How to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

Being islands, Andaman and Nicobar can be reached one of two ways – via air or via water.

• Travelling by Air – The main airport of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the Veer Savarkar International Airport, located on Port Blair and is the only way to reach the islands by air. Moreover, the airport is connected to only a handful of major airports in India, namely Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Vishakhapatnam, Bangalore (seasonal), and Mumbai (beginning from October 2023). As such, to reach the islands, both Indian citizens and international visitors must book a flight to and from one of these cities.   
• Travelling by Sea – Ships can be used to travel to and from Port Blair from either Kolkata, Chennai, or Vishakhapatnam. Passenger ships for Port Blair depart a few times a month and usually take between 3-5 days. Moreover, ships can only be booked by visiting the Ticket Corporation Offices from the departing city. The long duration and the difficulty of availing the tickets make travelling by water not a great option for tourists.

Do you know the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also home to several volcanoes? Yes, you read that right. Take a look at this guide that journeys through the majestic volcanoes in India.

Best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands 

Summer Season

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands see summertime temperatures that range from a minimum of about 24°C to a maximum of about 37°C. Thanks to its general geographical location, the summers are usually not uncomfortably hot, making it one of the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Even though humidity is at an all-time high during the summers, it is one of the best times to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Things to do in Summer in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

While there are wonderful options for sightseeing in the mornings and early nights, it is advised to stay inside during the afternoons when the heat might become uncomfortable. This time of the year, probably, one of the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands gives the best opportunity for visitors who enjoy water sports due to the calm water and gentle waves. Notably, the famed Andaman Beach Festival, which spans three gorgeous and exhilarating days of activities, is held every year in April. Several water-based activities, like scuba diving, are especially popular around this time of the year. Here’s a list of things to check out during Summers in Andaman and Nicobar Islands :

• Go snorkelling, scuba diving, and even surfing.
• Relax at one of the many pristine beaches.
• Go trekking on the many trekking routes along the islands.
• Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at some of the finest resorts at Port Blair or Havelock Island.

The Monsoons

When we’re speaking of the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands, monsoons aren’t the ideal time to visit the Islands. While the temperatures are moderate across the months of July to September, ranging between 22°C and 35°C, the islands see moderate to heavy rainfall throughout. High humidity and rain can dampen outdoor plans, especially since it can be particularly dangerous for water-based activities. That said, the rainy season might not be the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands, but some tourists still flock to the islands for various activities. Now, while this may not be the best time to visit the islands, it is the best season for discounts. Because the monsoons are off-season for tourists, there is a high chance of getting good deals across the board – from hotels and resorts to flight tickets.

Take a look at this guide that journeys through the best islands in India that offer an unforgettable vacation experience.

Things to do in Andaman and Nicobar during Monsoons

The monsoon months see heavy rainfall and harsh winds, which leads to unpredictable ocean weather. Outdoor activities like relaxing on the beaches, water sports, and hiking, can be both dangerous and unpleasant for visitors. Then again, if we’re speaking of the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the off-season, is a decent time to visit for those who want to avoid the crowds during the peak seasons and get some good deals and discounts along the way. Here are some suggestions from our side :

• Explore Andaman’s famous seafood delicacies.
• Keep an eye out for Food and Monsoon festivals during the months of July, August, and September.
• Explore museums and other indoor activity locations.
• Explore the forests, which become lush and green due to the rains. Be careful you don’t slip.
• Experience the culture and lifestyle of the locals in their purest form since there won’t be too many tourists during this time.

Andaman and Nicobar in Winter

Once again, thanks to its geography, the winters on the islands are quite mild. Temperatures between the months of October and March barely go below 20°C, but also don’t go above 30°C. This makes winter one of the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. All the usual attractions are open on the islands. Add that to the fact that the weather is not as humid compared to the summers or monsoons; this time is very popular with the masses.

Things to do in Andaman and Nicobar during Winter

As all the usual activities are operational, there’s not much you’re going to miss out on if you travel during this time. The recreational activities make the winters the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Here are some of the things you can do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands during Winter:

• Usual water activities like scuba diving, sea walking, and glass boat rides are operational. 
• Check out some of the gorgeous underwater landscapes, including the beautiful coral reefs at Andaman and Nicobar.
• Explore the wonderful markets that will excite any shopaholic.
• Experience nightlife in Andaman and Nicobar during Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
• Celebrate Dusshera and Diwali on the islands with tourists and locals.

Remember, the winters, especially during the holidays, are very popular, which we reiterate is the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As such, the influx of tourists is also at its peak. Therefore, almost everything gets booked well in advance. So, if you’re planning to visit the islands during this time, then do plan long beforehand.

Popular places to check out in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Swaraj Dweep – Havelock Island, also known as Swaraj Dweep, is the Andaman Islands’ most popular vacation spot, drawing tourists of all ages to its alluring charm. Havelock Island attracts tourists with energising forest hikes and interesting glass-bottom boat tours that reveal the fascinating marine life below. The island offers a variety of activities to suit varied interests.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration has worked carefully to maintain the island’s eco-tourism focus, which has contributed to some of Asia’s most beautiful and pristine beaches. Numerous opulent spas and resorts are available for people looking to unwind amidst the beauty of nature. Havelock Island is home to some of India’s best restaurants, serving you delectable fare that will leave you desiring more.

Marina Park and Aquarium – The Marina Park and Aquarium is a must-see attraction when visiting the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. If you are travelling with children, Marina Park is the greatest spot to keep them entertained. It is also a wonderful place to learn while having fun.

Ideally located in Port Blair, it is well connected by roads and can be easily reached from most hotels. Although visitors often visit the park just before leaving Port Blair, it can be a good place to unwind during your trip to relax and learn about marine life around the islands.

Radhanagar Beach – Havelock Island’s Radhanagar Beach, also known as Beach No. 7, is known as India’s greatest beach. With its beautiful sandy shoreline, blue waves, and lush woodland backdrop, it’s a postcard-perfect paradise and the 7th finest beach in the world, according to Times Magazine. It is a great place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature while surrounded by swaying palms.

Don’t miss Neil’s Cove, a lovely lagoon ideal for photos but no swimming after sundown. Radhanagar Beach is a must-see site that provides a whole mental makeover.

India is undoubtedly a land of many wonders, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are certainly one of those many. Sporting beaches that rank among the best in not just Asia but the world at large, one can see why it is among one of the most popular and majestic tourist destinations in the world. Thanks to being in the ocean, it experiences wonderful weather almost throughout the year. The summers are mildly warm and humid, while the winters are cool with clear skies, making them the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The monsoons might not be the best time to visit the islands, but they can be one of the best times to get great deals and offers. So do keep an eye out for those. All in all, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a paradise that offers something for tourists and adventurers alike, regardless of when you visit.

The post Sun, Sand, and Seasons: Choosing the Best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands appeared first on Treebo Blog.

Though most of Andaman is open for tourism, a large part of Nicobar stays out of the public eye. This is a joint decision taken by the government and the locals to keep the islands untouched and away from the tourist action. Also, under any circumstances, if you want to visit the Nicobar restricted zones, you will need permits from the authorities. 

Nevertheless, we bring you a list of 12 awe-inspiring places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands that are open to everyone. Continue Scrolling to find out! 

You Might Also Like Reading: BEYOND THE GEOGRAPHY TEXTBOOKS: 12 ASTOUNDING NATURAL WONDERS IN INDIA

Best Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

1 – Havelock Island

Havelock Island is one of the prominent tourist places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As soon as their ship hits the port or the private jet comes to the aerodrome, tourists rush toward this spectacular island that has so much to offer. You will find solitude, peace, and a sense of tranquility here. Despite being the most sought-after tourist attraction, it also provides privacy to couples and families who want to spend quality time with each other. You can explore the famous Radhanagar Beach which has pristine blue waters and soft white sand, the Elephant Beach to take a ride on the magnificent elephants, or click the best photographs of the island and surrounding waterscapes.

• Time To Spend Here: 1-2 days
• Famous Attractions: Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, Kalapathar Beach, and Kalapathar Killing Point.

2 – Baratang Island

Baratang Island is very close to Port Blair and is one of the best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. If you are looking for something that is a tad bit different from the frequent beaches that you will come across here, Baratang is the place for you. Initially, tourists have to take a boat ride to reach the attractions on the island. You will be passing through the dense mangrove forests and getting a glimpse of the ‘Jarwa’ tribe’s civilization. Going further, you can explore the bubbling mud volcanoes, the spectacular display of limestone caves, and Baludera Beach. 

• Time To Spend Here: 1 day (no overnight stay)
• Famous Attractions: Mangrove Forests, Limestone Caves, Mud Volcanoes, Parrot Island, and Baludera Beach.

3 – Neil island

Neil Island is ideal for people who want to enjoy some ‘me time’ or stay away from the hustle and bustle of the prominent tourist spots. Though the Island is famous and much-liked, you have a far-stretched shore of pristine white sand and turquoise waters. There is always a special spot for you, away from the others. You can read a book, go for a stroll, relax in your hammock, or just dip your legs in the lagoon. Neil island is home to several beautiful corals and people often go Snorkeling here to explore these colorful wonders. Neil Island is also famous for its adventure sports and soothing sweet coconut water. 

• Time to Spend Here: 1 day
• Famous Attractions: Bharatpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, Natural Bridge, Snorkeling, Jet Skiing, Glass Boat ride, and Scuba Diving. 

4 – Cellular jail

Cellular Jail is a contemporary reminder of the gruesome days that our freedom fighters have seen during the colonial era. They were brought here by the British, locked away from their regular life, and often emotionally tortured to leave their goal behind. The only life that has seen it all and still survives to whisper the gore tales is a huge banyan tree in the center of the jail. There is a light and sound show in the evenings that narrates the stories of the past and impresses the tourists. Today, it stands as a National memorial to remember all those souls who lost their lives for our independence. 

• Time to Spend Here: 3-4 hours
• Famous Attractions: Light and Sound show, Panopticon model of Architecture

5 – Chatham Saw Mill

The Chantham Saw Mill was constructed by the Britishers on a separate island, entirely dedicated to milling activities. It is currently run by the state authorities and serves as the biggest wood and timber processing unit in Asia. It is one of the best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Within the mill, there is a separate section that serves as a museum displaying the ancient machinery, the history of wood cutting, the foundation of the mill, and the pictorial representation of activities that serve as the solo source of bread-earning for some residents.

• Time To Spend Here: 2-3 hour
• Famous Attractions: Wooden paintings, Wood polishing, handicrafts, Museum, Machinery. 

6 – Samudrika Marine Museum

The Samudrika Marine Museum is one of the most marvelous places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was founded and is currently being taken care of by the Indian Navy. Thus, it is also popular as the Navy Marine Museum. On the outside, you will see a huge skeleton of a whale that was washed onto the shore of the Nicobar Islands. Inside, you have the museum divided into four sections that display information about marine life, geography, history and anthropology. There is a mini zoo that houses saltwater crocodiles as well.

• Time To Spend here: 2-3 hours
• Famous Attractions: Display of Marine Life, Corals, Shells, Whale Skeleton, Crocodile Pool. 

7 – Mount Harriet

To get to Mount Harriet Peak, you will have to go through the reserve forests of Mount Harriet National Park. Mount Harriet Peak is the third largest one in the Andaman Islands and the second largest peak point in the Southern Andaman region. If you remember the old reddish orange 20 rupee notes? You will find the picture of Mount Harriet Lighthouse on the back of that currency paper. It is a spectacular point that gives you a soothing view of the surrounding waters and the lush greenery of the Andaman region. It is extremely breezy and satisfying here.

• Time To Spend Here: 4 Hours (including your time at Mount Harrier National Park)
• Famous Attractions: Dense Forests, View Point with a great Panoramic display. 

8 – Ross Island

Ross Island is one of the most famous places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar. It stands as a testimony of the harsh British rule in colonial India. This place was the administrative headquarters of the English men while they established their rule in the Andaman territory. Here you will find the ruins of several colonial constructions, including the Penal Colony. Before the Cellular Jail, the Political prisoners of the Indian Independence Movement were brought to the penal colony. In ancient times, this place was considered to be cursed and highly melancholic. If you love to see the remnants of the past, then Ross Island will be a great trip for you. 

Interestingly, you can also get a view of Barren Island from Ross Island. Barren Island houses the only active volcano in India, and inhabiting or visiting Barren is restricted due to safety and security concerns. However, you can take a boat trip to get closer to Barren Island. 

• Time To Spend Here: 5-6 hours
• Famous Attractions: Penal Colony, Japanese Bunkers, Barren Island (From Far),  Wildlife ecosystem with eagles, peacocks and deer, Remnants of British Bungalows and Headquarters.

9 – Rangat

Rangat is a beautiful place that brings you the splendor of a beach vacation along with the serenity of silent walks. Rangat houses some of the most exotic flora and fauna of the Andaman region, and it is a treat to see the different forms of life here. The place is especially famous for the Cuthbert Bay beach, where you can interact with several sea turtles! The Cuthbert Wildlife Sanctuary will take you much closer to the Olive Ridleys, Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbill Turtles, and Leatherback turtles. Then there is the Dhanninalah Mangrove Walkway, where you will be embraced by the beauty of the fresh mangrove forests, and it’s a surreal feeling to be cut off from the outside world. 

• Time To Spend Here: 1-2 days
• Famous Attractions: Cuthbert Bay Beach, Cuthbert Wildlife Sanctuary, Dhanninalah Wildlife Sanctuary, Long Island, Panchvati Hills, and Amkunj Beach. 

10 – Jolly Buoy Island

Taking a boat from Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Reserve will bring you to Jolly Buoy Island. This is one of the most underexplored places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is pure, pristine, soothing, and very isolated. Here, you will find several starfishes on the shore, exotic sea anemones, and sea corals. We suggest that you take the glass boat rides to see the colorful corals without stepping into the waters. Snorkeling and deep sea diving are the two most famous activities on Jolly Buoy Island.

The dried wooden trunks, mangrove swamps, white sand beaches, and crystal clear waters make Jolly Buoy a most sought-after places to visit in Andaman. However, to preserve the living corals, Jolly Buoy Island will be closed for certain periods of time. You will have to gather prior information before making plans to visit the place.

• Time To Spend Here: 5-6 hours
• Famous Attractions: Mangroove Walks, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Glass Bottom Boat Rides. 

11 – Indira Point

Now we explore the famous places to visit in the Greater Nicobar Region. As we have mentioned earlier, a large portion of the Nicobar Islands remains unavailable for tourists. This is to respect the wishes of the local tribes and also to keep the Islands safe after the major damage they received during 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. However, there are a few places that are still accessible and Indira Point is one of them. Indira Point is the southernmost region of India’s territory. It has a lighthouse that offers a breathtaking view of the blue waters and surrounding pieces of land. This point falls within the Campbell Bay region of Nicobar which is one of the accessible regions for tourism. 

• Time To Spend Here: 1-2 hours
• Famous Attractions: Indira Point Lighthouse, Galathea National Park. 

12 – Greater Nicobar Biosphere Reserve

The Greater Nicobar Biosphere Reserve constitutes about 85% of the Nicobar Islands and is home to some of the most interesting flora and fauna. Indian Nationals do not need a permit to visit this national park, but foreigners have to secure permissions from the Forest Department. With dense forests, lush greenery, and absolute silence, this biosphere reserve impresses most visitors. Usually, you will see a lot of researchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers visiting this place. You can come across the Nicobar megapode, the Nicobar tree shrew, and the Nicobar long-tailed macaque here. I suggest that you get a guide for the nature trail. You can easily get one by speaking with the Forest Ranger at the Forest Department. 

• Time to Spend Here: A Few hours
• Famous Attractions: Mangrove forests, Nature Trials, Wildlife spottings. 

If you want to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands, I suggest that you keep at least 10-14 days free to get the complete experience. However, if you are short on time, you can also pick the spots you like the most and curate an itinerary with the best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar in 5 days. That is the minimum amount of time you need to explore all the 12 places mentioned here. 

Veer Savarkar Airport in Port Blair receives flights from Chennai in the south and New Delhi in the North. You can book your one-night accommodation at Treebo Hotels and set out for a short two-hour flight to the islands. 

Already been to Andaman and Nicobar? Share your experience in the comment section below.

The post The 12 Enticing Places to Visit In Andaman And Nicobar to Explore its Coastal Charm appeared first on Treebo Blog.

The Andaman and Nicobar Island is a popular tourist destination in India. Both, foreign as well as Indian tourists visit this place to enjoy the wonderful site and indulge in a number of adventure activities in the islands. From beautiful beaches with blue waters, lagoons, various museums to other exciting as well as historically significant sites, there are a number of unique places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands for a spectacular vacation.

Here is a guide with the top 20 places to visit in the Andaman and Nicobar islands that we have put together for your travel itinerary.

Andaman and Nicobar Island Trip

Why Should You Visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

If you love to pack in adventure sports, sightseeing and spending time relaxing by the beaches in your travel itinerary, this holiday destination is perfect for you. The place is a haven for activity and fun, there is plenty to do and see on the island and you will enjoy every bit of it..

Best Time to Visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are blessed with beautiful weather through most of the year. But, if you want to make the most of your vacation and enjoy everything the islands have to offer, the best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands is between October and May.

The monsoon season here (from July to September) witnesses strong winds and high tides which make it impossible to enjoy and explore the outdoors in these islands during this period.

How to Reach Andaman

• Flight
  

Getting to the Andaman Islands by flight is the quickest way of reaching. Flights take off and land at the local Veer Savarkar International Airport. At the moment, only domestic flights from Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata fly to Andaman. There are no international flights that go to the islands.

• Ship
  

Another way of getting to the Andaman Islands is by ship. Ships ply from Vizag, Chennai and Kolkata to the Andaman islands. There are three operators that run ships from these cities to the islands. Unlike with a flight, it takes a long time to reach Andaman by ship, especially if you are boarding from Kolkata.

Travelling Within Andaman  

Travelling in Andaman is fairly comfortable. You have auto-rickshaws and taxis that commonly ply in Port Blair and the Havelock Islands. Drivers double up as guides and take you to the best places.

Bike rentals are possible from Port Blair but it can sometimes be difficult to get a bike. Rentals start from Rs. 200 a day and you will have to pay a security deposit, depending on which bike you hire.

Best Places to Visit in Andaman: Must-Visit Tourist Sites

1. Cellular Jail National Memorial

The Cellular Jail National Memorial is an iconic tourist attraction in Andaman.  Rooted in history, this is the place where martyrs were once held captive. It was destroyed in the war by Japanese forces, but a few parts of the jail are still standing tall. A special light and sound show is held in the jail every evening where the plight of the various captives, especially Veer Savarkar, is vividly described to the audience. The show is completely worth waiting for while visiting Cellular Jail in Andaman. 

• Location: Port Blair
• Distance from Port Blair: 9.1kms
• Timings: 9 AM to 1 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM all days; Closed on Mondays;
• Entry Fee: Rs 30; Camera – Rs 200; Video – Rs 1000; 

2. Mount Harriet National Park

The Mount Harriet National Park is a must-visit place for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Mount Harriet is the third highest peak in Andaman and Nicobar and the national park covers an area of 4.62kms. One of the best places to visit in the Andaman tour, Mount Harriet park has excellent hiking trails and is home to exotic birds and plants. There are many nature trails that you can embark on in the park.

• Location: Hope Town
• Distance from Port Blair: 55kms by road and 15kms by ferry;
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Indians – Rs30; Foreigners – Rs250;
• Best time to visit Mount Harriet National Park: November to March
• Things to do: Trekking, hiking, photography, picnic;

3. Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

The Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex is your best bet for water sports in Andaman and Nicobar. Scenic and adventurous, the sports complex offers activities like jet-ski, boat rides, sea walks, scuba diving and many other water sports. Besides water sports, the complex is a great place to chill out in the evenings.

• Location: Port Blair
• Distance from city centre: 8.2kms
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 Pm; Mondays closed
• Prices: Prices for water sports begin from Rs.500 onwards
• Entry Fee: Free
• Things to do: Boat riding, sea walking, snorkelling, scuba diving; 

4. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a hub of marine life. The park is spread over 280 square kilometres with mangroves creeks and tropical rainforests. The park is spread over 17 islands. You can see a variety of marine life and even indulge in underwater excursions. The coral reef is the major ecosystem here and one can see plenty of them.

• Location: Near Wandoor
• Distance from the city centre: 18.1kms
• Timings: 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM;
• Entry Fee: Rs 50;

5. Chidiya Tapu

A perfect place for bird watching and enjoying a scintillating sunset, Chidiya Tapu is one of the best places to visit in Andaman. Chidiya Tapu is defined as Sparrow Island in English and this tiny island is also located close to a mini-zoo where one can spot various exotic animals and birds. The Sunset Point here offers you the best view of the setting sun, with the sun rays falling on the rugged rocks of the Kalapathar found near the beach creating a view akin to a spectacular shot from a movie.

• Location: Near Port Blair
• Distance from the city centre: 17kms
• Timings: From 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry Fee: None
• Things to do at Chidiya Tapu: Visit the zoo, enjoy the sunset, birdwatching, water sports; 

6. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum

It is the Indian Navy’s priced project that displays the comprehensive marine life existing in the waters of the island. It is one of the best places to visit in Andaman to learn and understand the rich and exotic marine life found here. The museum houses close to 350 types of marine species ranging from fishes, beautiful coral, wide range seashells and tortoise shells among others. You can also witness a huge skeleton of a blue whale at the entrance.

• Location: Haddo Road
• Distance from the city centre: 8.7kms
• Timings: 9:00 Am to 5:00 PM; Monday closed; 
• Entry Fee: Adults – Rs50; Kids – Rs25; Free for senior citizens;
• Things to do at Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: Shop for antiquities made from seashells; watch the aquariums with rare fish and huge glass shelves preserving corals;

7. Forest Museum

Forest Museum is an incredible tourist attraction in Andaman and famous for housing a wide variety of artefacts made from wood such as timber, satinwood, gurjan, padauk and oak. The museum is maintained by the Forest Department of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and is a must-visit place in Andaman for tourists. The complex also has a mini-zoo and a zoological garden for tourists.

• Location: Chatham
• Distance from the Port Blair: 11.7kms
• Timings: 8:00 to 12:00 Pm; 2:30 to 5:00 PM;
• Entry Fee: Rs2;

Unique Places to Visit in Andaman

1. Baratang Island

Located in the North and Middle Andaman Administrative district, Baratang Island is one of the less explored and unique places to visit in Andaman. To visit this offbeat location you require permission from the Forest Department. You can explore the naturally formed limestone caves and take a look at India’s only mud volcano present here. To reach Baratang Islands, you can take a ferry ride from Port Blair to Phoenix Bay Jetty. Baratang Island is also home to the indigenous Jarawa tribe whom you might spot while you travel through the lush green rainforests via road.

• Location: Rangat
• Distance from Port Blair: 101kms
• Timings: Morning to Evening
• Entry Fee: None
• Tips: You must not wave at or take pictures of the Jarawa tribal people in case you spot them while going to Baratang by cab or taxi.  

2. Limestone Caves

There is nothing as spectacular as these limestone caves in the Baratang Islands in the entire Andaman and it is not an exaggeration. These caves are believed to have formed millions of years ago and the formations that look like conical rock-like structures are termed as Stalagmites. These  Stalagmites are created by single-cell bacteria called the cyanobacteria. These awe-inspiring limestone caves are a must-visit for everyone visiting Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

• Location: Baratang Islands
• Distance from Port Blair: 101kms
• Timings:7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Entry Fee: None
• Best time to visit Limestone caves in Baratang Island: November to March    

3. Chatham Saw Mill

It is a nineteenth-century tourist attraction in Port Blair and is also the largest and oldest sawmill in India. Chatham Saw Mill is worth visiting for its mere existence for over a century and to watch and learn how the sawmill functions when in full operation. Chatham Saw Mill is the only mill that provides timber for construction work on the island and also exports timber to other countries.

• Location: Haddo Port Blair
• Distance from Port Blair: 12kms
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM; Sundays closed.
• Entry Fee: Rs10

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Island: Islands and Beaches

1. Neil Island

Located close to three incredibly beautiful beaches – Sitapur, Bharatpur and Lakshmanpur beaches – Neil Island is one of the best tourist places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar islands and is a perfect choice to spend some time with your family or loved ones. Besides sightseeing and chilling by the beach, the island offers you the chance to indulge in water sports. At the island, you can go swimming, on boat rides and even parasail.

• Location: Neil Island
• Distance from Port Blair: 42.4kms – covered by ferry
• Timings of Ferry: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Entry Fee: None
• Best time to visit Neil Island: October to February

2. Havelock Island

Havelock Island in Andaman is one of the most sought-after tourist spots and famous places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Blessed with great beaches, tourists love visiting the island for a summer vacation. The island has great eateries, shopping spots and numerous beach cottages that you can book and stay. There are great adventure sports to enjoy at the Havelock Islands and it is also a great place for a honeymoon or a family getaway.

• Location: Havelock Island
• Distance from Port Blair: 70kms, covered by ferry ride
• Timings: Morning to evening
• Things to do in Havelock Island: Deep-sea diving, scuba diving, snorkelling, enjoy the sunset;

3. Radhanagar Beach

Radhanagar Beach was once called the best beach to visit in Asia. The beach is famous for its white pristine sands and stunning surroundings. A haven of beauty, the beach is an ideal spot for relaxing and unwinding. Don’t forget to click a couple of selfies at the beach, they’ll brighten up your Instagram feed.

• Location: Havelock Islands
• Distance from Port Blair: 72kms, covered via ferry
• Timings: Morning to evening

4. Long Island

A secluded island, the Long Island is about a six-hour boat ride away from Port Blair. Surrounded by green foliage and with white and crystal clear waters, the place is an absolute delight for beach lovers. You can enjoy the view of spectacular sunrise and sunset on this island and admire the untouched and pristine beauty of the place.

• Location: Andaman Archipelago
• Distance from Port Blair: 80kms via ferry
• Timings: Morning to evening
• Best time to visit Long Island: October to March

5. Wandoor Beach

This mesmerizing beach in Andaman is famous for its rich marine biodiversity along with the dazzling white sand and turquoise-blue waters. Visiting this beach in itself is relaxing and rejuvenating as you can enjoy calm and peace like never before. It is a major tourist attraction and also a favourite among couples who love to take a walk by the beach.

• Location: Near Wandoor village at the southern tip of Andaman 
• Distance from Port Blair: 19.3kms
• Timings: Morning to evening

6. Kala Pathar Beach

Along with Radhanagar beach, you can also visit the Kalapathar Beach in Havelock Island. Although not a very famous place, the beauty and serenity of Kalapathar Beach is something you must not miss. The white sand and green waters of this beach are sure to captivate you. Swimming in these waters is not recommended but you can surely take a walk on the shore or just sit and relax on the shore.

• Location: Havelock Island
• Distance from Port Blair: 70kms via ferry
• Timings: Morning to evening

7. North Bay Island

Another popular place to visit in Andaman, North Bay Island located close to Port Blair attracts tourists from across the country. The island is also famously known as Coral Island owing to the vast variety of corals found here. It is the best place for scuba diving, snorkelling, and glass-bottom boat ride, as you get to see the beautiful and colourful corals underwater.

• Location: North of Port Blair
• Distance from Port Blair: 42kms, covered via ferry
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

8. Vijaynagar Beach

There is no dearth to beautiful and scenic beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar islands and here’s another to be included in your Andaman sightseeing list – the Vijaynagar Beach. The beach is also a hub for all fun activities such as snorkelling, surfing, swimming, kayaking and bird watching.

• Location: Havelock Islands
• Distance from Port Blair: 66.8kms via ferry
• Timings: All day long
• Entry Fee: None

9. Lalaji Bay

If you love hiking, you will thoroughly enjoy the trail from Long Island to Lalaji Bay. The end of the trail results in stunning views of the sea and its shores. Just like Long Island, this place is less crowded, so you’ll have enough space to enjoy the beach. Those who prefer comfortable excursions can rent a boat from Long Island. Rides cost Rs. 2,500 per trip.

• Location: Near Long Island
• Distance from Port Blair: 90kms; connected via ferry.
• Timings: All day long
• Entry Fee: None

10. Corbyn’s Cove

Located very close to Port Blair, Corby’s Cove is a secluded and pristine beach that is also one of the most important places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Lush green coconut trees dot the area and the blue and calm beach waters relax you instantaneously. There are a number of beach chairs present on the shore where you can sit and watch the waves crashing on the shore. Apart from the serenity during the day, you’ll also enjoy a bit of nightlife and delicious seafood here.

• Location: Port Blair
• Distance from Port Blair: 8kms
• Timings: All day long
• Entry Fee: None

This concludes our guide to travel in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. We have listed the top 20 best places to visit in Andaman, how to get to the islands and we have even told you about the best time to visit the island. So share your experience in the comments section if you’ve already visited this place!

So, what are you waiting for, pack your bags, book your tickets and head out to the islands as soon as possible for that much-needed break?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best places to visit in Andaman in January or February?

Since October to March is the best time to visit Andaman, you can cover a number of famous places in Andaman in January, February. These include Corbyn’s Cove, Havelock Island, Chidiya Tapu, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, North Bay Island, Central Jail Memorial, Ross Island, Baratang Island and Wandoor Beach.

2. What is the ideal duration to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands? 

Since there are a number of places to visit in Andaman, you must plan a trip for three or four days. 

Places to visit in Andaman in 3 days – Day 1

• Corbyn’s Cove
• Central Jail Memorial
• Mount Harriet National Park
• Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
• Forest Museum
• Chatham Saw Mill
• Chidiya Tapu

Day 2:

• Havelock Island
• Radhanagar Beach
• Vijaynagar Beach
• Kalapathar Beach
• North Bay Island

Day 3

• Baratang Islands
• Limestone Caves
• Mud volcano
• Mangrove forest

3. What are the best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar in 2020?

Some of the best places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar in 2020 include Ross Island, Baratang Island, Lalaji Bay, Chidiya Tapu, Cellular Jail, Mount Harriet National Park, Havelock Island, North Bay Island, Limestone Caves, Mud Volcano, Radhanagar Beach and Corbyn’s Cove.

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