Things To Do
in Andaman Islands
The Andaman Islands are a tropical archipelago in the Andaman Sea, part of India’s union territory of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The landscape ranges from pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise lagoons to dense evergreen forests and rugged hill ranges. Port Blair serves as the gateway, while outlying islands like Havelock, Neil, and Baratang offer diverse adventures.
With rich marine life, indigenous communities, and colonial history, the Andamans feel like a remote paradise just a short flight away from the mainland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair and settle into your hotel. Spend the morning relaxing and getting acquainted with your surroundings, perhaps enjoying a refreshing drink by the pool. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to soak in the tropical ambiance of the Andaman Islands.
After lunch, visit the Cellular Jail, a historical site that tells the poignant story of India's freedom struggle. Explore the museum and the exhibits that showcase the lives of the prisoners who were incarcerated there. As the sun begins to set, enjoy the sound and light show that narrates the history of the jail.
Savor a delicious dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in freshly caught fish and traditional Andaman cuisine. Join a guided night walk along Corbyn's Cove Beach to experience the serene beauty of the coastline. End your evening with a relaxing session of stargazing, taking in the clear skies above the islands.
Set off early in the morning on a thrilling island-hopping tour to Havelock Island, known for its stunning beaches and lush greenery. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the turquoise waters, surrounded by picturesque views of the Andaman Sea. Once you arrive, head straight to Radhanagar Beach, celebrated for its soft white sands and vibrant sunsets.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or trying out various water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch on the beach, taking in the tranquil beauty around you. As the afternoon sun warms your skin, explore the nearby trails amidst lush tropical forests.
As the day winds down, enjoy the breathtaking sunset at Radhanagar Beach, considered one of the best in Asia. Afterward, dine at a beachside shack, sampling local seafood delicacies while listening to the gentle waves. Return to your accommodation on Havelock Island, allowing the soothing sounds of nature to lull you to sleep.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🛥️One-way ferry to an island | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning, unspoiled beaches and turquoise waters
- World-class snorkeling and diving with accessible sites
- Rich Indigenous history and a relaxed, island vibe
- Less crowded than many popular tropical destinations
- Limited nightlife and restaurant options outside tourist hubs
- Ferry schedules can be weather-dependent and slow
- Hampered connectivity in remote pockets; higher costs for some services
- Permits and regulations may apply for certain areas, especially for foreigners
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?" - Do you speak English?
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Shauchalay kahaan hai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
Places to Visit in Andaman Islands
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sunset beach with turquoise water and white sand, offering striking color contrasts and long exposures at dusk.
Colonial-era architecture and long corridors make for atmospheric wide-angle shots, especially with early morning light.
Dotted with colonial remnants and banyan trees, a hauntingly photogenic ruin landscape.
A coastal forest viewpoint ideal for sunrise, birdlife, and panoramic sea views.
Clear shallow waters with vibrant corals near the shore; great for underwater photography on clear days.
Rocky shorelines and dramatic sunsets; excellent for landscape compositions.
Food in Andaman Islands
Andaman Islands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish curry cooked in coconut milk with spices, typically served with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Shrimp cooked in a fragrant coconut-based gravy, often with curry leaves and a hint of tamarind.
Rich crab in a spiced coconut gravy, a staple on many coastal menus.
Fresh lobster prepared in multiple styles, common in seaside eateries.
Local whole fish, filleted or fried with chili, garlic, and curry leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Casual stalls near the harbour offering grilled seafood, fried fish, and simple snacks; great for a casual bite.
Market where you can buy fresh seafood and local produce to have cooked at nearby eateries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Avoid littering, preserve coral and mangroves, and stay on marked paths during hikes and at beaches.
Ask before photographing local people, particularly in small communities or tribal regions; respect any posted signs or restrictions.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Andaman Islands
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5–10% is appreciated if a service charge is not included. Port Blair and tourist hubs are accustomed to tipping for good service; small tips to guides and drivers are common practice.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. Credit/debit cards are common in larger hotels and tourist spots. Mobile payment apps (UPI, Paytm, Google Pay) are increasingly supported in cities; carry some cash for remote areas and island ferries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; sea breezes provide relief. Ideal for beach days and snorkeling when seas are calmer.
Heavy rainfall and stronger winds; rougher seas can disrupt ferry services and water activities. Lush greenery and fewer crowds, but plan for weather flexibility.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; excellent for sightseeing, trekking, and marine outings with clear skies.
Andaman Islands at Night
Hiking in Andaman Islands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ascent through forested slopes with viewpoints over the surrounding landscape and opportunities for wildlife watching.
A relatively easy coastal trail offering birdwatching and sunset vistas along the southern coast.
A guided path and boardwalk through mangroves to limestone caves; a unique nature hike with boat transfers involved.
Airports
How to reach Andaman Islands by plane.
Main gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands; domestic flights connect to major Indian cities (e.g., Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai).
Major mainland hub with frequent onward connections to Port Blair; useful as an international and domestic gateway for travelers from many countries.
Another common mainland gateway for travelers heading to Port Blair via connecting flights.
A key international gateway with connections to Port Blair via domestic carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Adivasi groups such as Jarawa, Onge, Great Andamanese, and Shompen reside on some islands; most populations consist of urban and rural Indian communities (Tamil, Bengali, Telugu, Hindi speakers) and a growing mix of domestic and international visitors.
A cosmopolitan mix in Port Blair and popular islands, with a strong presence of Tamil, Bengali, Malayali, and other Indian communities, plus expatriates and long-term travelers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular water sports offering access to vibrant reefs and marine life around Havelock, North Bay, and other islands.
Casual beachside games at many of the public beaches and resort areas.
Some coastal towns feature organized activities such as pedal boats, kayaking, and light boat-based tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Andaman Islands.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available: dal, chana masala, mixed vegetable curries, curries with coconut milk, and rice or roti. Communicate clearly about no fish or meat; many places accommodate vegetarian preferences.