The Andaman Islands are India's tropical escape - an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal where turquoise water meets white sand, dense rainforest, and some of the country's best diving. Far closer to Southeast Asia than mainland India, the Andamans feel like a different world entirely. This guide covers everything you need to plan a trip in 2026.
Getting There
Almost all travelers arrive by air at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, with direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Chennai and Kolkata offer the shortest routes. Ships also run from mainland ports, but they take three to four days and are rarely worth it unless the journey itself is the appeal.
Once in the islands, government and private ferries connect Port Blair to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep). Private ferries are faster and more comfortable, and they book out during peak season — reserve these in advance rather than on arrival.
Best Time to Visit
October to May is the main season, with calm seas, clear skies, and excellent underwater visibility. Within that window, December to February brings the most pleasant temperatures and the biggest crowds, while October–November and March–April offer a good balance of good weather and slightly lower prices.
Diving conditions peak between December and April, when visibility is at its best. Avoid June to September, when the monsoon brings heavy rain, rough seas, and frequent ferry cancellations that can strand you mid-itinerary.
The Main Islands
Port Blair
The capital and your entry point. Most travelers pass through quickly, but it's worth a half-day for the Cellular Jail — the colonial-era prison that held Indian independence activists, and now a sobering, essential piece of history. The evening light-and-sound show is a highlight. Corbyn's Cove offers a nearby beach if you have spare time.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
The Andamans' star attraction and where most travelers spend the bulk of their trip. Radhanagar Beach is regularly ranked among Asia's finest — a long sweep of white sand backed by forest, spectacular at sunset. Elephant Beach is the hub for snorkelling and water sports, reached by boat or a muddy jungle trek. Havelock is also India's diving capital, with a cluster of reputable dive schools running everything from beginner discover-scuba sessions to full certification courses.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Smaller, slower, and greener than Havelock. Neil suits travelers who want to cycle between beaches, watch sunsets at the Natural Bridge rock formation, and do very little else. Bharatpur and Laxmanpur beaches are the main draws. Two nights here is a perfect counterpoint to Havelock's busier scene.
Baratang and Beyond
Baratang Island offers limestone caves and mud volcanoes, reached via a convoy road through tribal reserve areas. It's a long day trip from Port Blair and appeals mainly to those with extra time. Ross Island and North Bay make for easier half-day excursions.
Things to Do
Scuba diving and snorkelling are the headline activities — the reefs around Havelock and Neil are healthy and accessible even to complete beginners. Sea walking offers a no-swimming-required alternative. Beyond the water, there's kayaking through mangroves (bioluminescence tours run on moonless nights), game fishing, and simply doing nothing on a beach, which the Andamans excel at.
How Many Days Do You Need?
Five to six days is the practical minimum: a night in Port Blair, three in Havelock, and two in Neil. Seven to eight days lets you add Baratang or a diving certification course without rushing. Anything under five days means you'll spend a disproportionate share of your trip on ferries.
Permits and Practicalities
Indian nationals don't need a permit for the main islands. Foreign nationals receive a Restricted Area Permit on arrival, valid for 30 days and covering the standard tourist islands. Some areas — including tribal reserves and the Sentinelese-inhabited North Sentinel Island — are strictly off-limits and should not be approached under any circumstances.
Cash matters here: ATMs exist in Port Blair and Havelock but can run dry, and many smaller places don't take cards. Mobile connectivity is patchy outside Port Blair — treat this as a feature, not a bug. Alcohol is available but limited outside resorts.
Budget Snapshot
The Andamans are pricier than mainland India, largely because everything is shipped in. Budget travelers can manage on modest daily costs with guesthouses and local food, while mid-range travelers should plan for comfortable beach resorts, ferry tickets, and activities. Diving is the biggest single add-on. Flights are usually the largest line item, so booking early makes a substantial difference.
Who Should Visit
The Andamans suit beach lovers, divers, honeymooners, and anyone wanting tropical scenery without leaving India. It's less suited to travelers who want nightlife, packed itineraries, or budget backpacking — the pace is slow and the costs are real.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the Andaman Islands?
October to May, with December to February offering the most pleasant weather. Diving visibility peaks from December to April. Avoid June to September due to monsoon rain and ferry cancellations.
How many days are enough for an Andaman trip?
Five to six days is the practical minimum, covering Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil. Seven to eight days allows a more relaxed pace or a diving course.
Do you need a permit to visit the Andaman Islands?
Indian nationals don't need a permit for the main tourist islands. Foreign nationals receive a Restricted Area Permit on arrival, valid for 30 days.
Is Andaman good for beginners to scuba dive?
Yes. Havelock Island is one of India's best places to learn, with numerous certified dive schools offering beginner discover-scuba sessions and full certification courses in calm, clear water.
Which is better, Havelock or Neil Island?
Havelock has the famous Radhanagar Beach, more dining options, and the best diving. Neil is smaller, quieter, and greener. Most travelers visit both, spending more nights on Havelock.
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