Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities and Places for Adventure
- Tourist Circuits and Routes
- Adventure Activities in the Andamans
- Best Time to Visit for Adventure
- Festivals and Events
- Suggested Adventure Itineraries
- How to Reach
- Where to Stay and Approx Costs
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Practical Tips and Packing by Traveler Type
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Adventure Sports in the Andaman Islands: A Complete Guide
Emerald forests, sugar-white beaches, and lagoons so clear you can count starfish from the boat—Andaman & Nicobar Islands are India’s tropical playground. Whether you dream of your first scuba dive, paddling through glowing mangroves, or trekking to the highest peak in the archipelago, this guide distills the best adventure sports, where to try them, when to go, and how much to budget. Short, practical, and packed with local insights—everything you need to plan an unforgettable Andaman adventure.
Top Cities and Places for Adventure
Port Blair (Gateway & Water Sports Hub)
- Why go: Entry point with reliable infrastructure, museums, and nearby adventure spots.
- Signature adventures: Sea walk and snorkeling at North Bay; jet ski and parasailing at Corbyn’s Cove; glass-bottom rides to Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (Marine National Park).
- Good for: First-timers, families, short stays.
Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
- Why go: India’s premier dive island with calm bays and famous Radhanagar Beach.
- Signature adventures: Scuba (beginner to advanced), snorkeling at Elephant Beach, mangrove kayaking (including bioluminescence nights).
- Good for: Divers, honeymooners, friends’ trips.
Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island)
- Why go: Laid-back vibe, coral gardens close to shore.
- Signature adventures: Snorkeling, easy shore dives, cycling to natural bridges and quiet coves.
- Good for: Beginners, slow travelers.
North Bay Island (near Port Blair)
- Why go: Quick day trip for water sports.
- Signature adventures: Sea walk, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat.
- Good for: Time-crunched travelers.
Baratang & Middle Andaman
- Why go: Limestone caves, mangrove creeks, mud volcanoes.
- Signature adventures: Speedboat through mangroves, caving and short treks.
- Good for: Nature lovers, photographers.
Diglipur (North Andaman)
- Why go: Raw, less-visited landscapes and Andamans’ highest peak.
- Signature adventures: Trekking to Saddle Peak (732 m), twin-island walk at Ross & Smith, snorkeling.
- Good for: Offbeat explorers, trekkers.
Little Andaman (Hut Bay)
- Why go: Surf breaks, waterfalls, and rustic charm.
- Signature adventures: Surfing lessons, beach camping (where permitted), scooter rides to lagoons and falls.
- Good for: Surfers, backpackers.
Long Island & Lalaji Bay
- Why go: Tranquil forests and clear-water bays.
- Signature adventures: Trekking, snorkeling, kayaking.
- Good for: Quiet, nature-first stays.
Wandoor & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
- Why go: Pristine reefs around Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (seasonal).
- Signature adventures: Snorkeling, glass-bottom rides, strict no-plastic conservation experience.
- Good for: Families, eco-travelers.
Tourist Circuits and Routes
Classic Southern Circuit (4–6 days): Port Blair → Havelock → Neil → Port Blair
- Flow: Fly into Port Blair → ferry to Havelock → day trip to Elephant Beach → ferry to Neil → return to Port Blair.
- Why: Smooth connections, top beaches, beginner-friendly water sports.
- Ferry times: 1.5–2.5 hours each leg (private catamarans are faster).
Northern Andamans Circuit (6–9 days): Port Blair → Baratang → Rangat → Diglipur → Port Blair
- Flow: Road journey with mangrove creeks, caves, and Saddle Peak trek.
- Why: Offbeat, wilder scenery, fewer crowds.
- Drive time: Port Blair to Diglipur ~10–12 hours with stops (often split overnight).
Little Andaman Extension (2–3 days added)
- Flow: Port Blair → Hut Bay (ferry/boat) → explore surf beaches and waterfalls → return.
- Note: Connections are less frequent; plan buffer days and check sea conditions.
Adventure Activities in the Andamans
Scuba Diving
Best Spots
- Havelock: Nemo Reef (beginners), Johnny’s Gorge, Dixon’s Pinnacle (advanced)
- Neil: Margherita’s Mischief, Lighthouse (calm conditions)
- Port Blair vicinity: Chidiya Tapu, North Bay (select operators)
Details
- Who can do: Non-swimmers can try Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) in shallow, instructor-controlled sites.
- Duration: 3–4 hours for DSD; 40–50 minutes underwater per dive. Certification courses take 3–4 days (Open Water).
- Season: Oct–May; peak visibility Jan–Apr.
- Approx cost: INR 3,500–6,500 for DSD; INR 3,500–6,000 per fun dive (certified); INR 28,000–40,000 for Open Water course.
- Tips: Choose reputable, SSI/PADI-affiliated shops; ask about group size and safety gear.
Snorkeling
- Where: Elephant Beach (Havelock), Neil’s reef flats, Jolly Buoy/Red Skin, North Bay.
- Best for: Families and first-timers; shallow coral gardens with good light.
- Approx cost: INR 800–2,500 depending on site/boat transfers and guide quality.
Sea Walk
- Where: North Bay (near Port Blair) and Elephant Beach (Havelock).
- Good to know: Helmet provides air; no swimming skills needed.
- Approx cost: INR 3,500–4,500 per person (15–20 minutes on seabed plus briefings).
Mangrove Kayaking & Bioluminescence
- Where: Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) creeks; occasional tours in Port Blair/Neil.
- When: Evening/night paddles around new moon for best bioluminescence.
- Approx cost: INR 2,000–3,500 for 2–3 hours with guide.
Parasailing & Jet Ski
- Where: Corbyn’s Cove (Port Blair), Havelock.
- Approx cost: Parasailing INR 3,000–4,500; Jet Ski INR 600–1,200 (5–10 minutes).
Trekking
- Saddle Peak (Diglipur): Full-day, strenuous; panoramic views. Guide recommended (permits at entry).
- Mount Harriet trails (near Port Blair): Moderate forest walks with fauna sightings.
- Elephant Beach trail (Havelock): Easy 30–45 minutes through forest (check local advisories).
- Approx cost: Guide INR 1,500–3,000 per group, plus permits if applicable.
Surfing (Seasonal)
- Where: Little Andaman (Butler Bay and nearby beaches).
- Season: Typically Nov–Mar; check local swell forecasts and operator availability.
- Approx cost: Lessons/board hire INR 3,000–5,000 per day.
Game Fishing
- Where: Off Havelock/Port Blair with licensed charters.
- Season: Fair seas Oct–May; early mornings preferred.
- Approx cost: INR 12,000–25,000 for half-day boat (varies by size/gear/inclusions).
Glass-Bottom Boat & Semi-Submarine Rides
- Where: North Bay; Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (seasonal).
- Approx cost: INR 600–1,800 per person depending on duration and vessel type.
Caving & Mangrove Creeks
- Where: Baratang limestone caves via speedboat through mangroves.
- Notes: Start early; expect a combination of road and boat transfers.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding & Coastal Camping
- Where: Select bays in Havelock/Neil; camping only with permissions and designated operators.
- Note: Follow Leave No Trace; some beaches have restrictions.
Best Time to Visit for Adventure
- Peak window: Nov–Apr for calm seas, high visibility (best for diving/snorkeling).
- Shoulder: Oct and May offer good conditions with fewer crowds; warmer water in May.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Rough seas; many water activities curtailed; lush landscapes for offbeat travelers.
Festivals and Events
- Island Tourism Festival (Port Blair): Typically held in January; cultural shows, food stalls, exhibits.
- Beach & Local Fairs: Occasional beach festivals and melas on Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep celebrating local crafts and cuisine.
- Marine Park Season: Jolly Buoy/Red Skin open on a rotational, seasonal basis; plan ahead for permits and plastic-free rules.
Suggested Adventure Itineraries
4 Days: First-Time Highlights
- Day 1: Arrive Port Blair; Cellular Jail visit; sunset at Corbyn’s Cove; optional jet ski.
- Day 2: Ferry to Havelock; afternoon Discover Scuba or snorkeling; beach time at Radhanagar.
- Day 3: Morning Elephant Beach (snorkel/sea walk); evening bioluminescence kayak.
- Day 4: Return to Port Blair; North Bay glass-bottom or museum time; fly out.
6 Days: Balanced Adventure
- Day 1: Port Blair city and water sports.
- Day 2–3: Havelock diving (2 dives) and beach time; night kayak.
- Day 4: Ferry to Neil; snorkeling and cycling to natural bridges.
- Day 5: Return Port Blair; Jolly Buoy/Red Skin (if open) for pristine reefs.
- Day 6: Buffer morning; departure.
9–10 Days: Advanced & Offbeat
- Days 1–2: Port Blair + North Bay/Marine Park.
- Days 3–5: Havelock advanced dives (e.g., Dixon’s/Johnny’s Gorge) or Open Water course.
- Day 6: Neil Island snorkeling/shores.
- Days 7–8: Drive to Diglipur; Saddle Peak trek; Ross & Smith sandbar.
- Day 9–10: Return to Port Blair; buffer and fly out.
How to Reach
- By air (recommended): Direct flights to Port Blair (IXZ) from Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, and seasonal routes. Flight time 2–3.5 hours from mainland hubs.
- By sea (limited, long): Infrequent government passenger ships from Chennai/Kolkata/Visakhapatnam take ~2–3 days; basic amenities; schedules subject to change. Not ideal for short trips.
- Inter-island transport: Government ferries and private catamarans (e.g., Havelock/Neil). Book early in peak season. Typical fares INR 400–1,600 per leg.
- Local mobility: Autos and taxis in Port Blair; scooter rentals on Havelock/Neil (INR 500–700/day); limited rides late night.
Where to Stay and Approx Costs
- Port Blair: Stay near Aberdeen Bazaar for access, or Corbyn’s Cove for beach vibes.
- Havelock (Swaraj Dweep): Govind Nagar/Vijay Nagar for dive shops; Radhanagar for tranquil resorts.
- Neil (Shaheed Dweep): Near Bharatpur Beach for snorkeling and ferry access.
- Budget range (per night):
- Budget stays: INR 1,200–2,500 (guesthouses, simple beach huts)
- Mid-range: INR 3,500–7,000 (boutique resorts, AC cottages)
- Upscale: INR 9,000–25,000+ (premium beach resorts)
- Peak season: Dec–Feb and around long weekends see surcharges; book early.
Estimated Trip Costs
- Backpacker (5–6 days): INR 22,000–40,000 (hostels/guesthouses, government ferries, 1–2 paid activities)
- Mid-range (6–7 days): INR 55,000–95,000 (nice resorts, private ferries, 2–4 activities incl. scuba)
- Premium (6–7 days): INR 1.2–2.2 lakh (upscale stays, multiple dives, private charters/transfers)
Typical activity prices: DSD scuba INR 3,500–6,500; snorkel trip INR 800–2,500; sea walk INR 3,500–4,500; kayak INR 2,000–3,500; parasail INR 3,000–4,500; game fishing half-day INR 12,000–25,000.
Food, Shopping, and Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood: grilled fish, prawns, lobster (seasonal). Ask for catch-of-the-day.
- Influences: Bengali, South Indian, and island-style curries with coconut.
- Vegetarian/vegan: Widespread in Port Blair/Havelock; confirm egg/dairy if needed.
- Hydration: Tropical heat—carry refillable bottles; many cafes offer refills.
Shopping
- Aberdeen Bazaar (Port Blair): spices, coconut products, local handicrafts, bamboo/woodwork.
- Avoid buying:
- Corals, shells, turtle products—protected and illegal to collect or purchase.
Culture & Etiquette
- Historic sites: Cellular Jail, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, Anthropological Museum.
- Respect no-contact policies with indigenous tribes and do not enter tribal reserves.
- Dress modestly in villages; beachwear is fine on beaches/dive boats.
Practical Tips and Packing by Traveler Type
Essentials for Everyone
- Reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, quick-dry towel, hat, polarized sunglasses.
- Waterproof phone pouch, dry bag, basic first-aid and seasickness tablets.
- Cash buffer: ATMs are limited outside Port Blair/Havelock; digital payments improving but not universal.
- Connectivity: 4G in Port Blair/Havelock (Jio/Airtel); patchy elsewhere.
- Permits & rules: Some islands/parks need entry tickets; drones require prior permission; plastic strictly banned on select islands like Jolly Buoy.
Families
- Pick calm-water activities: glass-bottom rides, sea walk, easy snorkeling with life jackets.
- Choose resorts with on-site access to safe beaches and in-house activity desks.
- Pack snacks and kid-sized masks; schedule naps around boat timings.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Sunset beaches (Radhanagar), private bioluminescence kayak, couple dives/photos (book in advance).
- Upgrade transfers to private ferries for comfort; plan a leisurely day with no activities.
Friends/Groups
- Bundle activities: multi-dive packages, group kayak tours, charter a fishing boat to split costs.
- Scooter rentals for flexibility; designate a navigator and plan fuel stops.
Safety & Sustainability
- Always follow guide instructions; currents and marine life must be respected—no touching corals or turtles.
- Check weather windows, especially Nov–Jan and May when squalls can pop up.
- Carry back all waste; refill bottles; avoid single-use plastics.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to visit Andaman for water sports?
A: November to April offers the calmest seas and best visibility. October and May are good shoulder months. Many water activities reduce or stop during the monsoon (June–September).
Q: Can non-swimmers try scuba diving in the Andamans?
A: Yes. Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) is designed for beginners and non-swimmers, conducted in shallow, controlled sites with an instructor. After safety briefings, you’re guided one-on-one underwater.
Q: What are typical costs for popular activities?
A: Approximate per-person prices: DSD scuba INR 3,500–6,500; snorkeling INR 800–2,500; sea walk INR 3,500–4,500; kayak INR 2,000–3,500; parasailing INR 3,000–4,500; glass-bottom INR 600–1,800.
Q: Do I need special permits to visit islands and marine parks?
A: Most tourist islands (Port Blair, Havelock, Neil) don’t require special permits for Indian citizens. Specific sites like Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park require entry tickets, and some areas remain restricted. Always carry ID; foreigners should check the latest advisory before travel.
Q: How reliable is mobile data and card payment?
A: Port Blair and Havelock have the best 4G coverage and digital payments. Neil and North Andaman can be patchy—carry cash and download offline maps/tickets.
Conclusion
From world-class reefs in Havelock to glowing mangroves and rainforest treks up Saddle Peak, the Andaman Islands blend easy-access thrills with true wilderness. Time your visit for clear seas between November and April, base yourself around Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil for smooth logistics, and budget smartly for a couple of signature experiences—scuba, sea walk, or a night kayak. Pack light, travel responsibly, and let the islands’ lagoons, forests, and skies do the rest.
