January

Table of Contents

• Why Visit Andaman in January
• Andaman Weather in January
• Top Places to Visit in January
• Best Things to Do in January
• Events & Festivals in January
• Suggested Itineraries
• Permits, Ferries & Transport
• Where to Stay
• What to Pack for January
• Practical Tips & Responsible Travel
• FAQ: Andaman in January
• Conclusion

Why Visit Andaman in January

January is one of the best months to visit the Andaman Islands. The monsoon has long retreated, the skies are clear, the sea is calm, and visibility underwater is excellent—perfect for beach days, cruises, scuba diving, and island-hopping. With mild temperatures and low rainfall, January delivers postcard weather across Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), Neil (Shaheed Dweep), and the North Andaman circuit.

Andaman Weather in January

Temperature, Humidity & Sea Conditions

• Daytime temperature: around 26–29°C
• Night temperature: around 22–24°C with pleasant sea breeze
• Rain: minimal, mostly dry and sunny
• Sea state: generally calm, ideal for ferries, snorkeling, and kayaking

Underwater Visibility

Visibility often ranges from 15–25 meters around popular dive sites near Havelock, Neil, and Wandoor. Expect vibrant reefs, abundant fish life, and excellent light penetration for underwater photography.

Top Places to Visit in January

Port Blair

• Cellular Jail: Explore India’s freedom struggle history; the evening Light & Sound show is a highlight.
• Corbyn’s Cove: A relaxed beach close to town for a quick swim and sunset.
• Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dweep): Ruins draped in roots, deer roaming freely, and colonial history.
• North Bay Island: Snorkeling, sea walking, and glass-bottom boat rides over coral gardens.
• Chidiya Tapu: Famous for golden sunsets and birding; the nearby Biological Park is a bonus.
• Wandoor & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: Gateway to pristine islands like Jolly Buoy.

Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)

Beaches

• Radhanagar Beach: Often ranked among Asia’s best—silky sand, turquoise water, and dreamy sunsets.
• Elephant Beach: Great for snorkeling and water sports; shallow reefs suit first-timers.
• Kalapathar Beach: Quiet shoreline with black rocks and photogenic mornings.

Highlights

• World-class scuba diving for beginners and certified divers.
• Bioluminescence kayaking on moonless nights in mangrove creeks.
• Sunrise and sunset photography along pristine shores.

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

• Bharatpur Beach: Calm lagoon, great for snorkeling and swimming.
• Laxmanpur Beach: Classic sunset point with long white arcs of sand.
• Natural Bridge: A striking rock arch; best visited during low tide.

Baratang Island

• Limestone Caves: A scenic boat-and-walk adventure through mangroves and karst formations.
• Mud Volcano: A quick stop often combined with the caves.

North Andaman (Diglipur & Beyond)

• Ross & Smith Islands: A sandbar linking two emerald islands—crystal-clear water in January.
• Saddle Peak National Park: Highest point in Andaman for trekkers and nature lovers.
• Turtle Nesting: Seasonal nesting (often Jan–Feb) at select beaches like Kalipur and Ramnagar with regulated visits.

Jolly Buoy Island

Part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy offers some of the region’s clearest waters and vibrant coral life in the dry season. Plastic is prohibited and permits are required; it’s typically open in winter months—January is prime.

Best Things to Do in January

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

• Best conditions of the year for beginners and advanced divers.
• Popular dive sites: Near Havelock (e.g., around Govind Nagar), Neil, and Wandoor.
• Tip: Book morning dives for smoother seas and brighter reefs.

Bioluminescence Kayaking

On clear, moonless January nights, bioluminescent plankton sparkle with every paddle stroke. Guided night kayaking in Havelock’s mangroves is a must-do. Check lunar phases and book early.

Glass-Bottom Boat & Sea Walks

Perfect for non-swimmers to see coral reefs—popular at North Bay, Elephant Beach, and Jolly Buoy.

Sunset & Sunrise Trails

• Sunrise: Kalapathar (Havelock), Sitapur (Neil)
• Sunset: Radhanagar (Havelock), Laxmanpur (Neil), Chidiya Tapu (Port Blair)

Island Hopping & Day Cruises

Calm January seas make ferry rides scenic and comfortable. Plan multi-island itineraries to maximize your trip.

Cultural & Heritage Experiences

Attend the evening show at Cellular Jail, explore museums in Port Blair, and stroll Aberdeen Bazaar for local crafts.

Events & Festivals in January

• Subhash Mela (around late January): A local celebration on Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) featuring cultural programs, food stalls, and performances.
• Tourism and food festivals: Port Blair often hosts seasonal cultural/seafood events in winter. Check current schedules and venues after you arrive.

Suggested Itineraries

4 Days: Highlights Sprint

• Day 1: Arrive Port Blair, Cellular Jail + Light & Sound, Corbyn’s Cove.
• Day 2: Ferry to Havelock, Radhanagar Beach sunset.
• Day 3: Scuba intro dive or Elephant Beach snorkel, evening café hop.
• Day 4: Sunrise at Kalapathar, return to Port Blair and depart.

6 Days: Classic Trio

• Day 1: Port Blair city tour (Museums, Marina Park), Cellular Jail show.
• Day 2: Jolly Buoy for snorkeling (permit required) or North Bay + Ross Island combo.
• Day 3: Ferry to Havelock, Radhanagar Beach.
• Day 4: Dive/snorkel in the morning, optional bioluminescence kayaking at night.
• Day 5: Ferry to Neil, Bharatpur + Natural Bridge + Laxmanpur sunset.
• Day 6: Return to Port Blair, shopping at Aberdeen Bazaar, departure.

8 Days: Add Adventure North

• Day 1–2: Port Blair + Jolly Buoy/Marine Park.
• Day 3–4: Havelock for diving, Elephant Beach, Radhanagar.
• Day 5: Neil Island day and sunset.
• Day 6–7: North Andaman (Diglipur)—Ross & Smith, optional Saddle Peak trek or turtle watch (regulated).
• Day 8: Return to Port Blair and fly out.

Permits, Ferries & Transport

Getting There

• Flights: Direct or connecting flights to Port Blair (IXZ) from major Indian cities.
• Ships: Long-distance passenger ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam; sailings are infrequent and take multiple days.

Inter-Island Ferries

• Government ferries: Budget-friendly; book early at counters or authorized portals.
• Private catamarans: Faster and comfortable; popular routes include Port Blair–Havelock–Neil. January demand is high—reserve in advance.

Permits & Regulations

• Certain areas like Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park and Baratang have regulated entry; carry valid photo ID and follow local procedures.
• Plastic is restricted on islands like Jolly Buoy. Use reusable bottles and bags.
• Some protected zones and tribal reserves are strictly off-limits. Respect all signages and advisories.

Where to Stay

Port Blair

Stay near the seafront or Aberdeen Bazaar for easy access to ferries, dining, and sights. Options range from boutique hotels to family-friendly stays.

Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)

Beachfront resorts near Radhanagar or Govind Nagar suit divers and beach lovers. January is peak season—book weeks in advance.

Neil (Shaheed Dweep)

Cozy stays near Bharatpur and Laxmanpur offer quiet island vibes, perfect for couples and families.

What to Pack for January

• Light cottons, quick-dry swimwear, and a light evening layer for breezy boat rides.
• Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and a reusable water bottle.
• Waterproof phone pouch/dry bag, aqua shoes, and a microfiber towel.
• Insect repellent, basic meds, and motion-sickness tablets if needed.
• Copies of IDs, ferry tickets, and any permits.

Practical Tips & Responsible Travel

Connectivity, Cash & Health

• Mobile data works in main hubs; signal may drop on remote islands.
• ATMs are available in Port Blair; carry some cash for smaller islands.
• Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and avoid overexposure during midday.

Safety & Etiquette

• Swim within designated zones; heed lifeguard flags and local advisories.
• Do not touch corals or marine life; collecting shells and corals is prohibited.
• Drone use may be restricted; seek permissions where required.
• Avoid littering; carry back all non-biodegradable waste.
• Do not enter restricted or tribal reserve areas; photography may be prohibited in sensitive zones.

FAQ: Andaman in January

Is January a good time to visit Andaman?

Yes. It’s peak season with excellent weather, calm seas, and fantastic underwater visibility.

Will it rain in January?

Rainfall is minimal. Expect mostly sunny days with occasional brief showers at most.

Is diving suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. January’s calm seas and clear water are ideal for try-dives with certified instructors.

Are ferries crowded in January?

Yes, demand spikes. Pre-book ferries and stays to secure preferred timings and locations.

Is Andaman in January family-friendly?

Very. Beaches with gentle slopes, glass-bottom boats, and short nature trails suit families.

Conclusion

With sun-kissed beaches, crystal waters, and near-perfect weather, January sets the stage for the Andaman Islands at their best. Whether you’re diving among coral gardens, chasing sunsets at Radhanagar, or drifting through mangrove creeks under a blanket of stars, this is the month when every experience feels effortless. Plan ahead, travel light, respect the islands’ fragile ecosystems—and let Andaman in January be the tropical escape you’ll want to relive again and again.