Discover the Best Places to Visit in Andaman with our comprehensive guide featuring insider tips and stunning locations. This guide to the Best Places to Visit in Andaman will help you explore the most beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and hidden gems across this tropical archipelago. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to discover more, these Best Places to Visit in Andaman will ensure you experience the islands’ most breathtaking destinations and create unforgettable memories.
Why Andaman Islands Are a Must-Visit Destination
When exploring the Best Places to Visit in Andaman, you’ll discover why these islands consistently rank among India’s top travel destinations. With over 500 islands offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical forests, the Andaman Islands provide a perfect escape from everyday life. The unique combination of natural beauty, water sports, and historical significance makes every location special.
Best Places to Visit in Andaman: Top Destinations
1. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island
Why It’s Special: Radhanagar Beach consistently ranks among Asia’s best beaches and is undoubtedly one of the Best Places to Visit in Andaman. The powdery white sand stretches for nearly two kilometers, backed by lush forest and fronted by turquoise waters that shimmer in the sunlight.
Best Time to Visit: October to May for calm seas and perfect weather
Things to Do:
- Watch spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in orange and pink hues
- Swim in the calm, clear waters ideal for all skill levels
- Take romantic evening walks along the shore
- Photography opportunities throughout the day
- Relax under the natural shade of coastal trees
Insider Tips:
- Arrive by 4 PM for the best sunset views
- The beach can get crowded during peak season, so visit early morning for solitude
- No water sports are allowed here to preserve the natural beauty
- Bring your own snacks and water as limited vendors operate here
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems
2. Cellular Jail, Port Blair
Why It’s Special: The Cellular Jail National Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of India’s freedom struggle and is among the most historically significant Best Places to Visit in Andaman.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but the Light and Sound Show is unmissable
Things to Do:
- Explore seven wings of the colonial prison
- Visit the museum showcasing freedom fighters’ stories
- Attend the emotional Light and Sound Show (Hindi at 6 PM, English at 7:15 PM)
- Walk through the execution grounds
- View original cells where prisoners were held in solitary confinement
Insider Tips:
- Book Light and Sound Show tickets online to avoid queues
- Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit
- Hire a guide for deeper historical context
- Photography is allowed but be respectful
- Carry a light jacket for evening shows
3. Elephant Beach, Havelock Island
Why It’s Special: Elephant Beach offers the Best Places to Visit in Andaman for water sports enthusiasts, with vibrant coral reefs just meters from the shore.
Best Time to Visit: November to April for best underwater visibility
Things to Do:
- Snorkeling among colorful coral gardens
- Sea walking for non-swimmers
- Jet skiing and banana boat rides
- Glass-bottom boat tours
- Underwater photography
Insider Tips:
- Reach via boat from Havelock jetty (20 minutes) or trek through forest (45 minutes)
- First boat departure is at 8:30 AM; arrive early to avoid crowds
- Book water sports packages for better rates
- Bring waterproof bags for valuables
- Carry your own snorkeling gear if you prefer
- Don’t touch or step on corals
4. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Why It’s Special: Neil Island offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Havelock, making it one of the Best Places to Visit in Andaman for relaxation seekers.
Best Attractions:
Bharatpur Beach: Perfect for glass-bottom boat rides and snorkeling. The shallow waters with visible corals make it family-friendly.
Laxmanpur Beach: Famous for stunning sunsets and natural rock formations. During low tide, explore the extensive coral reefs exposed on the shore.
Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge): A unique rock formation created by nature, best viewed during low tide. The surrounding area offers excellent photo opportunities.
Insider Tips:
- Rent bicycles or scooters to explore the small island
- Stay overnight to experience the peaceful island life
- Check tide timings before visiting Natural Bridge
- Try fresh seafood at local beach shacks
- Neil Island is less commercialized, so carry cash
- Book ferries in advance during peak season
5. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)
Why It’s Special: Once the administrative headquarters of the British, Ross Island is among the most atmospheric Best Places to Visit in Andaman, now reclaimed by nature.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do:
- Explore British-era ruins including the church, bakery, and swimming pool
- Walk through structures overtaken by massive tree roots
- Visit the small museum showcasing island history
- Spot deer, peacocks, and other wildlife roaming freely
- Enjoy views of Port Blair from various viewpoints
Insider Tips:
- Reach by ferry from Phoenix Bay Jetty (15 minutes)
- First ferry departs around 8:30 AM
- Allow 2-3 hours to explore thoroughly
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain
- Bring water and snacks; limited options available
- The Sound and Light Show here provides historical insights
6. Baratang Island
Why It’s Special: Baratang offers unique natural wonders, making it one of the most adventurous Best Places to Visit in Andaman.
Main Attractions:
Limestone Caves: Ancient stalactites and stalagmites create otherworldly formations inside these natural caves.
Mud Volcanoes: Witness rare mud volcanoes bubbling with natural gases.
Parrot Island: Thousands of parrots return at sunset, creating a spectacular natural phenomenon.
Insider Tips:
- Start early (4-5 AM) for the journey from Port Blair
- Travel through tribal reserve requires convoy system
- Hire a local guide for the mangrove creek journey
- Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for jungle trekking
- Carry insect repellent and drinking water
- Don’t photograph or interact with tribal areas
- The entire trip takes 12-14 hours from Port Blair
7. North Bay Island
Why It’s Special: North Bay is the water sports capital and one of the most exciting Best Places to Visit in Andaman for adventure activities.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Things to Do:
- Scuba diving for beginners and certified divers
- Snorkeling in shallow coral reefs
- Sea walking – walk underwater with special helmets
- Glass-bottom boat rides
- Jet skiing and parasailing
- Underwater photography
Insider Tips:
- Book activities directly at the island for better rates
- Combine with Ross Island visit in the same trip
- Wear swimwear under regular clothes for convenience
- Waterproof your phone or camera
- Activities close by 3 PM, so arrive early
- Lockers available for storing belongings
8. Diglipur
Why It’s Special: Located in North Andaman, Diglipur is among the Best Places to Visit in Andaman for offbeat travelers seeking untouched beauty.
Main Attractions:
Ross & Smith Islands: Twin islands connected by a natural sandbar that appears during low tide. The unique formation creates beaches on both sides.
Saddle Peak: The highest point in Andaman Islands at 732 meters. The trek rewards you with panoramic views.
Kalipur Beach: A nesting site for turtles where you might witness turtle nesting (seasonal).
Insider Tips:
- Requires 10-12 hours journey from Port Blair by road
- Overnight stay recommended in Diglipur
- Limited accommodation options, book in advance
- Saddle Peak trek requires permit and fitness
- Best visited between November and April
- Carry sufficient cash as ATMs are limited
- Hire local transportation for exploring
9. Jolly Buoy Island
Why It’s Special: Part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy is one of the Best Places to Visit in Andaman for pristine snorkeling experiences.
Best Time to Visit: Open from November to May (closed during monsoon)
Things to Do:
- Snorkeling in protected coral reefs
- Glass-bottom boat rides
- Beach relaxation on untouched shores
- Marine life observation
- Nature photography
Insider Tips:
- Plastic is strictly banned; carry reusable water bottles
- Limited daily visitors allowed to protect ecosystem
- Book permits well in advance through authorized operators
- Boats depart from Wandoor Beach (30 km from Port Blair)
- Carry your own snorkeling equipment if possible
- No overnight stays allowed
- Alternative: Red Skin Island when Jolly Buoy is closed
10. Chidiya Tapu
Why It’s Special: Known as the “Sunset Point,” Chidiya Tapu is one of the Best Places to Visit in Andaman for bird watchers and sunset enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but November to March is ideal
Things to Do:
- Watch mesmerizing sunsets over the ocean
- Bird watching with over 46 species recorded
- Trekking through Munda Pahad Beach forest
- Photography of diverse flora and fauna
- Beach activities and nature walks
Insider Tips:
- Located 28 km from Port Blair, easily reachable by taxi
- Arrive by 4:30 PM for sunset viewing
- Bring binoculars for bird watching
- The biological park nearby showcases local species
- Monsoon season attracts more bird varieties
- Combine with a visit to the nearby Kalapathar Beach
Best Places to Visit in Andaman for Different Travelers
For Honeymooners
- Radhanagar Beach for romantic sunsets
- Private beach resorts in Havelock Island
- Candlelight dinners by the beach
- Ross & Smith Islands for secluded experiences
For Adventure Seekers
- Elephant Beach for water sports
- North Bay for scuba diving
- Baratang for jungle adventures
- Saddle Peak for trekking
For Families
- Neil Island for safe, calm beaches
- Cellular Jail for educational experiences
- Ross Island for easy exploration
- North Bay for kid-friendly activities
For Solo Travelers
- Port Blair for base camp exploration
- Diglipur for offbeat experiences
- Neil Island for peaceful solitude
- Local homestays for cultural immersion
Photography Tips for Best Places to Visit in Andaman
- Golden Hour Magic: Shoot during sunrise (5:30-7 AM) and sunset (5-6:30 PM) for warm, flattering light
- Underwater Photography: Use waterproof cases or GoPro cameras at Elephant Beach and North Bay
- Drone Photography: Check local regulations; some areas prohibit drones
- Beach Photography: Use polarizing filters to reduce glare and enhance water colors
- Historical Sites: Cellular Jail and Ross Island look dramatic during overcast conditions
- Wildlife Photography: Telephoto lenses work best at Chidiya Tapu for bird photography
Essential Tips for Visiting Best Places in Andaman
Transportation Between Islands
- Government Ferries: Budget-friendly but book 2-3 days in advance
- Private Ferries: More expensive but more reliable and frequent
- Helicopter Services: Available between Port Blair and Havelock (limited availability)
Booking and Permits
- Book island ferry tickets online through official Andaman tourism website
- Some islands require special permits (provided at ferry terminals)
- Carry multiple photo ID copies
- Keep digital copies of all documents
What to Pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Waterproof bag for electronics
- Comfortable swimming attire
- Light cotton clothing
- Insect repellent
- Basic medications
- Reusable water bottle (plastic banned on many islands)
- Underwater camera or waterproof phone case
Budget Planning
- Budget Travelers: ₹2,000-3,500 per day (basic accommodation, limited activities)
- Mid-Range Travelers: ₹4,000-7,000 per day (comfortable stay, multiple activities)
- Luxury Travelers: ₹10,000+ per day (premium resorts, private experiences)
Safety Considerations
- Always swim in designated safe zones
- Hire certified instructors for water sports
- Don’t venture into restricted tribal areas
- Respect marine life; don’t touch corals or feed fish
- Stay hydrated in tropical heat
- Follow all COVID-19 and local health protocols
Sample Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Andaman
5-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Port Blair – Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove Beach
- Day 2: Ross Island, North Bay Island water sports
- Day 3: Ferry to Havelock, Radhanagar Beach sunset
- Day 4: Elephant Beach activities, evening at leisure
- Day 5: Return to Port Blair via ferry, departure
7-Day Itinerary
Add Neil Island (2 days) to explore Bharatpur Beach, Natural Bridge, and Laxmanpur Beach
10-Day Itinerary
Include Baratang Island day trip and extended time in Havelock for diving courses or Diglipur for offbeat exploration
Best Season to Visit Different Places
October-November: Perfect for all islands, water is clearest for diving
December-February: Peak season with comfortable weather, book accommodations early
March-May: Hot but excellent for water sports, fewer crowds in April-May
June-September: Monsoon season, many water activities closed, budget-friendly with massive discounts
Responsible Tourism in Best Places to Visit in Andaman
The Best Places to Visit in Andaman are fragile ecosystems that require our protection:
- Never litter beaches or waters
- Use only reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen
- Don’t remove shells, corals, or sand from beaches
- Avoid single-use plastics
- Don’t feed or disturb marine life
- Support local businesses and communities
- Follow designated trails in protected areas
- Respect tribal boundaries and privacy
- Choose eco-friendly tour operators
Conclusion
These Best Places to Visit in Andaman offer diverse experiences from historical insights to natural wonders, adventure activities to peaceful relaxation. Each destination has its unique charm, making the Andaman Islands a complete travel package. Whether you have five days or two weeks, this guide to the Best Places to Visit in Andaman will help you prioritize destinations based on your interests. Start planning your Andaman adventure today and discover why these islands remain one of India’s most cherished tropical paradises.
Ready to explore the Best Places to Visit in Andaman? Book your flights, arrange ferry tickets, and prepare for an unforgettable island adventure. These stunning destinations await your discovery!
