Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Things to Pack for a Port Blair Trip (Ultimate Andaman Packing List)
- Must-Visit Places in Port Blair
- Local Culture, Food and Shopping
- Nearby Getaways in Andaman
- How to Reach Port Blair
- Accommodation Options and Estimated Costs
- Best Time to Visit and Weather
- Tips for Different Travelers
- General Travel Tips for Port Blair
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Headed to Port Blair, the gateway to the emerald Andaman Islands? This guide focuses on exactly what to pack for tropical beaches, boat rides, and island-hopping—plus essential travel tips on places, food, costs, and logistics so your suitcase and itinerary are both spot-on.
Things to Pack for a Port Blair Trip (Ultimate Andaman Packing List)
1) Travel Documents and Essentials
- Government ID/passport, flight tickets, hotel and ferry confirmations (digital + printed copies).
- Permits if visiting protected areas (e.g., Jolly Buoy/Red Skin). Indian nationals generally don’t need RAP; foreigners may need permissions for certain islands—check latest advisories.
- Travel insurance details and emergency contacts.
2) Money and Connectivity
- Cash in INR for small vendors and remote islands; ATMs are easiest in Port Blair, limited elsewhere.
- Cards and UPI are accepted in town, but data can be patchy. Download offline maps and bookings.
- Local SIM: Airtel/BSNL (wider coverage); other networks may be limited.
3) Tropical Clothing and Footwear
- Lightweight, breathable clothes (cotton/linen), quick-dry tees and shorts.
- Swimwear and modest cover-ups/sarong for beach transfers.
- Rash guard or long-sleeve swim top for sun protection while snorkeling.
- Flip-flops/sandals, and reef-safe water shoes for rocky shores.
- Light evening layer; compact rain jacket (especially Jun–Sep).
- Sun hat/cap and a light scarf/bandana.
4) Beach and Snorkel Gear
- Reef-safe sunscreen (oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free), SPF 30–50+.
- After-sun aloe gel, lip balm with SPF, sunglasses (polarized if possible).
- Dry bag and waterproof phone pouch for boats.
- Quick-dry microfiber towel.
- Optional: personal snorkel mask for comfort and hygiene; anti-fog drops.
5) Health and Safety
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, ORS, motion sickness tablets.
- Prescription meds with original labels/prescriptions.
- Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin) and bite-soothe cream.
- Hand sanitizer, biodegradable wet wipes.
6) Gadgets and Power
- Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh), charging cables.
- Camera/action cam with spare batteries and memory cards.
- Universal travel adapter if needed (India uses 230V, Type D/M sockets).
- Compact headlamp/torch for early transfers or power cuts.
7) Toiletries and Personal Care
- Biodegradable toiletries (shampoo/soap), deodorant.
- Menstrual products, razor, small grooming kit.
- Reusable water bottle (many tours discourage single-use plastic).
8) Sustainable Packing
- Reusable tote, cutlery, metal straw; small trash bag for your own waste.
- Avoid single-use plastic; some parks strictly ban plastic bottles and bags.
9) Seasonal Add-Ons
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): quick-dry rain jacket/poncho, umbrella, extra ziplocks/dry bags.
- Peak sun (Feb–Apr): stronger SPF, extra hydration salts, cooling towel.
10) What Not to Pack or Use
- Drones without written authorization (sensitive defense zones; permissions required).
- Spearfishing/hunting gear; removal of shells/coral is illegal.
- Single-use plastic on islands/parks where banned.
- Satellite phones (restricted in India).
11) Optional Extras by Interest
- Diving: certification card, logbook, medical clearance if needed.
- Kids: floaties, sand toys, snacks, child-safe sunscreen.
- Honeymoon: beach mat, compact picnic kit, light evening attire.
Must-Visit Places in Port Blair
- Cellular Jail (Kala Pani): Historic complex and poignant museum; Sound & Light show in the evening (closed Mondays; pre-book recommended).
- Corbyn’s Cove: Easy-access beach near town for a relaxed sunset.
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): Ruins draped in banyans; short boat ride from Water Sports Complex.
- North Bay Island: Snorkeling, sea walk, and glass-bottom boat rides.
- Chidiya Tapu & Munda Pahad: Birding and sunset point; short forest trail.
- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: Marine life orientation before you snorkel/dive.
- Anthropological Museum: Insight into indigenous communities (visit respectfully).
- Chatham Saw Mill: One of Asia’s oldest sawmills with a small museum.
- Wandoor Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: Gateway to Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (permits, no-plastic rules apply).
Local Culture, Food and Shopping
Culture
A vibrant mix of communities—Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Nicobari, and others—shapes Port Blair’s food, festivals, and language. Respect tribal reserves and follow photography restrictions in sensitive areas.
Food to Try
- Seafood thalis, fish curry with coconut, grilled prawns/crab.
- South Indian breakfasts (idli, dosa) and North Indian staples widely available.
- Waterfront seafood joints around Marina Park and local eateries in Aberdeen Bazaar.
Shopping
- Sagarika Government Emporium for certified local handicrafts.
- Aberdeen Bazaar for souvenirs and daily needs.
- Avoid buying coral, shells, or turtle products—illegal and harmful to reefs.
Nearby Getaways in Andaman
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): Radhanagar Beach (sunsets), Elephant Beach (snorkeling); scuba centers aplenty.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil): Bharatpur and Laxmanpur beaches, Natural Bridge.
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mangrove creeks; follow transit rules through reserved areas.
How to Reach Port Blair
- By Air: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) with direct/connecting flights from major Indian cities.
- By Sea: Government passenger ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (limited schedules; 2–3 days; basic cabins).
- Inter-Island: Government ferries and private catamarans (e.g., Makruzz, Green Ocean) to Havelock/Neil; book early in peak season.
- Local Transport: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app cabs within town; pre-arrange pickups for early ferries.
Accommodation Options and Estimated Costs
Where to Stay
- Port Blair: Best for first/last nights, museums, and connections.
- Havelock/Neil: For premium beaches, diving, and slower island life.
Budget Snapshot (per room, per night)
- Budget guesthouses/hostels: INR 800–1,500
- Mid-range hotels/resorts: INR 2,500–5,000
- Premium resorts: INR 6,000–15,000+
Daily Spend Estimate (excluding flights)
- Budget: INR 2,500–3,500 (local eats, ferries, basic activities)
- Mid-range: INR 5,000–9,000 (better stays, guided tours, sea walk/snorkel)
- Luxury: INR 12,000+ (premium resorts, private transfers, multiple activities)
Sample activity costs: Intro scuba INR 4,000–6,000; sea walk INR 3,500–4,500; museum entries INR 20–100; taxis vary by distance.
Best Time to Visit and Weather
- Best overall: October to April (calmer seas, clearer water Jan–Mar).
- Monsoon: June to September (frequent rain; sea cancellations possible). Pack rain gear and buffer time.
- Temperatures: Typically 24–31°C with high humidity year-round. Strong sun—pack robust sun protection.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Choose calm beaches (Radhanagar, Bharatpur) and carry kids’ float vests.
- Pack snacks, ORS, child-safe sunscreen, and a foldable stroller if needed.
- Book ground transfers in advance to avoid wait times with children.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Plan 2–3 nights in Havelock for sunsets and quieter beaches.
- Carry a light evening outfit and mosquito protection for seaside dinners.
- Consider private boat trips; check sea conditions before booking.
Friends/Backpackers
- Hostels/guesthouses for savings; rent two-wheelers where allowed.
- Pack a quick-dry towel, compact speaker (use responsibly), and extra power bank.
- Pre-book ferries; last-minute seats can be hard in peak months.
General Travel Tips for Port Blair
- Permits: Carry ID. National parks like Jolly Buoy impose no-plastic rules and need permits bought in advance.
- Safety: Obey lifeguards; currents can be strong. Don’t touch corals or marine life.
- Money: Keep small change for ferries/markets; ATMs are mostly in Port Blair.
- Connectivity: Expect slow data in parts; inform family about limited signal days.
- Drones: Prohibited without permission due to defense installations.
- Respect: No photography in restricted/tribal areas; avoid littering and loud music on beaches.
FAQs
Q: What should I wear in Port Blair and the Andamans?
A: Light, breathable clothing, quick-dry swimwear with a modest cover-up, a sun hat, and sandals/water shoes. Evenings are casual; pack a light layer and rain jacket in monsoon.
Q: Is snorkel gear available for rent or should I carry my own?
A: Most tour operators rent masks, snorkels, and fins. Carrying your own mask ensures better fit and hygiene; fins are optional for casual snorkeling.
Q: Are drones allowed in Port Blair?
A: Not without written authorization. The islands have sensitive defense zones; flying unauthorized drones can attract penalties.
Q: Do I need a permit to visit Havelock or Neil?
A: Indian nationals generally don’t need a permit for these islands. Certain parks/islets require day permits. Foreign nationals should check the latest Restricted Area Permit rules and island-specific advisories.
Q: What power sockets are used in the Andamans?
A: India uses 230V, 50Hz with Type D and M sockets. Carry a universal adapter if your plugs differ, plus a power bank for boat days.
Conclusion
Pack light, breathable layers, strong sun and rain protection, a reliable dry bag, reef-safe essentials, and enough cash for island days. With permits sorted, ferries booked, and realistic expectations for connectivity, you’ll be set to enjoy Port Blair’s history, beaches, and marine life—comfortably and responsibly.
