Start your adventure by arriving in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In the morning, explore the Cellular Jail National Memorial, a historic site that pays tribute to India's freedom fighters. Afternoon can be spent at Corbyn's Cove Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and take a dip in the crystal clear waters. As the evening approaches, visit Marina Park and enjoy the beautiful sunset views. Estimated cost: Entry fees to Cellular Jail - INR 30, Time spent: 3-4 hours.
Cellular Jail National Memorial: INR 30, 3-4 hours
Corbyn's Cove Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Marina Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Ananda Restaurant, located in the heart of Port Blair. They serve a variety of delicious and hearty breakfast options at an average cost of INR 150 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, check out New Lighthouse Restaurant. With its prime beachfront location, you can enjoy a scrumptious seafood meal here for an average cost of INR 300 per person.
In the evening, dine at The Love Garden, a romantic restaurant known for its beautiful garden setting and delectable multi-cuisine menu. The average cost for a dinner here is around INR 500 per person.
Saturday, December 23: Havelock Island
Embark on a ferry ride to Havelock Island, known for its pristine white sandy beaches. In the morning, head to Radhanagar Beach, often voted as one of Asia's best beaches, and indulge in sunbathing and swimming in its turquoise waters. Afterward, explore the vibrant marine life with a scuba diving session in the afternoon. Conclude the day by visiting the lively Beach No. 7, where you can enjoy beachside dining and stunning sunset views. Estimated cost: Ferry ride - INR 1000, Scuba diving - INR 3500, Time spent: Full day.
Radhanagar Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Scuba Diving: INR 3500, 3-4 hours
Beach No. 7: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the popular Anju Coco Restaurant. This cozy beachside eatery offers a variety of breakfast options, including freshly baked pastries and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Full Moon Café, a charming beachfront restaurant known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes. Enjoy the catch of the day prepared in various styles, along with refreshing salads and tropical fruit juices. Average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
In the evening, dine at the renowned Barefoot at Havelock. This eco-friendly restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its open-air setting and delectable fusion cuisine. Don't miss their seafood specials and signature cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1000 per person.
Sunday, December 24: Neil Island
Take a ferry to Neil Island, a tranquil paradise with beautiful beaches and lush greenery. Begin the day by exploring Bharatpur Beach, known for its coral reefs and snorkeling opportunities. In the afternoon, visit Sitapur Beach, also known as the Sunrise Beach, to witness the breathtaking sunrise and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore. Conclude the day by exploring the natural rock formation known as the Natural Bridge. Estimated cost: Ferry ride - INR 1000, Snorkeling - INR 500, Time spent: Full day.
Bharatpur Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Sitapur Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Natural Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Sandy's Cafe, a cozy beachfront cafe offering a variety of delicious options such as fresh fruit bowls, smoothie bowls, and hearty breakfast sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, try out Sea Shell, a popular seafood restaurant known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes like grilled lobsters, prawn curry, and fish fry. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
For dinner, The Fat Martin Cafe is a great choice, offering a relaxed ambiance and a diverse menu featuring Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisines. Try their wood-fired pizzas or delectable Indian curries. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Monday, December 25: Ross Island and North Bay Island
Embark on a day trip to Ross Island and North Bay Island. Start the day by visiting Ross Island, a former British administrative headquarters. Explore the ruins, stroll through the lush greenery, and spot peacocks and deer roaming freely. In the afternoon, head to North Bay Island for some thrilling snorkeling adventures and underwater exploration. Discover vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life in the clear waters. Estimated cost: Ferry ride - INR 1500, Snorkeling - INR 800, Time spent: Full day.
Ross Island: INR 30 (entry fee), 2-3 hours
North Bay Island: INR 800 (snorkeling), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast option near Ross Island and North Bay Island is The Blue Sea Cafe. Enjoy a delicious spread of fresh fruits, toast, eggs, and piping hot coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, head to The Red Snapper Restaurant, known for its seafood specialties. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like grilled fish, prawns, and lobster. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
In the evening, visit Oceanic Restaurant for a delightful dinner experience. Savor a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Port Blair Exploration
Spend the day exploring Port Blair further. In the morning, visit the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum to learn about the region's marine life, geography, and tribal communities. Afterward, head to the Chatham Saw Mill, which is one of the oldest and largest sawmills in Asia. In the afternoon, take a nature walk through the lush forest of Mount Harriet National Park and enjoy panoramic views from the highest peak in the Andaman Islands. Estimated cost: Samudrika Museum - INR 50, Chatham Saw Mill - INR 10, Mount Harriet National Park - INR 25, Time spent: Full day.
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: INR 50, 2-3 hours
Chatham Saw Mill: INR 10, 1-2 hours
Mount Harriet National Park: INR 25, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Port Blair is XYZ Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a tasty lunch option, ABC Restaurant offers a wide variety of local seafood dishes such as grilled fish and prawn curry. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 400 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to PQR Fine Dining. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and international cuisines along with a stunning waterfront view. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Departure
On your final day, bid farewell to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Take some time to relax at one of the local cafes or indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Depart from Port Blair with beautiful memories of this tropical paradise.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, don't miss out on these hidden gems and local favorites. Visit Jolly Buoy Island to experience the untouched beauty of its coral reefs and underwater marine life. Explore the limestone caves of Baratang Island and marvel at their unique formations. For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Aberdeen Bazaar in Port Blair and savor delicious seafood dishes at the bustling food stalls.