Things To Do
in Andaman Islands
The Andaman Islands, part of India’s union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are an archipelago located in the Bay of Bengal, renowned for their stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life. Characterized by lush tropical forests, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, they offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and trekking. Port Blair serves as the capital and main entry point, featuring historical sites like Cellular Jail that highlight the islands' colonial past.
The islands are also home to several indigenous tribes, with strict regulations in place to protect their cultures and habitats.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Port Blair and check into your hotel. Take some time to relax and acclimatize yourself to the beautiful surroundings.
Visit the Cellular Jail, a historical monument that narrates the struggles of Indian freedom fighters. Attend the light and sound show in the evening.
Enjoy a scenic stroll at the seaside and grab some local cuisine for dinner. Try the seafood for a true Andaman experience.
Take an early ferry to Havelock Island. Check into your resort and prepare for a day of relaxation.
Spend your afternoon at Radhanagar Beach, known for its breathtaking views and pristine sand. Swim or sunbathe to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Return to your resort for dinner and enjoy a quiet evening by the beach under the stars. Engage in some beach games or simply relax.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and lush forests
- Rich biodiversity, including unique flora and fauna
- Ideal for water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking
- Remote and tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation
- Cultural diversity with indigenous tribes and local communities
- Limited accessibility and transportation options
- High cost of accommodations and services in some areas
- Infrastructure challenges, such as power outages and internet connectivity
- Potential for mosquito-borne diseases due to tropical climate
- Regulatory restrictions for travelers in certain areas to protect indigenous tribes
Best Activities in Andaman Islands
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater life and coral reefs at popular sites like Havelock Island and Neil Island.
Experience the rich marine biodiversity around the Andaman Islands with various diving schools offering guided dives for all levels.
Visit multiple islands such as Ross Island, North Bay Island, and Baratang Island to enjoy unique landscapes and cultures.
Trek through the lush forests of the islands, particularly in areas like Radhanagar Beach and the rainforest in Long Island.
Navigate through mangroves and scenic coastal areas on a kayak, especially around the mangroves of Baratang and Havelock.
Spend a night under the stars by camping on picturesque beaches such as Havelock and Jolly Buoy Island.
Enjoy bird watching in the National Parks and reserves, home to various native and migratory bird species.
Engage in fishing activities along the coastline, with opportunities for both traditional fishing and deep-sea fishing.
Catch some waves at popular surfing spots like Little Andaman where you can find good surfing conditions.
Relax on pristine beaches like Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach, known for their beauty and tranquility.
Places to Visit in Andaman Islands
Visit one of these nice places.
Famed for its stunning sunset views, Radhanagar Beach offers pristine white sands and turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for photography.
This historical site provides a glimpse into India's colonial past and offers dramatic architecture against the backdrop of beautiful skies, perfect for capturing unique photographs.
With its serene beaches and vibrant coral reefs, Neil Island is a picturesque location ideal for beach photography and stunning sunrise shots.
Known for its clear waters and coral reefs, Elephant Beach is perfect for underwater photography and capturing the vibrant marine life.
This island features lush greenery and historic ruins, providing a very photogenic landscape that combines nature and history.
Long Island offers secluded beaches and untouched nature, ideal for capturing serene landscapes and the beauty of Andaman's biodiversity.
The only active volcano in India, Barren Island offers dramatic landscapes that are excellent for adventurous photography amidst natural wonders.
This less crowded beach in Neil Island offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea, perfect for sunset photography.
A part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, this island is famous for its clear water and rich marine life, ideal for underwater photography.
Known for its breathtaking beauty, Havelock Island offers many picturesque spots including beaches and diving sites, perfect for capturing nature's splendor.
Food in Andaman Islands
Andaman Islands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy and spicy coconut-based curry made with freshly caught fish, often served with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
An aromatic rice dish cooked with marinated seafood and fragrant spices, typically served with raita.
Fish marinated in spices and yogurt, cooked in a traditional tandoor oven, giving it a smoky flavor.
A sweet and creamy dessert made with coconut milk and jaggery, often enjoyed as a refreshing treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in Port Blair where visitors can find fresh produce, local snacks, and a variety of street food options including samosas and puchkas.
Street food stalls near Jolly Buoy Island offering local delicacies such as grilled fish and various seafood snacks with a view of the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Familiarize yourself with and adhere to the local customs and traditions of the indigenous communities. This includes understanding their social practices, dress codes, and religious observances.
Be aware of personal space and appropriate physical contact. Different cultures have different comfort levels regarding proximity and touch, so it's important to observe and respect these boundaries.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or entering sacred sites. Many communities have strict rules regarding photography and sacredness, and respecting these is crucial.
Safety
Tipping in Andaman Islands
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Andaman Islands, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to tip service workers, such as waitstaff in restaurants and guides for tours, around 10% of the bill if the service is satisfactory. However, smaller amounts or rounding up the bill are also common practices, especially in more casual settings.
Payment methods in the Andaman Islands include cash and digital payments. While cash is widely accepted, especially in local markets and small establishments, many hotels and restaurants also accept credit and debit cards. Some places may prefer mobile wallet payments as digital transactions have become increasingly popular. However, it's advisable to carry cash, as not all remote areas may have access to banking facilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit the Andaman Islands due to pleasant weather, clear skies, and calm seas. Expect cool temperatures, ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and water sports.
Temperatures rise during this season, making it quite hot and humid. Expect warmer waters, making it a good time for snorkeling and diving, albeit with less comfortable weather for outdoor activities.
The islands experience heavy rainfall during this season, leading to rough seas and limited outdoor activities. Expect increased humidity and frequent downpours, which can deter tourists.
Andaman Islands at Night
Hiking in Andaman Islands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Experience a serene trek through the lush bamboo forests of the Andaman Islands, offering a unique ecosystem and breathtaking views.
A popular trekking destination showcasing rich biodiversity, with trails leading to the highest point in the South Andaman, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Enjoy hiking trails that go through picturesque landscapes with opportunities for bird watching and exploring diverse marine life.
This island offers beautiful trekking opportunities through rainforests and to waterfalls, making it a great spot for adventurous hikers.
A group of islands that provides various treks across rugged terrain, with varied wildlife and beautiful coastal views.
Aiports
How to reach Andaman Islands by plane.
Located in Port Blair, this is the main airport serving the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Located in Kolkata, this is the nearest major international airport, approximately 1,200 km away from the Andaman Islands.
Located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, this international airport is about 1,400 km away from the Andaman Islands.
Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, this airport is around 1,500 km from the Andaman Islands.
Located in Hyderabad, Telangana, this international airport is approximately 1,600 km away from the Andaman Islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands, including the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, and Sentinelese, who have inhabited the islands for thousands of years.
Communities that migrated to the islands over the years, including Bengali settlers, Tamil laborers, and other groups from mainland India.
Visitors from various regions of India and abroad who travel to the Andaman Islands for tourism, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in the Andaman Islands, with many local clubs and tournaments held regularly.
Football is widely played and followed in the Andaman Islands, with various local leagues and matches taking place.
Badminton has gained popularity due to its easy accessibility and is played at both amateur and competitive levels.
With its beautiful beaches, the Andaman Islands offer various water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking.
Volleyball is a popular beach sport among residents and is frequently played in schools and local communities.
Track and field events are encouraged in schools, with local competitions organized to promote sportsmanship among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Andaman Islands.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants cater to vegetarian diets, particularly in tourist areas, with a good selection of vegetable curries, rice dishes, and salads.
While less prevalent, some places offer vegan-friendly meals, especially in cafes that focus on health, such as smoothies and salads without dairy.
Travelers with gluten intolerance should communicate their needs, as traditional Indian dishes made with rice and lentils are generally gluten-free.