How to Explore Andaman Islands: Ultimate Travel Guide
Published: January 8, 202412 min read
Introduction to Exploring Andaman
The Andaman Islands offer diverse experiences from pristine beaches to adventure activities, water sports, and cultural exploration. This comprehensive guide covers all you need to know to explore the islands effectively.
Must-Visit Islands
Port Blair (Ross Island & Cellular Jail)
- Gateway to Andaman Islands
- Home to historic Cellular Jail National Monument
- Viper Island, Ross Island ruins, and water sports
- Best restaurants, accommodation, and infrastructure
Havelock Island
- World-famous Radhanagar Beach
- Best destination for beach lovers
- Diving, snorkeling, and water sports
- Elephant Beach and Kalapathar Beach
Neil Island
- Peaceful alternative to Havelock
- Bharatpur Beach and natural pools
- Sunset Point for romantic evenings
- Snorkeling and diving opportunities
North Bay Island
- Glass-bottom boat experience
- Coral gardens and marine life viewing
- Water sports including parasailing
- Day trip destination from Port Blair
Popular Activities and Adventures
Water Sports
- Scuba Diving: Explore coral reefs and marine life
- Snorkeling: Accessible to all skill levels
- Parasailing: Thrilling aerial views
- Jet Skiing: High-speed water adventure
- Glass-bottom Boats: Marine viewing without diving
Beach and Nature
- Beach walks and sunsets
- Bird watching and nature trails
- Island hopping and boat tours
- Forest exploration
Cultural and Historical
- Cellular Jail historical tour
- Local markets and bazaars
- Tribal culture and villages
- Local cuisine and seafood
Best Beaches in Andaman
- Radhanagar Beach: Most famous, white sand, turquoise water
- Elephant Beach: Water sports and jungle trekking
- Bharatpur Beach: Calm and shallow, ideal for swimming
- Kalapathar Beach: Black sand, unique geological formations
- Lakshadweep Beach: Remote and pristine
- Lime Stone Beach: Adventure and exploration
Typical Andaman Itinerary
3-Day Trip
- Day 1: Port Blair arrival, Cellular Jail tour, North Bay
- Day 2: Ferry to Havelock, Radhanagar Beach, sunset
- Day 3: Return to Port Blair, departure
5-Day Trip
- Day 1-2: Port Blair exploration and water sports
- Day 2-3: Havelock Island beaches and diving
- Day 4: Neil Island visit
- Day 5: Return and departure
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Guest houses and hostels ($10-25/night)
- Mid-Range: Hotels and resorts ($25-75/night)
- Luxury: High-end resorts ($75-200+/night)
When to Visit
- Best Season: November to March (dry, pleasant weather)
- Avoid: June to September (monsoon, heavy rainfall)
- Ideal: January-February (peak season, book in advance)
Travel Tips
- Book ferry tickets in advance, especially for Havelock
- Apply sunscreen frequently due to strong UV rays
- Carry cash as credit cards may not work everywhere
- Respect marine conservation efforts
- Book diving certifications in advance if interested
Cost Estimation (Per Person)
- Flights: Rs. 5,000-15,000
- Accommodation: Rs. 1,500-5,000/night
- Food: Rs. 500-2,000/day
- Activities: Rs. 2,000-5,000
- Ferry: Rs. 500-2,000