Nidhi
Subhash Staff answered 4 months ago
Planning an itinerary for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands can be exciting, especially for first-time visitors. Here’s a detailed guide to help you craft a memorable trip:
1. Duration and Ideal Travel Time
Duration: A 5-7 day trip is generally sufficient to explore the main attractions.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.
2. Key Destinations and Attractions
Port Blair
Cellular Jail: Visit this historic prison turned museum to understand the island’s colonial past.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach: A scenic spot for relaxation and water sports.
Chidiya Tapu: A bird-watching paradise and ideal for sunset views.
Havelock Island
Radhanagar Beach: Known for its stunning beauty and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Elephant Beach: Famous for water sports like snorkeling and diving.
Kalapathar Beach: A quieter beach ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Neil Island
Laxmanpur Beach: Known for its beautiful coral reefs and tranquil surroundings.
Bharatpur Beach: Great for snorkeling and seeing vibrant marine life.
Sitapur Beach: A serene beach, ideal for a sunset visit.
Baratang Island
Limestone Caves: Explore these unique caves through a boat ride and trek.
Mud Volcanoes: A rare natural phenomenon that’s worth a visit.
3. Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Port Blair
Morning: Arrive in Port Blair and check into your hotel.
Afternoon: Visit the Cellular Jail and attend the Light and Sound Show in the evening.
Evening: Relax at Corbyn’s Cove Beach.
Day 2: Port Blair to Havelock Island
Morning: Take a ferry from Port Blair to Havelock Island.
Afternoon: Check into your resort and head to Radhanagar Beach.
Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner and relax.
Day 3: Havelock Island
Morning: Visit Elephant Beach for snorkeling or other water activities.
Afternoon: Explore local markets or relax at your resort.
Evening: Visit Kalapathar Beach for a peaceful evening.
Day 4: Havelock to Neil Island
Morning: Take a ferry to Neil Island.
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and visit Bharatpur Beach.
Evening: Explore local dining options.
Day 5: Neil Island
Morning: Visit Laxmanpur Beach and Sitapur Beach.
Afternoon: Relax or engage in water sports.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset view and beachside dinner.
Day 6: Neil Island to Port Blair
Morning: Return to Port Blair by ferry.
Afternoon: Visit Chidiya Tapu or other local attractions you might have missed.
Evening: Shopping for souvenirs and enjoying local cuisine.
Day 7: Departure
Morning: Check out from your hotel and proceed to the airport for your departure.
4. Travel Tips
Permits: Indians don’t need special permits, but foreign tourists require a permit to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Obtain it in advance through the Indian government’s online portal or through travel agencies.
Transportation: Ferries are the primary mode of inter-island travel. Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Accommodation: Book your stay in advance, particularly in popular locations like Havelock Island and Neil Island.
Health & Safety: Ensure you have travel insurance, stay hydrated, and use mosquito repellents. Carry a basic medical kit for any minor issues.
5. Packing List
Clothing: Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, and a hat for sun protection.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes, sandals for the beach, and water shoes for water activities.
Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a camera.
This itinerary covers the major attractions and provides a well-rounded experience of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, making it a memorable trip for first-time visitors.
Anvi Staff answered 3 months ago
Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Below is a suggested 7-day itinerary that covers the best of the islands, including places of interest, activities, food to try, and sightseeing.
Day 1: Arrival in Port Blair
Morning:
Arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.
Check-in at your hotel and relax after the journey.
Afternoon:
Cellular Jail: Visit this historical site, also known as “Kala Pani,” to learn about India’s struggle for independence.
Light and Sound Show: Attend the evening show at Cellular Jail, which narrates the history of the freedom struggle.
Evening:
Corbyn’s Cove Beach: Enjoy the serene beach, perfect for a relaxing evening.
Food to Try:
Fish Curry: A local specialty, usually made with fresh catch from the sea.
Amritsari Kulcha: Available at many local restaurants.
Day 2: Port Blair to Havelock Island
Morning:
Take an early morning ferry to Havelock Island (now Swaraj Dweep), one of the most popular destinations in the Andaman Islands.
Afternoon:
Radhanagar Beach: Explore this famous beach, often ranked among the best in Asia, known for its stunning sunset views and soft white sand.
Evening:
Leisure Time: Relax at your resort or take a stroll along the beach.
Food to Try:
Grilled Lobster: Available at beachside shacks.
Coconut Prawn Curry: A must-try dish, blending local flavors with fresh seafood.
Day 3: Havelock Island – Water Activities
Morning:
Scuba Diving: Explore the rich marine life and coral reefs at Elephant Beach or Nemo Reef. Ideal for both beginners and experienced divers.
Snorkeling: If you prefer something lighter, snorkeling is a great way to see the vibrant underwater world.
Afternoon:
Kalapathar Beach: Visit this less crowded beach, known for its black rocks and emerald green water.
Evening:
Beachside Relaxation: Enjoy a peaceful evening by the beach.
Food to Try:
Seafood Platters: A mix of grilled fish, prawns, and crab, perfect after a day of water activities.
Day 4: Havelock to Neil Island
Morning:
Take a ferry to Neil Island (now Shaheed Dweep), known for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty.
Afternoon:
Laxmanpur Beach: Visit this beautiful beach, ideal for swimming and watching the sunset.
Natural Bridge: Explore the natural rock formations during low tide, often called the “Howrah Bridge.”
Evening:
Bharatpur Beach: Perfect for relaxation and a bit of snorkeling.
Food to Try:
Local Thali: A traditional Andamanese meal with rice, dal, vegetables, and fish curry.
Coconut Water: Refresh yourself with fresh coconut water, available at many beachside stalls.
Day 5: Return to Port Blair – Chidiya Tapu
Morning:
Take a ferry back to Port Blair.
Afternoon:
Chidiya Tapu: Visit this birdwatcher’s paradise, also known for its stunning sunset views. The drive to Chidiya Tapu offers beautiful coastal views.
Evening:
Shopping: Explore the local markets in Port Blair for souvenirs, handicrafts, and pearl jewelry.
Food to Try:
Crab Curry: A spicy and flavorful dish available at many local restaurants.
Local Sweets: Try the traditional sweets like Pinni and Coconut Ladoo.
Day 6: Day Trip to Ross Island and North Bay Island
Morning:
Ross Island: Take a ferry to Ross Island, once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andamans. Explore the ruins of British buildings, including the church, hospital, and bakery.
Afternoon:
North Bay Island: Visit this island for water sports like snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, and underwater sea walks.
Evening:
Return to Port Blair and relax at your hotel.
Food to Try:
Bamboo Chicken: Chicken cooked inside bamboo, imparting a unique flavor.
Fish Tikka: A spicy grilled fish dish, popular in local eateries.
Day 7: Departure
Morning:
If time permits, visit Samudrika Marine Museum to learn more about the marine life and culture of the Andaman Islands.
Afternoon:
Departure: Head to the airport for your flight back home.
Additional Activities and Tips
Island Hopping: If time permits, consider visiting Baratang Island to see the limestone caves and mud volcanoes, or Diglipur Island for a more offbeat experience.
Water Sports: Apart from scuba diving and snorkeling, try jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides available at various beaches.
Cultural Experience: Attend a local dance performance or festival if your visit coincides with one.
Packing Tips
Light Clothing: Cotton and breathable fabrics are recommended.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Essential to protect against the strong sun.
Insect Repellent: Especially important for visits to forested areas.
Waterproof Bag: Handy for keeping belongings dry during water activities.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive experience of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, blending adventure, history, relaxation, and culinary delights.