Table of Contents
- Havelock in September: Why Go Now
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit Havelock (With September Snapshot)
- Top Things to Do in September
- How to Reach Havelock
- Accommodation Options in September
- Estimated Trip Costs
- Nearby Attractions and Island Hopping
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Essential Tips for Visiting in September
- FAQs about Havelock in September
- Conclusion
Havelock in September: Why Go Now
Havelock Island (officially Swaraj Dweep) in the Andaman archipelago is a paradise of sugar-white beaches, coral gardens, and lush rainforest. September sits at the tail-end of the monsoon—bringing emerald landscapes, fewer crowds, and attractive hotel rates. While showers are likely, clear spells are frequent, and the ocean often starts settling after peak rains, making this a rewarding, value-friendly time to visit with a little flexibility.
History and Importance
Part of the Ritchie’s Archipelago, Havelock was renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018 to honor Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The island is famed for Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7), repeatedly listed among Asia’s best beaches. Settled largely by communities from mainland India, the island’s economy revolves around eco-tourism, diving, and fishing. Dense mangroves, seagrass meadows, and fringing reefs make it an ecological hotspot—please travel responsibly to protect its fragile marine life.
Best Time to Visit Havelock (With September Snapshot)
Overall seasons:
- November–April (Peak): Dry, sunny, calm seas; best for water clarity and island-hopping.
- May–September (Monsoon): Rainy, humid; lush greenery, lower prices; occasional sea roughness.
- October (Shoulder): Transition month; improving seas and visibility.
September Weather at a Glance
- Temperature: ~26–30°C (warm and humid)
- Rain: Intermittent showers; a few heavy spells possible
- Sea: Can be choppy; ferry delays possible during squalls
- Diving/snorkeling: Visibility typically improving vs. peak monsoon; operations run when conditions permit
- Perks: Fewer crowds, greener landscapes, value deals on stays and activities
Top Things to Do in September
- Radhanagar Beach sunset: Wide, powder-soft sands and dramatic skies after rain-washed afternoons.
- Elephant Beach by boat: Snorkel over vibrant reefs when the sea is calm; try the sea walk if available.
- Scuba diving: Sites like Nemo Reef (beginners), Lighthouse, The Wall, and Johnny’s Gorge (advanced). Book with certified dive centers; trips are weather-dependent.
- Mangrove kayaking (night or sunrise): Glide through silent creeks; possible bioluminescence on dark nights if conditions align.
- Kalapathar Beach sunrise: Moody skies, black rocks, and fewer people—bring a light rain jacket.
- Café-hopping: Beachside cafés in Govind Nagar and Vijay Nagar serve fresh seafood, bakes, and island-roasted coffee.
- Game fishing charters: Operate when seas allow; September is hit-or-miss—check forecasts.
- Nature walks: Short rainforest strolls on clear mornings; avoid muddy trails after heavy rain.
Monsoon note: Forest trails to Elephant Beach can be slippery or closed—boats are safer in this season when permitted.
How to Reach Havelock
Step 1: Fly to Port Blair (IXZ)
- Daily flights from major Indian cities (e.g., Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru).
- Keep a buffer of 1 night in Port Blair in monsoon season to account for ferry changes.
Step 2: Ferry from Port Blair to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Private catamarans: ~90–120 minutes; INR 1,000–1,600 per person (class-dependent).
- Government ferries: ~2–2.5 hours; cheaper but limited seats and schedules.
- September caution: Sea can be choppy; occasional delays/cancellations during squalls. Carry motion-sickness meds.
Local Transport on Havelock
- Scooter rental: INR 500–800/day; carry rain gear and drive slowly on wet roads.
- Auto/cabs: Fixed-route autos and resort taxis available; pre-agree fares in rain/peak hours.
- Bicycles: Pleasant on clear days; avoid during heavy showers.
Accommodation Options in September
September brings softer rates and better availability. Some resorts may undergo maintenance—check in advance.
- Budget stays (INR 1,500–3,000): Simple beach huts and guesthouses around Govind Nagar/Vijay Nagar.
- Mid-range (INR 4,000–8,000): Boutique cottages and beachfront rooms with on-site cafés.
- Luxury (INR 12,000–30,000+): High-end resorts along Radhanagar and secluded coves; spa and upscale dining.
Monsoon-ready room tips: Choose concrete cottages or well-sealed villas, verify in-room drying racks, and ask about backup power and Wi‑Fi stability.
Estimated Trip Costs
Per person, 3 days (indicative)
- Budget: INR 10,000–16,000 (stay 3–4k, food 2.5–4k, ferries/local 2–3k, activities 2–5k)
- Mid-range: INR 18,000–32,000 (stay 8–15k, food 4–6k, ferries/local 3–5k, activities 3–6k)
- Luxury: INR 40,000+ (stay 30k+, premium dining, private transfers, bespoke activities)
Activity price cues (subject to weather/operator)
- Discover Scuba (DSD): INR 3,500–5,500
- Certified fun dive (per dive): INR 4,500–6,500
- Snorkeling boat trip: INR 1,500–2,500
- Sea walk: INR 3,500–4,500
- Night/sunrise kayaking: INR 2,000–3,000
- Scooter rental: INR 500–800/day + fuel
Nearby Attractions and Island Hopping
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Quieter beaches and natural rock formations; 1–2 nights recommended. Ferries operate subject to sea state.
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail and Light & Sound Show, Corbyn’s Cove; good for buffer nights pre/post Havelock.
- Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island): Colonial ruins overrun by banyans; short boat from Port Blair.
- Baratang (day trip from Port Blair): Limestone caves and mangroves—better when rains ease.
Note: Day trips depend on ferry schedules and weather advisories in September.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood: grilled fish, prawn curries, Andaman-style masalas.
- Island cafés: wood-fired pizzas, pancakes, and coffee; many offer vegan/vegetarian options.
- Local flavors: coconut-based dishes, banana flower curries, and seasonal fruit shakes.
Shopping
- Souvenirs: Handicrafts, shell curios (avoid coral/anything from reefs), spices, and island-themed art.
- Where: Market No. 3 and resort boutiques.
Culture & Etiquette
- Dress modestly away from beaches; avoid topless sunbathing.
- Carry cash; ATMs are few and can run out, especially in bad weather.
- Connectivity can be patchy; download maps and keep offline backups.
Essential Tips for Visiting in September
Weather & Safety
- Expect showers; plan outdoor activities in morning windows when skies are clearer.
- Heed lifeguard flags; avoid swimming during rough surf or red-flag conditions.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard; jellyfish are possible—ask locals about conditions.
- Build buffer time (at least half to one day) for ferry/weather disruptions.
Permits & Payments
- Indian nationals do not need special permits for Havelock. Foreign nationals typically complete entry formalities in Port Blair—verify latest rules before travel.
- Carry government ID for ferry boarding and hotel check-in.
- UPI/cards accepted at larger outlets; keep cash for smaller shops and autos.
Packing List for September
- Light rain jacket/poncho, quick-dry clothing, sandals with grip
- Dry bags, waterproof phone case, microfiber towel
- Mosquito repellent, basic meds, motion-sickness tablets
- Reusable bottle, small umbrella, spare power bank
Traveler-Specific Advice
Families
- Choose beachfront stays with in-house dining and backup power.
- Pick gentle activities (short snorkel, kayaking) on calm days; keep indoor options (board games, books).
Honeymooners
- Opt for private cottages and schedule a couples’ dive/sea walk if seas are calm.
- Plan sunset at Radhanagar after rains; book spa slots on rainy afternoons.
Friends/Groups
- Rent scooters for flexibility; split costs on fishing or dive charters.
- Keep one “free” day to absorb weather-related changes.
FAQs about Havelock in September
Q: Is September a good time to visit Havelock?
A: Yes, if you value fewer crowds, greener scenery, and better deals. Expect intermittent rain and occasional ferry or activity rescheduling due to weather.
Q: Do ferries operate regularly in September?
A: Ferries do run, but choppy seas can cause delays or cancellations during squalls. Keep a buffer day and monitor schedules via operators in Port Blair.
Q: Can I scuba dive in September?
A: Generally yes, weather permitting. Visibility often improves compared to peak monsoon months, but specific sites are chosen daily based on conditions.
Q: What should I pack for Havelock in September?
A: Quick-dry clothes, light rain gear, dry bags, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and motion-sickness tablets. Add a waterproof phone case and a spare power bank.
Q: Are the beaches safe for swimming?
A: Swim only when lifeguards deem it safe; avoid rough surf and heed red flags. Consider wearing a rash guard and ask locals about jellyfish on the day.
Conclusion
Visiting Havelock in September rewards patient travelers with lush island scenery, quieter beaches, and softer prices. Plan flexible days, prioritize morning outings, and choose reputable operators for weather-linked activities like diving and snorkeling. With smart packing and a small time buffer, September becomes a scenic, value-rich window to enjoy one of India’s most beautiful islands.
