Start your trip by arriving at Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In the morning, visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial, a historic site representing India's struggle for independence. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Aberdeen Bazaar, known for its local markets and street food stalls. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along Marina Park, enjoying the scenic views of the Andaman Sea.
Cellular Jail National Memorial: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Aberdeen Bazaar: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Marina Park: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Annapurna Cafeteria, a popular local spot known for its delicious South Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Lighthouse Residency Restaurant, located near Aberdeen Bazaar. They serve a variety of tasty Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The Bayview Restaurant at Hotel Sinclair's Bayview. Enjoy a fine dining experience with a stunning view of the sea. They offer a range of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 16: Havelock Island
Embark on a ferry ride to Havelock Island, known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs. In the morning, visit Radhanagar Beach, often considered one of the best beaches in Asia, and indulge in water activities like swimming and snorkeling. In the afternoon, explore Elephant Beach, where you can enjoy various water sports. As the evening approaches, relax on the beach and witness a breathtaking sunset.
Radhanagar Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Elephant Beach: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Del Mar is a cozy beachfront cafe that serves delicious breakfast options like pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit bowls. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Barefoot Bar & Brasserie offers a wide range of lunch options, from light salads to hearty burgers. Enjoy your meal in a tranquil garden setting. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Anju Coco Resto is a popular dinner spot known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes like grilled fish and prawn curry. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Ross Island and North Bay Island
Embark on a day trip to Ross Island, once the administrative headquarters of the British in Andaman. In the morning, explore the remnants of British architecture, such as the old church and ruins of the British settlement. In the afternoon, proceed to North Bay Island for snorkeling and exploring colorful coral reefs. As the evening sets in, enjoy a mesmerizing sunset at North Bay Beach.
Ross Island: Cost: Ferry tickets - approximately $5, Time spent: 2-3 hours
North Bay Island: Cost: Ferry tickets - approximately $10, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Ross Island and North Bay Island is The Lighthouse Cafe. They offer a variety of breakfast options like pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Expect to spend around Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Seafood Paradise, a local favorite known for its delicious seafood dishes. From grilled fish to prawns curry, they have it all. The average cost for a meal here is around Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, visit The Red Lantern, a charming restaurant renowned for its Asian cuisine and exquisite ambiance. Enjoy a range of dishes like sushi, stir-fries, and dim sum. The average cost for a meal at The Red Lantern is around Rs. 800 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Neil Island
Take a ferry to Neil Island, known for its lush green landscapes and pristine beaches. In the morning, visit Sitapur Beach, famous for its natural rock formations and stunning sunrise views. In the afternoon, explore Bharatpur Beach, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water sports. As the evening approaches, visit Laxmanpur Beach and witness the fascinating natural bridge formation.
Sitapur Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Bharatpur Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Laxmanpur Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot on Neil Island is Cafe Del Mar, offering a variety of options like pancakes, omelettes, and fresh juices. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Full Moon Restaurant, known for its delicious seafood dishes and beautiful beachfront views. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
In the evening, dine at Sea Shell Restaurant, a cozy beachside eatery serving excellent seafood and local delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Baratang Island
Embark on a day trip to Baratang Island, known for its limestone caves and mangrove forests. In the morning, visit the famous mud volcanoes and enjoy a boat ride through the mangrove creeks. In the afternoon, explore the breathtaking limestone caves, a fascinating natural wonder. As the evening sets in, return to Port Blair and relax.
Mud Volcanoes: Cost: Approx. $10 for boat ride, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Limestone Caves: Cost: Approx. $10 for boat ride, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, October 20: Jolly Buoy Island
Embark on a day trip to Jolly Buoy Island, a protected marine national park. In the morning, indulge in snorkeling and witness the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beach or take a glass-bottom boat ride to explore the underwater world further. As the evening approaches, head back to Port Blair and enjoy the local cuisine.
Jolly Buoy Island: Cost: Ferry tickets - approximately $20, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Saturday, October 21: Departure
Spend your last morning in Port Blair visiting the Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, where you can learn about the diverse marine life of the Andaman Islands. In the afternoon, explore local markets for souvenir shopping and experience the vibrant culture. Depart from Port Blair in the evening with beautiful memories of your Andaman adventure.
Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Local Markets: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring the Andaman Islands, make sure to visit the less crowded Long Island for its serene beaches and peaceful ambiance. Laze around on Lalaji Bay Beach and explore the nearby mangrove forests. For nature lovers, a visit to the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park offers the chance to witness a variety of endemic bird species and breathtaking sunset views. These off-the-beaten-path attractions are beloved by locals for their untouched beauty.