How to Plan Andaman Trip: Your Complete Island Paradise Guide
Planning a trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands may seem like a big task, from selecting the right time to book to choosing islands and ferries, but with a practical plan, it becomes one of the most rewarding adventures in India. These islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, are known for their turquoise waters, soft white sands, and world-class diving spots that rival destinations like Thailand or the Maldives.
Beyond the postcards and pictures, Andaman offers authentic experiences, friendly islanders, fresh seafood, rich marine biodiversity, untouched rainforests, and a gently paced coastal lifestyle. Here’s your 2026 Andaman travel guide, designed for real travellers who want reliable details, cost insights, and locally tested ideas to make the most of their visit.
Finding the Perfect Time for Your Andaman Adventure
Weather determines not only what you can do in Andaman but also how much you’ll spend.
Best Months: October to May
These months strike the perfect balance of calm seas and pleasant weather, making them ideal for swimming, diving, and sightseeing. Water visibility reaches up to 30 meters from November to March, the prime window for scuba diving and snorkelling.
- December to February: Peak tourist months. Expect perfect weather, 25 to 30°,C but higher airfares and hotel rates.
- October to November and March to May: Shoulder season with warm weather and smaller crowds, ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
Off-season, June to September
The monsoon brings frequent rain and rough seas. While ferry services might halt, you can still enjoy romantic beach walks, resort stays, and photography with minimal tourists. If you’re interested in budget-friendly travel or honeymoon packages, this season can still be rewarding, provided you’re flexible with activities.
Creating Your Andaman Islands Itinerary Like a Pro
A great Andaman itinerary blends sightseeing, beach time, and water adventures. Most visitors plan 5 to 7 days, balancing relaxation and exploration.
Day 1: Arrive in Port Blair
Land at Veer Savarkar International Airport, the gateway to the islands. Explore:
- Cellular Jail: A historic British prison; the evening light and sound show adds emotional depth to India’s independence story.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Close to the city, ideal for your first sunset stroll.
Day 2 to 4: Havelock Island, Swaraj Dweep
A 2-hour ferry ride brings you to paradise. Don’t rush; spend 2 to 3 days here.
- Radhanagar Beach: Asia’s No. 1 rated beach by TripAdvisor. Sunrise and sunset views are unforgettable.
- Elephant Beach: Great for snorkelling, jet skiing, and sea walking. Carry your GoPro, the coral life is stunning.
- Long Island Kalapathar Beach: Ideal if you want a quieter, scenic escape.
Local Tip: Many agencies like Andaman Bliss arrange private speedboat trips to unfrequented snorkelling spots perfect for honeymooners or photographers.
Day 5 to 6: Neil Island, Shaheed Dweep
An hour from Havelock, Neil feels calmer and more organic.
- Bharatpur Beach: Excellent for glass-bottom boat rides.
- Natural Bridge Laxmanpur II: A natural arch made of corals best seen at low tide.
Spend the night here to enjoy stargazing with no light pollution.
Optional Day 7 to 8: North Bay and Ross Island, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island
Both can be done as half-day trips from Port Blair.
- Ross Island: Feel the British colonial past as banyan trees overtake old barracks.
- North Bay: Try the famous underwater sea walk and banana boat rides.
Choosing Where to Stay in Paradise
Andaman’s accommodation caters to all types, from luxury seaside resorts to eco huts. Always book early in peak months.
Port Blair
Stay near the Aberdeen Bazaar or Phoenix Bay for convenience. Recommended mid-range hotels like SeaShell or Sinclair’s provide great city comfort.
Havelock Island
- Luxury: Taj Exotica Resort, Barefoot at Havelock beachfront villas with world-class service.
- Budget and mid-range: Symphony Palms, Green Valley Resort often include breakfast and snorkelling packages.
- Eco stays: Try bamboo or solar-powered huts near Govind Nagar for sustainable travel experiences.
Neil Island
Stay beside Bharatpur or Laxmanpur beaches. Small family-run guesthouses and eco lodges cost 1,500 to 3,000 INR per night, often with home-cooked meals.
Essential Travel Documents and Permits You’ll Need
For Indian citizens, only a basic photo ID, such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or DL, is required. No separate entry visa or permit for most islands.
Certain sensitive areas like North Sentinel Island or Campbell Bay, Nicobar, are strictly restricted for visitors. Always respect these rules to preserve indigenous cultures.
Foreign nationals:
Need an Indian visa, and on arrival at Port Blair, they receive a 30-day Restricted Area Permit RAP, extendable for tourism. Keep passport copies for ferry tickets and hotel check-ins.
For restricted excursions like Baratang Limestone Caves or Diglipur’s Saddle Peak, permits can be arranged in Port Blair through agents or online government portals.
Smart Budgeting for Your Andaman Vacation
Here’s a practical Andaman budget overview for 2026 travellers:
- Expense | Budget ₹ | Mid range ₹ | Luxury ₹
- Flights round trip | 12,000 to 18,000 | 18,000 to 25,000 | 25,000+
- Stay per night | 1,000 to 2,000 | 3,000 to 5,000 | 10,000+
- Meals daily | 500 to 800 | 1,000 to 1,800 | 3,000+
- Activities | 1,000 to 2,000 | 2,000 to 5,000 | 5,000+
Money-saving tips:
- Book ferries and hotels at least 60 days in advance.
- Eat at local cafes like Full Moon Café, Havelock or Annapurna Port Blair.
- Travel in groups for shared ferry and taxi costs.
- Use ATMs at Port Blair; other islands have limited cash access.
Navigating Between Islands and Attractions Smoothly
Getting There
Fly directly into Port Blair from Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, or Bengaluru. No international flights operate yet.
Inter Island Travel
- Government Ferries: Cheapest option, book through DSS offices in Port Blair.
- Private Ferries: Makruzz, Green Ocean, and ITT Majestic offer AC comfort, online booking, and multiple timings.
- Local Tip: Always keep buffer hours between connecting ferries or flights. Delays are common due to sea conditions.
Local Transportation
Rent scooters for ₹400 to 600 per day for Havelock or Neil; it’s the best way to explore beaches at your own pace. Port Blair taxis and shared cabs are reliable and safe.
Must Try Experiences That Define Your Andaman Trip
- Scuba Diving Havelock’s Nemo Reef and Lighthouse sites host beginner to advanced dives with professional instructors.
- Sea Walking at North Bay Perfect for non-swimmers to witness coral reefs.
- Bioluminescence at Havelock’s Beach No. 3 Visit during no moon nights for glowing waters.
- Kayaking through Mangroves Experience the shaded tunnels of Havelock or Rangat with eco guides.
- Baratang’s Mud Volcano and Limestone Caves A natural wonder accessed through a forest and ferry ride.
- Trekking at Mount Harriet and Chidiya Tapu is ideal for sunrise photography and birdwatching.
- Taste Local Cuisine: Try grilled lobsters, fish curry, coconut prawns, and banana chips made by islanders using fresh catches.
Eco-friendly Travel and Responsible Tourism
To preserve Andaman’s fragile ecosystem:
- Avoid single-use plastics; many beaches fine offenders.
- Don’t touch corals or feed fish during snorkelling.
- Support local homestays and handicrafts instead of imported goods.
- Respect the sea tides and marine zones, which change quickly.
Travelling responsibly not only ensures sustainability but also connects you more deeply with the island’s rhythm.
Frequently Asked Questions!
How many days are ideal?
5 to 7 days for major highlights; 8 to 10 days if you include Diglipur or Baratang.
Is Andaman expensive?
It is easily affordable for backpackers, yet luxurious for honeymooners.
Can I visit without a tour package?
Yes, absolutely. Independent travellers can book ferries online and activities locally.
Cheapest months to visit?
October and March offer the best balance of price and weather.
Is network connectivity good?
Jio and BSNL work best; expect patchy coverage on remote islands.
Turning Your Andaman Dreams into Reality
From Radhanagar’s sunsets to Ross Island’s ruins, each corner of Andaman tells a story of nature and resilience. Plan wisely, decide what you value most: relaxation, diving, or exploration.
Use this guide to build a personalized itinerary suited to your pace, budget, and interests. If needed, reach out to local travel experts like Andaman Bliss for on-ground help, ferry coordination, permit setup, or custom itineraries services that save time and ensure a smooth experience.
The Andamans aren’t just a beach destination; they’re a living paradise, and when planned right, they’ll give you memories to last a lifetime.
