The Complete Andaman and Nicobar Island Guide for First Timers

If you want to enjoy the scenic beauty of dazzling beaches and explore the exotic marine life through coral reefs, then you must make your next trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The enticing islands have become one of the most popular beach holiday destinations in India.

Travel Guide for Andaman and Nicobar Island First-Timers:

When is The Best Time to Visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands?

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands can be visited at any time of the year, except during the rainy season. However, the most popular season for tourists is the winter season, which generally falls between November and February. If you are not bothered by the summer heat of India, you can also plan a trip during the months of March and April.

The islands are a popular tourist destination due to their picturesque beaches, scenic views, and serene environment. The archipelago is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and offers ample opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.

During the winter months, the weather is pleasant and conducive for outdoor activities. The temperature ranges between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, and the humidity is relatively low. This makes it an ideal time to explore the various beaches and indulge in water sports.

If you prefer to avoid crowds, it is recommended to plan your trip during the shoulder season, which falls between September and October or March and April. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and the tourist inflow is comparatively lower.

On the other hand, the monsoon season, which falls between May and September, should be avoided as the islands receive heavy rainfall and strong winds during this period. The choppy seas and inclement weather make it difficult to indulge in water sports, and many tourist activities are suspended during this time.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the winter season. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and are not bothered by the summer heat, you can plan your trip during the shoulder season. Whatever time you choose to visit, the islands are sure to leave you mesmerized with their natural beauty and tranquil environment.

How to Go to Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are one of the most sought-after travel destinations in India. Known for their pristine beaches, rich marine life, and exotic flora and fauna, these islands offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. If you are planning a trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, here are the two main options to reach there:

By Air:

The easiest and most convenient way to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands is by air. You can take a flight from any major city in India to the Veer Savarkar Airport at Port Blair, which is the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Many airlines operate regular flights to Port Blair from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. The airport is well-connected to all major cities in India, making it easy for travelers to plan their journey.

By Water:

If you are looking for a more adventurous way to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you can take a ship from Visakhapatnam, Chennai, or Kolkata. This option is ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. However, the journey can take anywhere from 2 to 4 days depending on the departure location and weather conditions. It is recommended to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

Where Can You Stay in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

Andaman and Nicobar port blair hotel

If you’re planning a trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is where to stay. Fortunately, the islands offer a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to stay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Luxury Hotels Options

For those looking to splurge on their vacation, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have some of the best luxury hotels with superb facilities right on the beach. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves and getting a private beach all to yourself. You can enjoy fine dining and indulge in a relaxing spa treatment. Some of the most popular luxury hotels in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Fortune Resort Bay Island, and Barefoot at Havelock.

Bed & Breakfast and Budget Hotels

If you’re looking for good value for money, then bed & breakfast and budget hotels are the way to go. These accommodations offer a range of amenities, such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and hot showers. Some even have a swimming pool or a garden where you can relax. Some popular bed & breakfast and budget hotels in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include The Ocean Blue, Blue Bridge Homes, and Hotel Haywizz.

Best Places to Stay

The best places to stay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are Port Blair and Havelock Island. Port Blair is the capital city of the islands and is home to a variety of accommodations, including luxury hotels, bed & breakfast, and budget hotels. Havelock Island, on the other hand, is a popular tourist destination and offers some of the best beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It’s also home to a variety of accommodations, including luxury hotels, beach resorts, and budget hotels.

Other great places to stay in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include Wandoor and Neil Island. Wandoor is a small village located on the east coast of South Andaman Island and is home to some great accommodations, including bed & breakfast and budget hotels. Neil Island, on the other hand, is a small island located south of Havelock Island and is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe. It offers a range of accommodations, including beach resorts and budget hotels.

Which are The Best Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

There are some marvelous places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Find below the list of some of the best places you can visit here:

1. Radhanagar Beach

Radhanagar Beach Havelock Island Andaman

Radhanagar Beach is one of the most stunning beaches not only in India but also in Asia. The crystal blue water and pearl white sand captivate the senses of its visitors. Taking a simple evening walk alongside this beach rejuvenates your mind.

Besides enjoying the spectacular nature views, you can engage yourself in a number of water sports activities like parasailing, gliding, and many more.

Location: Radhanagar Beach is located in Havelock Islands.

2. Corbyn’s Cove Beach

Corbyn's Cove Beach Port Blair Andaman

Corbyn’s Cove Beach is another popular beach in Andaman and Nicobar Islands where tourists come to enjoy their honeymoon period or a fun-filled holiday. The glazing sun refreshes your mood as you spend some unforgettable moments on the beach.

Water sports are quite popular here and several options like scuba diving, surfing, boating, etc. are available. You can take a motorboat to reach the popular Snake Island from here.

Location: Corbyn’s Cove is almost 8 km away from Port Blair.

3. Elephant Beach

Eelephant Beach Havelock Island Andaman

If you want to witness the amazing marine life and magical coral reef, then Elephant Beach is the perfect place for you. Delicious Seafood along with some thrilling beach activities will enthrall you the whole day. You can keep the nights for soothing evening walks.

Snorkeling is very popular here. You can also go scuba diving, swimming, fishing, and many more activities.

Location: Elephant Beach is on the famous Havelock Island.

4. Cellular Jail

Cellular Jail Port Blair Andaman

This is one of the most popular places to visit on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ bedside beaches. The British used to exile the freedom fighters in this historical jail during the British kingdom in India. Some of the prisoners were even executed here in this jail.

This Cellular Jail has now become a national museum. With the pictures of the inmates in this museum, you will be thrilled to get into the pre-independence era of India. Read More: Top 10 Facts About The Cellular Jail, Andaman And Nicobar

Location: Cellular Jail is located in Port Blair.

5. Samudrika Marine Museum

Samudrika Marine Museum Port Blair Andaman

Samudrika Marine Museum will satiate your hunger for knowledge of archaeology and marine life. You can find more than 300 variations of aquatic animals here. A separate room is there for you to discover the amazing tribal culture of the islands.

The huge blue whale skeleton at the entrance will bewilder your imagination. This gigantic framework which is believed to be the world’s biggest mammal was salvaged from the islands.

Location: Samudrika Marine Museum is located in Delanipur in northern Port Blair.

6. Anthropological Museum

Anthropological Museum Port Blair Andaman

Once you are in the beautiful islands of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you develop an urge to know about the lives or history of the local tribes. Anthropological museums will take you through various ages of tribes and help you to get a profound knowledge of the mysterious tribal culture.

The in-house shop offers you to buy several books on tribes.

Location: Anthropological Museum is located in Port Blair.

7. Chidiya Tapu

Chidiya Tapu Port Blair Andaman

If you want to view the best sunrise or sunset in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, then you must visit Chidiya Tapu. The mesmerizing beauty of this place full of mangrove trees and stunning beach views attracts tourists to this place.

This place is the best place for Birdwatching as a large number of birds flock here every now and then.

Location: Chidiya Tapu is located in Port Blair.

6. Limestone Caves

Limestone Caves Baratang Island Andaman

Limestone Caves is a unique tourist spot where you can view gigantic chunks of sedimentary rocks hanging from the beautiful caves. This place is ideal for travelers who are looking to add some more adventure to top their Andaman and Nicobar Islands Trip.

You need to take a convoy through the tribal area of Jarawa and reach Nilumbur Jetty first and then you can take a ferry to reach Limestone Caves.

Location: Limestone Caves are located on Baratang Island.

7. Barren Island Volcano

Barren Island volcano Andaman and Nicobar

What if you get an opportunity to view an active volcano on an uninhabited island? You are surely thrilled just with the idea. Barren Island is an interesting tourist spot in this regard.

Although you cannot land on the island but can take ferry rides around the island to get an exciting view of the volcano and amazing marine life.

Location: Barren Island Volcano is in Barren Island which is almost 140km away from port Blair.

8. Viper Island

Viper Island Port Blair Andaman

This magnificent island with historical significance and stunning scenic beauty has become a major tourist spot in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This place was home to an old British Jail where the British used to keep their convicts. Now the old jail building has become a major tourist attraction.

Just start an exciting boat journey from Port Blair and enjoy the heavenly scenic vista to reach Viper Island.

Location: Viper Island is located near Port Blair.

More About Andaman & Nicobar:

What are the best things to do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Snorkeling

Although the main reason to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands is to enjoy the magical scenic vistas, you can also take part in a number of thrilling activities offered in most of the places here.

The best things to do here are birdwatching, scuba diving, boating, ferry ride, fishing, pearl hunting, swimming, snorkeling, dolphin watching, sea walking, picnic, trekking, beach walking, sunbathing, sightseeing, parasailing, cruise ride, etc.

What Should You Know before Visiting Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

There are a few things you need to know before your trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Here they are:

  • Take at least 6 to 5 days in hand to visit most of the attractions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
  • No passport or Visa is required for Indian citizens to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. However, you would require a special permit if you want to visit Tribal zones for any specific reason. Foreigners require RAP– Restricted Area Permit for visiting the islands. RAP is easily granted in Port Blair either at the airport or at the port.
  • INR currency is used in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
  • Do not forget to carry your medicines.
  • Do carry enough liquid cash as a card might not be accepted at some places.
  • Carry comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for humid weather.
  • Carry mosquito repellent lotions with you.
  • Make sure to book your trip in advance in the peak season (November to May) to avoid the rush.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are undoubtedly nature’s paradise. Feel the sea breeze, run in the waves, lie on the sand and make the most of your trip to this wonderland.

Quick FAQ’s about Andaman and Nicobar:

Q. What is the best season to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

Winter and spring are the best seasons to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

2. Which are the best places to shop from in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

The best places to shop from in Andaman and Nicobar Islands are Aberdeen Bazaar, Delanipur, Prem Nagar, Goalghar, Andaman Handicraft Emporium and many more.

Q. What can you shop from Andaman and Nicobar islands?

You can shop for pearls, spices, sea shell, handicrafts made with jute, bamboo and coconut, and wooden crafts etc. from Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Q. What is the famous food in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

The famous food in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is sea food made with lobster, prawn, crab and fish.

Planning a trip to Andaman & Nicobar? Check out the Andaman & Nicobar Tour Packages. Get an update from our blog with the latest travel news, places to visit, travel guide, Things to do. Let’s be friends on social media follow  TuskTravel.com  on TwitterInstagramFacebook, and on YouTube and get our updates and fresh inspirations.

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