Table of Contents
- Introduction
- February Weather & Sea Conditions
- Must-Visit Places in and around Port Blair
- Local Culture & Food
- Shopping in Port Blair
- Nearby Getaways and Day Trips
- How to Reach Port Blair
- Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
- Estimated Costs in February
- February Events, Nature & Wildlife
- Travel Tips for February
- Suggested 3–4 Day Itinerary
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
February is one of the finest months to explore Port Blair, the gateway to India’s Andaman Islands. Expect blue-sky days, calm seas, excellent underwater visibility, and comfortable evenings. This practical, month-specific guide covers where to go, what to eat, how to plan day trips, and the key logistics you need for a smooth, memorable visit.
February Weather & Sea Conditions
February sits squarely in the dry season, making it peak time for sightseeing and water activities.
- Temperature: ~23–30°C (pleasant mornings, warm afternoons).
- Rain: Minimal; occasional light showers possible.
- Sea: Generally calm; good for ferries and boat trips.
- Diving/snorkeling visibility: Often 15–30 m; sea temp ~27–29°C.
- Sunlight: Strong UV; sunsets are gorgeous (especially at Chidiya Tapu).
Must-Visit Places in and around Port Blair
Cellular Jail (National Memorial)
Witness the poignant history of India’s freedom struggle. The evening light-and-sound show adds context and atmosphere.
- Plan: Visit museum by day; return in the evening for the show.
- Tip: Book show tickets early during February’s rush.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Closest beach to the city—great for a relaxed evening, sea breeze, and casual water sports.
Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)
Short boat ride from the Water Sports Complex. Explore colonial-era ruins draped in roots and vines, with deer and peacocks around.
North Bay Island
Popular for beginner-friendly snorkeling, sea walks, glass-bottom boats, and introductory dives.
Wandoor & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Gateway to pristine reefs and clear waters. Jolly Buoy/Red Skin islands operate on rotation; February typically favors Jolly Buoy (schedules can change).
- Tip: Permits are limited; arrange a day in advance if possible.
Chidiya Tapu (Sunset Point)
Known for lovely sunsets and birdlife. A calm, scenic end to your day in February’s clear weather.
Museums for a Short City Circuit
- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: Ocean life, corals, and island geography.
- Anthropological Museum: Insight into indigenous communities (with respect for privacy and protection laws).
- Fisheries Museum: Local marine species exhibits.
Local Culture & Food
Port Blair blends influences from across India, with a strong coastal palate. February’s fresh catch makes seafood a highlight.
- What to try: Grilled reef fish, prawn curry, crab in coconut gravy, lobster (season-dependent), and simple tandoor fish.
- Vegetarian-friendly: Coconut-based curries, seasonal vegetables, South Indian thalis, and bakery snacks in Aberdeen Bazaar.
- Beverages: Fresh coconuts, fruit shakes; alcohol is available in licensed outlets and restaurants.
- Etiquette: Tribal reserves are protected—no “tribal tours.” Respect local customs and regulations.
Shopping in Port Blair
- Aberdeen Bazaar: Central market area for daily needs, souvenirs, and cafes.
- Sagarika Govt. Emporium: Safer bet for handicrafts and locally made items.
- What to buy: Handicrafts, spices, organic soaps, local art.
- What to avoid: Corals, seashells, and marine curios—often illegal/unethical to purchase and carry.
Nearby Getaways and Day Trips
February’s calm seas make inter-island hops appealing.
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock): Radhanagar Beach (stunning sunsets), Elephant Beach for snorkeling and beginner dives.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island): Natural Bridge, quiet beaches, laid-back vibe.
- Baratang: Limestone caves and mangrove creeks (specific travel rules apply along the route; plan early morning).
- Mount Manipur National Park (Mount Harriet): Short hikes, views of Ross Island and the sea.
- Jolly Buoy/Red Skin: Pristine reefs inside Mahatma Gandhi MNP (permit-based, day trips only).
How to Reach Port Blair
By Air
- Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), well-connected to major Indian cities.
- February tip: Flights fill up early; morning arrivals help you catch same-day ferries.
By Sea
- Long-distance passenger ships (multi-day) operate intermittently from Chennai, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam.
- They are time-consuming and schedule-dependent; check current timetables well in advance.
Inter-Island Transfers
- Ferries: Government ferries and private catamarans connect Port Blair with Havelock and Neil.
- Booking: Reserve at least a few days ahead in February; carry valid ID.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
- Areas: Aberdeen Bazaar (central, budget to mid-range), Corbyn’s Cove (seaside stays), Phoenix Bay/Haddo (near jetties).
- Budget: INR 1,200–2,500 per night (guesthouses, hostels, simple hotels).
- Mid-range: INR 3,000–7,000 per night (comfortable rooms, AC, on-site dining).
- Upscale: INR 8,000–20,000+ per night (sea views, pools, higher service levels).
- February tip: Peak demand—book early and confirm ferry-compatible check-in/out times.
Estimated Costs in February
- Daily budget (per person, excluding flights):
- Budget: INR 2,000–4,000
- Mid-range: INR 5,000–9,000
- Comfort/Luxe: INR 10,000–20,000+
- Sample activity prices (indicative; vary by operator and season):
- Ferry to Havelock/Neil (one-way): ~INR 1,000–2,200
- Discover Scuba (intro dive): ~INR 3,500–6,500
- Glass-bottom boat/snorkel trip: ~INR 600–1,500
- Jolly Buoy day trip (permit + boat): typically fee-based; plan 1 day prior
- Local cabs: ~INR 18–25 per km; auto-rickshaw short hops from INR 100–200
February Events, Nature & Wildlife
- Island Tourism Festival: Commonly in January; in some years events extend into early February.
- Turtle nesting: Select beaches in the archipelago (e.g., Ram Nagar near Diglipur) see nesting Dec–Mar; visits are regulated.
- Birding: Pleasant for coastal and forest birds; Chidiya Tapu is a good bet.
- Bioluminescence: Occasionally visible on new-moon nights around some beaches; not guaranteed.
Travel Tips for February
General Tips
- Permits: Indian citizens don’t need entry permits for Port Blair; some islands/parks require local permits. Foreign nationals should check the latest entry rules before travel.
- Connectivity: Mobile data works in town; patchy on remote islands. Carry offline maps.
- Environment: Single-use plastic is restricted; carry refillable bottles and avoid littering.
- Water safety: Swim in designated areas; heed lifeguard flags. Avoid coral stepping and touching marine life.
- Money: ATMs are mainly in Port Blair; carry cash when you head to smaller islands.
Packing List
- Light cotton/linen clothing, hat/cap, polarized sunglasses.
- High SPF, reef-safe sunscreen; aloe gel for after-sun.
- Water shoes or snug sandals, quick-dry towel, spare swimwear.
- Basic meds, motion-sickness tablets for ferries.
- Reusable bottle, dry bag, and waterproof phone pouch.
- Copies of IDs, ferry tickets, and hotel confirmations (digital + printed).
Tips for Families
- Choose early morning museum visits; beaches and outdoor spots later in the day.
- Book ground transfers and ferries in advance to avoid long queues with kids.
- Carry snacks, sun protection, and small entertainment for boat rides.
Tips for Honeymooners
- Time sunsets at Chidiya Tapu or Radhanagar (via a Havelock overnight).
- Opt for sea-facing rooms near Corbyn’s Cove for quiet evenings.
- Try a private snorkeling session or an intro dive together.
Tips for Friends/Backpackers
- Stay near Aberdeen Bazaar for budget eats and easy transport.
- Target weekday ferries to improve ticket chances in peak season.
- Mix city sights with an island hop (Havelock/Neil) for a balanced trip.
Suggested 3–4 Day Itinerary
Day 1: City & Sunset
- Morning: Cellular Jail museum.
- Afternoon: Samudrika + Anthropological Museum.
- Evening: Cellular Jail light-and-sound show; dinner near Aberdeen Bazaar.
Day 2: Islands Close to Port Blair
- Morning: Boat to Ross Island; continue to North Bay for snorkeling/sea walk.
- Evening: Corbyn’s Cove stroll.
Day 3: Marine National Park
- Day trip: Wandoor to Jolly Buoy (if operating) or Red Skin for clear-water snorkeling and glass-bottom viewing.
- Sunset: Chidiya Tapu.
Optional Day 4: Havelock or Neil
- Early ferry: Head to Havelock for Radhanagar and Elephant Beach, or Neil for Natural Bridge and quiet beaches.
FAQs
Q: Is February a good month for scuba diving in Port Blair?
A: Yes. Seas are usually calm with warm water and good visibility, ideal for introductory dives and certified divers alike.
Q: Do I need any special permits to visit islands from Port Blair?
A: Some protected islands and marine parks require permits issued locally. Indian citizens don’t need entry permits for Port Blair itself. Foreign nationals should verify current entry rules before travel.
Q: What should I wear in February?
A: Light, breathable clothing, comfortable sandals or water shoes, and strong sun protection. Evenings are mild, so a light layer is sufficient.
Q: Are ferries reliable in February?
A: Generally yes—calm seas help. Still, book in advance due to peak demand and arrive early for check-in.
Q: Can I see bioluminescence near Port Blair in February?
A: It can occur on dark, clear nights, but it’s not guaranteed. Some travelers report better chances around new moon phases on quieter beaches.
Conclusion
With clear skies, calm seas, and lively beaches, February showcases Port Blair at its best. Balance the city’s history and museums with reef-filled day trips, plan ferries and permits ahead, and focus on eco-friendly, safe water activities. Whether you’re here for sunsets, seafood, or snorkeling, the month offers reliable weather and simple logistics for a rewarding Andaman getaway.
