5-Day Itinerary: Exploring Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Sunday, October 1: Arrival in Port Blair
Start your adventure by landing at Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In the morning, head to the Cellular Jail National Memorial to delve into the history of India's struggle for independence. Afterward, visit the Anthropological Museum to learn about the indigenous tribes of the islands. As the evening approaches, take a stroll along the picturesque Corbyn's Cove Beach and enjoy the sunset.
Cellular Jail National Memorial: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Café Delight: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café Delight, located near Corbyn's Cove Beach. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast dishes, including fresh fruit bowls, fluffy pancakes, and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Annapurna Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Annapurna Restaurant in Port Blair. This vegetarian eatery offers a range of North and South Indian dishes, including thali meals, dosas, and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
New Lighthouse Restaurant: Located near the Cellular Jail National Memorial, New Lighthouse Restaurant is a popular choice for dinner. Enjoy a wide selection of seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, butter garlic prawns, and crab curry. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Monday, October 2: Havelock Island
On your second day, make your way to Havelock Island via a ferry ride from Port Blair. Start your morning with a visit to the world-famous Radhanagar Beach, known for its pristine white sands and turquoise waters. In the afternoon, explore the underwater world with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion around the coral reefs. As the sun sets, relax on the beach or enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore.
Head to Something's Cooking for a delicious breakfast with a view of the beach. They offer a variety of dishes including pancakes, omelettes, and local favorites. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For lunch, try the seafood specialties at Full Moon Restaurant. Located near the beach, they offer fresh seafood options like grilled fish and prawns. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit the Barefoot Bar & Brasserie. This restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu that combines local flavors with international cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Neil Island
Embark on a day trip to Neil Island, known for its serene beaches and lush greenery. Start your day by visiting the stunning Bharatpur Beach, where you can indulge in various water activities like swimming and glass-bottom boat rides. In the afternoon, explore the natural rock formation known as the Natural Bridge and marvel at its unique beauty. As the day winds down, relax at Sitapur Beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset.
Head to the local favorite, Garden View Cafe, for a delicious breakfast. This charming cafe offers a range of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, make a stop at Lighthouse Restaurant. This seaside eatery offers a wide variety of seafood dishes, from fresh fish to succulent prawns. Don't miss their mouthwatering crab curry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Something Fishy, a popular dinner spot known for its delectable seafood specialties. Indulge in their signature lobster thermidor or try their flavorful fish tikka. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Port Blair Exploration
Return to Port Blair for a day of exploration. Start your morning by visiting the Samudrika Marine Museum, where you can learn about the diverse marine life found in the Andaman Sea. In the afternoon, head to the Chidiya Tapu Beach, also known as the Bird Island, and witness a variety of exotic birds in their natural habitat. As the evening approaches, take a walk through the lively Aberdeen Bazaar, known for its local handicrafts and street food.
Thursday, October 5: Ross Island and North Bay Island
On your final day, take a ferry to Ross Island, once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands. Explore the remnants of British architecture, including the ruins of the church and officers' quarters. Afterward, head to North Bay Island, also known as Coral Island, for snorkeling and underwater exploration. In the evening, enjoy a memorable sunset at the picturesque Marina Park and Aquarium.
Ross Island: Cost estimate - INR 30, Time spent - 2 hours
North Bay Island: Cost estimate - INR 500-1,500, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Marina Park and Aquarium: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Kitchen Lake View restaurant, offering a delightful view of the lake. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Annapurna Restaurant known for its wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Sea Shells restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and relaxed ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, venture out to Diglipur, located in North Andaman Island. Explore the mesmerizing limestone caves of Alfred Caves and the serene beauty of Ross and Smith Islands, connected by a natural sandbar. These hidden gems offer a tranquil escape from the tourist crowds, allowing you to immerse yourself in the untouched natural beauty of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.