11 Best Andaman & Nicobar Islands for First‑Time Travelers — Practical Guide

Planning your first trip to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands? Start with the basics so your time on the islands feels relaxed, not rushed. Fly into Port Blair, the territory's capital, which serves as the gateway to most islands and offers flights from major Indian cities and connecting services from international hubs. Weather matters: the best window for calm seas and clear skies is usually October through May, which is ideal for diving and island hopping. You will need a Restricted Area Permit for entry; this is straightforward to get online or at Port Blair airport for most visitors, but check official notices before you travel. Ferries connect the main islands; private boats and government-run services both operate routes, but schedules change with the weather, so book flexible legs. Each island covered below includes access notes, top sights, recommended stays across budgets, a rough daily cost in USD with INR conversion (1 USD ≈ INR 82), and safety or permit tips when relevant. Think of this guide as your neighbourhood friend handing over a tiffin of the best bites: small, practical, and easy to carry. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a light rain jacket for unexpected showers. Read each island section for how long to stay and what to prioritise when you only have a few days.

1. Port Blair (South Andaman)

Port Blair is where most first-timers step off the plane and breathe in the island air. The city mixes colonial history and practical travel needs, with the Cellular Jail museum and an evening light-and-sound show that tells the story of India's freedom fighters. Corbyn's Cove is a short drive away and a good starter beach if you want sand without a long ferry ride. As the transport hub, Port Blair hosts ferry terminals and private operators, so give yourself a buffer day in case a connecting boat is delayed. Budget travellers can find guesthouses from around USD 20 per night (≈ INR 1,640), while mid-range hotels average USD 50–100 (≈ INR 4,100–8,200); higher-end resorts cost more. Expect to pay USD 20–40 (≈ INR 1,640–3,280) for comfortable inter-island ferry legs to nearby islands. Food is approachable and familiar: local seafood, simple thali meals, and tiffin-style options make it easy to manage diet preferences. Safety is straightforward in Port Blair, but keep an eye on ferry schedules and local weather alerts, and always carry your permit and ID when moving between islands.

2. Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)

Havelock, now officially called Swaraj Dweep, is the island many visitors picture first when they think of the Andamans. Radhanagar Beach, often ranked among Asia's best, has wide white sand and calm water for evening walks and sunsets. Diving and snorkeling trips are plentiful here, with many operators offering introductory dives and PADI courses for beginners. Day trips to Elephant Beach are popular and reachable by a short boat ride; book early in high season to secure spots. Budget travellers can expect simple guesthouses from around USD 30 per night (≈ INR 2,460), while beachfront resorts start around USD 80 (≈ INR 6,560). A beginner scuba dive here typically costs USD 70–120 (≈ INR 5,740–9,840) including equipment. Ferries to Havelock run from Port Blair and should be booked in advance, especially during holidays. Havelock feels slightly more tourist-focused than other islands, which means more dining and activity options but also higher prices; plan bookings in peak season to avoid disappointment.

3. Neil (Shaheed Dweep)

Neil Island, or Shaheed Dweep, is compact and chilled, making it ideal for travellers who want a quieter pace. The island is bicycle-friendly, and renting a cycle is a low-cost way to explore beaches like Bharatpur and Laxmanpur. Snorkelling at shallow reefs is easy from shore and suits families and beginners who prefer calm water over deep dives. Accommodation tends toward budget guesthouses and cosy homestays, with nightly rates often in the USD 25–60 range (≈ INR 2,050–4,920) depending on the season. Food on Neil commonly leans toward local seafood and simple Indian dishes; tiffin-style meals and small beach cafés are regular finds. The island fits well into a short trip: two full days can cover the highlights without haste. Ferry connections from Port Blair and Havelock are regular but relatively short; always confirm return timings and keep flexible plans if the weather looks uncertain. Neil's relaxed vibe means fewer nightlife options but excellent early-morning beach time for those who want peace.

4. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)

Ross Island sits just a short boat ride from Port Blair and offers a compact mix of history and photogenic decay. Once the British administrative headquarters, the island now shows nature reclaiming colonial-era buildings among tall palms and deer roaming ancient pathways. Most visitors do a half-day trip that includes a short ferry, a guided stroll of the ruins, and time for photos near the old lighthouse and church structures. Since this is a quick excursion, costs are modest: shared boat rides and park entry fees often total under USD 15 (≈ INR 1,230) per person. Photography is great here, but follow local signage and do not enter restricted structures for safety reasons. Combine Ross Island with a Port Blair city tour to make the most of a single day without changing accommodations. For families, this is a gentle, educational stop that adds historical context to the beach-and-dive highlights of other islands.

5. Little Andaman

Little Andaman lies farther south and feels remote compared to the South Andaman cluster; expect longer travel times by road and ferry. The island is known for Butler Bay, one of the few surfing spots in the Andamans, where seasonal swells attract surfers and learners at the right time. Beaches here are wide and less crowded, perfect for slow walks and low-key beach picnics, and local communities offer simple homestays and basic resorts. Night-time facilities and dining are more basic than Havelock, so prepare for simpler meals and fewer conveniences. Budget for transportation and overnight stays: ferries plus local transfers can push daily costs to about USD 60–100 (≈ INR 4,920–8,200), depending on boat choices and accommodation. If you want surf lessons, factor in extra time and look for operators who provide boards and safety briefings. Because the island sits off the main circuit, carry essentials and check weather updates before you plan long crossings.

6. Baratang Island (mangroves & limestone caves)

Baratang Island offers a different landscape: dense mangroves, tidal creeks, and the dramatic limestone caves accessed by a short boat ride. The trip from Port Blair is a full-day outing involving a road journey through tribal reserve checkpoints, a boat through mangroves, and a guided walk to the cave mouth. Permits and gate checks are common on this route, and travel times can be long; organise a guided day tour rather than attempting independent travel if you’re short on time. The experience is nature-focused, so wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks; insect repellent is handy for mangrove walks. Because travel includes multiple transfers and guide fees, expect a day-trip cost of around USD 40–70 (≈ INR 3,280–5,740) per person. Respect local signage and follow guides' instructions at all times, as some areas are environmentally sensitive and access rules are enforced strictly by local authorities.

7. Long Island

Long Island is a quieter option prized for relaxed beaches, slow village life, and clear water near natural rock pools. The island suits travellers who want days of low-key beach time and some light exploration without big crowds. Boat services are less frequent than for Havelock, so plan travel windows carefully and factor in transfer times when booking onward ferry legs. Accommodation includes small eco-cottages and beach camps that are wallet-friendly, often in the USD 30–70 range (≈ INR 2,460–5,740) per night depending on season and amenities. Local food is straightforward but tasty; bring favourite snacks for picky eaters. Long Island is a good choice for a two- to three-night stay when you want to slow the pace and enjoy simple beach days, early morning swims, and quiet evenings under the stars.

8. Diglipur (North Andaman)

Diglipur sits in North Andaman and is the place to add a sense of wilderness to your trip. Natural highlights include Saddle Peak for short treks and nearby islands like Ross and Smith Island, where a narrow sandbar forms between two islands during low tide — a striking sight for photographs. Travel to Diglipur is longer, usually requiring a domestic flight leg or extensive ferry/road travel, so allocate extra days to make the journey worthwhile. Lodging ranges from modest guesthouses to simple resorts; expect prices often near USD 40–80 (≈ INR 3,280–6,560) a night. Guided day trips, trekking fees, and boat transfers to nearby islets add cost and time. This region rewards travellers who want a less commercial Andaman experience, but be ready for fewer dining choices and limited nightlife. Carry cash as card acceptance may be sparse in remote spots.

9. Rangat (Middle Andaman)

Rangat serves as a quieter base in the Middle Andaman for exploring mangrove forests, small waterfalls, and local markets where you can find snacks and fresh produce. The island offers a midway feel between South and North Andaman, with reasonable road connections and simpler tourism infrastructure. Stay options include family-run guesthouses and basic hotels, usually affordable at USD 25–60 (≈ INR 2,050–4,920) per night. Day trips from Rangat can cover nearby natural spots and quiet beaches; arrange local transport in advance as public services may be infrequent. The area is good for travellers seeking gentle nature walks, birdwatching, and a local rhythm away from busier resort hubs. Always follow local guidance on protected areas and avoid leaving litter on beaches or in forests.

10. North Bay Island (snorkelling/near Port Blair)

North Bay Island is a convenient half-day option from Port Blair, offering accessible snorkelling and short glass-bottom boat rides. This spot is ideal for families and travellers who want a taste of coral without committing to a full dive course. Boat trips usually include equipment for snorkelling and short guided swims over shallow reefs; operators often combine North Bay with a short Port Blair city tour. Expect to pay around USD 20–40 (≈ INR 1,640–3,280) per person for combined boat and park fees. Because trips are short, it's easy to add North Bay to your first or last day in the region, giving you a quick splash of marine life and a chance to test snorkelling gear before longer excursions on other islands. Choose operators who emphasise reef protection and use reef-safe sunscreen guidance.

11. Barren Island (volcano — view/boat trip only)

Barren Island hosts the only confirmed active volcano in South Asia and sits well away from the main tourist hubs, making it an adventurous option for those with a firm sense of logistics. Trips are view-only and require long-range boat expeditions, often from the North or special expedition operators. These trips can be costly and weather-dependent, and they often require advance permits and operator approvals; do not attempt independent landings. Because of distance and the need for specialised boats, budget for multi-day expeditions that may run into several hundred USD per person depending on group size and operator services. The island is of scientific and photographic interest, but access is tightly regulated to protect both visitors and delicate marine ecosystems. If you choose this option, work with reputable operators and confirm permit and safety arrangements well in advance.

Plan, pack, and respect the islands

A first trip to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands can be joyful and straightforward with a little planning. Start by locking in flights to Port Blair and securing your Restricted Area Permit early; that removes the largest paperwork hurdle and keeps your arrival stress low. Build flexibility into inter-island ferry legs and allow extra days for key islands like Havelock and Diglipur, where transport can add time. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry clothing, insect repellent, a basic first-aid kit, and any speciality snacks you prefer — tiffin-style lunches work well for long day trips. Budgeting in USD with approximate INR conversions helps avoid surprise costs: expect slower-travel days to average USD 40–100 (≈ INR 3,280–8,200) depending on activities and islands visited. Respect local communities and protected areas: do not collect shells or corals, avoid single-use plastics on beaches, and follow guide instructions near tribal reserves and protected habitats. Use licensed operators for diving and long boat trips, and prefer accommodations that emphasise local employment and low environmental impact. With care and simple planning, your first Andaman trip can combine memories of quiet beaches, colourful reefs, and comfortable cultural encounters — the kind of journey you’ll recommend to a neighbour.