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Overview
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands form a chain of roughly 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal, administered as a Union Territory of India. Only a fraction of these islands are open to visitors, and fewer still are inhabited. Port Blair, on South Andaman, serves as the administrative capital and main entry point.
The archipelago sits closer geographically to Myanmar and Thailand than to mainland India, giving it a distinct ecological and cultural character. The islands are covered largely by dense tropical rainforest, and the surrounding waters contain some of the healthiest coral reef ecosystems in the Indian Ocean.
History here is layered: the islands saw the colonial-era Cellular Jail used by the British to imprison Indian freedom fighters, Japanese occupation during World War II, and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which caused severe damage, particularly to the Nicobar Islands. Several of the Nicobar Islands remain restricted or closed to outside visitors, partly to protect indigenous communities.
For travelers, the Andamans offer a combination of adventure (scuba diving, sea kayaking, trekking), cultural history, and genuine remoteness. Tourism infrastructure exists mainly around Port Blair, Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), while most other islands remain undeveloped.
Before You Go
Entry Permits
Indian nationals do not need a separate permit to visit most of the Andaman Islands but do require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit certain designated islands, including the Nicobar group. Foreign nationals require a permit to visit the Andamans, historically issued on arrival at Port Blair, but regulations change periodically — verify the current requirements through TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Indian immigration authority before travel.
Some islands, such as North Sentinel Island (home to the Sentinelese people), are permanently off-limits to all visitors by law. Approaching these areas is both illegal and dangerous.
Health
- Consult a travel medicine professional about malaria prophylaxis; malaria risk exists in the islands, particularly in forested and outer island areas.
- Dengue fever is also present; use mosquito repellent and appropriate clothing, especially at dusk and dawn.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit. Medical facilities outside Port Blair are limited; serious cases may require evacuation to the mainland.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation.
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing and quick-dry swimwear
- High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe formulations are strongly encouraged)
- Insect repellent
- Underwater camera or waterproof case
- Personal medications in adequate supply — pharmacies outside Port Blair are sparse
Getting There
By Air
Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is the main gateway. Direct flights operate from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, among other Indian cities. Flight time from Chennai or Kolkata is approximately two hours. Book well in advance during the high season (December to March), as seats fill quickly. There are no direct international commercial flights to the islands; foreign visitors must connect through a mainland Indian city.
By Sea
Passenger ships operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) and private operators connect Kolkata, Chennai, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair. The sea voyage takes roughly 50–70 hours depending on the port of origin and sea conditions. Berth classes vary. This option is popular with budget travelers and those who enjoy the journey itself, but scheduling can be infrequent and subject to change — verify current sailings and bookings directly with the operator or at the Port Blair Harbour.
Most travelers opt to fly and reserve the ferry experience for inter-island movement once in the archipelago.
Getting Around
Inter-Island Ferries
Government ferries and private speedboats connect Port Blair to Havelock Island, Neil Island, Baratang, and other accessible islands. The government ferry to Havelock takes roughly two hours; private speedboats are faster. Seats on popular routes, especially to Havelock, should be booked in advance through the Directorate of Shipping Services or authorized agents, particularly during peak season.
Within Port Blair
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rental scooters are the main options for getting around Port Blair. Negotiate fares before boarding auto-rickshaws, or use app-based cabs where available. Roads are generally in reasonable condition in the main town.
On Havelock and Neil Islands
Renting a bicycle or scooter is the most practical and popular way to explore these smaller islands. Most guesthouses and hotels can assist with rentals. Roads are limited and distances are manageable by two-wheeler.
Practical Notes
- Carry cash; ATM availability is limited on outer islands and machines sometimes run out of notes.
- Connectivity can be patchy outside Port Blair; download offline maps before heading to Havelock or Neil.
Where to Stay
Port Blair
Port Blair has the broadest range of accommodation, from government-run guesthouses managed by ANICOT (Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tourism) to mid-range and a handful of higher-end hotels. It is the practical base for day trips and onward connections.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Havelock has the most developed tourist infrastructure outside Port Blair, with a range of options from beachside bamboo huts and guesthouses to more comfortable eco-resorts. Properties cluster around Radhanagar Beach and the jetty area. Book well ahead for the November–February peak period.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Neil is quieter and smaller than Havelock, with a more relaxed atmosphere. Accommodation is mainly guesthouses and small resorts. It suits travelers seeking less foot traffic.
Booking Advice
- Verify current listings and availability through established travel booking platforms or directly with properties.
- ANICOT-managed properties can be a reliable budget option; check their official portal for availability.
- Some eco-resorts have specific check-in procedures given remote locations — confirm arrival logistics in advance.
Things to See & Do
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The Andamans are widely regarded as one of India's best diving destinations. Sites around Havelock, Neil Island, North Bay, and Cinque Island offer encounters with manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, and diverse coral communities. Several PADI-certified dive centers operate on Havelock Island. Visibility and sea conditions vary by season; the best diving is typically between November and April.
Radhanagar Beach
Located on Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) is frequently listed among Asia's finest beaches. The beach is best visited in the afternoon for sunsets. Swimming can be strong depending on tides and season — observe local advisories.
Cellular Jail National Memorial
In Port Blair, the Cellular Jail is a sobering and historically significant site. Built by the British colonial administration in the late 19th century, it was used to exile and imprison Indian independence activists. A sound-and-light show is held in the evenings. Verify current admission fees and show timings locally or at the memorial.
Ross Island and North Bay
Ross Island (now renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) lies a short boat ride from Port Blair. Once the administrative seat of the British Andamans, the island features ruins of colonial-era buildings reclaimed by forest and wandering deer. North Bay is popular for coral viewing via glass-bottom boats and sea walks.
Baratang Island
Accessible via a journey through the tribal reserve area of the Jarawa people (following strict rules about not stopping or photographing), Baratang offers limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and mangrove creeks. A police convoy escort is required through the tribal belt; verify current procedures before planning this trip.
Sea Kayaking and Trekking
Several operators on Havelock offer sea kayaking through mangroves and to nearby islets. Short trekking trails exist on Havelock and within the forested areas of South Andaman.
Food & Drink
What to Eat
Seafood dominates the local diet. Fish curries, prawn preparations, crab, and lobster are widely available and generally fresh. The cuisine reflects the diverse backgrounds of settlers — Bengali, Tamil, Malayali, and Nicobari influences are all present. Dal, rice, and rotis form the backbone of everyday meals.
Port Blair has the widest variety of restaurants, ranging from simple local thali joints to seafood-focused restaurants catering to tourists. On Havelock and Neil, options are more limited but include beach-facing restaurants serving grilled fish, pasta, and Indian staples. Freshly caught fish ordered from smaller shacks near the jetties can be particularly good.
Drink
Coconut water is plentiful and refreshing. Alcohol is available in licensed restaurants and shops; the Andamans are not a dry territory, but availability is more limited on smaller islands. Tap water is not reliable for drinking — carry or purchase bottled water, and on environmental grounds, consider refilling at hotels where filtered water is available.
Tips
- Dining options thin out considerably on outer islands; carry snacks if traveling to less-visited areas.
- Some smaller restaurants close early in the evening — don't plan a late dinner without confirming in advance.
Practical Information
Money
The Indian Rupee is the only currency. ATMs are available in Port Blair but can be unreliable on outer islands. Carry sufficient cash before leaving Port Blair for Havelock or Neil Island.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage (primarily BSNL and Airtel) exists in Port Blair and the main tourist islands but can be weak or absent in remote areas. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and guesthouses but speeds vary. Download offline maps, important documents, and ferry bookings to your device before departing Port Blair.
Electricity
Standard Indian plugs (Type C, D, and M) and 230V supply. Power outages can occur on outer islands — a portable power bank is useful.
Emergency Contacts
For medical emergencies in Port Blair, GB Pant Hospital is the main government facility. For police, the national emergency number in India is 112. For specific local contact numbers, verify locally on arrival or through your accommodation.
Environmental Responsibility
- Use reef-safe sunscreen when snorkeling or diving.
- Do not touch or stand on coral.
- Avoid single-use plastics; the islands have limited waste management infrastructure.
- Do not purchase coral, shells, or marine products — trade in these is regulated or prohibited.
- Strictly observe all rules regarding protected tribal areas and do not attempt contact with isolated indigenous communities.
Safety
General Safety
The Andamans are considered relatively safe for travelers. Petty crime is not a significant reported concern, but standard precautions apply — secure valuables and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas of Port Blair.
Sea Safety
Rip currents and strong surf can be present at beaches, including Radhanagar. Always check local advisories, look for warning flags, and swim in areas where lifeguards are present where possible. Sea conditions deteriorate significantly during the monsoon (roughly May to October), and inter-island ferry services may be disrupted or suspended.
Tribal Reserve Areas
Access through the Jarawa tribal reserve (en route to Baratang) requires following police convoy rules strictly. Photography of tribal members is prohibited by law and is a serious ethical issue. Treat all regulations regarding indigenous communities with complete seriousness.
Medical
Medical care is limited outside Port Blair. Ensure comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Carry your own supply of any prescription medications.
Local Culture & Etiquette
The population of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is diverse, comprising settlers from mainland India (Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and other communities), descendants of Karen (Burmese) immigrants, and several indigenous tribal groups. The indigenous peoples — including the Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, Sentinelese (on the Andaman side) and Shompen and Nicobarese (on the Nicobar side) — have lived on the islands for thousands of years and maintain varying degrees of contact with the outside world. The Sentinelese are famously isolated and have rejected all outside contact.
The colonial history of the islands is deeply felt, particularly around the Cellular Jail, which holds great significance in Indian national memory. Independence Day and Republic Day are observed with particular meaning here given this history.
Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples, mosques, and churches in Port Blair. Beach attire is appropriate at the beach but not in markets or towns. The pace of life on outer islands is slow — adapt accordingly and avoid expecting mainland-city levels of service efficiency.
Fishing and agriculture remain central to the livelihoods of many island communities. Respecting private land, fishing areas, and not disturbing local routines is important for maintaining goodwill between travelers and residents.
