Table of Contents
- Port Blair in December: Introduction
- Weather in December
- Must-Visit Places in December
- Local Culture, Food & Festivals
- Nearby Getaways from Port Blair
- How to Reach Port Blair in December
- Accommodation Options & Estimated Costs
- Travel Tips for December
- Traveler-Specific Advice
- Sample 4-Day December Itinerary
- FAQs about Port Blair in December
- Conclusion
Port Blair in December: Introduction
December is one of the best months to explore Port Blair, the gateway to India’s Andaman Islands. Skies are clearer after the monsoon, seas are calmer, and the festive vibe builds toward Christmas and New Year. Expect blue-water boat rides, historic walks at the Cellular Jail, and snorkel-friendly visibility in protected marine parks—balanced with comfortable temperatures and lively evenings along the seafront.
Weather in December
- Temperature: Generally 23°C–30°C (pleasant days, warm nights).
- Rain: Low to occasional brief showers; humidity is moderate to high.
- Sea conditions: Typically calm to slight; good for ferries, snorkeling, and diving.
- Water temperature: About 27°C–29°C—comfortable for long swims.
- Daylight: Around 11 hours; sunsets are early (late afternoon to early evening).
- Visibility (underwater): Often 10–25 meters, but can vary with local winds and tides.
- UV index: High—reef-safe sunscreen and sun protection are essential.
Must-Visit Places in December
Cellular Jail (Kala Pani)
A powerful colonial-era monument that narrates India’s freedom struggle.
- Why December: Comfortable to walk through the complex; evening skies are clear for the Light & Sound show.
- Highlights: Central tower, wings view, museum exhibits, Light & Sound show.
- Time needed: 1.5–2 hours (add 1 hour for the show).
- Approx. fee: Entry usually nominal; Light & Sound show priced separately.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island)
Once the British administrative HQ, now a green, photogenic ruin draped in banyan roots.
- Why December: Breezy boat rides, great light for photography, easy walking weather.
- Highlights: Historic ruins, deer, church remains, panoramic views.
- Access: Short boat from Water Sports Complex; tickets on site or via tour operators.
North Bay (Coral Island)
Known for beginner-friendly snorkeling, sea walks, and glass-bottom boats.
- Why December: Clearer seas and steady conditions for underwater activities.
- Activities: Snorkeling, sea walk, semi-submarine/glass-bottom rides.
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: Wandoor, Jolly Buoy/Red Skin
Protected coral reefs with excellent clarity in season (parks alternate openings).
- Why December: Peak season for reef colors and marine life.
- Note: Either Jolly Buoy or Red Skin typically operates—check the current schedule and permits.
- Activities: Snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, beach time in pristine settings.
Chidiya Tapu (Sunset Point)
A scenic southern tip ideal for sunsets and birding.
- Why December: Crisp sunsets and mild evenings.
- Tip: Arrive early, carry water; Munda Pahad trail offers quick coastal views.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Closest popular beach to town; good for an easy seaside evening.
- Why December: Gentle waves; pleasant for strolls and quick dips.
- Facilities: Shacks, changing rooms, water sports (seasonal).
Mount Harriet National Park
Forest-clad hills with views across the bay; a shorter nature escape from the city.
- Why December: Cooler forest walks, butterflies, and birdlife.
- Access: Road and ferry via Chatham; check timings.
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum & Anthropological Museum
Compact, informative museums on Andaman’s biodiversity and cultural history.
- Why December: Great mid-day, indoor stops.
- Advice: Respectful learning only—do not attempt visits to restricted tribal areas.
Local Culture, Food & Festivals
Food to Try
- Seafood grills: Reef fish, crab, prawn, lobster (ask for sustainable options).
- Andaman-style fish curry: Coconut, curry leaves, and island spices.
- South Indian and Bengali plates: Reflects migrant communities.
- Bakeries: Christmas cakes and festive bakes appear mid-December.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar: Spices, local art, coconut handicrafts, island-themed souvenirs.
- Legal reminders: Avoid coral, shells, and turtle products—collection and trade are banned.
- Practical buys: Dry bags, hats, quick-dry wear, insect repellent.
Festive Mood in December
- Christmas & New Year: Lights and events around Marina Park and key hotels; church services are open to visitors with decorum.
- Cultural evenings: Seasonal music or folk performances may be scheduled—check locally.
Nearby Getaways from Port Blair
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach snorkel zone, top diving. Ferries 1.5–2.5 hours; December is prime.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island): Compact, tranquil beaches (Laxmanpur, Bharatpur) with good snorkeling.
- Baratang Island: Limestone caves and a mud volcano; long day trip with early start via the Andaman Trunk Road. Respect all rules through the reserve corridor.
- Diglipur (North Andaman, extended trip): Ross & Smith twin sandbar beach; best with a 2–3 night plan.
How to Reach Port Blair in December
By Air (Recommended)
- Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair.
- Direct/one-stop flights: From Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and others.
- December fares: Peak-season pricing; book early. Approx. INR 8,000–20,000 one-way from major metros (fares vary).
By Sea
- Passenger ships: From Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam; 2–3 days depending on sea conditions.
- Frequency: Limited sailings with basic facilities. Tickets and schedules must be checked well in advance.
- December seas: Generally calmer than monsoon, but weather can still influence departures.
Local Transport
- Within Port Blair: Taxis, auto-rickshaws; limited app-based coverage. Two-wheeler rentals are easier on Havelock/Neil than in Port Blair.
- Inter-island ferries: Government ferries and private catamarans (e.g., Makruzz, Green Ocean). Reserve ahead in December.
Accommodation Options & Estimated Costs
- Budget stays: Guesthouses and homestays from ~INR 1,500–3,000 per night.
- Mid-range hotels: ~INR 3,500–7,500 per night; book early for sea-view rooms.
- Upscale/resorts: ~INR 8,000–20,000+ per night, especially around holidays.
- Peak-season note: Many properties host mandatory Christmas/New Year gala dinners (approx. INR 1,500–5,000+ per person).
- Dining: INR 300–800 per person at casual places; more for seafood platters and fine dining.
- Activities: Snorkeling/glass-bottom ~INR 500–1,500; sea walk ~INR 3,000–4,500; try scuba/intro dive ~INR 3,500–6,000 (prices vary by operator and site).
Travel Tips for December
- Permits and ID: Indian nationals do not need permits for Port Blair/Havelock/Neil. Foreign nationals need a valid Indian visa; most tourist-accessible islands no longer require a separate RAP, but some areas remain restricted. Carry passport/ID at all times.
- Bookings: December is busy—pre-book flights, stays, and inter-island ferries.
- Packing: Light cottons, a thin evening layer, hat, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, dry bag, quick-dry towel, motion-sickness tablets for boat trips, reusable water bottle.
- Cash & connectivity: ATMs exist but can run dry; carry backup cash. 4G works in town; speeds can drop and are patchy on islands.
- Respect the environment: No littering; avoid corals/shells; many parks discourage single-use plastics.
- Safety: Swim in designated areas; heed lifeguards; check tide/wave conditions before snorkeling.
- Photography & drones: Restricted near defense areas and the airport; drone use requires permissions.
- Health: Stay hydrated; mild sun can still burn—reapply sunscreen; consider basic first-aid kit.
Traveler-Specific Advice
Families
- Choose centrally located stays near Aberdeen Bazaar or seafront for easier logistics.
- Prioritize half-day trips (Cellular Jail + Marina Park; Samudrika Museum; Corbyn’s Cove).
- Carry snacks, hats, and life vests for kids on boat trips.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Book sea-view rooms early; consider a sunset at Chidiya Tapu and a day at Jolly Buoy/Red Skin.
- Private seafood dinners and spa sessions are popular; confirm festive-season surcharges.
- If time allows, add 1–2 nights in Havelock for beach time and an intro dive together.
Friends/Backpackers
- Mix budget homestays with activity-heavy days: Ross & North Bay combo, Wandoor reefs, and museum-hopping.
- Rent two-wheelers on Havelock/Neil; in Port Blair, share autos/taxis to save costs.
- Look for shared boat trips to keep activity costs down.
Sample 4-Day December Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive, check in. Afternoon at Cellular Jail; sunset at the seafront. Attend Light & Sound show.
- Day 2: Morning boat to Ross Island; continue to North Bay for snorkeling or sea walk. Evening at Aberdeen Bazaar.
- Day 3: Wandoor to Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (as per opening). Snorkel/glass-bottom rides; return for a relaxed dinner.
- Day 4: Mount Harriet viewpoints in the morning. Late afternoon at Corbyn’s Cove or sunset at Chidiya Tapu. Depart.
Alternative for adventure: Swap Day 3 or 4 for a Baratang day trip (very early start) to see limestone caves.
FAQs about Port Blair in December
Q: Is December a good time to visit Port Blair?
A: Yes. It’s peak season with pleasant weather, calmer seas, and good visibility for snorkeling and diving.
Q: Do I need any special permits?
A: Indian nationals don’t need permits for Port Blair and main tourist islands. Foreign nationals need a valid Indian visa; separate RAP is generally waived for commonly visited islands, though some areas remain restricted. Carry ID.
Q: Are ferries and activities open around Christmas and New Year?
A: Yes, but demand is high and some services may have holiday timings. Book ferries and popular activities in advance.
Q: Can I try scuba diving if I can’t swim?
A: Introductory dives with an instructor are possible for non-swimmers at select sites. Listen to the briefing and disclose any medical conditions.
Q: How expensive is Port Blair in December?
A: Costs rise during peak season. Budget stays from ~INR 1,500–3,000, mid-range ~INR 3,500–7,500, upscale 8,000–20,000+. Activities and gala dinners add to expenses.
Conclusion
With bright skies, inviting seas, and a festive atmosphere, December showcases Port Blair at its best. Explore the Cellular Jail’s poignant history, hop to Ross and North Bay for heritage and reefs, and set aside a day for Wandoor’s marine park. Plan ferries and stays early, pack sun protection, and travel responsibly to make the most of this peak-season window.
