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If you are a water baby and feel utmost happiness gazing at the pristine sea, you are sure to fall in love with the gorgeous Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Its crystal-clear waters are home to diverse marine life, including colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, manta rays, and the occasional dugong.
Among my favorite destinations in India, the union territory oozes natural splendor while also offering enthralling adventures. The archipelago is a paradise for activities like scuba diving and sea walking, as the water is not yet polluted, unlike most other beaches in India.
I have visited the islands twice already and thus, I can be your reliable Andaman tour guide and give you a virtual tour, with the most crucial information and travel tips. Let’s begin?
Contents
Things To Know About The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
A group of 572 islands off the east coast of India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal. The union territory is spread across an area of 8,249 square kilometers, with Port Blair being the capital city.
The islands feature a diverse range of flora and fauna (including several endemic species), white sand beaches, azure blue waters, and lush green forests. The union territory is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India for its incredible water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling.
Tribes: The indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are considered to be one of the oldest surviving tribal communities in the world. The four main tribes here are the Jarawas, Sentinelese, Great Andamanese, and Onge.
Languages: Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, and Nicobarese are the official languages of the islands. English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Climate: Throughout the year, the islands enjoy a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 23°C to 31°C. The best time to visit is between October to May, when the weather is dry and pleasant.
Connectivity: The island is well-connected via air and sea. The Port Blair Veer Savarkar International Airport operates regular flights from several major cities in India. You can also access the island by sea via regular passenger ships from Kolkata, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam. The islands are also significant for their strategic location, serving as a key naval base for India.
Did You Know?
The names of 3 islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were changed in 2018, owing to their historical significance. Ross Island was renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Neil Island became Shaheed Dweep, and Havelock Island was renamed Swaraj Dweep.
Reaching The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- By Air
Taking a flight is the best way to reach the Andaman Islands. The islands have only one airport that is located in its capital town – Port Blair. The Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Airlines like Air India, SpiceJet, IndiGo, and GoAir offer regular flights to the islands.
- By Sea
If you want to have a unique experience, then traveling to the Andamans by sea is a better choice for you. There are regular passenger ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam, and they take nearly 50-60 hours to reach Port Blair. Operated by the Shipping Corporation of India, these ships are a cheaper option. However, their schedule and availability are unpredictable and subject to weather conditions.
TWT Tip: Make sure to obtain the necessary permits before you plan your trip to the islands. Indian nationals don’t require a permit to enter, but foreigners need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). It can be obtained on arrival at Port Blair airport or from Indian missions abroad. Along with RAP, foreign tourists also need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for visiting certain tribal areas. This can be obtained from the Foreigners Registration Office in Port Blair.
Best Time to Visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The best time to visit Andamans completely depends on your personal interests and budget. Here are some of the best months to choose from:
October to May
The Andaman Islands is a round-the-year destination. But, if you desire to see the best of these islands without any interruptions, any time between October to May is your best bet, when the temperature ranges from 23°C to 30°C. These months are also ideal if you wish to indulge in water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, boat rides, parasailing, etc.
June to September
In case you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the monsoon season (June to September) is the perfect time for you. During these months, the prices of accommodation and activities are lower. However, the weather can be unfavorable, owing to heavy rainfall and rough seas.
May to June
May and June are best for those who want to witness the unique biodiversity of the Andaman Islands. This is the nesting season for sea turtles and if you are lucky, you can even witness their hatching process on the beaches.
Warning: It is highly recommended that you check the weather forecast before planning your trip as the islands are prone to cyclones and harsh weather conditions. December and January are the peak tourist months, when the islands can get overcrowded and pricey.
Top 10 Things To Do In The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Scuba Diving
The Andaman Islands are renowned for their amazing underwater world, making scuba diving one of the top water sports activities. You will be mesmerized by the vibrant coral gardens, exotic marine life, and the unparalleled clarity of the water here.
Most of the best scuba diving sites in the Andaman Islands are in Havelock Island. If you want a scuba diving certification, you will have access to many professional instructors and certified dive centers as on the island.
Cost: Scuba diving starts at INR 4,500. If you want a scuba certification, it will go upward depending on the certification you require.
Best places: Havelock Island offers a plethora of exceptional scuba diving sites. Experienced divers and beginners alike can explore various dive sites, including Seduction Point and The Wall. Aquarium, Turtle Bay, Mac Point, and Lighthouse are some of the popular diving sites as well.
Check out our detailed scuba diving guide if you’re planning to try the activity on your next trip.
- Snorkeling
For those who want to witness stunning marine life without diving deep, snorkeling is the perfect choice and one of the top water sports activities here. The island boasts of shallow reefs brimming with colorful coral formations and a diverse array of fish species.
The most popular snorkeling spots offer calm and clear waters. Grab your mask, snorkel, and fins, and immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world as you swim alongside schools of fishes and explore the wonders of the reef.
Cost: INR 2,500-6,000.
Best places: Havelock Island offers several diving spots with shallow reefs that are perfect for snorkelers of all levels.
- Sea Walking
If you have always dreamt of walking on the ocean floor, then the sea walk experience will make your dreams come true. Sea walking is one of the top water sports activities in the Andaman Islands. This activity allows you to venture underwater without the need for any diving skills.
With a specially designed helmet, you can walk along the seabed, interacting with marine life and discovering the wonders hidden beneath the waves. Feel the thrill as you witness the vibrant corals and encounter unique underwater creatures up close.
Cost: INR 4,500 to INR 7,000
Best places: Elephant Beach in Havelock Island is a popular destination for sea walking where you can stroll along the ocean floor and encounter diverse marine life up close. Additionally, the calm and clear waters of Neil Island provide an excellent sea-walking experience.
- Kayaking
Explore the pristine coastline of the Andaman Islands through kayaking, a serene and environment-friendly water sport. Paddle your way through the tranquil waters, navigating mangrove creeks and secluded lagoons.
With its rich biodiversity, the island’s dense mangrove forests create an enchanting setting for kayaking. Glide silently through the mangroves, spot exotic bird species, and soak in the serenity of nature as you connect with the island’s unspoiled beauty.
Cost: INR 3,500 to INR 6,000
Best places: One of the best places for kayaking is the picturesque mangrove creeks and lagoons around Havelock Island. Paddle through the dense mangrove forests and venture into the tranquil waters near Vijaynagar Beach.
- Jet skiing
For those seeking high-speed excitement, jet skiing is a thrilling water sports activity that is not to be missed. Zip across the turquoise waters, feeling the wind in your hair as you navigate the waves.
The power and speed of the jet ski provide an exhilarating experience, perfect for adrenaline junkies. Whether you are a novice or an experienced rider, jet skiing guarantees an adrenaline-fueled adventure like no other.
Cost: INR 700 to INR 1,000
Best places: The best places for jet skiing include Port Blair and Havelock Island. Vijaynagar Beach in Havelock Island is a popular spot, known for its calm and clear waters.
- Parasailing
Soar above the pristine waters of the Andamans with parasailing, a popular activity that combines the thrill of flying with views of the island’s coastline. It offers a unique perspective of the island’s beauty and is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Strapped into a harness attached to a colorful parachute, you will be lifted into the sky by a speedboat. As you ascend, you will be treated to a bird’s-eye view of the sparkling sea, white sandy beaches, and lush green landscapes.
Cost: INR 3,500 to INR 4,000
Best places: Parasailing is quite popular in Port Blair and Havelock Island. A fantastic location for parasailing is Elephant Beach in Havelock Island, known for its vibrant coral reefs and picturesque surroundings.
Planning your vacation soon? Book a 6-day Andaman tour package now!
- Banana Boat Ride
As the banana boat glides through the water, the ride becomes an exciting blend of speed, balance, and teamwork. A skilled operator behind the speedboat or jet ski guides the banana boat. He adjusts the speed and direction to enhance the thrill. Quick turns or sudden maneuvers cause the boat to sway and dip, providing an exhilarating feel to riders.
Cost: INR 500 to INR 1,000 per person for a 15–20-minute ride
Best places: Havelock Island, Neil Island, North Bay Island, Port Blair, and Ross Island have the best spots for a great banana boat experience.
- Sea Kart
Combining the thrill of speed boating and jet skiing into one unforgettable adventure, sea karting is an exhilarating water sport in the Andaman Islands. This activity is centered around the use of a high-speed inflatable boat known as a sea kart. Similar to a jet ski, sea karting lets participants glide across the water surface at high speeds.
Cost: INR 3,500 per person
Best place: This activity is only available at Corbyn’s Cove Beach in Port Blair.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
Discover the wonders of the ocean without getting wet by embarking on a glass-bottom boat ride. This one-of-a-kind adventure offers a mesmerizing experience as you cruise on a specially designed-boat with a transparent glass bottom.
Gaze through the crystal-clear floor and marvel at the diverse marine life and exquisite coral reefs that lie beneath the water’s surface. Sit back and relax as you are treated to a breathtaking display of vibrant fish, colorful corals, and other fascinating aquatic creatures.
Cost: INR 500 to INR 1,500 per person
Best places: The top locations include Havelock Island, Neil Island, Jolly Buoy Island, and North Bay Island.
- Trekking
Located in the Bay of Bengal, the islands offer a unique and diverse landscape, making it a paradise for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. With dense tropical forests, picturesque hills, sparkling beaches, and breathtaking viewpoints, the Andamans provide endless opportunities for unforgettable trekking adventures.
Cost: Trekking in the Andaman Islands can range from budget-friendly options to more luxurious and comprehensive packages. Budget treks typically start at around INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per person for a day trip or a short trek of 2-3 days. These packages often include basic amenities like accommodation in tents or guesthouses, meals, and the assistance of an Andaman tour guide.
For longer and more extensive treks that span over a week or more, the cost can increase accordingly. These treks may involve exploring multiple islands, remote villages, and pristine beaches. The price for such treks can range from INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 per person, or even more, depending on the services and amenities provided. These packages often include accommodation in comfortable resorts or eco-lodges, meals, permits, transportation, equipment rental, and experienced guides.
You can also choose to go on short hikes on your own without paying anyone. If you’re wondering what’s the difference, check out our article on trekking vs. hiking.
Best places: Mount Harriet National Park, Saddle Peak (Diglipur), Radhanagar Beach to Elephant Beach (Havelock Island) are the most popular treks here.
Top 10 Places to Visit In The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The capital of Andaman and Nicobar Island has something for everyone. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or in need of relaxation, this place has it all.
Highlights
- Japanese Bunkers
- Aberdeen Bazaar
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Ross Island
An alluring tiny island nestled in the Andamans, Ross Island (now known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep) is popular for its rich historical significance. Here, you can encounter a unique blend of natural beauty and remnants of the British colonial era, including a church, a bakery, and a hospital. Soak in the lush greenery, tropical plants, and vibrant birdlife, or indulge in fun activities like strolling through the picturesque trails and enjoying breathtaking views of the clear waters!
Please note that staying at Ross Island is not permitted. Ferries ply from 7 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon every day, and you have to plan your day trip accordingly.
Highlights
- Beautiful beaches
- Lush green forests
- Historical British ruins, including a church, a bakery, and a hospital
- A variety of flora and fauna, including deer, peacocks, and various species of birds
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Did You Know?
This tiny magical island belonged to the British from 1858 to 1941. Afterward, the Japanese occupied it and transformed it into a (prisoner-of-war) POW site.
The Britishers built this three-storey prison in 1906, which was a pilgrimage site for freedom fighters. The massive structure has silently observed the cruel and inhumane atrocities faced by India’s freedom fighters. Today, it stands as a National Memorial.
Highlights
- The evening sound and light show
- An exhibition gallery and a library for honoring the freedom movement and the fighters
- Swatantrya Jyot at the center of the jail
Entry: INR 30 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners
Timings: 9:00 am to 12 noon and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on all days
Location: Google Maps
- Baratang Island
Set off on an enchanting journey to Baratang Island, where the captivating natural marvels can be witnessed at their best. A must-visit place here is the magnificent limestone caves, which feature exquisite stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Highlights
- Parrot Island
- Limestones caves
- Mud Volcano
- Baludera Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Chidiya Tapu (Bird Island)
Nature enthusiasts, wildlife enthusiasts, and bird lovers are sure to adore this place. It boasts of lush greenery and verdant mangrove forests and is home to a wide array of migratory bird species and a diverse range of exotic flora and fauna.
Highlights
- Trek to the Black Mountain along with swimming & scuba diving
- Visit Chidiya Tapu Biological Park
- Make sure to visit Mandapahad Beach for a romantic getaway with your BAE
Best Time to Visit: October to February (10 am to 3 pm)
- North Bay Island
North Bay Island should be on your travel plans if you love water sports. Located near the capital town of Port Blair, the main attraction of this island is a lighthouse from where you can have a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area. To get to the island, just take a ferry from Port Blair. You can also take a private boat if you want to travel lavishly.
Highlights
- Snorkelling
- Stunning views
- Swimming
- Scuba diving
Best Time to Visit: November to May
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Founded in 1983 with the aim to protect marine life, including nesting sea turtles and corals, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a famous tourist attraction in the Andaman Islands. To get there, obtain a permit and take a bus or a taxi from Port Blair. It will take less than an hour to reach Wandoor.
Highlights
- Boat ride
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Birdwatching
- Witness wildlife
- Visit a turtle breed center
Best Time to Visit: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Did You Know?
The park comprises 17 islands spread across more than 280 square kilometers of land. All the islands are a part of the Rutland Archipelago.
- Jolly Buoy Island
A tranquil tourist attraction, Jolly Buoy Island is known for its vibrant coral population, lush greenery, and peaceful surroundings. This less-crowded island is in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
Highlights
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Glass-bottom boat ride
Best Time to Visit: November to April
- Havelock Island
There is no place like Havelock Island in the entire Andamans! A paradise for ocean lovers, outdoor activities like scuba diving and snorkeling offer an unforgettable experience here. Its azure waters are home to a number of marine creatures and corals. Take a dip here to transport yourself to the unique underwater world.
Highlights
- Radhanagar Beach
- Kalapathar Beach
- Elephant Beach
- Turtle Beach
- Vijayanagar Beach
Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Neil Island
Neil Island is located between Rose Island and Havelock Island. It is home to white sandy beaches, biodiversity, exotic coral reefs, and tropical woodlands. You can cherish breathtaking sunset views, enjoy thrilling water sports activities, and stargaze here.
Highlights
- Natural Bridge
- Sitapur Beach
- Bharatpur Beach
- Laxmanpur Beach
- Ramnagar Beach (Sunset Beach)
- Snorkeling
- Boating
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Permits For Foreigners
Due to their proximity to international borders and their indigenous tribal populations, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are considered a restricted area for foreign tourists. It is important for foreigners traveling to the islands to obtain these required permits to enter and explore the Andamans:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Except for the citizens of Bhutan, Maldives, and Nepal, all foreigners have to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter the Andaman Islands. They can get this 30-day permit upon arrival at the Port Blair airport or the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkata. Its cost is around USD 7 per person.
- Protected Area Permit (PAP)
There are a few areas in the Andaman Islands for which foreign citizens require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). These areas include tribal reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. PAP is valid for 15 days and can be obtained from the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Port Blair. It costs around USD 25 per person.
Documents required for permits:
Foreigners will need a valid passport, visa, and two passport-size photographs in order to apply for permits. You may also be asked to produce a detailed itinerary of your trip to the Andaman Islands.
What To Pack For Your Andamans Trip?
- Cash
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Swimwear
- Waterproof bag
- Medications
- Reusable water bottle
- Emergency contact information
- Rain protection
- Flip flops
- Sunglasses
- Cap/hat
Important Tips For Traveling To The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Decided to travel to the Andamans? Keep the below tips in mind to enjoy a hassle-free Andaman travel:
- Make bookings in advance: Especially if you are traveling to the Andaman Islands in the peak season (between October and May), it is highly recommended that you book your flights, hotels, transfers, etc. in advance. The island can get crowded during these months.
- Get the necessary permits: The island is a restricted area and thus, foreign tourists are required to obtain permits before visiting. However, there are some areas for which even Indian nationals require permits to enter. These permits can be obtained from the local authorities or through a tour operator on the same day. Some of such places are Little Andaman Island, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Rani Jhansi Marine National Park, and Barren Island.
- Keep a check on the weather: The island experiences high levels of humidity and frequent rainfall, owing to its tropical climate. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly before your trip. Carry a raincoat or umbrella if necessary.
- Pack light and comfortable clothing: Don’t forget to pack light and breathable clothing as the climate in Andamans is usually warm and humid. Also, carry a swimsuit and flip-flops for beach activities.
- Carry insect repellent: There are various species of insects, including mosquitoes, on the Andaman Islands. Bring an insect repellent with you to protect yourself from bites.
- Stay hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day as the islands can get very hot and humid. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water during your trip.
- Take precautions while swimming: Andamans is home to magnificent beaches, and anyone would be tempted to swim there. But, it is important to take precautions while swimming. Follow the instructions of lifeguards and never swim in areas that have strong water currents.
- Be mindful of the environment: The islands are known for their pristine beaches and diverse marine life. Therefore, be extra cautious of the environment and don’t litter or damage the coral reefs.
- Carry medicines: There is a possibility that your prescribed medicines may not be available on the island. It is advisable to carry your necessary medication with you.
- Carry cash: Although there are ATMs and card payment options available, you should still carry enough cash, especially if you plan to travel to remote areas or smaller islands.
Must-Try Foods In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Coconut-based dishes
- Tribal cuisine (bamboo shoot curry and dishes cooked in banana leaves)
- Local fruits (mangoes, papayas, and pineapples)
- South Indian cuisine (dosas, idlis, and vadas served with chutneys and sambar)
- Chili curry (made with green chilies, tomatoes, onions, and tamarind, served with rice or bread)
- Andamanese biryani (made with fragrant rice)
- Street food (cutlets, momos, and fried snacks)
- Coconut water
Where to Stay In The Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
I would highly recommend spending a major part of your vacation in Havelock Island when traveling to the Andaman Islands. The shore of Havelock Island is dotted with numerous beachfront properties that are perfect for couples, families, friends, as well as solo travelers. Moreover, all the water activities are available on this island along with other tourist facilities.
Some of the sought-after properties in Havelock Island are:
- Symphony Palms Beach Resort
- Munjoh Ocean Resort
- SilverSand Beach Resort
- Wild Orchid Resort
- The Kingdom
Besides Havelock Island, there are amazing properties in other parts of the Andamans as well:
Best Properties In Port Blair
- Symphony Samudra Beachside Jungle Resort And Spa
- Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bay Island
- Clarks Exotica Island House
- SeaShell
- Lemon Tree Hotel
Best Properties In Neil Island
- SeaShell
- SeaShell Samssara
- Symphony Summer Sands Beach Resort And Spa
- Silver Sand Beach Resort
- Blue Lagoon Resort
Best Properties In Diglipur Island
- Turtle Resort
- Pristine Beach Resort
- Saddle Peak View Resort
- Titlee Guest House
- APWD Guest House
Best properties in Mayabunder Island
- Hotel Sea N Sand
- Blue Bird Resort
- Hotel Aashna
- RG Hotel
- Hotel Landfall
Best properties In Rangat Island
- Hotel Ross & Smith
- Hotel UK Nest
- Hotel Priya International
- Hotel Laxmi Villa
Best properties in Baratang Island
- Dew Dale Resort
- Coral Creek Resort
- Hotel Avis
Looking for accommodations? Reserve your stay at one of the top hotels in Andaman Islands!
Luxury Stays In The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The most luxurious properties in the Andaman Islands are located in Havelock Island. The top 5 are mentioned below:
Located on the world-famous Radha Nagar beach in Havelock Island, this lavish Taj resort has plush rooms inspired by the indigenous tribe. With 72 modern villas on stilts and an Olympic-length infinity swimming pool, this property is the most sought-after stay on the island among those who don’t care about the budget.
Price: INR 42,500-2,82,500 per night
Location: Google Maps
This beachfront resort in Havelock Island is a retreat away from the hustle-bustle of city life. You can feel the refreshing sea breeze and stunning vistas when staying here. Witness the most gorgeous sunset creating a myriad of hues in the clear sky or dive into the water yourself at the popular Radhanagar Beach.
Price: INR 16,150-46,200 per night
Location: Google Maps
Renowned for its exceptional hospitality and top-notch services, this Havelock Island property boasts 27 luxurious rooms that offer a touch of grandeur and a private beach for guests. At Coral Reef Hotel & Resort, you are offered a range of amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center, conference rooms, and travel desks.
Price: INR 11,340-20,988 per night
Location: Google Maps
A haven for tranquility and serenity, SeaShell Havelock is enveloped by peaceful surroundings. It’s a beachfront property and right outside, you can see shoals of fish swimming past you in the knee-deep waters of Govind Nagar Beach. The resort offers unique experiences like marine excursions, stargazing, ancient lava stream trek, and cycling tours so that you can truly immerse in the splendor of the islands.
Price: INR 10,325-20,650 per night
Location: Google Maps
A private beach resort, this luxurious property is a preferred name when it comes to trying your hand at adventure water activities on the island. On the other hand, if you are someone who wants to simply relax under the open sky in seclusion, then this peaceful resort is a great choice owing to its strategic location, privacy, and comfort.
Price: INR 8,000-14,000
Location: Google Maps
TWT Tip: If you want to enjoy the most exciting nightlife in Havelock Island, then Havelock Island Beach Resort is an ideal choice. Its DJ parties are the most happening across the entire island!
5-Day Itinerary For The Andaman Islands
Day 1:
- Visit Cellular Jail in Port Blair and experience the light and sound show.
- Enjoy the evening at Corbyn’s Cove Beach.
Day 2:
- Take a morning ferry to Havelock Island and check into a beach resort.
- Relax at the beautiful Radhanagar Beach, go for a swim, and admire the gorgeous sunset.
- Explore the local markets and try some local food.
Day 3:
- Go for scuba diving or snorkeling at Nemo Reef.
- Spend the evening at Kalapathar Beach for a peaceful sunset.
Day 4:
- Take a ferry to Neil Island.
- Visit the famous Howrah Bridge known for natural rock formation.
- Relax on Bharatpur Beach and enjoy water activities.
- Visit Laxmanpur Beach for a beautiful sunset.
Day 5:
- Return to Port Blair via ferry from Havelock Island.
- Visit the anthropological museum to learn about the indigenous tribes of Andamans.
- Spend the evening at Wandoor Beach for a scenic view.
TWT Summary
A stunning Indian paradise, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were once a mysterious place. Forming an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, the island has emerged as the most sought-after holiday destination over the years for people belonging to all age groups. Its beaches are the epitome of surreal beauty with the perfect landscape.
You must include Havelock Island in your itinerary as it is popular for its serene beaches such as Elephant Beach, Radhanagar Beach, and Kalapathar Beach. If you have more time in hand, then don’t forget to add Neil Island (now known as Shaheed Dweep) to your itinerary.
Fun activities that you can do in the Andaman Islands range from underwater walking, bird watching, and scuba diving, to glass boat rides, trekking, stargazing, and cruise rides. Whether you are traveling with friends, spouse, family, or even solo, this union territory is an incredible choice for a rejuvenating holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions On The Andaman Islands
1. How to get around the Andaman Islands?
The best way to get around the island is by hiring a private car. You can also rent a two-wheeler or a bicycle if you want to explore the island at your own pace. There are public buses as well, but their routes and schedules are limited. Another popular mode of transportation in the Andamans is auto-rickshaws. These are easily available in Port Blair and Havelock Island.
2. What are some important things to keep in mind before visiting the Andamans?
Below are some of the things to keep in mind during Andaman travel:
- Carry a valid photo ID proof for entry to the islands.
- Carry enough cash as credit/debit cards may not be accepted everywhere.
- The islands have a tropical climate. So pack light, comfortable clothes and sunscreen.
- Respect the local culture and avoid littering.
- Do not venture into restricted or tribal areas without proper permits.
- Check the weather conditions before planning your trip, as certain water adventure activities may be restricted during monsoon season.
3. What is the best time to visit the Andaman Islands?
The best time to visit the Andaman Islands is between October and May, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
4. How’s the food in the Andaman Islands?
A mix of Indian, Bengali, and South Indian flavors, the cuisine of the Andamans is quite popular among foodies. Seafood is a sought-after choice, along with rice, coconut, and spices. There are many delectable vegetarian options as well.
5. Do I need a visa to visit the Andaman Islands?
Foreign nationals require a valid Indian visa to visit the Andaman Islands. However, if you are an Indian citizen, then you don’t need a visa to enter the islands.
6. How to reach the Andaman Islands?
The islands are accessible via air and sea. There are direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai to Port Blair. In addition to that, a ferry can also be taken from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam to Port Blair.
7. Is it safe to swim in the waters around the Andaman Islands?
Yes, it is safe to swim in the waters of the island. But make sure to follow the designated swimming areas and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents.
8. Can I book water sports activities in advance in the Andaman Islands?
Yes, it is possible to book water adventure activities in advance through tour operators, your hotel, or directly from the activity provider. If you are traveling in the peak season, it is highly recommended that you make the booking in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
9. Is it easy to find vegetarian food in the Andaman Islands?
There are plenty of restaurants and food stalls that offer vegetarian options in the Andaman Islands. The best ones are as follows:
- Annapurna Restaurant
- Full Moon Café
- Fat Martin Café
- Shakahaar
- Something Different
10. What languages are spoken in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
The official languages of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are Hindi and English. However, several other languages are also spoken on the islands by various ethnic groups, owing to the diverse population residing there. These are:
- Bengali
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Malayalam
- Nicobarese
- Jarawa
- Onge
- Sentinelese
Along with these, Karen, Burmese, and Hindi dialects like Bengali, Hindi and Oriya Hindi are also spoken by smaller ethnic groups in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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3 thoughts on “Andaman & Nicobar Islands Travel Guide: Permits, Things To Do, Sightseeing, & More”
Excellent article. Very well written with all required information and guidelines.
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