How to Reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Ultimate Guide

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About Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands at the southeastern edge of the Bay of Bengal. They are a Union Territory of India and are known for their stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage. some highlights about the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Location	Indian Ocean, closer to Myanmar and Indonesia
Groups of Island	The Andaman Islands and The Nicobar Islands.
Capital	Port Blair
Natural Beauty	Pristine beaches, Crystal-clear waters, and Lush tropical forests
Popular beaches	Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island Corbyn’s Cove Beach near Port Blair
Biodiversity	Flora and Fauna, Biosphere Reserve, Marine life, Coral reefs, and Bird species.
Cultural Heritage[Tribes]	Sentinelese, Jarawa, Onge, and Great Andamanese
Tourism[ Adeventure]	Snorkeling, Scuba diving, Trekking, and Sightseeing.
Attractions Point	Cellular Jail
Nearest Airport	Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an Indian archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, are a tropical paradise known for their stunning beaches, lush forests, and rich marine life. If you’re planning a trip how to reach Andaman and nicobar islands, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get there. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the various transportation options available for reaching the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The first way to reach Andaman Nicobar Islands By Air

The most convenient way to reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is by air. The islands are served by the Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Delhi. Several airlines operate regular flights to the islands, making it easy to find a flight that fits your schedule.

Another way to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands By Sea

If you prefer a more scenic route, you can also reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by sea. Regular passenger ships and ferries operate between the islands and cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. While sea travel takes longer than air travel, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Bay of Bengal.

Travel Tips Before traveling

Book in Advance

Flights and ferry tickets to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. It’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance to avoid any last-minute hurry.

Check the Weather condition

The islands are prone to cyclones, especially during the monsoon season. Before you travel, make sure to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

Bag Pack Wisely

Remember to pack light and include essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and comfortable clothing. While the islands have shops where you can buy necessities, it’s always better to be prepared.

Keep Environment safe

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Make sure to respect the environment and follow all rules and regulations to help preserve this pristine paradise for future generations.

How to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands from Delhi

To reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from Delhi, you have two main options

Step-1 By Air

Flight from Delhi to Port Blair

The most convenient way to reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from Delhi is by taking a direct flight to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, the capital city of the islands. Several airlines operate regular flights between Delhi and Port Blair, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara. The flight duration is approximately 5-6 hours.

Booking Tips

It’s advisable to book your flight tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (November to March). Prices tend to be higher closer to the travel date, so booking early can help you get a better deal.

Airport Transfer

Upon arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, you can easily find taxis or rental cars to take you to your accommodation. Most hotels and resorts also offer airport transfer services for their guests.

Step-2 By Sea

Ship from Chennai or Kolkata

If you prefer a more leisurely and scenic journey, you can travel to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by sea. Passenger ships and ferries operate between Chennai/Kolkata and Port Blair. The journey takes around 60-70 hours from Chennai and 50-60 hours from Kolkata, depending on the weather conditions.

How to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands by train

Reaching the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by train is not possible directly, as the islands are not connected to the Indian railway network. However, you can travel to the nearest mainland railway stations and then take a flight or a ship to reach the islands. Here’s how you can do it:

By Train and Flight

Train from your location to Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam

Depending on your location, you can board a train to Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam, which are the nearest major cities with railway connectivity to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Flight from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam to Port Blair

From Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam, you can take a direct flight to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Several airlines operate regular flights to Port Blair from these cities.

By Train and Ship

Train from your location to Chennai or Kolkata:

Board a train to Chennai or Kolkata, which have major ports with regular ship services to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Ship from Chennai or Kolkata to Port Blair

From Chennai or Kolkata, you can take a passenger ship or ferry to Port Blair. The journey takes around 60-70 hours from Chennai and 50-60 hours from Kolkata, depending on the weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Question

1.How much does it cost to go to Andaman?

The cost of a trip to the Andaman Islands can vary depending on various factors such as the duration of your stay, the type of accommodation you choose, the mode of transportation, and your activities and dining preferences. Here is a rough estimate of the costs involved.

Flight or Ship Tickets

The cost of airfare or ship tickets to the Andaman Islands can vary based on the season, how early you book, and your departure location. On average, a round-trip flight from major Indian cities can cost between INR 10,000 to INR 25,000 per person. Ship tickets are generally cheaper but take longer time.

Accommodation cost

Accommodation options in the Andaman Islands range from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. On average, budget accommodations can cost between INR 1,000 to INR 3,000 per night, while mid-range to luxury resorts can cost between INR 3,000 to INR 10,000 or more per night.

Food and Dining cost

Food costs in the Andaman Islands can vary depending on where you eat. A meal at a local can cost between INR 200 to INR 500 per person, while dining at a mid-range restaurant can cost between INR 500 to INR 1,500 per person.

Transportation cost

Getting around the Andaman Islands can be done by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or rented scooter or car. Taxi fares can vary based on the distance, but a short ride can cost around INR 300 to INR 500.

Activities cost

The cost of activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, boat rides, and sightseeing tours can vary. On average, a scuba diving session can cost between INR 3,000 to INR 6,000 per person, while a snorkeling trip can cost between INR 500 to INR 1,500 per person.

Miscellaneous cost

You should also budget for miscellaneous expenses such as entry fees to attractions, souvenirs, and tips, which can add up to a few thousand rupees.

Overall, a 5-7 day trip to the Andaman Islands for a single person can cost anywhere between INR 30,000 to INR 70,000 or more, depending on your preferences and travel style.

2. Which month is cheapest to visit Andaman.

The cheapest month to visit the Andaman Islands is generally during the off-season, which is from May to September. During these months, the islands experience monsoon season, with higher chances of rain and rough seas. As a result, tourist activity decreases, and hotels and airlines often offer discounts and lower prices to attract visitors. However, it’s important to note that some water activities and tours may be limited or unavailable during this time. If you don’t mind the possibility of rain and are looking to save money, visiting the Andaman Islands during the off-season can be a budget-friendly option.

3. Is Andaman costly than Goa.

The cost of a trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands can be higher than a trip to Goa, depending on various factors such as the time of year, type of accommodation, and activities you plan to do. Generally, Andaman can be more expensive than Goa due to its remote location and limited accessibility.

Accommodation in Andaman, especially in popular areas like Port Blair and Havelock Island, can be more expensive compared to Goa, where a wider range of budget options are available. Additionally, activities like scuba diving and snorkeling tend to be more expensive in Andaman due to its rich marine life and coral reefs.

However, Goa can also be expensive, especially during peak tourist seasons and in popular tourist areas. Overall, the cost of a trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands can vary depending on your preferences and travel style, but it is generally considered to be more expensive than a trip to Goa.

4. Is food expensive in Andaman.

The cost of food in Andaman can vary depending on where you eat. Generally, dining at local eateries and small restaurants can be quite affordable, with meals costing between INR 200 to INR 500 per person. These establishments often serve local dishes and simple meals.

On the other hand, dining at mid-range to high-end restaurants and resorts can be more expensive, with meals costing between INR 500 to INR 1,500 per person or more. These restaurants often offer a wider variety of cuisines and dining experiences.

Overall, while dining in Andaman can be affordable at local eateries, dining at higher-end restaurants and resorts can be more expensive. It’s a good idea to budget accordingly based on your dining preferences and travel style.

5. which language is spoken in Andaman and Nicobar.

The main language spoken in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is Hindi. However, due to the diverse population of the islands, several other languages are also spoken, including Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Nicobarese. English is also widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas and by government officials.

6. Which country is closer to Andaman.

The closest country to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is Myanmar (Burma), which is located to the north of the islands. The distance between the northernmost point of the Andaman Islands and the closest point on the Myanmar coast is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles).

7. Is passport required for Andaman

Yes, a passport is required for traveling to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands if you are a foreign national. Indian citizens do not need a passport but require a valid photo ID proof like Aadhar card, voter ID, or driving license.

8. Is Maldives cheaper than Andaman.

In general, the Maldives is considered more expensive than the Andaman Islands. The Maldives is known for its luxury resorts and high-end accommodation options, which can be quite costly. On the other hand, while the Andaman Islands also offer luxury resorts, they also have a range of budget and mid-range accommodation options, making it possible to plan a more affordable trip.

9. Which is better Mauritius or Andaman.

Factors	Mauritius	Andaman
1. Beaches	Pristine white-sand beaches	Picturesque, less crowded beaches.
2. Activities	Water sports- Snorkeling, Diving, and Sailing.	Offer similar activities, attraction rich marine life and coral reefs.
3. Culture and History	Rich cultural heritage	Indigenous tribes
4. Cost	More expensive	Less Expensive
5. Accessibility	Well-connected by flights	Flight to Port Blair