Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), Andaman – Tourism FAQs

Officially renamed Shaheed Dweep, but widely known as Neil Island, this small, serene island in the Andaman archipelago is famous for calm lagoons, coral reefs, and unhurried village life. Below is a comprehensive, traveler-friendly FAQ to help you plan a smooth, responsible, and memorable trip.

General & Planning

Where is Neil Island and how big is it?

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) lies about 37–40 km northeast of Port Blair, between Port Blair and Havelock (Swaraj Dweep). It’s compact—roughly 13 square km—so you can cover the main sights comfortably in 1–2 days.

What is Neil Island best known for?

• Bharatpur Beach: Turquoise lagoon, best for swimming, snorkeling, glass-bottom boats.
• Laxmanpur Beach I & II: Expansive sunset views and tidal pools.
• Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge): Striking rock formation revealed best at low tide.
• Sitapur Beach: Gorgeous sunrise point with dramatic surf.

How many days do I need?

1 night/2 days is sufficient for highlights; 2 nights if you want relaxed beach time, diving, or multiple snorkel sessions.

Getting There & Around

How do I reach Neil Island from Port Blair or Havelock?

• Ferries are the only practical option. Routes operate Port Blair ↔ Neil and Neil ↔ Havelock.
• Government ferries: Budget-friendly, fewer seats, book early via counters or the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) portal (availability varies).
• Private catamarans: Faster, pricier. Popular operators include Makruzz, Green Ocean, Nautika (and seasonal others). Book online or via agents.

Typical sail times

• Port Blair → Neil: ~1–2 hours (vessel-dependent)
• Neil → Havelock: ~1 hour

Tip: Ferries are daytime only; plan flights to connect with ferry schedules. Always carry a government-issued photo ID to board.

What’s the best way to get around Neil Island?

• Scooter/bike rentals: Most convenient and popular. Carry helmet; drive defensively.
• Bicycles: Great for slow travel; terrain is mostly flat with gentle inclines.
• Auto-rickshaws: Easy point-to-point option; agree on fares beforehand.

No app cabs on the island. Roads are narrow—be mindful of pedestrians, stray animals, and cyclists.

Best Time & Weather

When should I visit?

• Oct–May: Best weather and sea conditions; peak season is Dec–Feb.
• Jun–Sep (Monsoon): Lush, but seas can be rough, some water activities may pause, and ferries may be delayed or canceled.

What’s the climate like?

Tropical year-round: ~24–32°C. Humid. Expect occasional showers even outside the monsoon. Pack light, breathable clothing.

Permits & Entry Rules

Do I need a permit to visit Neil Island?

• Indian nationals: No special permit required.
• Foreign nationals: Rules can change; historically a Restricted/Protected Area Permit regime applies in the Andamans. Most tourists obtain permissions on arrival in Port Blair. Carry passport/visa at all times and check the latest guidance with Andaman Tourism or your airline before travel.

Nicobar Islands remain off-limits to general tourism.

Beaches & Activities

Which beaches are best for swimming and sunsets?

• Best for swimming: Bharatpur Beach (shallow, calm lagoon; watch your footing around corals).
• Best sunsets: Laxmanpur Beach I (wide sandy stretch; arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset).
• Best sunrise: Sitapur Beach (often with stronger waves; swim with caution).

What can I do on Neil Island?

• Snorkeling: Bharatpur’s lagoon; join a guided session for safety and reef etiquette.
• Scuba diving: Suitable for beginners and certified divers; reputable dive shops operate seasonally.
• Glass-bottom boat rides: For a dry look at corals and fish—ideal for families.
• Tidal pool walks at Natural Bridge: Best at low tide with a local guide who knows safe paths and marine life.
• Cycling through villages and farms; photography; beach hopping.

Safety notes: Always check tide times, heed local advisories, avoid stepping on corals, and never venture into rough seas. Jellyfish can appear, especially in monsoon—wear a rashguard.

Tides & Timing

When should I visit the Natural Bridge?

At low tide only. The formation and tidal pools are safely accessible then. Ask your hotel or a guide for the daily tide chart and best window.

Accommodation & Booking

Where should I stay?

• Near Bharatpur/Laxmanpur: Easy beach access and dining options.
• Budget to boutique eco-resorts: Beach huts, cottages, and small resorts are common.

Book early for Dec–Feb and long weekends. Many properties have backup generators due to occasional power cuts.

Food & Drink

What food is available?

• Seafood (catch-dependent), Indian (Bengali, South Indian, North Indian), some Continental/Asian.
• Vegetarian options available at most eateries; vegan choices improving but still limited—ask in advance.

Is alcohol available?

Yes, but limited. Licensed outlets (government/ANIIDCO) and some resorts serve alcohol. Public drinking on beaches is discouraged and may attract fines; always dispose of bottles responsibly.

Costs & Money

What are typical costs?

• Ferry: Govt ~₹300–600; private ~₹1,000–1,800+ (class/season-dependent).
• Scooter rental: ~₹500–700 per day (+ fuel).
• Glass-bottom: ~₹500–1,000 for short rides.
• Dive (intro): Often ₹3,500–6,000+ depending on duration/operator.

Prices vary by season; check and reconfirm on the spot.

Are ATMs and digital payments reliable?

There are a few ATMs (often around Neil Kendra/Bazaar) but they can run out of cash. Many shops accept UPI/cards, but mobile internet can be patchy. Carry adequate cash as backup.

Connectivity & Utilities

How is mobile network and internet?

BSNL, Airtel, and Jio have coverage, improved after the undersea fiber link to Port Blair. Still, expect spotty 4G, especially during bad weather or in remote stretches. Download essentials offline.

Electricity & plugs

Standard Indian 230V. Plugs Type C/D/M. Power cuts can occur; many hotels have generators. A power bank is handy.

Safety, Health & Responsible Travel

Is Neil Island safe?

Yes—low crime and friendly locals. Usual travel common sense applies: secure valuables, avoid unlit areas late at night, and follow beach safety signage.

Any marine or wildlife concerns?

• Currents: Obey lifeguards and flags; when in doubt, do not swim.
• Jellyfish/Sea urchins: Wear water shoes or a rashguard; shuffle feet in shallow coral areas.
• Crocodiles: Rare in the tourist zones, but always respect local advisories and signage.

Medical facilities?

There’s a primary health center on the island; for advanced care you’ll be referred to Port Blair. For diving-related emergencies, the hyperbaric chamber is in Port Blair—declare any medical conditions to your dive operator.

Environmental rules to know

• No touching/standing on corals; avoid collecting shells or marine life.
• No littering; minimize single-use plastics. Carry your trash out.
• Drones: Require proper DGCA registration and local permissions; don’t fly near people, jetties, or sensitive zones.

Sunscreen etiquette

Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat and UV clothing, and hydrate well.

Local Culture & Practicalities

What languages are spoken?

Hindi and Bengali are common; Tamil and English are widely understood in tourism settings.

Dress code and etiquette?

Beachwear is fine at beaches; dress modestly in villages and markets. Always ask before photographing people.

Can I rent gear on the island?

Yes. Snorkels, fins, life jackets, and scooters/bicycles are rented by shops near beaches or Neil Bazaar. Inspect equipment and confirm prices upfront.

Itineraries & Tips

Sample 2-day plan

• Day 1: Morning ferry to Neil → Check-in → Afternoon at Bharatpur Beach (swim/snorkel) → Sunset at Laxmanpur I.
• Day 2: Sunrise at Sitapur Beach → Low-tide visit to Natural Bridge with guide → Leisurely lunch → Ferry to Havelock or Port Blair.

Family and senior-friendly?

Yes. Choose Bharatpur for gentle waters and easy access. Tidal pools and rocky sections may be slippery—wear proper footwear. Prams/strollers are tough on sand; consider a carrier.

Solo traveler tips

Neil is laid-back and safe. Day tours, dive trips, and shared autos make it easy to meet fellow travelers. Book the first ferry/room night in advance during peak season.

Booking & Logistics FAQs

How do I book government vs private ferries?

• Government: Book at DSS counters in Port Blair or via the official portal when available. Carry ID; tickets sell out fast in peak season.
• Private: Book online on operator websites or through travel agents/hotel desks. Arrive at the jetty 45–60 minutes early for check-in.

What documents should I carry?

• Indians: Government photo ID for ferries/hotel check-in.
• Foreigners: Passport, visa, and any permit paperwork as applicable.

Can ferries get canceled?

Yes—due to weather or operational reasons, especially in monsoon. Keep buffer time in your itinerary and avoid tight flight connections on the same day.

Packing Checklist (Quick)

• Light clothing, swimwear, quick-dry towel
• Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Water shoes/rashguard; basic first-aid and any personal meds
• Power bank; universal adapter
• Waterproof phone pouch/dry bag
• Cash backup; copies of IDs

Good to Know

• Time zone: IST (UTC+5:30)
• Beaches are free; guides at Natural Bridge are optional but recommended.
• Sun is strong even on cloudy days—reapply sunscreen.
• Leave no trace: Take back what you bring, including cigarette butts and wrappers.

Final Word

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) is all about unhurried moments—clear lagoons, fiery sunsets, and quiet lanes lined with palms and paddy. Plan with tides and ferries in mind, travel light on the environment, and you’ll find the island’s charm reveals itself effortlessly.