Located in the heart of the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have beautiful beaches, rainforests, and marine life, offering an ideal escape from the bustling mainland. If you're looking for a relaxing getaway that combines relaxation, adventure, and culture, the Andamans have it all. This 3-day itinerary will help you unwind and savour the best of this tropical paradise.
Your Andaman adventure begins with a flight to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. After a warm welcome, go to your accommodation to check-in. Choose from various options, including luxury resorts, cosy beachfront cottages, or comfortable guesthouses.
Once you're settled in, head out to explore the historic city of Port Blair. The Cellular Jail is a great place to start, a reminder of India's struggle for independence. This former colonial prison is now a national memorial, and the light and sound show in the evening is a must-see for its depiction of the island's history. Afterwards, visit Corbyn's Cove Beach, just a short drive from the city centre. The crescent-shaped beach is ideal for relaxation, swimming, water sports, or simply basking in the sun. Don't forget to try the local seafood at the nearby shacks.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Aberdeen Bazaar, a bustling market in the heart of Port Blair. It's a perfect place to shop for souvenirs, including handicrafts and jewellery made by the indigenous people. While here, indulge in the Andamanese cuisine such as chilli curry, coconut prawn curry or fish curry at the local restaurants.
Start your second day early and take a ferry to Havelock Island. Havelock, one of the largest islands in the archipelago, is known for its beaches and marine life. After reaching Havelock, head to Radhanagar Beach, your first destination. The powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests make this a picture-perfect paradise. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Next, venture to Elephant Beach, a short distance from Radhanagar Beach. You can reach it by a short trek or a boat ride. Elephant Beach is a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Go snorkelling or scuba diving and explore the coral reefs teeming with colourful fish.
Return to Havelock and savour a delightful seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.
On your final day in the Andamans, hop on a ferry to Neil Island. Start your journey at Laxmanpur Beach, which offers beautiful sunset views and natural rock formations. The Howrah Bridge, a natural coral formation, is a great photo spot.
Your next stop is Bharatpur Beach, known for its beautiful coral formations. You can take a glass-bottom boat ride to get an up-close view of the underwater wonders. Enjoy a swim in the clear waters or bask in the sun.
Return to Port Blair by ferry and check back into your accommodation. As you've likely built up an appetite, indulge in another sumptuous Andamanese dinner dominated by seafood.
Annapurna Cafeteria Pure Veg (Port Blair): A budget-friendly eatery in Port Blair, Annapurna Restaurant serves delicious North and South Indian cuisine, available only in vegetarian options.
New Lighthouse Restaurant (Havelock Island): Located near the Havelock Lighthouse, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. The open-air setting and views of the lighthouse add to the dining experience.
Full Moon Café (Havelock Island): It is known for its fresh seafood and fusion dishes. Do try their seafood platters.
Mandalay Restaurant (Neil Island): This restaurant on Neil Island offers a range of seafood dishes and a cosy atmosphere. Try their crab dishes and traditional Indian curries.
When planning your stay in the Andaman Islands, you have a range of accommodation options to choose from. Hotel Coral Inn, Park Inn and Aashiaanaa Residency Inn in Port Blair offer well-priced accommodations for a comfortable mid-range stay. SeaShell Resort on Havelock Island provides premium beachfront villas for those seeking luxury, while Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in Port Blair offers a luxurious experience with sea views. Eco-conscious travellers can opt for a 4-star hotel like Barefoot in Havelock for a sustainable venture.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a year-round destination, offering something for everyone. From November to March, the winter season is the peak tourist season with pleasant weather, ideal for water sports and island exploration. The shoulder seasons, April and October, offer a compromise with fewer crowds and favourable weather, making them great for birdwatching and nature hikes.
You can book a flight to the Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair from major Indian cities. Alternatively, passenger ships and ferries operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair, although this option takes longer. For exploring different islands within the archipelago, inter-island ferries are available, and it's advisable to check schedules and book tickets ahead of time, especially during peak tourist season.
