If India had a secret escape button, it would lead straight to the Andaman Islands. Floating far from the mainland, this cluster of sun-drenched islands in the Bay of Bengal is where time moves slower, the sea looks bluer, and your stress doesn’t stand a chance. Think of it as nature’s way of saying, “log off and live a little.”
The Andamans aren’t just a pretty postcard; they carry the weight of India’s freedom struggle and colonial past. The infamous Cellular Jail in Port Blair once held countless freedom fighters in solitary confinement, earning it the name “Kala Pani.” Today, it stands as both a memorial and a reminder of resilience.
Before the British, the islands were home to indigenous tribes who lived in harmony with nature for thousands of years, some of whom still prefer to remain untouched by the modern world. Over the decades, the Andamans transformed from a penal settlement into one of India’s most treasured tourist destinations, blending haunting history with natural beauty.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands stretch like emerald beads across the sea, more than 500 islands, though only a handful are open to visitors. Expect powdery beaches, coral reefs, mangrove forests, and rain-drenched hills.
The northern islands are quieter, wilder, and ideal for exploration, while Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep) are where most travelers drop anchor. Port Blair acts as the gateway, and from there, every ferry feels like a ticket to another world.
Start your Andaman story here. Visit the Cellular Jail, catch the Light and Sound Show, and stroll down to Corbyn’s Cove Beach for an easy evening by the sea. Don’t miss the museums, they quietly tell the story of an island that’s seen it all.
The crowd favorite. Radhanagar Beach has been called one of Asia’s best, and it’s not an exaggeration. White sand, clean waves, and sunsets that make even your phone camera look talented. For the adventurous, there’s scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea walking at Elephant Beach.
Havelock’s calmer sibling, smaller, slower, and impossibly scenic. Visit Bharatpur Beach for coral views, Laxmanpur Beach for sunsets, and Sitapur Beach for the kind of sunrise that makes waking up early worth it.
A short boat ride from Port Blair, Ross feels like a page out of a lost storybook. The ruins of old British buildings are now wrapped in banyan roots, nature reclaiming what was once a colonial outpost.
Seen on the ₹20 note, North Bay is a favorite for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides. The coral reefs here are bright, bustling, and breathtaking.
By Air: Direct flights to Port Blair operate from Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru. It’s the fastest and most convenient way to reach.
By Sea: For the romantics (or patient travelers), passenger ships sail from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam, taking 3–4 days. Not for everyone, but the ocean views are unbeatable.
Watching the sun dip into the Bay of Bengal from Radhanagar Beach.
Diving into coral gardens teeming with clownfish, turtles, and colors you didn’t know existed.
Walking through the Cellular Jail at dusk, you can feel its history.
Kayaking through mangrove tunnels under starlit skies.
Taking an underwater sea walk, yes, you can actually walk on the ocean floor.
Ending the day with a beach barbecue and no agenda.
From October to May, the weather stays friendly, the seas stay calm, and every photo looks like a travel brochure. Avoid the monsoon (June–September) unless you enjoy watching rain erase your itinerary.
The Andamans are seafood heaven, grilled lobsters, crab curry, and fish tikkas are island staples. For a local touch, try Andaman-style fish curry cooked in coconut milk. Vegetarian options are easy to find too, and the island’s tropical fruits (especially pineapple and banana) are ridiculously fresh.
Whether you want a budget-friendly beachfront shack or a luxury resort with private decks, you’ll find plenty of choices. Port Blair has convenience, Havelock has charm, and Neil offers peace. Pick your vibe and plan your stay accordingly.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit the Andaman Islands?
Indian citizens don’t. Foreign tourists can get a Restricted Area Permit on arrival at Port Blair airport.
Q: Is Andaman safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s one of India’s safest destinations. Locals are friendly, and crime rates are low.
Q: How many days are enough for Andaman?
Five to seven days is ideal to explore Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil without rushing.
Q: What kind of water activities are available?
Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, parasailing, and kayaking, take your pick.
Q: Is vegetarian food easily available?
Yes. While seafood dominates, most restaurants serve North and South Indian vegetarian meals.
Q: Is it an expensive trip?
It can be, depending on how you travel. Budget trips are totally doable, but if you love ocean-view resorts and private cruises, be ready to splurge a little.
