Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance of Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Havelock in June: Weather & Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do in June
- How to Reach Havelock in June
- Accommodation Options in June
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Travel Tips for June
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- Packing List for June
- Safety & Responsible Travel
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Thinking about Havelock in June? Welcome to Swaraj Dweep (formerly Havelock Island), the Andamans’ most-loved island for powdery white beaches, turquoise lagoons, and coral gardens. June ushers in the southwest monsoon, bringing warm showers, lush greenery, thinner crowds, and pocket-friendlier prices. While sea conditions can be choppy and some water activities run weather-permitting, this is a soulful time to slow down, chase dramatic sunsets at Radhanagar Beach, and wake to rainforest-scented mornings.
History & Importance of Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
Known as Havelock Island during the British era (named after Sir Henry Havelock), the island was officially renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018. It’s famed for Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7), once voted “Best Beach in Asia” by Time magazine (2004). Beyond accolades, the island is vital to the Andamans’ marine biodiversity—home to fringing coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass meadows frequented by turtles and rays—making it a flagship ecotourism destination.
Havelock in June: Weather & Best Time to Visit
June Weather Snapshot
- Temperature: ~24–30°C; high humidity (80–90%).
- Rainfall: Frequent showers with occasional heavy spells; expect 10–15 rainy days.
- Sea conditions: Moderate to rough at times; occasional ferry disruptions.
- Dive/snorkel visibility: Variable, often lower than winter months; still possible on calmer days.
Is June a Good Time for Havelock?
- Pros: Fewer tourists, greener landscapes, attractive hotel rates, serene beaches, moody monsoon sunsets.
- Cons: Choppy seas, activity cancellations possible, higher humidity, intermittent power and network dips.
Overall: June suits slow travelers, honeymooners seeking privacy, budget-conscious explorers, and photographers who love dramatic skies. Activity-focused divers/snorkelers may prefer Oct–Apr, though June can still deliver lovely days between showers.
Top Things to Do in June
1) Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7) – Sunset Ritual
Soft white sand, gentle shore break, and a forested backdrop. Swim only within flagged areas; showers can pass quickly—carry a light rain jacket.
2) Kalapathar Beach – Misty Monsoon Mornings
Go early for sunrise hues, black rock formations, and fewer people. Good for reflective walks and photography when seas are rough elsewhere.
3) Elephant Beach – Snorkel & Weather-Permitting Activities
- Access: By permitted boat (often paused during rough seas) or a forest trek (trail can be muddy in June; wear proper footwear).
- Activities: Snorkeling, glass-bottom boat, sea walk (all subject to sea state and permissions).
4) Mangrove Kayaking (Day or Night)
Monsoon turns creeks lush; guided kayaking is magical. On clear, moonless nights you may spot bioluminescence—nature and tide dependent.
5) Intro Scuba/Dive Fun
Discover Scuba Diving runs when conditions allow; visibility varies but calm pockets often exist around sheltered reefs. Choose reputable shops and be flexible with timing.
6) Cafe Hopping & Spa Days
Govind Nagar and Vijay Nagar have cozy cafes—perfect for monsoon downpours. Opt for massages at resort spas when the sea gets rough.
7) Cycling/Island Drives
Rent a scooter (if rain is light) or hire an auto. Cruise shaded roads between coconut groves, paddy patches, and sleepy villages.
How to Reach Havelock in June
Step 1: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ)
- Direct/connecting flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi (seasonal patterns vary).
- June tip: Keep buffer time on arrival due to potential ferry weather delays.
Step 2: Ferry from Port Blair to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Private ferries: Makruzz, Nautika, Green Ocean, Sea Link (approx. 1.5–2.5 hours).
- Government ferries: Limited seats; slightly longer; book at counters.
- June tip: Services can be rescheduled/cancelled in rough seas—monitor updates and keep an extra day in your plan.
Permits & ID
- Indian nationals: Carry government ID.
- Foreign nationals: Carry passport and Indian visa. Current norms generally allow visits to Port Blair, Swaraj Dweep (Havelock), and Shaheed Dweep (Neil) without a Restricted Area Permit; check latest advisories before travel.
Accommodation Options in June
- Beachfront resorts (Radhanagar, Govind Nagar, Vijay Nagar): Many roll out monsoon discounts.
- Boutique cottages: Garden-view huts with easy beach access.
- Budget guesthouses: Around Govind Nagar market for convenience and eateries.
Indicative June price ranges (per night, double, before tax):
- Budget: ₹1,200–2,500
- Mid-range: ₹3,000–7,000
- Luxury: ₹9,000–25,000+
Check cancellation policies tied to weather/ferry disruptions; confirm in-room ventilation and backup power for humid days.
Estimated Costs
- Ferry (one-way): ₹1,000–3,500 per person (type-dependent).
- Scooter rental: ₹500–800/day; fuel extra.
- Auto-rickshaw rides: ₹200–500 within main areas.
- Meals: ₹300–600 per person at local eateries; ₹800–1,800 at resort restaurants.
- Intro scuba dive: ₹3,500–6,000 (weather-dependent).
- Mangrove kayaking: ₹2,500–3,500.
- Glass-bottom/snorkel boat: ₹700–3,000.
3D/2N budget ballpark (ex-Port Blair flights): Backpacker ₹8k–12k; Mid-range ₹15k–28k; Comfort/Luxury ₹35k+ per couple (accommodation, local transport, meals, activities, ferries).
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food
- Seafood highlights: Grilled fish, tiger prawns, crab masala (ask for sustainable catch).
- Island flavors: Coconut-based curries, Bengali and South Indian influences, fresh tropical fruit.
- Monsoon comfort: Hot chai, fritters, and bakery stops during showers.
Shopping
- Govind Nagar market: Handicrafts, T-shirts, spices, coconut products.
- Avoid buying coral, turtle shell, or illegally harvested shells. Export of such items is prohibited.
Culture
- Settler communities from Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and elsewhere shape language and cuisine.
- Respect beach rules, lifeguard flags, and marine parks; indigenous communities in the Andamans are protected—tours do not visit them.
Nearby Attractions
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island): Day/overnight trip for natural rock bridge, Bharatpur & Laxmanpur beaches. Ferries may be limited in June—plan flexibly.
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross) & North Bay: Popular from Port Blair; mix of colonial ruins and snorkel spots (sea state dependent).
- Long Island & Lalaji Bay: More offbeat; best saved for calmer months unless you have ample buffer days.
Travel Tips for June
- Build buffer: Keep 1 spare day at the start/end for ferry weather changes.
- Flexible plans: Book activities with “weather-permitting” policies and easy rescheduling.
- Cash & connectivity: Carry some cash; ATMs exist but can run dry. 4G works in pockets but expect slowdowns in rain.
- Health: Stay hydrated; pack motion-sickness meds for ferries; use reef-safe sunscreen and a rash-guard for jellyfish protection.
- Footwear: Sturdy sandals/water shoes for slippery trails and rocky patches.
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Pick resorts with easy beach access and on-site dining.
- Choose calm-window swims; avoid deep water in rough seas.
- Carry snacks, ponchos, and board games for rainy spells.
Honeymooners
- Opt for beachfront cottages near Radhanagar or quiet stretches of Vijay Nagar.
- Schedule a couples’ spa on rain-heavy afternoons.
- Plan a private candlelight dinner on weather-friendly nights.
Friends/Backpackers
- Share scooters and pick centrally located guesthouses.
- Slot high-priority activities early; keep backups like kayaking or cafe crawls.
- Watch tides and flags before attempting swims or snorkels.
Packing List for June
- Light rain jacket/poncho, quick-dry clothing.
- Waterproof phone pouch, dry bag.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
- Insect repellent, basic meds, motion-sickness tablets.
- Rash guard, water shoes, microfiber towel.
- Spare power bank; photocopies of IDs.
Safety & Responsible Travel
- Heed lifeguards and red/yellow flags; avoid swimming during strong currents or storms.
- Never touch or stand on corals; keep safe distance from marine life.
- Carry back all trash; avoid single-use plastics.
- Verify operator certifications for scuba and kayaking; wear life jackets.
- Travel insurance that covers weather disruptions and water sports is recommended.
FAQs
Q: Is Havelock good to visit in June?
A: Yes, if you enjoy lush scenery, fewer crowds, and value-friendly stays. Expect showers and occasional activity cancellations due to rough seas; keep plans flexible.
Q: Do ferries run reliably in June?
A: Most services operate, but schedules can change with weather. Build 1 buffer day and monitor operator updates.
Q: Can I scuba dive in June on Havelock?
A: Diving often runs on calmer days, though visibility typically dips versus winter months. Choose reputable dive shops and be open to rescheduling.
Q: Which beach is best during monsoon?
A: Radhanagar is excellent for sunsets and walks, while Kalapathar is great at sunrise. Always follow safety flags before entering the water.
Q: Do foreigners need a permit for Havelock?
A: Current norms generally allow visits to Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil (Shaheed Dweep) without a Restricted Area Permit, but foreign nationals must carry a valid passport and Indian visa. Check the latest official advisory before travel.
Conclusion
Havelock in June is a quietly enchanting monsoon escape: verdant forests, uncrowded sands, and moody seascapes between warm showers. While seas can be capricious, thoughtful planning—buffer days, flexible activity slots, and monsoon-ready packing—unlocks a restorative island experience rich in color, calm, and coastal charm.
