A union territory of India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands encompass around 572 islands, of which only 38 are inhabited. Located at the intersection of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, this territory lies about 150 kilometers north of Aceh in Indonesia. The Andaman Sea separates the islands from Myanmar and Thailand. The territory includes two groups of islands: the Andaman Islands (partly) and the Nicobar Islands, which are divided by the Ten Degree Channel, a 150-kilometer wide stretch at the 10°N parallel.

Port Blair serves as the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Covering a total land area of approximately 8,249 square kilometers, the territory is divided into three districts:

• -  South Andaman District, with Port Blair as its capital
• -  North and Middle Andaman District, with Mayabunder as its capital
• -  Nicobar District, with Car Nicobar as its capital

Geographically situated to the east of mainland India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands boast pristine beaches along the azure blue ocean. This union territory is a testament to nature's splendor, with golden and white sandy shores meeting turquoise waters and lush green forests creating breathtaking vistas.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands include some truly stunning locations, with the most notable being:

• Havelock Island
• Jolly Buoy Island
• Neil Island
• Ross Island
• North Bay Island
• Ross and Smith Island
• Cinque Island
• Baratang Island
• Red Skin Island
• Barren Island
• Inglis Island
• Parrot Island
• Mayabunder Island
• Diglipur Island

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a year-round destination, each season offering its unique charm. The islands are renowned for their turquoise waters, stunning natural beauty, and the tranquility they offer visitors. Most tourists choose to visit from October to May, when the islands are particularly captivating. During this period, the occasional rains add to the allure, enhancing the mesmerizing natural scenery. The serene waters and verdant landscapes further elevate the appeal of this tropical paradise.

No matter the season, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands promise a memorable experience:

• Summer (April to June)
• Monsoon (July to September)
• Winter (October to March)

Just ensure you pack appropriately for the season you choose to visit.

Andaman Island is the perfect destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts, offering numerous breathtaking sights. Ensuring you enjoy your stay is equally important. Whether you prefer a beachfront resort or a hotel in the main market, the Andamans cater to all types of guests. The island boasts luxurious beachfront properties and budget hotels across all tourist destinations.

For those seeking a beachfront resort, we highly recommend Havelock Island Beach Resort. It is well-equipped with modern amenities and offers an excellent location, featuring a private beach where you can spend quality time.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are renowned for having some of the best beaches in India, including Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, and Kala Pathar Beach, where you can relax all day long. Besides the stunning beaches, there are numerous activities to enjoy in this exotic location.

Top 12 Things to Do in the Andaman Islands:

1. Islands - Visit for their gorgeous beaches.
2. Historical Attractions - Learn about India’s fascinating past.
3. Chidiya Tapu - Perfect for bird watchers.
4. Trekking - Ideal for nature enthusiasts.
5. Jolly Buoy Island - Explore vibrant reefs.
6. Cruising - Enjoy a fun-packed party.
7. Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, and Sea-Walking - Thrilling activities for adrenaline junkies.
8. Parasailing - Experience the thrill of flying.
9. Dolphin Watching - Get up close with these adorable creatures.
10. Makruzz - Enjoy a delightful cruise ride.
11. Mud Volcano - Witness something unusual and fascinating.
12. Naturally Formed Caves - Explore the unexplored wonders.

If you are an Indian passport holder, you do not need a permit to visit and stay in the populated areas of the Andamans. However, foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) in addition to an Indian visa to enter the islands. The Indian visa must be obtained in your country of residence before arriving in India. The RAP can be easily obtained upon arrival in Port Blair, is free of charge, and is available to all foreign nationals. The process is quick and straightforward.

If your visa is stamped with “Not valid for restricted areas” (or similar), you will not be allowed to enter the Andaman Islands as they are a restricted zone. In such cases, you must contact the issuing embassy to have your visa reissued.

Foreigners traveling to Port Blair are issued a 30-day permit, which can be extended by an additional 15 days. To extend the permit, you must visit the immigration office in Port Blair about three days before the permit's expiry and present a confirmed return ticket for a journey within the next 15 days. The extension process may require an overnight stay in Port Blair.

Foreign nationals with a valid entry permit are allowed to visit and stay in the municipal areas of the following places:

• Port Blair
• Havelock Island
• Long Island
• Neil Island
• Islands of South Andaman and Middle Andaman (excluding tribal reserved areas – five kilometers away from Constance Bay to Luis Inlet Bay – western coast tribal reserve)
• Baratang
• Rangat
• Mayabunder
• Diglipur
• North Passage Island
• Little Andaman (excluding tribal reserve)
• All islands in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park except Boat Island, Hobday Island, Twins Islands, Tarmugli, Malay, and Pluto Island
• Jolly Buoy Island
• South Cinque Island
• Redskin Island
• Mount Harriet
• Madhuban
• Ross Island
• Narcondam Island
• Interview Island
• Brother & Sister Islands
• Barren Island during the day (visiting Barren Island is restricted to onboard the vessel with no landing ashore)

The Restricted Area Permit is issued upon arrival by the immigration department. No other authority can assist in obtaining this permit. To avoid complications, ensure you check the latest procedures and updates from the immigration authorities.

Three ferries operate daily between Port Blair and Havelock Island. Flights to Port Blair are scheduled to arrive in time for travelers to catch a ferry to Havelock Island the same day. You can choose between the slower, more affordable government ferry and the faster, more expensive new catamaran, depending on your arrival time and budget.

Please note that obtaining ferry tickets can be challenging and time-consuming due to long queues. Procuring tickets at the last minute can be extremely difficult or even impossible during peak times. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase your tickets in advance.

Make sure you have sufficient time to get to the appropriate ferry, as boarding stops 15 minutes before departure. If you plan to board the catamaran ‘Makruzz’, ensure your flight arrives in Port Blair before 8 AM, as passengers on later flights will not be able to board this boat.

From Port Blair to Havelock Island:

• Government Ferry: 6 AM and 2 PM (Duration: 2.5 hours)
• Catamaran (Makruzz): 6AM, 8AM, 9 AM, 11:30 AM and 2 PM (Duration: 1.5 hours)

Note that a government ferry also departs from Port Blair at 12:30 PM, but it stops at another island before arriving at Swaraj Dweep, taking a total of four hours. We do not recommend this option due to the longer travel time.

From Havelock Island to Port Blair:

• Government Ferry: 2 PM and 4:30 PM (Duration: 2.5 hours)
• Catamaran (Makruzz): 8 AM and 4 PM (Duration: 1.5 hours)

The administration may change these timings at short notice, so we recommend rechecking the schedule a few days before your arrival. Additionally, all sailings are subject to weather conditions.