# Andaman Islands — The Complete Travel Guide

The Andaman Islands are India's tropical paradise — 572 islands scattered across the Bay of Bengal, with crystal-clear water, pristine coral reefs, colonial history, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Asia.

How to Reach

By Air: Direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore to Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport). Flight time: 2-3 hours.

By Sea: Ships from Chennai and Kolkata (3-4 days). Scenic but slow. Book through the Directorate of Shipping.

Permits

Indian nationals need NO permit for Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil islands. Restricted area permits (RAP) are required for some tribal areas and remote islands — obtainable at Port Blair airport on arrival.

Foreign nationals: RAP required, typically valid for 30 days. Available at Port Blair immigration on arrival.

Best Time to Visit

October to May — dry season with calm seas. December-February is peak (pleasant weather, 25-30°C).

Avoid June-September — monsoon brings heavy rain and rough seas. Inter-island ferries are frequently cancelled.

Must-Visit Islands

Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

Home to Radhanagar Beach — consistently ranked among Asia's best. Crystal-clear turquoise water, white sand, and a jungle backdrop. Also: Elephant Beach (snorkelling), Kalapathar Beach (sunrise), and world-class scuba diving.

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Quieter and more laid-back than Havelock. Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge) rock formation, Bharatpur Beach (glass-bottom boat rides), and the most stunning sunsets in the Andamans.

Port Blair

The capital — visit the Cellular Jail (Kala Pani) for the moving sound-and-light show documenting India's freedom struggle. Ross Island (now Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) has atmospheric British ruins being reclaimed by jungle.

Baratang Island

The only place in India with mud volcanoes, plus limestone caves accessible by boat through mangrove creeks.

Activities

**Scuba Diving:** Havelock and Neil offer beginner-friendly and advanced dive sites. Visibility: 15-30m. Marine life: manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, and over 1,000 species of fish.

**Snorkelling:** Elephant Beach, North Bay, and Jolly Buoy Island.

**Sea Walking:** Walk on the ocean floor wearing a helmet at North Bay.

**Kayaking:** Mangrove kayaking through creeks and channels.

**Island Hopping:** Government and private ferries connect the main islands.