Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Which to Choose? Quick Answer
- History & Importance
- Best Time to Visit
- Top Things to Do: Havelock vs Neil
- Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
- How to Reach
- Getting Around the Islands
- Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
- Essential Travel Tips
- Tips by Traveler Type
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Havelock (officially Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (officially Shaheed Dweep) are the two most sought-after islands in India’s Andaman archipelago. Both promise white-sand beaches and turquoise lagoons, yet they feel distinct. This guide compares Havelock vs Neil Island across activities, crowd levels, costs, and logistics to help you pick the one that fits your travel style—or plan a smart itinerary that includes both.
Which to Choose? Quick Answer
- Choose Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) if you want world-class scuba diving, more resort choices (including luxury), famous beaches like Radhanagar, and a wider range of cafes and activities (night kayaking, snorkeling at Elephant Beach).
- Choose Neil (Shaheed Dweep) if you prefer a quiet, budget-friendlier escape with easy-access lagoons (Bharatpur) for casual snorkeling, gentle cycling, stunning sunsets at Laxmanpur, and fewer crowds.
- Do both on a 4–6 day trip: 2–3 nights in Havelock + 1–2 nights in Neil, with Port Blair as your gateway.
History & Importance
Part of Ritchie’s Archipelago in the Andaman Islands, Havelock and Neil gained prominence for their pristine reefs and eco-tourism potential. In 2018, they were officially renamed Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) and Shaheed Dweep (Neil) to honor India’s freedom struggle, especially Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Radhanagar Beach on Havelock was once voted among Asia’s best beaches and holds Blue Flag certification for cleanliness and sustainability. Neil’s Natural Bridge (locally called Howrah Bridge) showcases striking coastal geology and thriving tide-pool life.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak season: November to March—calm seas, best visibility for diving/snorkeling, pleasant weather.
- Shoulder: October and April–May—warmer but still good; marine life sightings often excellent in Feb–April.
- Monsoon: June to September—rough seas, frequent ferry cancellations, limited water activities; great for solitude but plan buffers.
Top Things to Do: Havelock vs Neil
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Wide arc of powdery sand, legendary sunsets, gentle swimming zones.
- Elephant Beach: Popular for snorkeling and sea-walks; reach by speedboat or a forest trail. Note: Access may change due to weather/conservation—check locally.
- Scuba diving: Sites like Lighthouse, Johnny’s Gorge, Dixon’s Pinnacle; Discover Scuba for beginners and advanced sites for certified divers.
- Kalapathar Beach: Dramatic black rocks, soft sunrise light, quieter vibes.
- Night kayaking: Paddle through mangroves; seasonal bioluminescence sightings (typically post-monsoon to winter; not guaranteed).
- Kayaking/SUP and photography: Calm lagoons and forested backdrops.
Neil (Shaheed Dweep)
- Bharatpur Beach: Shallow lagoon, glass-bottom boat rides, easy snorkeling for beginners.
- Laxmanpur Beach: Spectacular sunsets; long, quiet shoreline for walks and shells (do not collect corals).
- Natural Bridge (Howrah Bridge): Visit at low tide for tide pools with vibrant marine life; go with a local guide.
- Sitapur Beach: East-facing sunrise point with dramatic surf.
- Cycling island loops: Flat roads and gentle distances make Neil perfect for bicycles and scooters.
Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
- Port Blair: Cellular Jail light-and-sound show, Corbyn’s Cove, museums; the usual entry/exit hub.
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island): Colonial ruins overrun by roots, deer; short boat from Port Blair.
- North Bay Island: Snorkeling and sea-walks; day trip from Port Blair.
- Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Jolly Buoy/Red Skin): Exceptionally clear coral gardens; seasonal access from Wandoor (Port Blair side).
- Inter-island hop: Combine Havelock + Neil on the same trip; ferries run both ways (weather permitting).
How to Reach
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Direct/one-stop flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and more.
- Ferries to Havelock/Neil:
- Private catamarans: Makruzz, Green Ocean, Sea Link (typical); faster, bookable online; carry ID.
- Government ferries: Cheaper; buy tickets at counters; schedules can change.
- Durations (approx.): Port Blair–Havelock 1.5–2.5 hrs; Port Blair–Neil 1–2 hrs; Havelock–Neil ~1 hr.
- Weather buffer: Keep a buffer day before your return flight—monsoon seas can delay ferries.
Getting Around the Islands
- Scooter rentals: INR 500–800 per day + fuel; most flexible option.
- Taxis: Point-to-point or day hire; expect higher rates than mainland.
- Bicycles: Ideal on Neil; feasible short rides on Havelock.
- Internet & ATMs: 4G exists but can be patchy; ATMs limited—carry cash.
Accommodation Options
Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)
- Luxury resorts: Beachfront villas and high-end amenities concentrated near Radhanagar and Govind Nagar.
- Mid-range boutique stays: Comfortable cottages with on-site dive centers and cafes.
- Budget beach huts/hostels: Simple stays close to the shore; book early in peak season.
Neil (Shaheed Dweep)
- Mid-range resorts: Compact properties with pools/gardens near Bharatpur/Laxmanpur.
- Guesthouses & homestays: Friendly, affordable, and quieter than Havelock.
- Budget rooms: Basic amenities; check power backup and hot water availability.
Estimated Costs
- Ferries (one-way, per adult): Govt: ~INR 600–1,200; Private: ~INR 1,500–3,500 (route/season dependent).
- Stay (per night):
- Budget: INR 1,200–3,000
- Mid-range: INR 4,000–9,000
- Luxury: INR 15,000–35,000+
- Meals: INR 300–700 per person at local cafes; resort dining higher.
- Transport: Scooter INR 500–800/day; Day taxi INR 2,500–4,500.
- Activities: Discover Scuba INR 3,500–6,000; Certified fun dive INR 3,000–4,500 per dive; Elephant Beach boat/snorkel INR 1,000–2,000; Night kayaking ~INR 2,000–3,000.
- Daily budgets (rough):
- Backpacker: INR 2,500–4,000
- Comfort: INR 6,000–10,000
- Luxury: INR 20,000+
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping & Culture
Food & Cafés
- Seafood stars: Fresh fish thalis, prawns, squid; ask for local catch of the day.
- Popular styles: Grills, Indian coastal, café-style continental; vegetarian options available but fewer.
- Havelock picks: Cluster of beachside cafes around Govind Nagar and Radhanagar approach.
- Neil vibe: Simpler eateries around Bharatpur/Laxmanpur with relaxed, homely meals.
- Alcohol: Sold at designated shops; availability varies—don’t rely on late hours.
Shopping
- Best variety in Port Blair (handicrafts, shell-inspired art, jute/coconut items).
- On the islands: small markets for souvenirs and beachwear.
- Avoid: Buying coral or turtle products—illegal and harmful to reefs.
Culture & Etiquette
- Local communities include settlers from mainland India; hospitality is warm and laid-back.
- Dress modestly away from the beach; cover up in villages and religious sites.
- Respect protected areas and never attempt to visit tribal reserves.
Essential Travel Tips
- Permits & ID: Carry government ID/passport; entry formalities occur at Port Blair. Some zones remain restricted—follow official guidance.
- Environment: Reef-safe habits—use rash guards over heavy sunscreen, never touch corals, pack out trash.
- Safety: Heed lifeguards, avoid swimming after dark, and watch currents.
- Power & connectivity: Expect occasional outages and patchy data; download maps offline.
- Health: Carry personal meds; if diving, leave 18–24 hours before your flight after your last dive.
- Cash: Limited ATMs on both islands—carry sufficient cash for ferries, transport, and small eateries.
Tips by Traveler Type
Families
- Best base: Havelock for facilities; add Neil for 1–2 nights of quiet beach time.
- Kid-friendly beaches: Bharatpur (Neil) and parts of Radhanagar (Havelock) during calm seas.
- Carry snacks, hats, and motion-sickness meds for ferry rides.
Honeymooners
- Romance pick: Havelock for luxury stays and sunset walks at Radhanagar; Neil for privacy and sunrise at Sitapur.
- Book sea-facing cottages and plan a private dinner at your resort (where permitted).
Friends/Groups
- Action pick: Havelock for diving, snorkeling, and night kayaking.
- Use scooters for easy beach-hopping; keep a buffer day for weather-related delays.
Packing List Essentials
- Rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses.
- Water shoes, dry bag, quick-dry towel.
- Insect repellent, basic first-aid, reusable water bottle.
- Cash, copies of IDs, power bank, light rain jacket (monsoon).
FAQs
Q: Is Havelock or Neil better for first-time visitors?
A: Havelock suits first-timers who want iconic beaches, more cafes, and top-tier diving. Neil is better if you prefer a calmer, smaller island with easy lagoon swims and sunsets.
Q: How many days should I spend on each island?
A: Havelock: 2–3 nights to cover Radhanagar, Elephant Beach, and a dive/snorkel day. Neil: 1–2 nights for Bharatpur, Laxmanpur sunset, Natural Bridge, and Sitapur sunrise.
Q: Can I visit both islands without returning to Port Blair?
A: Yes. There are direct ferries between Havelock and Neil (weather/schedule dependent). Always check timings a day prior.
Q: When is the best time for scuba diving?
A: November to April typically offers calmer seas and better visibility, with excellent marine life sightings in late winter to early summer.
Q: Are there ATMs and mobile data on the islands?
A: Both exist but are limited. Carry enough cash and expect patchy 4G; download maps and tickets offline.
Conclusion
Pick Havelock for headline beaches, diverse stays, and outstanding diving; pick Neil for tranquil lagoons, easy cycling, and budget-friendlier downtime. Together, they deliver the Andaman dream: sugar-white sands, clear waters, and unhurried island life. Plan around calm-season months, keep a weather buffer, travel light on the reefs, and you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds.
