Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Is it hot in Port Blair in summer?
- Must-visit places in Port Blair
- Local culture and food
- Shopping
- Nearby getaways and islands
- How to reach
- Getting around
- Where to stay and estimated costs
- Summer packing and travel tips
- Tips by traveler type
- Safety and responsible travel
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Thinking about a summer holiday in Port Blair and wondering if it’s too hot? As the vibrant gateway to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Port Blair blends emerald waters, colonial-era history, and easy island-hopping. Summer is warm and humid, but sea breezes and smart planning make it very doable—and rewarding—with fewer crowds than peak winter.
Is it hot in Port Blair in summer?
Short answer: yes, it’s warm and humid—but manageable.
- Typical temperatures: 29–33°C by day; 26–28°C at night.
- “Feels like”: 35–40°C mid-day due to 70–85% humidity.
- Sea temperature: 28–30°C—great for swimming and snorkeling.
- UV index: very high (often 10–12). Strong sun protection is essential.
- Rain: pre-monsoon showers possible from May; monsoon usually sets in around late May/June, bringing choppier seas and occasional boat cancellations.
Best summer window: mid-March to mid-May offers warm seas and generally calmer conditions before the monsoon. Plan outdoor activities at dawn or late afternoon, and keep indoor museums for the mid-day heat.
Pros of summer travel:
- Fewer crowds than December–February.
- Better value on stays and tours.
- Warm, swimmable waters for most of the season.
Watch-outs:
- High UV—reapply reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat and rash guard.
- Humidity—hydrate frequently and take rest breaks.
- Monsoon onset—stay flexible with ferry/boat plans near late May/June.
Must-visit places in Port Blair
- Cellular Jail (Kala Pani): Explore India’s freedom struggle history; the evening light-and-sound show is ideal after sunset.
- Corbyn’s Cove Beach: A palm-fringed bay close to town; best in early mornings or golden hour.
- Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island): Crumbling British-era ruins wrapped in banyan roots; go in the morning for shade and wildlife sightings.
- North Bay Island: Snorkeling and sea-walk options; check sea conditions and operator safety standards.
- Chidiya Tapu: Sunset point and short forest walk to Munda Pahad; visit after 4 pm.
- Wandoor Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: Clear waters; boat trips to Jolly Buoy/Red Skin are seasonal and permit-based.
- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum and Anthropological Museum: Air-conditioned, informative stops for mid-day.
- Mount Manipur (Mount Harriet) National Park: Panoramic views; start early to avoid heat.
Local culture and food
Port Blair’s culture is a tapestry of communities from across India, layered over maritime and colonial influences. Indigenous tribal areas are protected and not open for tourism; respect all regulations.
What to eat:
- Seafood staples: Fish curry and rice, crab masala, grilled lobster and prawns.
- Coastal flavors: Coconut, tamarind, and mustard notes; try local thalis for variety.
- Vegetarian options: South and North Indian plates, dosas, paneer curries, fresh fruit juices.
- Cafés and bakeries: Relax with sea views and fresh bakes during the mid-day heat.
Shopping
- Sagarika Emporium (Govt.): Ethically sourced shell crafts, coconut artifacts, cane and bamboo work.
- Spices and local products: Pepper, coconut oil, handicrafts from community collectives.
- Avoid: Coral, seashells taken from beaches, turtle shell or any wildlife products—illegal and harmful to reefs.
Nearby getaways and islands
- Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island): Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach; 1.5–2.5 hours by ferry from Port Blair.
- Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island): Quiet beaches (Bharatpur, Laxmanpur); 1–2 hours by ferry.
- Baratang Island: Mangroves and limestone caves; travel involves timed road access—check current guidelines and respect all rules regarding tribal reserve areas.
- Jolly Buoy/Red Skin Islands: Superb water clarity in season; operations rotate and are weather-permitting.
Tip: Ferries can fill up in holiday weeks; book ahead and keep an eye on weather advisories in late May/June.
How to reach
- By air: Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair, from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi. Flight time is ~2–2.5 hours from Chennai/Kolkata and ~4–5 hours (often direct or one-stop) from Delhi.
- By sea: Government passenger ships operate infrequently from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. Sailings take ~60–70 hours, are basic, and depend on schedules and weather.
Entry & permits:
- Indian citizens do not need permits to visit Port Blair and popular tourist islands.
- Certain islands, marine parks, and activities may require permits or tickets; carry valid ID.
- Foreign nationals should carry a valid Indian visa; some areas remain restricted. Check the latest official advisories before travel.
Getting around
- Airport to city: Pre-paid taxis available; the city is 10–15 minutes away.
- Local transport: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and local buses. Major app cabs are limited; ask hotels for trusted drivers.
- Self-drive: Scooters are popular (approx. ₹400–700 per day); carry a valid license and drive cautiously on hilly, coastal roads.
- Ferries: Government and private ferries connect nearby islands; book in advance during holidays.
Where to stay and estimated costs
Best areas: Aberdeen Bazaar (central, convenient), Phoenix Bay/Marine Hill (sea views, near jetties), Corbyn’s Cove (beachy vibe).
Indicative summer prices per night in Port Blair:
- Budget stays: ₹1,000–2,500 (basic guesthouses, homestays).
- Mid-range hotels: ₹3,000–7,000 (AC rooms, in-house dining).
- Upscale/sea-facing: ₹8,000–15,000+ (better views, pools, premium amenities).
Daily trip budgeting (per person):
- Budget: ₹2,000–3,500 (shared transport, simple meals, limited paid activities).
- Comfort: ₹5,000–9,000 (private taxis, mid-range dining, some water activities).
- Premium: ₹12,000+ (upscale stays, private tours, multiple activities).
Sample activity costs (approx.):
- Light-and-sound show: ₹300–500.
- Snorkeling/boat packages: ₹1,200–2,500.
- Intro scuba dive: ₹3,500–6,500 (conditions and operator-dependent).
Summer packing and travel tips
- Light cotton/linen clothing; a hat, polarized sunglasses, and UV umbrella.
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm with SPF, and a long-sleeve rash guard for water time.
- Hydration: carry a refillable bottle; electrolytes help.
- Footwear: breathable walking shoes plus water-friendly sandals.
- Insect repellent, basic medicines, and motion-sickness tablets for boat rides.
- Dry bag for gadgets; quick-dry towel.
- Cash for remote kiosks; ATMs are mostly in Port Blair town.
- Keep buffer time if traveling late May/June due to possible weather-related schedule changes.
Tips by traveler type
- Families: Choose hotels with pools or spacious rooms; visit museums mid-day and beaches mornings/evenings. Kids must use life jackets on boats; many operators have minimum age limits for scuba.
- Honeymooners: Opt for sea-facing rooms near Corbyn’s Cove or Marine Hill, plan a sunset at Chidiya Tapu, and consider a couple’s snorkel trip when seas are calm.
- Friends/Backpackers: Base near Aberdeen Bazaar for budget eateries and transport; rent scooters; mix paid activities with free hikes and beach time.
Safety and responsible travel
- Swim in designated areas; follow lifeguard flags and local advice on currents and jellyfish.
- Weather can change fast; heed boat crew instructions and wear life jackets.
- Do not touch corals or collect shells; avoid stepping on reef flats.
- Single-use plastics are discouraged; carry trash back to town bins.
- Tribal reserves are strictly off-limits; no photography or interaction attempts.
FAQs
Q: Is Port Blair too hot for a summer holiday?
A: It’s warm and humid, but sea breezes help. With early-morning outings, mid-day indoor breaks, and strong sun protection, summer is very manageable and less crowded than winter.
Q: When does the monsoon start in Port Blair?
A: Pre-monsoon showers may appear in May, and the monsoon typically settles in by late May or June. Expect occasional ferry or boat disruptions near onset.
Q: Can I swim and snorkel in summer?
A: Yes, conditions are usually good before the monsoon. Always follow safety flags, choose licensed operators, and confirm sea conditions on the day.
Q: What should I wear in summer?
A: Breathable cotton or linen, sun hat, sunglasses, and sandals. For the water, a rash guard and reef-safe sunscreen protect you and the reef.
Q: Do I need any permits?
A: No permit is required for Indian citizens to visit Port Blair and most popular tourist islands. Some marine parks and specific islands may need permits or tickets; carry ID and check locally. Foreign nationals should have a valid Indian visa and follow current area restrictions.
Conclusion
Summer in Port Blair is warm and humid, yet rewarding for travelers who plan smartly. Expect blue seas, historic sights, and good value—balanced with early starts, sun care, and flexible island-hopping around the monsoon’s onset. Combine culture at the Cellular Jail with breezy evenings at Corbyn’s Cove, and keep museums for mid-day. With the right pacing, a summer break here can be both relaxed and memorable.
