Table of Contents
- Introduction
- About Havelock Island: Context & Importance
- Car Rental Landscape in Havelock Island
- Best Time to Visit (for driving and beach days)
- Top Things To Do and Getting Around
- Nearby Islands and Attractions
- How to Reach Havelock Island
- Where to Stay on Havelock
- Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Tips & Safety for Different Travelers
- Sample Daily Budget
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Planning your Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) itinerary and wondering how to get around? While “car rentals in Havelock Island” is a popular search, the on-ground reality is unique: the island has few cars, compact roads fringed by forests, and a relaxed pace. This guide explains exactly what transport options exist, how to arrange them, what they cost, and the best way to reach iconic spots like Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach—safely and efficiently.
About Havelock Island: Context & Importance
Havelock Island, part of India’s Andaman & Nicobar archipelago, is famed for powdery beaches, turquoise lagoons, and some of the country’s best diving. Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) regularly appears on “best beaches in Asia” lists, while Elephant Beach offers easy-access snorkeling.
Why transport matters here:
- Roads are narrow, shaded by tropical forest, and largely two-lane without medians.
- Distances are short (10–16 km end-to-end), making two-wheelers and taxis more practical than cars.
- Conservation and limited infrastructure mean fewer vehicles and slower speeds, which preserves the island’s serenity.
Car Rental Landscape in Havelock Island
Is self-drive car rental available?
Self-drive car rentals for tourists are extremely limited to nearly non-existent on Havelock Island. Most visitors rely on:
- Taxi cars with driver (point-to-point or full-day)
- Scooter/motorbike rentals (self-drive)
- Bicycles or e-bikes
- Hotel-arranged electric buggies/carts for short transfers (where available)
Bringing a private vehicle by ferry is not feasible for most travelers. Vehicle ferries are limited and prioritize residents and essential services.
Types of rentals and transfers
- Taxis with driver: Hatchbacks and SUVs for jetty pick-ups, beach drops, sunset runs, and full-day hire.
- Scooters (self-drive): The most flexible and popular option for couples and friends due to short island distances.
- Bicycles/E-bikes: Great for short hops between beach stretches and markets; slower but scenic.
- Hotel/resort transfers: Many stays include paid or complimentary jetty transfers and Radhanagar drop-offs.
- Shared jeeps/auto-rickshaws: Operate on the main Govind Nagar–Radhanagar axis; availability varies by season and time of day.
Documents & eligibility
- For scooters (self-drive): Valid motorcycle/scooter category on your driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) helps if your license isn’t in English.
- For taxis with driver: No special document beyond standard photo ID for hotel/jetty transfers.
- Minimum age: Typically 18+ for two-wheeler rentals (operator-dependent).
- Deposit: Cash deposit and original ID/photocopy are commonly required by scooter rental shops.
Typical costs (2025)
- Taxis with driver:
- Jetty to Govind Nagar hotel: ₹200–₹500
- Hotel to Radhanagar Beach (one-way): ₹300–₹700
- Half-day local sightseeing: ₹1,500–₹2,500
- Full-day hire (8 hrs/80 km): ₹3,000–₹4,500 (vehicle type dependent)
- Scooters (self-drive): ₹500–₹900 per day; fuel extra (petrol often ₹100–₹120/litre on islands)
- Bicycles/E-bikes: ₹200–₹400 per day (bicycles); ₹400–₹800 (e-bikes)
- Electric buggies/golf carts: Availability limited via select resorts; rates vary widely. Information not available.
Note: Prices vary by season, vehicle model, and negotiation. Always confirm inclusions (helmet, fuel, taxes, waiting charges).
How to book
- Through your hotel/resort: Reliable for taxis and scooters; they usually work with vetted operators.
- Local rental shops: Clustered around the main market (Govind Nagar). Visit, inspect, and check brakes/lights.
- Phone/WhatsApp listings: Used widely; get written confirmation of rates, hours, and pick-up point.
- On arrival at jetty: Taxi counters and independent drivers are present; compare prices before finalizing.
Best Time to Visit (for driving and beach days)
- November–April (Peak-Best): Dry, sunny, calmer seas—best for scooters, diving, and long beach days.
- May–September (Monsoon): Heavy rain and sporadic squalls; roads can be slick; ferry schedules may face disruptions.
- October & late April (Shoulder): Good balance of weather and availability.
Divers often prefer January–April for visibility. Sunsets at Radhanagar are spectacular year-round on clear days.
Top Things To Do and Getting Around
- Radhanagar Beach (No. 7): Best at sunset. Reach by taxi or scooter; parking available near entrance.
- Elephant Beach: Boat trip from Havelock Jetty or a marked forest trek. Taxis drop at jetty/trek trailhead.
- Kalapathar Beach: Quiet sunrise spot with shaded stretches; easy scooter ride from Govind Nagar.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Dive centers provide transport from shop to sites/jetties.
- Bioluminescence (seasonal): Guided night kayak tours; operators include pick-up in packages.
Nearby Islands and Attractions
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Short ferry ride; great for day trips or overnights.
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail, museums, and city markets; gateway for flights.
- Long Island/Rangat (via ferries): Less-touristed for nature lovers. Schedules vary; check locally.
Cars and scooters from Havelock cannot be taken on passenger ferries. Arrange local transport separately at each island.
How to Reach Havelock Island
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Daily flights from major Indian cities.
- Ferry to Havelock: Government and private catamarans (e.g., Makruzz, ITT Majestic, Green Ocean) take ~1.5–2.5 hours.
- Ferry booking tips: Book early in peak season; carry printed or digital tickets and valid ID; arrive 45–60 minutes before departure.
There is no bridge to Havelock. Sea conditions can affect schedules; keep flexibility on travel days.
Where to Stay on Havelock
- Budget (Govind Nagar/Market): Hostels and guesthouses; ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night.
- Mid-range (Beachfront cottages): Good amenities near dive shops; ₹3,000–₹8,000 per night.
- Premium/Luxury (Radhanagar & secluded coves): Upscale villas and resorts; ₹12,000–₹30,000+ per night.
Many properties arrange jetty transfers and beach drops—ask at booking time.
Food, Shopping, and Culture
- Food: Fresh seafood, island-style curries, and casual beach cafes. Vegan and vegetarian options are increasingly common.
- Shopping: Small market shops selling handicrafts, shell art, and beachwear. Avoid buying coral or protected marine life items.
- Culture: Relaxed island vibe with a strong eco-conservation ethic; respect quiet zones, beaches, and no-litter norms.
Tips & Safety for Different Travelers
Families
- Child seats are rarely available; bring a portable booster if needed.
- Prefer taxis with driver for safety and convenience; confirm AC and seatbelts.
- Carry snacks, water, and sun protection; distances are short but services sparse between beaches.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Scooters offer freedom for sunrise/sunset runs; always wear helmets.
- Choose resorts that include transfers and beach shuttles for a smoother experience.
- Night roads are unlit—avoid late rides after dinner when visibility drops.
Friends/Backpackers
- Split full-day taxi costs for affordable comfort, or rent scooters for flexibility.
- Download offline maps; mobile data can be patchy outside the market area.
- Keep some cash; ATMs exist but can run out or be offline.
Packing pointers (transport-focused)
- Valid driving license (and IDP if your license isn’t in English) for scooters.
- Polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, compact rain jacket (Nov–Apr sun; May–Sep showers).
- Power bank and headlamp for evening strolls; roads are dimly lit.
- Reusable water bottle; hydration is key under tropical sun.
Sample Daily Budget
- Shoestring (scooter + local eats): ₹1,000–₹1,800 (scooter ₹600 + fuel ₹150 + meals ₹600–₹1,000 + misc.)
- Comfort (taxi + mid-range meals): ₹2,500–₹4,500 (taxi local runs/half-day ₹1,500–₹2,500 + meals ₹1,000–₹1,500 + misc.)
- Convenience (full-day taxi): ₹3,500–₹6,000 (full-day hire + meals + entry/activities)
Accommodation is additional; see “Where to Stay” for nightly ranges.
FAQs
Q: Are self-drive car rentals available in Havelock Island?
A: Generally no. Self-drive cars are extremely limited to unavailable for tourists. Most travelers use taxis with drivers or rent scooters.
Q: Can I take a rental scooter or car on the ferry to other islands?
A: No. Passenger ferries do not allow tourist vehicles. Rent separately on each island and use local transfers.
Q: Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a scooter?
A: If your license is in English and valid for two-wheelers, many shops accept it. An IDP is recommended for non-English licenses and smoother verification.
Q: Is fuel easy to find on Havelock?
A: There are limited fuel outlets near the market area with specific hours. Top up in advance and don’t rely on late evening availability.
Q: Are ride-hailing apps like Uber/Ola available?
A: No. Book taxis locally through your hotel, drivers, or counters at the jetty.
Conclusion
On Havelock Island, traditional self-drive car rentals are not the norm. Instead, the island’s scale and eco-focused pace make taxis with drivers and scooters the most practical choices. With short distances, careful planning around ferry timings, and realistic cost expectations, getting around is straightforward—leaving you free to chase sunsets at Radhanagar, snorkel at Elephant Beach, and enjoy the island’s laid-back charm.
