Introduction:
The best places to visit in Andaman & Nicobar include beautiful islands, beaches, coral reefs, historical landmarks and natural attractions. Located in the Bay of Bengal, the islands offer experiences for honeymooners, families, adventure seekers and travellers looking for a relaxing beach holiday.
Most popular tourist attractions are located in the Andaman group of islands, including Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) and Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram). The Nicobar group has separate access restrictions, and many areas are not open to regular tourists.
In this guide, we explore 25 best places to visit in Andaman, covering popular islands, beaches, historical sites and natural attractions. You will also find useful details about attractions, accessibility, travel tips, the best time to visit and suggested itineraries to help plan your trip.
Best Places to Visit in Andaman at a Glance
The best places to visit in Andaman include scenic islands, beautiful beaches, historical landmarks and adventure spots. Explore Radhanagar Beach, discover marine life at Elephant Beach, visit the historic Cellular Jail and enjoy the natural attractions of Ross Island and Baratang Island. Each destination offers a different experience for your Andaman holiday.
Planning to explore these destinations? Take A Trip India offers different Andaman tour packages.
Top 25 Tourist Places in Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Explore 25 popular destinations across Havelock, Neil, Port Blair, Baratang, North Andaman and Little Andaman, grouped by region for easier trip planning.
1. Radhanagar Beach:
Location & Accessibility: Located on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), around 12 km from the main jetty, Radhanagar Beach is accessible by taxi, auto-rickshaw or scooter in approximately 20–30 minutes.
Known for its white sand, turquoise water and tropical forest, Radhanagar Beach is ideal for swimming, beach walks, photography and sunset views.
Things to Do: Enjoy swimming in designated safe areas, beach walks, photography and sunsets.
Best Time to Visit: November to April. Visit early morning or late afternoon for a pleasant experience.
Travel Tip: Follow lifeguard instructions and local swimming advisories before entering the water.
2. Cellular Jail:
Located in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), Cellular Jail, also known as Kala Pani, is a historic prison where Indian freedom fighters, including Veer Savarkar, were imprisoned during British rule. Its seven-wing structure and preserved cells reflect the hardships they faced.
Light and Sound Show: Learn about the prison’s history and freedom struggle. Check show timings and ticket availability before visiting.
Visiting Tips:
- Visit in the morning for a comfortable exploration.
- Allow around 1.5–2 hours to explore the museum and accessible prison wings.
- Check current opening hours, entry fees and show timings.
- Maintain respectful behaviour at this historical memorial.
For the latest entry fees and Light and Sound Show details, check the official Cellular Jail ticket portal before your visit.
3. Elephant Beach:
Located on northern Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Elephant Beach is popular for snorkelling, coral reefs and water sports. It is accessible by a 20–30-minute boat ride, depending on sea conditions. A forest trail may also be available, subject to local restrictions.
Things to Do: Enjoy snorkelling, sea walking, jet skiing, banana boat rides and glass-bottom boat rides, subject to availability.
Travel Tip: Check boat timings, trail access and activity prices in advance. Choose authorised operators and follow marine safety instructions.
4. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep):
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) is a peaceful, green island known for its quiet beaches, village roads and relaxed atmosphere. It is ideal for cycling and exploring at a slower pace.
Government ferries and private cruises connect Neil Island to Sri Vijaya Puram, with journeys taking approximately 1.5–3 hours, depending on the service.
Highlights:
- Bharatpur, Laxmanpur and Sitapur beaches
- Natural rock bridge at Laxmanpur, best viewed at low tide
- Quiet village roads for cycling
- Seafood shacks near the jetty
Who It Suits: Couples, families with older children and travellers seeking a quieter holiday. It has limited nightlife.
5. Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island):
Ross Island, a short ferry ride from Port Blair, was once the British administrative headquarters in the Andaman Islands. Today, it is known for its colonial ruins, historic church, bakery, cemetery and banyan-tree-covered structures.
Highlights:
- Ruined church and historic buildings
- Spotted deer and peacocks
- Small museum managed by the Indian Navy
Travel Tips: Ferries depart from the Aberdeen Jetty area. Allow 1.5–2 hours to explore and check current ferry schedules, visiting hours and entry arrangements. You can also combine the trip with North Bay.
6. Bharatpur Beach:
Bharatpur Beach, the most visited beach on Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), is located near the jetty. Its shallow, clear waters make it popular for families and first-time snorkellers.
Things to Do: Enjoy snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, banana boat rides, kayaking and paddling in shallow waters, subject to availability and tide conditions.
Travel Tip: Visit in the morning for water activities and check local tide conditions with operators before booking.
7. Laxmanpur Beach:
Laxmanpur Beach, on the western side of Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), is known for its peaceful shoreline, sunset views and natural rock formations. At low tide, visitors can explore the Natural Bridge, a wave-shaped limestone arch popular for photography.
Things to Do: Enjoy sunset photography, shoreline walks and exploring tide pools.
8. North Bay Island:
North Bay Island, near Port Blair, is known for its lighthouse, coral reefs and beginner-friendly water activities. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling, sea walking, glass-bottom boat rides and scenic lighthouse views. Boats generally depart from Aberdeen Jetty or the Water Sports Complex.
Morning visits are popular, so book through authorised operators and confirm boat schedules and activity availability in advance.
9. Baratang Island:
Baratang Island, around 100 km from Port Blair, is known for its limestone caves, mangrove creeks and scenic boat rides. The journey includes an early-morning road trip through a regulated convoy, a vehicle ferry crossing, a mangrove boat ride and a short forest walk to the caves.
Travel Tips: The route passes through a protected tribal reserve, where stopping and photography are prohibited. Carry valid government ID, follow permit requirements and plan for a full-day trip. Baratang also offers access to the mud volcano and Parrot Island.
10. Chidiya Tapu:
Chidiya Tapu, meaning “Bird Island,” is a small village at the southern tip of South Andaman, around 25 km from Port Blair. Known for birdwatching, scenic coastal views and sunsets, it is a popular spot for nature lovers and photography.
Highlights:
- Birdwatching: Spot kingfishers, sea eagles, woodpeckers and other forest birds, especially in the early morning.
- Sunset Point: Enjoy scenic sunset views; arrive at least 45 minutes before sunset.
- Munda Pahad: Explore the rocky beach and nearby trail for a peaceful walk.
- Photography: Capture the area’s mangroves, hills and coastline.
11. Wandoor Beach:
Wandoor Beach, around 25 km from Port Blair, is a peaceful beach and the gateway to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, a protected area of islands and coral reefs. Its calm sandy shoreline, coconut palms and fewer crowds make it ideal for relaxation. Wandoor is also the departure point for boat trips to Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Island.
Best Time to Visit: November to April, when the weather is generally dry and the sea is calmer.
12. Jolly Buoy Island:
Jolly Buoy Island, part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park near Port Blair, is known for its clear waters, colourful coral reefs and marine life. Popular activities include snorkelling and glass-bottom boat rides.
Things to Do:
- Snorkelling among coral reefs and reef fish.
- Glass-bottom boat rides.
- Relaxing on the quiet beach.
Entry & Travel Tips: Entry requires permission and is limited daily. The island generally closes during the monsoon, with visits sometimes alternating with Red Skin Island. Plastic is prohibited. Book in advance and check current access rules.
13. Corbyn’s Cove Beach:
Corbyn’s Cove Beach, around 7 km from Port Blair city centre, is one of the most accessible beaches in the Andaman Islands. Lined with coconut trees, it is ideal for a short family outing or evening visit.
Things to Do:
- Swimming, subject to sea conditions.
- Jet-skiing and other water sports.
- Walking along the promenade and visiting beachside cafés.
- Exploring nearby attractions, including the Anthropological Museum and Samudrika Naval Marine Museum.
Although less pristine than Radhanagar and Neil Island beaches, Corbyn’s Cove is convenient for a short visit from Port Blair.
14. Ross and Smith Islands:
Ross and Smith Islands in North Andaman are two small islands joined by a natural sandbar. At low tide, the strip of white sand emerges between two shores, with clear water on either side. It is one of the most striking sights in the archipelago.
Getting there: Boats leave from Kalipur, near Diglipur, and the ride takes about 20 minutes. You will need to buy a ticket and get a forest permit, which operators or local offices can help with.
What to do:
- Walk across the sandbar when the tide is low
- Swim and wade in the turquoise water
- Take photos from both islands
Add a note: because the sandbar depends on the tide, check the timings, and do not stay on it when the water starts to rise.
15. Diglipur:
Diglipur, the largest town in North Andaman, is ideal for travellers exploring beyond the main tourist circuit. It offers access to Ross and Smith Islands, Kalipur Beach, Lamiya Bay and Saddle Peak, along with surrounding forests and quieter rural landscapes. Located far from Port Blair, Diglipur requires at least 2–3 days to explore.
The journey by road or sea is long, and facilities are simpler than in Port Blair and Havelock, but visitors can enjoy peaceful beaches and a less commercial island experience.
16. Saddle Peak National Park:
Saddle Peak, near Diglipur, is the highest point in the Andaman Islands, standing at approximately 732 metres. The surrounding Saddle Peak National Park features dense tropical forests and a rewarding trekking trail to the summit, offering views of the island and sea.
The Trek: The moderately challenging trail passes through forests and streams. Start early and allow most of the day to complete the hike.
Preparation:
- Obtain the required forest permission.
- Wear proper trekking shoes and carry enough water.
- Hire a guide to navigate the trail.
- Avoid the monsoon, when paths can become slippery.
17. Limestone Caves:
The Limestone Caves near Baratang Island feature natural stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. Visitors reach the caves by a mangrove boat ride followed by a short forest walk, accompanied by a guide
What to know:
- Wear shoes with good grip, as the cave floor can be damp.
- Carry a small torch; guides usually provide lighting.
- Avoid touching the formations to prevent damage.
- Visit with a registered guide.
18. Mud Volcano:
The Mud Volcano near Baratang Island is one of India’s few mud volcanoes, where underground gas pushes mud to the surface, forming small bubbling mounds. It is a quick stop on most Baratang day trips, but activity varies over time.
How to Reach: Travel by road from Baratang, followed by a short walk. Check weather and road conditions, as heavy rain can affect access.
19. Parrot Island:
Parrot Island, near Baratang, is an uninhabited mangrove islet known for flocks of parrots returning to roost at sunset. Visit in the late afternoon and observe quietly from the boat, keeping a respectful distance without feeding or disturbing the birds. Carry binoculars for better viewing.
As boat travel requires daylight, include Parrot Island in a longer trip with an overnight stay near Baratang or Middle Andaman.
20. Little Andaman Island:
Little Andaman is the southernmost tourist-accessible island in the Andaman group, known for quiet beaches, surfing at Butler Bay, White Surf Waterfall and rainforest trails. The ferry from Port Blair takes approximately 6–7 hours, so plan at least two nights.
Some areas are restricted to protect tribal communities. Follow approved routes and local guidelines.
21. Butler Bay Beach:
Butler Bay Beach, on Little Andaman Island, is known for its curved shoreline and consistent waves, making it a popular surfing spot in India. Visitors can try surfing with a local instructor, watch surfers or enjoy peaceful beach walks.
Access: Butler Bay is a short drive from Hut Bay and accessible by taxi or rented vehicle. Facilities are basic, so carry water, sun protection and cash.
22. White Surf Waterfall:
White Surf Waterfall, on Little Andaman Island, features forest trails, cascading water and natural pools. The waterfall is strongest after the rains and quieter during the dry season. Wear sturdy shoes, carry insect repellent and travel with a local driver or guide. Avoid swimming during strong currents or after heavy rain.
23. Long Island:
Long Island, in Middle Andaman, is a quiet destination with limited traffic and tourist facilities.
Highlights: Enjoy the secluded Lalaji Bay Beach, boat rides, birdwatching and nature walks. The beach is accessible by boat or forest trek.
How to Reach: Take a boat from Yeratta Jetty near Rangat. Limited facilities make Long Island ideal for travellers seeking peace and solitude.
24. Amkunj Beach:
Amkunj Beach, near Mayabunder in North Andaman, is known for its rocky shoreline, surrounding greenery and peaceful setting.
Experience: Enjoy quiet beach walks, birdwatching and scenic views. It is better suited for relaxation than water sports.
Best For: Travellers exploring Mayabunder and North Andaman. Check road conditions and local access before visiting.
25. Red Skin Island:
Red Skin Island, part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, is known for its coral reefs and marine life. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides and calm, protected waters.
Seasonal Access: Red Skin and Jolly Buoy Islands often operate on alternate days and remain closed during the monsoon. Book in advance, carry valid ID, avoid touching coral and take all waste back with you.
Best Time to Visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands
The best time to visit the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is October to May, offering favourable conditions for sightseeing, beach holidays, island hopping and water sports.
A) Winter in Andaman (October to February):
Pleasant weather makes winter ideal for beach visits, sightseeing, scuba diving and snorkelling. November to February is peak tourist season, so book flights, ferries and hotels early.
B) Summer in Andaman (March to May):
Summer is suitable for beach holidays and water activities, although temperatures and humidity are higher. Carry sunscreen, stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities during cooler hours.
C) Monsoon in Andaman (June to September):
Heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas may disrupt ferries and water sports. However, the islands become greener, and accommodation may be more affordable.
D) Best Time for Water Sports in Andaman:
November to May generally offers favourable conditions for water sports. Little Andaman, especially Butler Bay Beach, is known for surfing from January to June, depending on wave and weather conditions.
Best Places to Visit in Andaman for Couples
The best places to visit in Andaman for couples are Radhanagar Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Neil Island, Chidiya Tapu and Long Island, known for romantic sunsets, peaceful beaches and scenic island experiences.
- Radhanagar Beach: Enjoy white sand, clear waters and sunset walks on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep).
- Laxmanpur Beach: Experience peaceful evenings and coastal sunsets on Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep).
- Neil Island: Explore scenic beaches by bicycle, enjoy fresh seafood and relax in a quiet island setting.
- Chidiya Tapu: Enjoy sunset views, forest landscapes and birdwatching near Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram).
- Long Island: Escape to secluded beaches and peaceful surroundings. Check ferry connections and accommodation before visiting.
For a romantic holiday, combine Havelock Island and Neil Island, with an overnight stay in Port Blair according to your flight and ferry schedules. Selected resorts may offer private beach dinners and candlelit dining.
Best Places to Visit in Andaman with Family
The best places to visit in Andaman with family include Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove Beach, Bharatpur Beach, Radhanagar Beach and North Bay Island, offering historical sightseeing, family-friendly beaches and marine activities.
Andaman Travel Tips for Different Age Groups:
Choose short journeys and convenient accommodation for young children. School-age children can enjoy boat rides, Ross Island and supervised snorkelling, while teenagers may prefer sea walking, kayaking and cycling. For grandparents, prioritise comfortable stays and accessible sightseeing in Port Blair and Havelock Island.
Best Adventure Activities to Enjoy in Andaman
Andaman offers scuba diving, snorkelling, sea walking, kayaking, trekking, surfing and glass-bottom boat rides.
i) Scuba Diving: Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) offer beginner dives and instructor-led certification courses.
ii) Snorkelling: Explore coral reefs and marine life at Elephant Beach, North Bay, Bharatpur Beach, Jolly Buoy and Red Skin Island, subject to permits and seasonal access.
iii) Sea Walking: Try helmet-assisted underwater walks at North Bay and Elephant Beach without swimming, subject to availability and sea conditions.
iv) Kayaking: Explore mangrove waterways near Havelock Island and calm waters around Neil Island.
v) Trekking: Discover forest trails at Saddle Peak near Diglipur and nature trails on Little Andaman and Long Island.
vi) Surfing: Butler Bay in Little Andaman is a popular surfing spot. Check local wave conditions before visiting.
vii) Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: Observe coral reefs and marine life at North Bay and Bharatpur Beach without entering the water.
How Many Days Are Enough for an Andaman Trip?
A 6–7-day Andaman trip is ideal for exploring Port Blair, Havelock Island and Neil Island comfortably. A 4–5-day trip suits a short holiday, while 8–10 days allow you to explore more islands and remote attractions.
4–5 Day Andaman Trip Itinerary:
A 4–5-day itinerary covers the main attractions of Port Blair, Havelock Island and Neil Island, but can feel rushed.
i) Day 1: Arrive in Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), visit Cellular Jail and attend the Light and Sound Show.
ii) Day 2: Ferry to Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and visit Radhanagar Beach.
iii) Day 3: Explore Elephant Beach and enjoy available water sports. Continue to Neil Island or return to Havelock, depending on ferry schedules.
iv) Day 4: Visit Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) beaches and return to Port Blair, subject to ferry availability.
v) Day 5: Visit Corbyn’s Cove Beach or local markets before departure.
6–7 Day Andaman Trip Itinerary
A 6–7-day Andaman itinerary allows more time for Havelock Island, Neil Island and Port Blair. Include an extra night on Neil Island, explore Ross Island and North Bay, or visit Chidiya Tapu and Wandoor. This schedule also provides flexibility for weather-related ferry delays.
H3: 8-10 Day Andaman Trip Itinerary
An 8–10-day Andaman trip is ideal for exploring beyond the popular islands. Include Baratang’s limestone caves, mud volcano and Parrot Island, or visit Long Island, Diglipur, Ross and Smith Islands and Little Andaman, depending on transport availability.
Planning Tip: Check inter-island ferry schedules before finalising your itinerary, book tickets in advance and keep a buffer before your return flight for possible delays or cancellations.
Planning your trip? Explore our Andaman tour packages to find suitable holiday options covering Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Island.
How to Reach Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
1) By Air
Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), the main airport serving the Andaman Islands. Direct and connecting flights operate from Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Mumbai. Flights from Kolkata and Chennai take around two hours. Book early during peak seasons.
2) By Sea
Passenger ships connect Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) with Kolkata, Chennai and Visakhapatnam. The journey takes approximately 60–72 hours, depending on the vessel and sea conditions. Check sailing schedules and ticket availability with the Directorate of Shipping Services in advance.
Explore our guide to Andaman holidays from Kolkata for family-friendly package ideas.
Essential Travel Tips for Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Book flights and ferries early, especially for Havelock and Neil Island.
- Carry valid government-issued ID and check permit requirements.
- Verify entry rules for restricted islands and marine parks.
- Choose authorised water sports operators and follow safety instructions.
- Avoid touching or collecting coral and marine life.
- Pack sunscreen, comfortable clothing, suitable footwear and essential medication.
- Check weather conditions and ferry schedules before travelling.
- Respect Indigenous communities and avoid restricted tribal areas.
- Carry cash because digital payments may be limited on smaller islands.
- Keep your itinerary flexible for weather changes and ferry delays.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which is the most beautiful island in Andaman?
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is often considered one of the most beautiful islands in Andaman, particularly for Radhanagar Beach. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) offers peaceful beaches, while Ross and Smith Islands are known for their natural sandbar.
2. How many days are enough for an Andaman trip?
A 5-day Andaman trip covers Port Blair, Havelock Island and Neil Island. Choose 6–7 days for a relaxed holiday or 8–10 days to explore Baratang, North Andaman and Little Andaman.
3. Which is the best beach to visit in Andaman?
Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is among the best beaches in Andaman, known for white sand, clear water and sunsets. Laxmanpur and Bharatpur beaches on Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) are also popular.
4. What is the best time to visit the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
October to May is generally the best time to visit the Andaman & Nicobar Islands for sightseeing and island exploration. November to April is popular for water sports, while the June–September monsoon may cause rough seas and ferry disruptions.
5. Is Andaman a good honeymoon destination?
Yes, Andaman is a popular honeymoon destination for scenic beaches, romantic sunsets, private resorts and water activities. Havelock Island and Neil Island are popular with couples.
6. How can tourists travel between the different islands in Andaman?
Government and private ferries connect the main tourist islands, including Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). Boats and road transport serve other routes. Book ferries early and confirm schedules, as weather and sea conditions may cause delays.
Conclusion:
The best places to visit in Andaman & Nicobar Islands include scenic beaches, beautiful islands, historical attractions and adventure destinations. From Radhanagar Beach and Baratang’s mangrove forests to the peaceful shores of Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), Andaman offers memorable experiences for couples, families and adventure seekers.
Planning your trip is easier with the right travel arrangements. Take A Trip India helps you choose suitable destinations, holiday packages and sightseeing options based on your travel dates, preferences and budget.
Ready to plan your Andaman holiday? Contact Take A Trip India to discuss your travel requirements and plan your trip.
