ANDAMAN ISLANDS – Recharge Your Health
The place will bring you closer to nature and to your own self as there is no or very poor network connections and WIFI across the islands.
The ever welcoming weather, fresh seafood, adventure sports, marine life, rich history, coral reefs, exotic resorts make Andaman an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway with your loved ones.
How To Get There?
You can reach Port Blair by air and by ship. Most flights are connected to Port Blair via Chennai or Kolkata. Passenger ships are also available to Port Blair from Vishakapatnam, Kolkata and Chennai.
We suggest you take a direct or a connecting flight to Port Blair as it saves time and is more comfortable as long journeys on sea can cause sea sickness, nausea and vomiting.
Airport to your hotel in Port Blair would cost you about 200 Rs for an Ac Car and about 100 Rs for an Auto.
To reach Havelock and Neil Island, there are ferry rides available from Port Blair. Approximate Travel Time
- Port Blair to Neil Island : 2 hours
- Port Blair to Havelock Island : 2.5 to 3 hours
- Havelock to Neil Island : 1 hour
The Bitter Truth
Both private and government ferries operate, but at times tickets aren’t available and you must find a local agent or guide who can surely help you out with ferry tickets.
Online bookings for ferries are also not available which makes it very difficult for the ones traveling without a package to purchase ferry tickets.
We suggest you book a package inclusive of all transfers from Port Blair to Havelock and Neil if you have any plans of staying at any of the two islands, do not wait to reach Andaman and then book the tickets for the same as you might end up wasting a lot of time in the queues and could still be left hopeless. Thus, best is to leave it on a local agent or guide to take care of the ferry tickets.
Also, note that not all hotels, drivers and guides are friendly and you might come across cold people with a strange attitude , at times one does not feel welcomed even after paying well for their services, be prepared for some unreceptive people in Andaman.
However, top rated hotels and restaurants do give you great customer service and look after you throughout. Be very careful when choosing hotels in Andaman as you may be paying a higher price but still will not be getting the basic amenities and customer service!
What Not To Miss
Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail
This architectural wonder in the city of Port Blair is a national memorial. The light and sound show which narrates the brutal atrocities done on our brave freedom fighters brings alive the horrific struggle for Independence. Though the show will leave you teary eyed it is a must as it fills you with the sense of pride and honor for our nation and immense respect and gratefulness towards our freedom fighters.
Swimming with the Elephant at Radhanagar Beach
With accolades such as The Best Beach in India and on the list of Top 10 Beaches in the World, Radhanagar Beach will leave you awestruck and tranquil. The amazing stretch of white sands and the never ending ocean view with beautiful sight of mangroves will take you in a world of dreams. If you get a chance to swim with Rajan : the elephant; Do Not Miss It At Any Cost!
Scuba Diving at Havelock
Havelock being a picturesque destination, is a boon for non – swimmers who can experience the thrill of scuba diving with the help of trainers. The ecstatic views of the tropical underwater ocean life will give you an experience you will never forget. Be assured you are in safe hands as it is performed in a controlled, safe environment.
Our Suggestion : Ocean Tribe
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Located near Wandoor Beach, it displays variety of coloured fish, sea turtles, corals and a lot more about the marine life. It is also called Bird’s paradise having more than 250 varieties of birds. If you are travelling with children, you must visit this one.
Explore Corals at North Bay
You can experience the rich exotic underwater corals and marine life by either Sea Walking or by taking a ride in the Andaman Dolphin, this high speed boat has a glass bottom where one can view the underwater life in comfort. For those who are willing to take a thrill, go for Sea Walking without a second doubt, but we would suggest Andaman Dolphin for children and senior people who are not willing to go underwater. Do Not Miss the chance to discover the hidden gems underwater and you will love every bit of the experience.
Relaxing at Corbin Cove’s Beach
Lined with palm and coconut trees, this is one of the best beaches in India. Serene view of the ocean, cute little dogs to play with on the beach, and locals selling sea shell jewellery while you enjoy coconut water and fresh seafood at small restaurants at the shore of this beach.
Also famous for Water Sports!
What to Add In Your Suitcase
- Light comfortable cotton clothes for the day, beachwear and one or two light cardigans or shawls as it gets quite cool in the evenings
- Sunglasses, umbrella, raincoat (optional), hats
- Trekking shoes if you are planning to trek
- Basic medicines, mosquito repellent, sunscreen
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling suits and kits will be provided by the divers and are inclusive of the fees
Where To Stay
in the Luxury, Mid Range and Budget Range.
Based on our own experience of about 15 odd
hotels in Andaman, we suggest you stay at the
following if you want proper amenities, good
customer service and good quality food.
Havelock Island:Barefoot at Havelock, SeaShell, Wild Orchid, Cross Bill Beach Resort, Symphony Palms Beach Resort, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
Neil Island: Silver Sand Beach Resort, Summer Sands Beach Resort, SeaShell, Tango Beach Resort
Where To Dine
to dine at, Havelock and Neil do not have
big markets and thus very limited dining options
are available.
However, you can choose to dine at your
hotel itself but if you are looking for places
to eat out, here are a few suggestions from us!
Havelock: Something Different, Full Moon Café, Red Snapper, Golden Spoon , Anju Coco
Neil: Blue Sea, Garden View, Dugong
A sumptuous meal for 2 at any good restaurant would cost around 400 to 1000 Rupees depending on the order.
Prices for seafood dishes depend on the size of the fish or the prawn mostly.
Do try Dishes like Golden Fried Prawns, Fried Fish, Lobster and Prawn Maggi at small stalls near the beaches for about 200 to 600 rupees.
Must Try : Pani Puri at the roadside , it is a little different from what you get in Delhi, Mumbai etc but it is super yum. You get 5 pieces for 10 Rs.
Why Choose Andaman
Experts say overloading without taking time to recharge isn’t healthy. We do not work efficiently if we are in a constant state of stress. We need timely breaks to get replenished. With the busy lifestyle and stress at work, it is very important to take breaks and visit places which are away from the busy city life. Places where you can indulge in your own self, where you eat on time, wake up watching a sunrise and get sleepy as the sun sets.
Choose a destination where you breathe fresh air, drink fresh juices, cut down on sugar and fast food and enjoy the rich culture of freshly prepared Indian cuisine. Walk along the shores, let the music be the sound of waves and click pictures of the natural beauty with your eyes and not your camera.
Get Your Bags Packing and Head To Andaman Islands and Escape Into A Magical Wonderland With Your Loved Ones!!!