Andaman and Nicobar tour

What is the best way to get to Andaman and Nicobar Island?

Port Blair is the Andaman’s major gateway, which is well connected by air and sea, while regular passenger ship services are available to Port Blair from India’s major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. The best way to reach these exotic islands is to take a flight from New Delhi, Kolkata, or Chennai. At present, regular domestic flight services are available from all the major Indian cities mentioned above.

 

How to Get to Port Blair by Plane

The primary airport serving India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands is Veer Savarkar International Airport, popularly known as Port Blair Airport. The airport, which serves both internal and foreign destinations, is situated in Port Blair, the main city of the islands. The airport connects the islands to many cities, including Kolkata, Chennai, Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, and New Delhi.

Several domestic airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet, and others, provide regular flights to the airport. The airport has a single terminal building that is well-equipped with all modern amenities. This building is used for both domestic and international flights.

Regarding flight timing, it varies according to the airline and the particular aircraft. I suggest calling your airline or a travel agent for the most recent information on flight times and schedules. For more details, you may also visit the airport's website.

 

How to Get to Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from the Sea

By sea, passenger ship services to and from Port Blair are available from Chennai, Calcutta, and Visakhapatnam. The voyage takes about 50 to 60 hours.

Shipping services: as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands lie in the Bay of Bengal, it is a great experience to reach the Andaman Islands by ship. There are regular passenger ship services for Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. There are three to four trips every month from Calcutta and Chennai to Port Blair and vice-versa. Ships sail from Visakhapatnam once a month. The voyage takes about three days, and the ship normally berths at Port Blair for about two days. The journey times to these respective places are mentioned below.

 

Kolkata to Port Blair by sea: The journey time is about 66 hours to cover the 1,255 km.

Although it is less popular than flying, it is feasible to travel by boat from Kolkata to Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The trip takes a ship roughly 72–80 hours and is run by the Shipping Corporation of India, a government-owned shipping firm in India (SCI). Regular service is provided by the vessel known as MV Akbar between Kolkata and Port Blair.

Every other Wednesday, the MV Akbar ship departs from Kolkata and arrives in Port Blair the following Sunday or Monday. It takes about 4-5 days to travel. The ship includes onboard services like lodging, dining, and entertainment options like a TV, library, etc., as well as first-class and tourist-class rooms.

It's vital to be aware that this service is not always offered, that the timetable is subject to change, and that it may be cancelled due to choppy seas or other circumstances. Always check with the Shipping Corporation of India or a travel agent for the most up-to-date schedule and availability.

It's also important to note that this route is frequently not advised for travellers with limited mobility or other physical issues because the trip can be difficult, protracted, and exhausting. It's also vital to keep in mind that the ship route is not always open, and that operations may be interrupted during the monsoon season.

 

The sea journey from Visakhapatnam to Port Blair takes approximately 56 hours and covers 1,200 km.

The capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair, is reachable by sea from Visakhapatnam. The trip takes a ship roughly 55–60 hours and is run by the Shipping Corporation of India, a government-owned shipping corporation (SCI). Between Visakhapatnam and Port Blair, the "MV Swaraj Dweep" vessel offers regular service.

Every other Saturday, the MV Swaraj Dweep ship departs from Visakhapatnam and arrives at Port Blair the following Wednesday or Thursday. The trip lasts about 4 days. The ship includes onboard services like lodging, dining, and entertainment options like a TV, library, etc., as well as first-class and tourist-class rooms.

It's vital to be aware that this service is not always offered, that the timetable is subject to change, and that it may be cancelled due to choppy seas or other circumstances. Check with the Shipping Corporation of India or a travel agent to find out the most up-to-date schedule and availability.

It's also important to note that this route is frequently not advised for travellers with limited mobility or other physical issues because the trip can be difficult, protracted, and exhausting. It's also vital to keep in mind that the ship route is not always open, and that operations may be interrupted during the monsoon season.

 

The journey from Chennai to Port Blair takes approximately 60 hours and covers 1,190 km.

Though less frequent than flying, it is possible to travel by boat from Chennai to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), a government-owned shipping company in India, operates the ship for the journey, which lasts between 60 and 70 hours.

The MV Nicobar, a ship that regularly travels between Chennai and Port Blair, departs from Chennai on Mondays and arrives in Port Blair on Friday mornings. The trip takes about 4-5 days. Both first-class and tourist-class cabins are available on the ship.

The MV Nicobar ship provides a range of services, including lodging, dining, and entertainment options like TVs and libraries. It is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking adventure, beautiful scenery, and cost-effective travel.

It's important to keep in mind that this service isn't always available, that it might be cancelled due to choppy waters or other circumstances, and that the schedule is subject to change. Checking with the Shipping Corporation of India or a travel agent is always the best way to get the most up-to-date information on the schedule and availability.

It's also important to note that this route is frequently not advised for travellers with limited mobility or other physical issues because the trip can be difficult, protracted, and exhausting.

 

At Chennai:

Shipping House

13, Strand Road,

Kolkata 700 001 (INDIA)

Tel: +033-22482354 / 033 -22488013

Fax: +033-22482035 / 033 -22480377

At Kolkata:

"Jawahar Building" 17, Rajaji Salai

Chennai 600 001 (INDIA)

Tel: +044-25220841 / 044-25226873

Option: 3

From Mumbai travel to Chennai by Railways, then fly till Port Blair 

Option: 4

Fly from Mumbai via Chennai to Port Blair

 

Andaman visiting places

Cellular jail of Andaman and Nicobar island

The Cellular Jail, also known as the Kala Pani (Black Water) Prison, was a colonial prison located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. It was used by the British Empire to exile political prisoners, particularly those involved in India's freedom struggle.

The prison was built in the late 19th century and was in use until the 1940s. It was called the "Cellular Jail" because it was designed with individual cells for each prisoner, intended to minimise any human contact and maximise isolation. The prisoners were subjected to hard labour and were often subjected to brutal treatment by the guards.

The Cellular Jail has a significant place in India's independence movement, as many freedom fighters were imprisoned there, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Yogendra Shukla. The jail is now a museum and a national memorial and is a popular tourist attraction in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

 

Port of Blair

The union territory of India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which are situated in the Bay of Bengal, has Port Blair as its capital city. It is a tiny town that serves as the gateway to the islands and is situated on South Andaman Island.

The Cellular Jail, a former colonial jail that was used to exile political prisoners during the British Raj, is one of the city's many historical sites. The Samudrika Marine Museum, which showcases the marine life and cultural heritage of the islands, as well as the Anthropological Museum, which presents the culture and history of the native Andamanese tribes, are both located in the city.

Due to its stunning beaches, crystal-clear oceans, and extensive history, Port Blair is a well-liked tourist attraction. The shipping, fishing, and tourism industries all rely heavily on it.

 

Marina Park 

In the city of Port Blair, there is a public park called Marina Park. It's likely to have amenities like walking trails, beautifully designed gardens, and recreation centers. Additionally, it might contain places for kids to play and places for people to sit and take in the view. For picnics, leisurely walks, and other outdoor activities, the park is anticipated to be a popular destination for both locals and visitors. I hope this is useful. Please feel free to ask any further questions you may have regarding Port Blair or the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

 

Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show

The Cellular Jail Light and Sound Show is a popular tourist attraction in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. The show is held at the Cellular Jail, which is a colonial-era prison that was used to house Indian freedom fighters during the British Raj. The light and sound show recounts the story of the Indian freedom struggle and the events that took place at the Cellular Jail.

The show begins with a brief history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and their significance during the colonial period. It then goes on to describe the construction of the cellular jail and the lives of the prisoners who were held there. The show uses a combination of lights, sound effects, and narrations to bring the history of the prison to life and give visitors a sense of what it was like to be a prisoner there.

The light and sound show usually lasts about 45 minutes and takes place in the evening. The show is conducted in English and Hindi.

The Cellular Jail is now a national memorial; it was a place where a lot of Indian freedom fighters were imprisoned and tortured by the British. It has great historical significance, and visiting it can be a very emotional and enlightening experience. It is a popular tourist destination, and the light and sound show is an excellent way to learn more about the history of the prison and the struggle for Indian independence.

 

Corbyn's Cove Beach of Port Blair

Corbyn's Cove Beach is a popular tourist destination in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is located near Port Blair, the capital of the islands, and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters. The beach is a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other water sports.

The beach is situated in a secluded spot, surrounded by lush green coconut palms and tropical vegetation. The calm, clear waters of the Bay of Bengal make it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. The beach also offers a wide range of activities, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.

Corbyn's Cove Beach is also a popular spot for visitors to relax and unwind, with a number of beachside restaurants and shacks that serve a variety of local and international cuisine. The beach is also a popular spot for watching the sunset, and many visitors come here in the evening to take in the beautiful views.

The beach is accessible by road and takes about 30 to 45 minutes from the city centre by car or bus. The best time to visit Corbyn's Cove Beach is during the months of October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm.

Overall, Corbyn's Cove Beach is a great place to visit if you want to experience the natural beauty and tranquilly of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands while enjoying some fun water activities.

 

Chatham Saw Mill

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands' capital, Port Blair, is home to the ancient Chatham Saw Mill. The British built the sawmill in 1883 as part of their plan to turn the islands into a prison colony. One of the most significant historical and architectural attractions on the islands, it is also one of the largest and oldest sawmills in Asia.

The sawmill is famous for its incredible collection of tools and machinery used to process lumber and other types of wood products. The equipment that was used to cut and shape the wood, including the enormous saw blades, is visible to visitors.

The Chatham Saw Mill is renowned for its exquisite woodwork and craftsmanship in addition to its historical significance. The exquisite motifs and patterns that are carved into the wooden furniture, home décor, and souvenirs made at the sawmill are visible to visitors.

Visitors are welcome to the mill, and there are guided tours of the building available. The mill shop also sells mementos to visitors.

Visitors that are interested in history, architecture, or industrial heritage will find Chatham Saw Mill to be an intriguing location. Additionally, you can find some interesting wooden crafts and mementos there.

 

Forest Museum of Port Blair

A well-liked tourist destination in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, is the Forest Museum, also referred to as the Andaman and Nicobar Island Forest Museum. For tourists interested in the area's natural history, the museum is a fantastic educational resource. It wants to protect and learn about the rich and varied forest environment of the islands.

The museum features a variety of preserved island native wildlife, including birds, mammals, and marine life. Numerous species, including snakes, lizards, turtles, birds, and diverse aquatic life, are visible to visitors. A large variety of forest goods, including various kinds of wood, nuts, resins, and other natural materials, are also on display at the museum.

The museum also has fossilised elephants, dugongs, and other marine animals that were discovered on the islands, which helps visitors understand the evolution of the islands and their history.

Visitors can also explore the botanical garden of the Forest Museum, which features a wide range of island-specific flora and trees. There is also a section of the garden that is for medicinal plants. This shows how the native people of these islands used plants to heal themselves.

The Forest Museum is accessible seven days a week, and visits can be scheduled. For individuals who are interested in learning more about the natural history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and its distinctive flora and wildlife, it's a good location to go.

 

Gandhi Park in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar

Aside from amusement attractions, safe water sports, a nature trail around the lake, a restaurant, a garden, and historical relics including a Japanese temple and a bunker, Port Blair's lovely park also features these amenities. In an unbelievable 13 days, the former Dilthaman tank, the only supply of drinking water for Port Blair and the surrounding area, was transformed into Gandhi Park. It's open every day.

 

Naval Marine Museum Samudrika

A well-liked tourist destination in the Indian territory of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, also referred to as the Indian Navy Marine Museum. The Indian Navy runs the museum, which is situated in Port Blair, the islands' capital.

Visitors who want to learn more about the rich variety of marine life in the area can use the museum, which is devoted to the history and marine biology of the islands. The museum's displays feature items from marine life such as shells, coral, starfish, and sea urchins, as well as details on the islands' lengthy naval history, particularly the presence of the Indian Navy there.

Live coral reefs and several fish species that are found on these islands are well-represented at the museum. A ship simulator and a theatre where documentaries on the marine life of the islands are shown are just two of the museum's interactive exhibits and displays.

The tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar islands are featured in a section of the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, which shows how they live and what their culture is like.

The museum is open seven days a week to visitors, and tours can be scheduled. For those who want to learn more about the marine life and naval history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it's a terrific place to go.

 

Police Line Hill Joggers park at Port Blair

Andaman and Nicobar Islands' Police Line Hill Joggers Park There's a park in Port Blair for locals to hang out in, but it's a well-known tourist destination. Visitors can explore the stunning natural parks and leisure spaces in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which provide excellent chances for walking and jogging.

 

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park 

Gandhi Park, often referred to as Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, is a national park in India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The park, which has 15 small islands totaling 281.5 square kilometres, includes the well-known tourist spots of Red Skin Island and Jolly Buoy Island.

The park is home to a wide diversity of flora and fauna, including mangrove swamps, coral reefs, and several marine species of fish, sharks, turtles, and dolphins. The coral reefs in the park offer the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of colourful fish and other marine life, making it a popular location for snorkelling and scuba diving as well.

Visitors to the park are welcome to participate in sports including swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving, as well as boat tours to the park's islands. On some of the park's islands, there are amenities for camping and other outdoor activities. It's vital to remember that the region is protected and that not a lot of activity is permitted there.

The park closes on Mondays, and the season determines when visitors can enter.

 

Anthropological Museum in Port Blair

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands' indigenous tribes' cultural heritage and way of life are on display at the Anthropological Museum in Port Blair, India. The museum, run by the Anthropological Survey of India, is one of Port Blair's top tourist attractions.

The museum displays a wide variety of relics, such as traditional attire, jewellery, tools, and everyday utensils used by the island people. Along with images and dioramas that give a glimpse into their way of life, it also features exhibits on the history, traditions, and beliefs of the many tribes. The museum has information on the two Mongoloid tribes of Andaman and Nicobar as well as the four Negrito tribes.

The museum's main attractions include a recreation of a traditional tribal home, a collection of traditional musical instruments, and displays of fishing and hunting gear. The museum also has a library where you can find books about the anthropology of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Additionally, a movie on the tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is played to visitors in the museum. The museum reception can provide you with the show's schedule and other information.

From Tuesday through Sunday, the museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. On Mondays and on federal holidays, it remains closed.

 

Sagarika Cottage Industries Museum

The Sagarika Cottage Industries Museum in Port Blair is a must-visit destination for shoppers seeking unique and locally-made handicrafts. The museum features an array of items crafted by skilled artisans using materials such as mother of pearl, sea shells, coconut shells, and wood. Visitors can find miniature replicas of traditional Nicobari canoes, as well as jewelry and even furniture crafted from these materials. These make for excellent and cost-effective souvenirs to take back from your vacation in the Andaman Islands.

 

Fisheries Museum, Andaman Island

The rich marine legacy and fishing history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are on display at the Fisheries Museum in Port Blair, India. It is at Haddo Wharf and is run by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).

Exhibits in the museum cover a range of topics related to fishing in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, such as conventional fishing techniques, local fish species, and the marine ecosystem. In addition to real marine exhibits, including starfish, sea urchins, and many varieties of coral, visitors can view a variety of fishing nets, hooks, and boats.

The aquarium in the museum is a popular place to go because it has a wide range of sea creatures from the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea.

The museum also studies maritime fisheries, educates the public about them, and promotes sustainable fishing methods through its activities. All weekdays during the week are public visitation days, and weekends are closed.

 

Havelock Island Activities

Travelers seeking a variety of activities frequently head to Havelock Island, which is a part of India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands. On the island, these are some of the well-liked pastimes:

Snorkeling and diving: Havelock Island is a popular location for snorkelling and diving due to its clean seas and diverse marine life. View a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures while exploring the coral reefs.

Beach activities: The picturesque Radhanagar Beach, one of the best beaches in Asia, is one of the many stunning beaches on Havelock Island. These beaches provide visitors opportunities for swimming, tanning, and other beach activities.

Game Fishing: On Havelock Island, fishing is a well-liked pastime. Visitors can rent a boat and go fishing for fish that are present in the waters near the island, including barracuda, tuna, and other varieties.

Nature trekking: Visitors can go on nature treks to enjoy the island's natural beauty. The island has deep tropical woods with a diversity of flora and wildlife.

One of the most well-known snorkelling and diving locations is Elephant Beach, where guests may take a boat excursion, enjoy swimming and snorkelling among the stunning corals and marine life.

Relaxation: Havelock Island is renowned for its spa, yoga, and massage facilities and for its tranquil settings. where guests can unwind and reenergize following a day of activities.

Havelock is known for its scuba diving, and divers of all levels can take PADI-certified diving lessons there.

These are only a few of the numerous activities that are offered on Havelock Island. Parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are just some of the water sports you can do on the island. 

 

Radhanagar Beach Attractions

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, Radhanagar Beach is situated on Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Attractions at Radhanagar Beach that are well-liked include:

The Beach: The white sand and pristine waters of Radhanagar Beach are well-known. Visitors can unwind, swim, and take in the area's natural splendour at the beach. Many tourists want to see the local sunsets on the beach because they are so well-known.

Coral reefs: Because Radhanagar Beach is bordered by coral reefs, it is the ideal location for scuba diving and snorkeling. It is a well-liked location for diving and snorkelling since the coral reefs here are home to a variety of colourful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.

Nature walks: Because a lush, tropical forest surrounds the beach, visitors can go on nature walks throughout the area and enjoy the variety of flora and wildlife.

Water sports: The beach offers a wide range of water sports, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, and more.

Food and Drinks: There are many shacks on the beach that sell delicious food and beverages that guests can enjoy while relaxing on the sand.

Photography: Radhanagar Beach gives its patrons breathtaking vistas as well as numerous locations for photographers to capture the beauty of the beach.

Scuba diving: Radhanagar Beach is renowned for its scuba diving and provides PADI certified diving classes for all levels of divers, which is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world.

Radhanagar Beach is known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets, which many people enjoy while relaxing on the sand.

Additionally, visitors can take a little boat ride around the beach to take in the scenery and have a relaxing and tranquil experience.

 

Elephant Beach Activities

On Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, Elephant Beach is a well-liked vacation spot for tourists seeking a range of attractions. Attractions at Elephant Beach that are well-liked by visitors include:

Elephant Beach is a well-liked location for snorkelling and scuba diving due to its clean waters and diverse marine life. Visitors may explore the coral reefs here while snorkelling and scuba diving to see the variety of vibrant fish, sea turtles, and other marine life that call them home.

Elephant Beach has a lovely beach with white sand and crystal-clear waves, making it a fantastic place to go swimming, sunbathing, and engaging in other beach activities.

Water sports: A variety of water sports, including kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and parasailing, are available at the beach.

Elephant Beach offers PADI-certified diving classes for all levels of divers, making it a popular location for scuba diving. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the underwater world.

Nature walks: Tourists may also stroll along the island's beaches and through its luxuriant tropical forests, which are home to a wide range of plants and fauna.

Food and beverages: There are many shacks on the beach that sell delicious food and beverages that guests can enjoy while relaxing on the sand.

Elephant Beach provides visitors with breathtaking views and a variety of locations for photographers to capture the beauty of the beach.

Boat Ride: Tourists can take a little boat ride around the shore to take in the scenery and have a relaxing and tranquil experience.

Viewing Marine Life: Elephant Beach is well-known for the variety of marine creatures that may be seen there, including colourful fish, sea turtles, giant clams, and a few different types of shark.

Sunsets: Many tourists enjoy watching the famous sunsets at Elephant Beach while lying out on the sand.