Andaman & Nicobar Islands - Travel Guide from Chennai - ATZone

Andaman & Nicobar Islands – Travel Guide from Chennai

1. Best Time to Visit

  • October to May – Pleasant weather, perfect for beach activities.
  • June to September – Monsoon season, rough seas but fewer tourists.

2. How to Reach from Chennai

✈ By Flight (Best Option)

  • Direct flights from Chennai to Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport) take about 2.5 hours.
  • Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Go First.

🚒 By Ship (Budget-Friendly but Slow)

  • Government-operated ships from Chennai to Port Blair take 3 to 4 days.
  • Ships operate from Chennai once or twice a month.
  • Book tickets at the Chennai Port Trust or online via the Shipping Corporation of India.

3. Ideal Itinerary (5-6 Days)

πŸ“ Day 1: Arrive in Port Blair

  • Visit Cellular Jail (Light & Sound Show).
  • Relax at Corbyn’s Cove Beach.

πŸ“ Day 2: Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)

  • Take a ferry to Havelock Island (1.5-2 hours).
  • Visit Radhanagar Beach (one of Asia’s best beaches).
  • Enjoy water sports like scuba diving & snorkeling.

πŸ“ Day 3: Havelock & Elephant Beach

  • Explore Elephant Beach for snorkeling & jet skiing.
  • Try sea walking (unique experience!).

πŸ“ Day 4: Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

  • Ferry to Neil Island (1 hour).
  • Visit Laxmanpur Beach for sunset views.
  • Natural rock formations at Howrah Bridge.

πŸ“ Day 5: Return to Port Blair

  • Visit Ross Island (old British colony ruins).
  • Explore North Bay Island (glass-bottom boat rides).
  • Last-minute shopping at Aberdeen Bazaar.

πŸ“ Day 6: Departure

  • Fly back to Chennai with unforgettable memories!

4. Estimated Budget (Per Person for 5-6 Days)

  • Budget Trip – β‚Ή20,000 to β‚Ή30,000
  • Mid-Range – β‚Ή35,000 to β‚Ή50,000
  • Luxury Trip – β‚Ή60,000+

5. Travel Tips

βœ… Book flights & hotels in advance (prices increase during peak season).
βœ… Ferries between islands should be booked early.
βœ… Carry enough cash, as ATMs are limited on smaller islands.
βœ… Mobile networks are weak; BSNL and Airtel work best.
βœ… Eco-friendly travel – avoid plastic waste on beaches.