Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do
- How to Reach
- Getting Around
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Tips for Travelers
- Tailored Tips by Traveler Type
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Havelock Island, officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is the Andaman archipelago’s poster child for powdery white beaches, teal lagoons, and thriving coral reefs. World-famous Radhanagar Beach has been crowned among Asia’s best, while Elephant Beach and Kalapathar promise snorkeling, kayaking through mangroves, and quiet sunrise moments. This guide covers the essentials—best time, how to reach, things to do, where to stay, costs, and practical tips—so you can plan a smooth, responsible island escape.
History & Importance
Formerly named after British General Henry Havelock, the island was officially renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018 to honor India’s freedom legacy. Today, it is a flagship eco-tourism destination in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, valued for its biodiverse reefs, protected forests, and low-rise, nature-forward resorts. Tourism supports local livelihoods, but conservation rules are strict to protect fragile marine life.
Best Time to Visit
- October to May (Dry Season): Best overall. Calm seas, great visibility for diving/snorkeling. Peak crowds in Dec–Feb.
- June to September (Monsoon): Lush landscapes and fewer visitors, but choppy seas, intermittent ferry disruptions, and occasional activity closures.
- Water conditions: Clearest for diving typically Nov–Apr. Sunsets are sublime year-round; sunrises shine at Kalapathar.
Top Things to Do
Beaches
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Silky sands, gentle surf, stunning sunsets. Swimming zones are marked—follow flags.
- Elephant Beach: Snorkeling hotspot with vibrant coral patches. Reach by boat (weather-dependent) or a short forest trail.
- Kalapathar Beach: Rocky, photogenic shoreline; best for sunrise strolls and quieter hours.
Water & Adventure
- Scuba diving: Intro dives for beginners and fun dives for certified divers. Sites include Lighthouse, The Wall, Aquarium, and Nemo Reef.
- Snorkeling: Boat trips to Elephant Beach; guided shore entries at selected lagoons.
- Mangrove kayaking: Day and bioluminescence night paddles (best on darker, clear nights).
- Sea-walk & glass-bottom boat: Family-friendly ways to view coral gardens without swimming.
Nature & Slow Travel
- Forest walk to Elephant Beach: Easy-moderate trail through coastal woodland.
- Beach-hopping by scooter: Explore Govind Nagar and Vijay Nagar stretches for calm lagoons.
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution; spectacular on moonless nights.
How to Reach
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Daily flights from major Indian cities.
- Ferry to Havelock/Swaraj Dweep:
- Private ferries: Common operators include Makruzz, Nautika, Green Ocean, and Sea Link. Duration ~1.5–2 hours.
- Government ferries: Budget-friendly; slightly longer; book at counters in Port Blair/Havelock.
- Travel tips: Carry valid photo ID; keep ferry tickets handy; seats fill early in peak months.
- Entry formalities for foreigners: Carry passport and Indian visa. Any permit requirements (if applicable) are handled in Port Blair as per prevailing regulations—check latest advisories before travel.
Getting Around
- Scooter rental: Approx. INR 500–800/day; fuel extra. Most flexible option.
- Auto-rickshaws & taxis: Available near Market No. 3 and jetties; negotiate or use fixed-rate boards where posted.
- Cycling: Pleasant on shaded stretches; watch for uneven patches and tropical heat.
Accommodation Options
Where to stay
- Govind Nagar (Beaches 1–3): Central, close to markets and dive shops.
- Vijay Nagar (Beach No. 5): Calm lagoons, many mid-range resorts.
- Radhanagar area: Secluded, upscale stays, great for sunsets.
Price ranges (indicative)
- Budget: INR 1,200–3,000/night (guesthouses, basic beach huts).
- Mid-range: INR 3,500–8,000/night (cottage resorts, boutique stays).
- Luxury: INR 12,000–35,000+/night (beachfront villas, high-end eco-resorts).
Book early for Dec–Feb. Confirm generator backup, AC hours, Wi‑Fi coverage, and beach access when choosing.
Estimated Costs
- Daily budgets (per person):
- Backpacker: INR 3,500–6,000
- Comfort: INR 7,000–14,000
- Luxury: INR 20,000+
- Key expenses:
- Ferry (one-way): INR 1,200–3,500
- Scooter rental: INR 500–800/day
- Intro scuba dive: INR 3,500–6,500; certified fun dive: INR 3,000–4,500/dive
- Snorkel boat trip: INR 1,000–2,000
- Mangrove/bioluminescence kayak: INR 3,000–3,500
- Meals: Casual INR 250–500; seafood platters INR 1,000–2,000+
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood grills, fish curry with rice, prawn masala, lobster in season.
- Island cafés serve Indian, Bengali, and Continental fare; coconut water and tropical fruit are abundant.
- Ask about sustainable seafood choices; avoid banned species.
Shopping
- Small souvenir stalls near Market No. 3 and popular beaches.
- Consider handicrafts, spices, and local art. Avoid buying corals, shells, or turtle products—strictly prohibited.
- Better variety in Port Blair; shop light on the island.
Culture & Etiquette
- Mixed islander communities with strong eco-conservation focus.
- Modest attire away from beaches; alcohol consumption on beaches is prohibited.
- Respect marine life; do not touch corals or feed fish.
Nearby Attractions
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Quieter beaches and natural rock formations; ~1 hour by ferry from Havelock.
- Port Blair day trips: Cellular Jail, Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), and Chidiya Tapu for sunsets.
- Baratang (from Port Blair): Limestone caves and mangroves—typically a separate excursion before/after Havelock.
Tips for Travelers
- Weather & seas: Check ferry advisories in monsoon; buffer a day for contingencies.
- Cash & connectivity: A few ATMs exist but can run dry; carry cash. Mobile data is improving but can be patchy; download tickets offline.
- Health & safety: Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, hydration salts, and insect repellent are essentials. Follow lifeguard flags; currents can be strong at unguarded spots.
- Responsible travel: Avoid single-use plastics; do not litter. Drones require prior permission. No campfires on beaches.
- Booking: Reserve ferries and preferred resorts well in advance for Dec–Feb and long weekends.
Tailored Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Choose lagoon-facing resorts with shaded play areas or pools in Govind/Vijay Nagar.
- Carry child life vests for boat trips; pick morning ferries for calmer seas.
- Medical facilities are basic; stock essential meds. Pharmacies are around Market No. 3.
Honeymooners
- Opt for beachfront cottages near Radhanagar for privacy and sunsets.
- Plan a candlelight beach dinner with your resort; stargaze on new-moon nights for bioluminescence kayaking.
- Visit popular beaches at sunrise to avoid crowds and capture soft-light photos.
Friends & Backpackers
- Share scooter rentals to keep costs low; explore café hops around Govind Nagar.
- Consider a diving course if staying 3–4 days; night kayaking is a memorable group activity.
- Respect quiet hours; many areas are residential and eco-sensitive.
FAQs
Q: Is Havelock Island the same as Swaraj Dweep?
A: Yes. Havelock Island was officially renamed Swaraj Dweep in 2018. Both names are used interchangeably.
Q: How many days are enough for Havelock?
A: Two to four nights cover the highlights—Radhanagar sunset, Elephant Beach snorkeling, a dive or kayak trip, and Kalapathar sunrise. Add an extra night if you plan a diving course.
Q: Do I need to know swimming for scuba or snorkeling?
A: For intro scuba, non-swimmers can participate under close instructor supervision at shallow sites. Snorkeling is easier if you can swim, but life jackets and guided sessions are available.
Q: Are ATMs and mobile networks available?
A: Limited ATMs are available and may run out of cash in peak season. Mobile data (Airtel/Jio/BSNL) works in pockets; expect patchy connectivity—carry cash and offline copies of bookings.
Q: When is the best time for bioluminescence kayaking?
A: Typically on clear, dark nights between October and April, strongest around new moon. Tours are weather and tide dependent.
Conclusion
Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) blends sublime beaches, colorful reefs, and laid-back island life. Visit between October and May for calm seas, base yourself near Govind or Vijay Nagar for convenience, and plan at least 2–4 nights to enjoy Radhanagar sunsets, Elephant Beach snorkeling, and mangrove kayaking. With mindful choices—reef-safe sunscreen, cash backup, and respect for local rules—you’ll experience the island at its best while helping preserve its delicate ecosystems.
