Key Takeaways About Andaman Tourism

• The Andaman and Nicobar Islands feature over 550 islands with only a few open to tourists

• Port Blair serves as the capital and main entry point to the islands

• December to March is considered the ideal season for Andaman tourism

• Water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea walking are popular activities

• Many islands require permits, especially for foreign tourists

• Cellular Jail National Memorial stands as an important historical landmark

• Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island has been rated among Asia's finest beaches

• The indigenous tribes of Andaman are protected and most tribal areas are restricted

Planning Your Visit: Best Time and Travel Requirements

The question of when to plan your Andaman vacation is critical for an enjoyable experience. The islands experience a tropical climate year-round, but the period from October to May offers the most favorable weather conditions for tourists.

The peak tourist season falls between December and March when the weather is pleasant with minimal rainfall, making it perfect for beach activities and water sports. During this time, Andaman tourism cost tends to be higher due to increased demand, with Andaman island tour price for packages rising by 20-30%.

For budget travelers, the shoulder seasons of October-November and April-May provide a good balance between reasonable weather and affordable prices. Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, limiting water activities and inter-island transportation.

Regarding travel requirements, all visitors to Andaman need to carry valid identification. While Indian nationals don't need special permits for most tourist areas, foreign tourists require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) which is typically valid for 30 days and issued free of cost upon arrival at Port Blair airport.

Season Months Weather Tourism Activity
Peak Season December-March Pleasant, Dry Very High
Shoulder Season Oct-Nov, Apr-May Warm, Occasional Showers Moderate
Monsoon June-September Heavy Rainfall Low

Must-Visit Destinations Across the Islands

The Andaman archipelago offers diverse attractions that cater to various interests. Port Blair, the capital city, serves as the gateway to the islands and houses significant historical sites like the Cellular Jail, a colonial prison that tells the story of India's freedom struggle. The Light and Sound show at this monument provides an immersive historical experience.

Havelock Island (now officially renamed Swaraj Dweep) is home to some of the most stunning Andaman beaches. Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) has consistently been rated among Asia's best beaches for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters. Kalapathar Beach, with its unique black rock formations, offers excellent photography opportunities.

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) provides a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds. Its natural bridge formation, Howrah Bridge, is a remarkable natural limestone structure exposed during low tide. The beaches here – Bharatpur, Laxmanpur, and Sitapur – each have their distinct charm and marine life.

Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) stands as a historical reminder of the British colonial era with ruins of administrative buildings, church, and other structures now enveloped by massive tree roots. The island offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Baratang Island features unique limestone caves and mud volcanoes, though reaching it involves crossing tribal reserves, requiring special permissions and guided tours. North Bay Island is popular for its coral reefs visible through glass-bottom boats, while Barren Island houses India's only active volcano, viewable from a safe distance by boat.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park at Wandoor offers protected marine ecosystems with abundant coral reefs and diverse aquatic species. Chidiya Tapu, known as the 'Bird Island,' is perfect for birdwatching and catching spectacular sunsets.

Underwater Adventures and Beach Activities

The Andaman Islands are renowned for their exceptional underwater experiences, making them a haven for marine enthusiasts. The clear waters with visibility extending up to 40 meters in certain areas create ideal conditions for exploring the vibrant underwater world.

Scuba diving stands as the premier activity for visitors wanting to experience the rich marine biodiversity. Havelock Island offers some of the best diving sites, including:

  • Dixon's Pinnacle - Famous for its colorful coral gardens
  • Johnny's Gorge - Known for manta ray and shark sightings
  • The Wall - A dramatic underwater cliff teeming with marine life
  • Lighthouse - Perfect for beginners with its shallow depths

For those new to diving, PADI-certified diving centers across the islands offer introductory courses and guided dives with professional instructors. These centers provide complete equipment and safety briefings, making the experience accessible even to first-timers.

Snorkeling presents a more accessible alternative to experience coral reefs and marine life without extensive training. Elephant Beach and North Bay Island feature shallow reefs perfect for snorkeling adventures. Many Andaman vacation packages include snorkeling equipment and guided sessions.

Sea walking allows visitors to walk on the ocean floor wearing a specialized helmet supplied with oxygen. This activity requires no swimming skills and is available at North Bay, Elephant Beach, and other locations.

Beyond underwater activities, the islands offer numerous beach experiences including kayaking through mangrove forests, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. For a more relaxed experience, simply lounging on the pristine beaches watching the sunset creates unforgettable memories.

Beach camping is gaining popularity, with organized camps on select beaches offering a unique way to experience the islands' natural beauty under starlit skies. These camps typically provide basic amenities while maintaining eco-friendly practices.

Accommodation Options and Practical Travel Tips

Finding suitable accommodation is crucial for an enjoyable Andaman experience. The islands offer lodging options across various budget ranges, from luxury resorts to economical guesthouses.

Port Blair, as the main urban center, provides the widest range of Andaman island hotels and stays. Budget travelers can find government-run lodges and private guesthouses starting from ₹1,000 per night. Mid-range hotels offering comfortable amenities typically range between ₹2,500-5,000, while luxury options with premium services start from ₹6,000 upward.

Havelock Island caters primarily to mid-range and luxury travelers with beachfront resorts and cottages. Properties like Barefoot Resort and Symphony Palms offer distinctive experiences with prices varying significantly between peak and off-peak seasons. Neil Island features smaller boutique stays and homestays that provide a more intimate island experience.

For couples, several properties offer special Andaman honeymoon packages that include romantic dinners on the beach, couple spa treatments, and private excursions. These packages typically include accommodation, meals, and select activities with prices starting from ₹30,000 for a 5-night stay.

Practical travel tips for making the most of your Andaman visit:

  • Book accommodation at least 2-3 months in advance for peak season visits
  • Carry sufficient cash as ATMs are limited on smaller islands
  • Purchase a local SIM card in Port Blair as network connectivity varies across islands
  • Pack light, quick-dry clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water shoes
  • Respect marine life by avoiding touching corals or collecting shells
  • Follow the principle of 'leave no trace' by taking all waste with you
  • Check ferry schedules in advance as they can change based on weather conditions
  • Allow buffer days in your itinerary for unexpected weather delays
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites

Island transportation primarily relies on ferries connecting major islands, with government-operated vessels being more economical but private operators offering greater comfort and frequency. Within islands, auto-rickshaws and taxis are available, though renting a two-wheeler provides greater flexibility for exploration.