- Best time
- November to May
- Ideal trip
- 6 days / 5 nights
- Fly or arrive at
- Port Blair airport (IXZ)
The Andaman Islands give you clear, warm water and white sand without a passport. Sea turtles, coral reefs and beaches that empty out by evening make it a favourite for honeymooners and families alike, and it is one of the best places in the country to try scuba diving for the first time, with no experience needed.
Island by island
Flights land at Port Blair, now officially called Sri Vijaya Puram. The Cellular Jail, where freedom fighters were imprisoned, is a powerful visit, and its evening light and sound show tells the story. Ross Island and North Bay are short boat rides away.
From Port Blair, private catamarans reach Havelock, now Swaraj Dweep, in around two hours. This is the island most people imagine: Radhanagar beach, often ranked among Asia's best, with a long, gentle sunset; Kalapathar's quiet stretch; and Elephant beach, reached by boat, for snorkelling. Dive schools here run beginner dives with full training in the water.
Neil Island, now Shaheed Dweep, is smaller and slower. Cycle between Bharatpur, Laxmanpur and Sitapur beaches, see the natural rock bridge at low tide and enjoy fresh seafood in tiny shacks. Many guests say Neil is where they finally relaxed.
Who Andaman suits best
Honeymooners, families, beach lovers and first-time divers who want tropical islands without international travel. It is less suited to travellers looking for nightlife or shopping.
Where to stay in Andaman
In Port Blair, a hotel near Corbyn's Cove or Aberdeen Bazaar is enough for a night or two. Havelock is where to spend on the stay: beach resorts near Radhanagar and Kalapathar range from simple cottages to luxury villas in the forest. Neil has small, relaxed resorts close to Laxmanpur and Bharatpur beaches.
What to eat
Seafood is the star: grilled lobster, crab curry and the day's catch cooked in Bengali or South Indian styles, reflecting the islands' mix of settlers. Havelock's beach cafes serve wood-fired pizzas and fresh juices. Fresh coconut water is everywhere, and vegetarians are well served by South Indian and North Indian restaurants in Port Blair.
Best time to visit Andaman
November to May is the season, with the calmest seas and best visibility from December to April. June to September is the monsoon; ferries may be cancelled and water activities restricted. October is a shoulder month with some rain and quieter beaches.
Sample itinerary (6 days / 5 nights)
Day 1
Port Blair
Cellular Jail and the evening light and sound show.
Day 2
Ferry to Havelock
Radhanagar beach for sunset.
Day 3
Havelock
Elephant beach snorkelling or a first scuba dive.
Day 4
Ferry to Neil
Natural bridge, Laxmanpur sunset.
Day 5
Back to Port Blair
Corbyn's Cove and local markets.
Day 6
Departure
Morning flight.
Good to know before you go
- Ferry tickets sell out in peak season; we book them with your hotels.
- Indian travellers need no permit for Port Blair, Havelock or Neil.
- Mobile data is slow outside Port Blair; download maps and tickets before you leave.
Andaman trip questions
Can non-swimmers try scuba in Andaman?
Yes. Beginner dives are done with an instructor holding you throughout, at shallow depths, after a short training session.
How many days do we need?
Five nights cover Port Blair, Havelock and Neil comfortably. Add a night if you want to dive more than once.
Is Andaman good for families with small children?
Yes. Calm beaches, glass-bottom boat rides and short ferry journeys work well; we avoid long day trips like Baratang with very young children.
