Table of Contents
- Introduction: Little Andaman vs Havelock Island
- At a Glance: Which One Suits You?
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- Nearby Attractions
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Practical Travel Information
- Tips and Traveler-Specific Advice
- Sample Itineraries
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction: Little Andaman vs Havelock Island
Choosing between Little Andaman and Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) depends on the trip you imagine. Havelock is the Andamans’ polished crowd-pleaser—world-class beaches, reliable ferries, dive shops, and cozy cafes. Little Andaman is the wild child—empty shores, jungle waterfalls, surf breaks, and a slow rhythm. This comparison breaks down both islands so you can pick the one that fits your style, time, and budget—or plan a route that includes both.
At a Glance: Which One Suits You?
- Pick Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) if you want: iconic beaches (Radhanagar), easy ferries, many resorts, scuba diving, snorkeling, beginner-friendly planning.
- Pick Little Andaman if you want: offbeat solitude, surfing, rainforest treks to waterfalls, basic stays, and a rustic, low-key vibe.
- Time and logistics: Havelock is 1.5–2.5 hours by ferry from Port Blair; Little Andaman is 6–9 hours by government ferry (services can be weather-dependent).
- Costs: Havelock ranges from budget to luxury; Little Andaman is typically cheaper but with fewer choices.
History and Importance
Little Andaman
Little Andaman lies south of South Andaman and is home to the indigenous Onge community (access to tribal reserve areas is strictly prohibited). The island was significantly impacted by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, and you’ll still sense a resilient, close-knit settler community around Hut Bay. Government-led oil palm plantations and fishing shape the local economy, while tourism remains small-scale and eco-oriented.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Formerly named after a British general, Havelock was renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018. It evolved from a backpacker favorite to the Andamans’ flagship holiday island—famed for Radhanagar Beach (often listed among Asia’s best), diving schools, and well-developed visitor services. Tourism is the primary driver here, with conservation increasingly in focus.
Best Time to Visit
Overall Climate
- Peak tourist season (Oct–Apr): Sunny, calmer seas, ideal for beach time, snorkeling, and diving on both islands.
- Monsoon (May–Sep): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, but rough seas can disrupt ferries; rain showers are frequent.
By Interest
- Diving & snorkeling (Havelock): Oct–Apr for best visibility; shoulder months can still be good.
- Surfing (Little Andaman): Generally Nov–Mar for manageable conditions; experienced surfers may seek May–Aug swells, but logistics are tougher due to weather and transport disruptions.
- Waterfalls (Little Andaman): Most robust just after monsoon; trails can be muddy, so plan footwear.
Top Things to Do
Little Andaman
- Butler Bay Beach: Long, uncrowded arc of sand popular with surfers and sunrise walkers.
- White Surf Waterfall: Short forest walk to a photogenic cascade; go with a local guide.
- Whisper Wave Waterfall: Deeper in the jungle; expect a longer trek and rustic conditions.
- Hut Bay & Keating Point Lighthouse: Panoramic views near the main settlement; check access timings locally.
- Surfing lessons: Seasonal schools operate around Hut Bay/Netaji Nagar; confirm availability in advance.
- Empty-beach day: Pack snacks and water; services are sparse away from town.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Famous sunsets and soft white sand; lifeguards often present.
- Elephant Beach: Snorkeling, sea-walk, and water sports; reach by boat or forest trail (subject to local advisories).
- Kalapathar Beach: Dramatic black rocks and serene sunrise views.
- Scuba diving: Sites like Aquarium, Lighthouse, The Wall, and Johnny’s Gorge; multiple certified centers.
- Kayaking in mangroves: Try bioluminescence tours on suitable nights.
- Cafe-hopping: Beachside eateries serving fresh seafood, island bakes, and global menus.
Nearby Attractions
From Little Andaman
- Netaji Nagar & Harminder Bay beaches: Quiet coastal stretches.
- Forested interior tracks: Accessible areas only—avoid any marked tribal reserve zones.
- Port Blair day(s): Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove, Chidiya Tapu when transiting.
From Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Natural Bridge, Bharatpur Beach; 1–1.5 hours by ferry.
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail light-and-sound show, museums, Sagarika emporium.
- Other Andaman day trips: Depending on time: Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), North Bay (snorkeling).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Little Andaman
- Food: Simple eateries serve fish curry, rice, egg dishes, and snacks; carry cash.
- Shopping: Minimal—basic provisions in Hut Bay; buy handicrafts in Port Blair instead.
- Culture: Settler communities from across India live alongside protected Onge territory. Respect signage; never attempt entry into restricted areas or photograph tribal people.
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Food: Fresh seafood grills, thalis, island bakes, and international menus near Beaches 3–5 and Govind Nagar.
- Shopping: Small boutiques with island-themed apparel and crafts; avoid buying corals/shells (illegal to collect).
- Culture: Laid-back beach lifestyle with a mix of local islanders and dive community; evenings are quiet and early.
Practical Travel Information
How to Reach
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Ferry from Port Blair: 1.5–2.5 hours. Private catamarans (e.g., Makruzz, Green Ocean) and government ferries. Book popular time slots in advance.
- Schedules: Vary by season; check the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) and private operators.
Little Andaman
- Government ferry from Port Blair (Haddo/Phoenix Bay): 6–9 hours; fewer departures per week; weather-dependent.
- Helicopter seats: Limited and primarily for residents/medical—tourist seats, when available, must be requested locally and are subject to change.
Accommodation Options
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Budget: Guesthouses and simple cottages (INR 1,000–2,500 per night).
- Mid-range: Beachfront resorts and boutique stays (INR 3,000–8,000).
- Luxury: High-end resorts near Radhanagar Beach and coastal lagoons (INR 10,000–25,000+).
- Best areas: Govind Nagar/Beaches 3–5 for dive shops and dining; near Radhanagar for sunsets and serenity.
Little Andaman
- Budget to basic mid-range: Huts/guesthouses around Hut Bay, Butler Bay, and Netaji Nagar (approx. INR 800–4,000).
- Note: Limited inventory, sporadic power/internet, and few on-site amenities—book or confirm availability by phone.
Estimated Costs (Per Person, Typical)
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Ferry one-way: Govt INR ~400–1,000; Private INR ~1,200–2,800.
- Diving (Discover Scuba): INR ~4,500–6,500; PADI Open Water INR ~18,000–28,000.
- Meals: INR ~300–800 at mid-range cafes; cheaper local joints available.
- Scooter rental: INR ~500–800/day; fuel extra.
Little Andaman
- Ferry one-way: Govt INR ~300–600 (class-dependent).
- Surf lesson/board rental (when available): INR ~1,500–3,500.
- Meals: INR ~200–500 at local eateries.
- Scooter rental: INR ~500–800/day.
Prices are indicative and vary by season and operator. Always check current schedules and tariffs locally.
Getting Around
- Havelock: Rent scooters or bicycles; autorickshaws available; roads are mostly paved.
- Little Andaman: Scooter is best; road conditions vary; carry spare cash and a basic tool kit if riding long distances.
Permits & Responsible Travel
- Entry permits: Indians don’t require special permits for these islands; foreign tourist regulations change—confirm during trip planning.
- Restricted areas: Do not enter tribal reserves in Little Andaman; follow all signage.
- Environment: No coral/sea shell collection; use reef-safe sunscreen; carry back your trash; plastics are regulated.
Tips and Traveler-Specific Advice
General Tips
- ATM access can be limited and sometimes offline—carry sufficient cash.
- Connectivity improved on Havelock (submarine cable), but Little Andaman can be patchy; download maps offline.
- Swim where permitted; heed lifeguards and current warnings. Avoid mangrove creeks due to possible crocodile presence.
- Pack a dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a light rain jacket, and sturdy sandals for forest trails.
For Families
- Havelock: Choose resorts near Beaches 5 or 7 with on-site dining and lifeguards; schedule gentle snorkeling trips.
- Little Andaman: Suitable for older kids who enjoy nature walks; carry snacks, a first-aid kit, and plan shorter day trips.
For Honeymooners
- Havelock: Sunset at Radhanagar, private candlelight dinners at beachfront stays, couples’ dive or kayak sessions.
- Little Andaman: Secluded beaches and stargazing; expect simple stays and early nights.
For Friends/Backpackers
- Havelock: Dive courses, budget dorms/hostels, cafe culture, and easy island-hopping to Neil.
- Little Andaman: Surf sessions, waterfall treks, scooter loops—less nightlife, more nature.
Safety & Packing Notes
- Monsoon brings slippery trails and rough seas; build buffer days for ferries.
- Wear booties for snorkeling to avoid sea urchin stings; carry a mini medical kit.
- Respect local customs; modest beachwear is fine, but cover up in towns and villages.
Sample Itineraries
3 Days in Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Day 1: Ferry from Port Blair, check-in near Beach 5, sunset at Radhanagar.
- Day 2: Morning dive/snorkel; afternoon cafe time; bioluminescence kayak (if available).
- Day 3: Early sunrise at Kalapathar; Elephant Beach by boat/trail; return ferry.
3 Days in Little Andaman
- Day 1: Ferry to Hut Bay; scooter to Butler Bay; lighthouse viewpoint (check access).
- Day 2: White Surf + Whisper Wave waterfalls with a local guide; beach time.
- Day 3: Surf lesson or empty-beach morning; buffer for ferry schedules.
5–6 Days Combining Both
- Days 1–3: Havelock for diving and beaches.
- Days 4–6: Little Andaman for waterfalls and surfing; keep a buffer day for weather.
FAQs
Q: Which is better for a first-time Andaman trip: Little Andaman or Havelock?
A: Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) is better for first-timers thanks to easy ferries, many stay options, and top-notch beaches and diving. Choose Little Andaman if you value solitude and adventure over convenience.
Q: Do I need any special permits for Little Andaman?
A: Tourists can visit designated areas without special permits, but tribal reserves are strictly off-limits. Always respect signage and local guidelines.
Q: How many days should I plan for each island?
A: Havelock: 2–4 nights for beaches and diving. Little Andaman: 2–3 nights to account for ferry timings and time at waterfalls/surf spots.
Q: Can I visit both islands in one trip?
A: Yes—allocate 5–6 days minimum and keep weather buffers, especially for Little Andaman ferries. Route typically runs Port Blair → Havelock → Port Blair → Little Andaman.
Q: Which island is better for scuba vs surfing?
A: Havelock is the scuba hub with multiple certified dive centers and varied sites. Little Andaman is preferred for surfing when conditions and local operators align.
Conclusion
Havelock delivers postcard beaches, dependable logistics, and rich underwater life—ideal for a relaxed, activity-filled island holiday. Little Andaman offers raw, crowd-free shores, jungle waterfalls, and surf potential, trading polish for authenticity. Your best choice depends on whether you prioritize comfort and convenience (Havelock) or quiet adventure and space to breathe (Little Andaman). With enough time, experiencing both gives you the Andamans in two compelling moods.
