Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Andaman Islands Travel Guide
Clear seas, coral reefs, white-sand beaches and the Cellular Jail.
- Best months Nov–Apr
- Ideal trip length 5–7 days
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are an Indian Union Territory in the Bay of Bengal, known for white-sand beaches, clear water, coral reefs and the colonial-era history of Port Blair. Most visitors stay in the Andaman group, using Port Blair as a base for Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil (Shaheed Dweep) and Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep). Plan five to seven days.
Best time to visit
Recommended
November to April is the best season, with calm seas and good visibility for snorkelling and diving. The monsoon, roughly May to October, brings rough seas, heavy rain and frequent ferry disruption. Check weather and ferry status before travel.
How to reach
Veer Savarkar International Airport at Port Blair has direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata and some other Indian cities. Flights can sell out in peak season, so book early.
There is no railway in the islands. Travellers use the nearest mainland rail connections to the departure points of flights or ships, such as Chennai or Kolkata.
Ships run to Port Blair from mainland ports, including Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam, but schedules are limited and the voyage takes days, so check current services. On the islands, government and private ferries link Port Blair with Havelock and Neil, and tickets should be booked early.
Where to stay
Port Blair has a wide range of hotels, while Havelock and Neil offer beachside resorts, cottages and simple guesthouses. Rooms and ferry tickets fill up quickly in the peak months, so book accommodation and ferries together.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Cellular Jail, Port Blair
A colonial-era prison that is now a national memorial to the freedom struggle. Check current arrangements for any evening light and sound show.
- 2
Radhanagar Beach, Havelock
A wide white-sand beach on Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), known for calm water and sunsets. Swim only where it is marked as safe.
- 3
Snorkelling and diving
Coral reefs and clear water around Havelock and Neil suit beginners and certified divers. Use licensed operators and follow safety briefings.
- 4
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
A smaller, quieter island with calm beaches, natural rock formations and easy cycling or scooter routes.
- 5
Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep)
A small island near Port Blair with ruins of a colonial-era settlement, reached by a short boat ride.
- 6
Chidiya Tapu
A bird-rich southern tip of South Andaman near Port Blair, popular for sunset views and short forest walks.
Food to try
Seafood is the main speciality, including fish, crab and prawns, served grilled or in curries. Port Blair has many restaurants, with South Indian, Bengali and Tamil-style dishes common. Fresh coconut and tropical fruit are widely available.
Travel tips
- Do not enter tribal reserve areas or try to meet or photograph the Jarawa and other indigenous communities; this is prohibited. Most of the Nicobar Islands are also restricted for visitors.
- Do not touch or collect corals, shells or marine life, use reef-safe sun protection, and carry your waste back from beaches.
- Book flights, ferries and rooms well ahead, keep spare days for weather disruption, and confirm current entry rules and any registration needs, which differ for Indian and foreign visitors.
- Mobile and internet connectivity is limited on many islands, so carry cash and download maps and tickets beforehand.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indian visitors need a permit for the Andamans?
Indian visitors generally do not need a special permit for the main tourist islands, while foreign visitors register on arrival. Rules can change, so check the official Andaman administration website before travel.
When is the best time to visit?
November to April is best, with calm seas and clear water. The monsoon brings rough seas and ferry disruption.
How do I get to the Andamans?
Most visitors fly to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata and other cities. Ships also run from mainland ports, but schedules are limited, so check current services.
Official sources
- Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism)
- Andaman & Nicobar Administration
- India Meteorological Department
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.