"Andaman: Where the Sea meets the Soul"

Located around 1,200 kilometers east of the Indian mainland, Andaman Islands, situated in the Bay of Bengal, offer a picturesque retreat for travelers looking for a tropical paradise. I recently had a 7 days trip to Andaman, it was one of the most exciting and scenic journey so far.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands consist of over 500 islands, with only a few being habited, while few islands i.e. North Sentinel Island are still a home for indigenous tribe. Andaman’s are known for their Marine life, Coral reefs, Tropical rainforest and picturesque views.

Here are some important tips while planning:

Planned Itinerary: Unlike other destinations, Go with the flow might not work here due to limited connectivity among the islands. Moreover, advance booking will also help you to save a lot of money and last minute hustle. You may choose to buy a package else you need to plan advance booking for 1) Flight tickets, 2) Hotel bookings, 3) Ferry bookings, 4) Activities i.e. Island visits (Jolly Buoy, North Bay, Ross islands etc.), Adventure sports, Sound & Light show at cellular jail.

Mode of transport 

By Air: This is the most fastest and convenient way to reach, Andaman’s capital Port Blair is connected with direct flights from Kolkata, Chennai, Vizag, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Kuala lumpur. 

By Sea: Government ship offers limited services from Kolkata and Chennai, however one way journey will exhaust 3 days, hence it isn’t recommended for leisure travelers. 

The Journey

I have broken the journey in 3 parts: 1) Port Blair in and around, 2) Havelock island, 3) Neil Island

Port Blair in & Around 

Port Blair is the only city located in the Andaman’s, places to explore comprises: Day visit to North Bay & Ross Island, followed by Light and Sound Show at Cellular jail. (Pro Tip: You may book tickets for North Bay & Ross Island at the harbor or book it online, I personally booked online through http://dekhoandaman.com/ followed by Light and Sound Show through http://www.andamantourism.gov.in)

You may spend another day to visit JollyBuoy island, this island is open for only 6 months from November until April, while visitors may visit Redskin island for rest of the months, however prior booking and permissions are required to visit the island, permission can be obtained by approaching a local operator in Port Blair. I am not trying to exaggerate but the island is one of the most beautiful and the most picturesque island I have ever seen.

Third day may be utilized to visit Baratang island, which is a day-long visit wherein you can enjoy boating in the mangrove forest, followed by a visit to limestone caves.

The best way to explore within and around Port Blair is by renting a two wheeler, however taxi and tuk-tuk are easily available.

Havelock Island

Post completing the above mentioned destinations, you may head towards Havelock island, a ferry comprising a 90 minutes journey from Port Blair harbor. Places to visit within Havelock comprises: Radhanagar beach for panoramic sunset, Elephant beach for water sports, followed by Kalapathar beach for Sunrise.

Havelock is popular for Scuba diving enthusiasts, you may book your slot offline at the island.

The best way to explore the island is by renting a two wheeler, however tuk-tuk is easily available.

Neil Island

Neil Island is the most quiet and peaceful serene among all the destinations. Sight-seeing points at Neil comprises: Bharatpur beach for leisure and water sports, Laxmanpur beach for “Natural coral bridge” and marine life, while Laxmanpur beach 1 is known for panoramic Sunset. Sunrise can be best enjoyed at Sitapur beach.

Just like Port Blair and Havelock, you may explore the island by renting a two wheeler, however taxis and tuk-tuk are easily available.

Ferry Bookings

There are 3 major private ferry operators- Makruzz, Green ocean and Nautica. Tickets may be booked offline or from websites like: http://www.bookyourferry.com or operator’s official websites.

What else to take care off

Accommodation: Wide range across all budgets is available on major websites like: Booking.com, Makemytrip, AirBnB etc.

Mode of payment: Network may not be stable, henceforth ensure to carry sufficient cash.

Legal: Avoid carrying seashells and corals, else you possibly have to face consequences at the airport.

Food: This place is heaven for seafood lovers, however a wide range of vegetarian food is easily accessible.

Approximate charges (As of 2025): Bike rental starts from INR 600 per day across all 3 locations, JollyBuoy island permit will cost INR 1800 per person, Sound and light show will cost INR 300 per person, Day visit to North Bay & Ross Island will cost INR 900 per person, Scuba diving will cost INR 3500 per person.

                             About the Author

Dr. Prateek Sapra is based out of New Delhi. A crazy nomad who loves to explore unexplored and offbeat destinations. He believes that every destination has a message that communicates with him. With each trip, he tries to convey the message he receives from each destination to his readers. "Be what you are. There's no need to be like others" This is what he lives by and hopes that he can inspire others to live their best lives too. Happy exploring!