This andaman travel guide is for travellers dreaming of white sand, turquoise water and coral reefs without leaving India. The Andaman Islands sit in the Bay of Bengal, far closer to Myanmar than to the mainland. Their beaches, mangroves and reefs make them one of the country’s best beach and diving destinations.
Below you will find the best time to visit, how to reach, ferries between islands, permits, a five-day plan, diving tips, stays by budget, food, costs, etiquette and mistakes to avoid.
Table of Contents
Island names you need to know
Several islands were renamed in recent years, and you will see both names on tickets and maps. Port Blair, the capital, is now officially Sri Vijaya Puram. Havelock Island is Swaraj Dweep, Neil Island is Shaheed Dweep, and Ross Island is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.
Most first-time trips focus on Port Blair, Havelock and Neil. That is the loop this andaman travel guide follows, with optional extensions to Baratang or Long Island.
Best time to visit the Andamans
For this andaman travel guide, November to April is the best season, with calm seas, sunny days and good underwater visibility for snorkelling and diving. December to February is peak season, so book flights and ferries early.
The southwest monsoon (roughly May to September) brings rough seas, rain and occasional ferry cancellations. Some dive sites close and beach activities are limited. Check the India Meteorological Department forecast before travel.
How to reach the Andaman Islands
By air
Most travellers fly into Veer Savarkar International Airport at Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), with direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru and other cities. Morning flights give you time for a same-day ferry connection.
By sea
Passenger ships run between the mainland ports of Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam and Port Blair. The journey takes a few days and schedules are irregular, so most visitors fly.
Ferries between islands
Government ferries and private catamarans connect Port Blair with Havelock and Neil. Private ferries are faster and more comfortable but cost more. Book in advance in peak season, and keep a buffer in case of weather delays. Carry printed tickets and ID.
Getting around the islands
In Port Blair, autos and taxis cover the main sights. On Havelock and Neil, most visitors rent a scooter or bicycle, or hire an auto for the day. Distances are short, but roads can be narrow and unlit at night. A valid licence is required for scooters; our guide to the Indian driving licence explains what counts.
Mobile data can be slow on the smaller islands, so download tickets and maps in advance. This andaman travel guide also suggests carrying printed copies of ferry bookings.
Permits and rules
Indian citizens do not need a permit to visit the main tourist islands, including Port Blair, Havelock and Neil. Foreign nationals’ permit rules were relaxed for many islands in recent years, but some areas remain restricted. Check the latest rules with the Ministry of Home Affairs before you travel.
The Jarawa tribal reserve on the way to Baratang is strictly protected. Photography, stopping and any interaction with the Jarawa are prohibited by law.
Sample 5-day andaman travel guide itinerary
Day 1 — Port Blair arrival
Land in Port Blair and rest. Visit the Cellular Jail in the afternoon and stay for the evening light and sound show. Dinner by the waterfront.
Day 2 — Ferry to Havelock and Radhanagar
Take a morning ferry to Havelock. In the afternoon, head to Radhanagar Beach for one of the best sunsets in India.
Day 3 — Diving or snorkelling
Try a beginner’s scuba dive or snorkelling trip, or visit Elephant Beach for shallow reefs. Spend the evening relaxing by the beach.
Day 4 — Neil Island
Ferry to Neil Island. Cycle to Laxmanpur Beach for sunset, see the natural rock formation, and enjoy a quiet village vibe.
Day 5 — Return to Port Blair
Ferry back to Port Blair and catch your flight. If you have time, visit Ross Island or the Chidiya Tapu sunset point.
More time? Add Baratang’s limestone caves and mangroves, or Long Island for remote beaches. Island trips also pair well with our workation destinations guide if you work remotely.
Scuba diving and snorkelling tips
Every andaman travel guide points divers to Havelock, the main diving hub, with many dive centres offering beginner try-dives and certification courses. Choose operators affiliated with recognised training agencies, check equipment and ask about instructor-to-student ratios.
Do not touch or stand on coral, and never collect shells or coral; it is illegal and damages the reef. Avoid flying within 24 hours after diving, so plan dives early in your trip.
Where to stay by budget
- Budget: guesthouses in Port Blair and simple beach huts on Havelock and Neil.
- Mid-range: beach resorts and boutique stays near Govind Nagar and Vijay Nagar beaches on Havelock.
- Premium: eco-luxury resorts near Radhanagar Beach and on Neil.
Book stays and ferries together so your timings align. Island accommodation fills quickly in peak season, so this andaman travel guide recommends booking early.
Food to try
Seafood is the star. Try grilled fish, lobster, crab curry and prawns, cooked in Bengali, Tamil or coastal styles. Port Blair has the widest range of restaurants, while Havelock has relaxed beach cafés.
Vegetarians will find thalis and South Indian food easily. Drink bottled or filtered water. For more food ideas, see our Indian street food destinations.
Costs and budgeting
Costs in this andaman travel guide vary widely with season and choices. Flights and ferries are the biggest costs, followed by water sports and resort stays. Prices rise in December and January. Scuba prices depend on dive type and operator, so compare a few before booking. Carry some cash; ATMs exist but can run out on smaller islands.
Safety and etiquette
- Swim only where it is permitted, and follow lifeguard flags and warning signs, including crocodile warnings on some beaches.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid single-use plastic.
- Respect protected areas and tribal reserves; follow all rules strictly.
- Keep valuables safe on beaches and in shared transport.
- Wear life jackets on boats and water activities.
Solo travellers can find more tips in our solo travel guide.
Mistakes to avoid
- Booking tight ferry connections on the same day as your flight.
- Visiting in the monsoon expecting calm seas.
- Diving the day before flying out.
- Touching or collecting coral and shells.
- Trying to cover too many islands in a short trip.
Follow this andaman travel guide, and you will enjoy the islands at a relaxed, safe pace. The Incredible India Andaman page is useful for more ideas.
FAQ
How many days are enough for the Andamans?
Five days covers Port Blair, Havelock and Neil at a comfortable pace. Add two to three days for Baratang, Long Island or more diving.
Do Indians need a permit for the Andaman Islands?
No permit is needed for Indian citizens to visit the main tourist islands, including Port Blair, Havelock and Neil. Some protected areas remain restricted.
What is the best time to visit the Andamans?
November to April offers calm seas and good visibility for diving. The monsoon from May to September can disrupt ferries.
Is scuba diving in the Andamans safe for beginners?
Yes, with a reputable dive centre and qualified instructor. Beginner try-dives are common on Havelock, and no prior experience is needed.
What is the new name of Havelock Island?
Havelock is now officially Swaraj Dweep, and Neil Island is Shaheed Dweep. This andaman travel guide uses both names to avoid confusion.
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