6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Monday, September 4: Port Blair
Start your trip in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In the morning, visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial, a historic site that played a significant role in India's struggle for independence. Afterward, explore the Samudrika Marine Museum to learn about the region's rich marine life. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Corbyn's Cove Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Cellular Jail National Memorial: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Samudrika Marine Museum: Cost: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Corbyn's Cove Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Port Blair is Annapurna Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian dishes such as idli, dosa, and vada. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about INR 150 per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, head to Lighthouse Residency Restaurant. They offer a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and seafood. You can expect to spend around INR 300 per person for a satisfying lunch.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at Mithas Restaurant. They specialize in North Indian and Chinese cuisine and offer a cozy dining experience. The average cost for a dinner meal at Mithas Restaurant is approximately INR 400 per person.
Tuesday, September 5: North Bay and Ross Island
Embark on a day trip to North Bay Island, known for its stunning coral reefs. Engage in snorkeling or take a glass-bottom boat ride to admire the vibrant underwater world. In the afternoon, visit Ross Island, once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands. Explore the remnants of colonial architecture while enjoying the island's natural beauty.
North Bay Island: Cost: INR 600 per person (glass-bottom boat ride), Time spent: 4-5 hours
Ross Island: Cost: INR 75 per person (entrance fee), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Jungle Café: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Jungle Café, located near North Bay Island. Their menu offers a variety of Indian and Continental dishes, perfect to fuel up for a day of adventure. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 ($4) per person.
Seafood Delight: Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at Seafood Delight, a restaurant near Ross Island. From fresh fish to delectable prawns, they serve a wide range of seafood delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 ($9) per person.
Bayview Bistro: For a memorable dinner experience, head to Bayview Bistro located in Port Blair. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the bay along with an eclectic menu of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 ($11) per person.
Wednesday, September 6: Havelock Island
Take a ferry to Havelock Island, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Begin your day with a visit to Radhanagar Beach, often ranked among the best beaches in Asia. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant marine life with a snorkeling or scuba diving session at Elephant Beach.
Radhanagar Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Elephant Beach: Cost: INR 1,500 per person (snorkeling), INR 3,500 per person (scuba diving), Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to something cafe which offers a variety of breakfast options such as fresh fruit bowls, pancakes, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Bayview restaurant known for its stunning views of the ocean and seafood specialties including grilled fish and prawns. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Anju Coco which serves delicious Indian and continental dishes in a relaxed beachfront setting. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, September 7: Neil Island
Visit Neil Island, a tranquil paradise with beautiful beaches and lush greenery. Start your morning by exploring Bharatpur Beach, known for its stunning coral reefs and a variety of marine life. Afterward, head to Sitapur Beach, also known as the Sunrise Beach, to witness a breathtaking sunrise. In the evening, visit Laxmanpur Beach to relax and enjoy the scenic sunset views.
Bharatpur Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sitapur Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Laxmanpur Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, you can try the Blue Sea Restaurant located near Neil Island. They offer a variety of freshly prepared breakfast dishes like omelettes, sandwiches, and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to the Sea Shell Cafe situated on Neil Island. This restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes and local cuisines with a stunning view of the ocean. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, visit the Garden View Restaurant situated near Laxmanpur Beach for a delightful dinner experience. They offer a range of Indian and continental dishes along with refreshing beverages. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, September 8: Baratang Island
Embark on a full-day tour to Baratang Island, known for its unique limestone caves. Start your day by visiting the Mud Volcano, a natural wonder where mud is continuously pushed up from the ground due to volcanic activity. Afterward, take a boat ride through the dense mangrove forests to reach the limestone caves. Explore the fascinating rock formations and marvel at nature's artistry.
Mud Volcano: Cost: INR 20 per person (entry fee), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Limestone Caves: Cost: INR 250 per person (boat ride), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Mangrove Cafe: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Mangrove Cafe, located near Baratang Island. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes, omelettes, and local specialties. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Coconut Grove: For lunch, head to Coconut Grove, a popular restaurant known for its delicious seafood dishes. Feast on fresh catches of the day, such as grilled fish, prawns, and lobster, while enjoying the stunning views of the ocean. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Beachside Grill: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Beachside Grill, a beachfront restaurant offering a delectable barbecue menu. Choose from a variety of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian options, while savoring the gentle sea breeze and picturesque sunset views. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, September 9: Wandoor and Jolly Buoy Island
Explore the natural beauty of Wandoor and Jolly Buoy Island. Start your day by visiting Wandoor Beach, known for its clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. Take a glass-bottom boat ride to observe the stunning marine life without getting wet. In the afternoon, head to Jolly Buoy Island, a protected marine park famous for its coral gardens and diverse underwater ecosystem.
Wandoor Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jolly Buoy Island: Cost: INR 750 per person (boat ride and entry fee), Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Lighthouse Café, a cozy beachfront café with a wide range of breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, try out Anju Coco Restro, a popular restaurant serving delicious seafood and Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 500 per person.
For dinner, visit Bonova Café and Pub, a vibrant restaurant offering a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have some extra time, consider visiting the quaint village of Chidiya Tapu, also known as the Bird Island. It is an ideal spot for birdwatching and witnessing mesmerizing sunsets. Another offbeat attraction is the Anthropological Museum in Port Blair, where you can learn about the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and their cultural heritage.
For local favorites, don't miss out on trying the mouthwatering seafood delicacies available in the local restaurants and street stalls. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their fresh catch and unique flavors. Engage in water sports activities like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing for an adrenaline-filled experience.