖️ Beaches🌅 Sunset
DAY
3
Scuba Diving + Elephant Beach Water Sports
Full adventure day — morning scuba, afternoon at Elephant Beach for snorkelling, jet ski, banana rides and glass-bottom boat. You have an extra day on this itinerary so take it all in.
🤿 Scuba🚤 Water SportsHavelock
DAY
4
Havelock → Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Ferry to Neil Island (~1 hour). Check in and spend the afternoon at Bharatpur Beach — calm, crystal-clear water perfect for swimming. Walk to the Natural Coral Bridge (low tide is best). End at Laxmanpur Beach for one of Andaman's most spectacular sunsets.
🌉 Coral Bridge🌅 Laxmanpur SunsetNeil Island
DAY
5
Neil Island Free Day → Neil → Port Blair
A slower morning on Neil — this island rewards those who slow down. Rent a cycle or scooter to explore. Take the afternoon ferry back to Port Blair and check in.
🚴 Cycling🌿 RelaxedNeil → Port Blair
DAY
6
Ross Island + Chidiya Tapu
Morning: Ross Island deer-feeding, peacocks, and British ruins. Afternoon: road trip to Chidiya Tapu for sunset. Two of Port Blair's finest experiences in one day.
🦌 Ross Island🌅 Chidiya TapuPort Blair
DAY
7
Aberdeen Bazar Shopping → Departure
Pick up Andaman shell jewellery, spices, and souvenirs from Aberdeen Bazar before heading to the airport. Fly home with an extra island in your memories — Neil Island makes this itinerary a step above.
🛍️ Shopping✈️ Departure
💰

Approximate Cost (6N7D): ₹60,000 – ₹70,000 per person including return flights from Mumbai, 4-star hotels, ferry tickets, meals, activities, and Neil Island extension.

Honest Numbers

What It Actually Costs

Per person estimates from Mumbai. No hidden charges. All prices as of 2025–26.

🏝️ 5 Nights / 6 Days
Flights (Mumbai return)₹10,000–20,000
4-Star Hotel (per night)₹3,000–6,000
Ferry Tickets (all islands)₹2,500–4,000
Scuba + Activities₹7,000–12,000
Food & Local Transport₹4,000–6,000
Total / person ~₹55,000

Includes return flights. Couple sharing a room saves ~₹8,000–15,000 on accommodation costs.

🌴 6 Nights / 7 Days (+ Neil Island)
Flights (Mumbai return)₹10,000–20,000
4-Star Hotel (per night)₹3,000–6,000
Ferry Tickets (all islands)₹3,500–5,500
Scuba + Activities₹8,000–14,000
Food & Local Transport₹5,000–7,000
Total / person ~₹65,000

Includes Neil Island ferry & hotel. The extra island is worth the additional ~₹10,000 — Neil has a completely different, quieter vibe.

Insider Knowledge

Tips for Your Andaman Trip

Things we wish someone had told us before going. Curated from real experience on the islands.

✅
Book ferry tickets at least 3–5 days in advance during peak season (Dec–Jan, May). Private ferries like Makruzz and Green Ocean sell out fast. Govt. ferries are a backup but slower.
✅
BSNL is the most reliable network for the outer islands. If you're on Jio primarily, pick up a temporary BSNL SIM before heading to Havelock or Neil — Jio gets patchy.
✅
Carry enough cash before leaving Port Blair for Havelock and Neil. ATMs are limited and often have queues. Water sport operators are almost always cash-only.
✅
Don't skip the Sound & Light Show at Cellular Jail — it's 45 minutes that will genuinely move you. Tickets are cheap and available at the entrance. Go on your first or second evening.
✅
Check closure days before planning — Cellular Jail is closed Mondays, Ross Island is closed Wednesdays. Many visitors get surprised by this.
✅
Use reef-safe sunscreen — regular chemical sunscreen damages coral reefs. Andaman's reefs are one of the cleanest in India. Be a responsible traveller. Mineral-based SPF 50 available in Port Blair stores.
✅
Book your scuba dive in advance, especially in peak season. The top dive centres fill up. Contact Arun Kumar (9933272701) who can arrange everything — scuba, ferries, and transport.
✅
Stay at least 2–3 nights on Havelock — one night is never enough. Two nights gives you one sunset at Radhanagar and one full water-sports day. Three is ideal.
✅
Radhanagar Beach has no swimming after sunset — the guards enforce this. Arrive by 4:30 PM to get a good spot and enjoy the full sunset.
✅
Hire local guide Anuradha at Chidiya Tapu (~₹50/adult) — she knows all the hidden viewpoints for the best sunset and bird-watching spots that most tourists miss.
✅
October to May is the best time to visit — especially November to March for perfect weather. June to September brings the monsoon, with rough seas making ferry travel unpredictable.
✅
Opt for 4-star beach resorts on Havelock over budget guesthouses — the difference in comfort is significant and prices aren't dramatically higher. Book on Agoda for best deals.
When to Visit

Best Time to Visit Andaman

Peak Season (Ideal)
Good Season
Monsoon (Avoid)
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

🟡 October to May is the ideal window — perfect beach weather, calm seas, excellent diving visibility, and all ferry routes running smoothly. November to March is the sweet spot: cooler temperatures, minimal rain, and beautiful clear skies. June to September is monsoon season — heavy rains, rough seas, and many ferry routes disrupted. Best to avoid.

Ready to Book
Andaman Yourself?

You now have everything you need. Flights, islands, hotels, activities, ferries and budget — all covered. No agent required. India's paradise is waiting.

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