Family-Friendly Itinerary for Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Tuesday, January 9: Arrival in Port Blair
Begin your family adventure by arriving at Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In the morning, visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial, which holds historical significance and offers insights into India's freedom struggle. In the afternoon, head to Corbyn's Cove Beach for some relaxation and water activities. In the evening, explore the local markets and try delicious seafood at a waterfront restaurant.
Cellular Jail National Memorial: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 30 per adult, INR 15 per child. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Local markets and waterfront restaurants: Cost varies. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Port Blair is The Hilltop Restaurant, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Anju Coco Resto, a casual eatery famous for its Andamanese and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at New Lighthouse Restaurant, a waterfront eatery offering a wide range of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day at The Love Cafe, a cozy breakfast spot known for its unique menu and warm ambiance. Indulge in their signature pancakes or try their healthy smoothie bowls. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Anju Coco Resto, a beachside restaurant offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine. Enjoy their fresh seafood dishes or try their flavorful vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Waves Restaurant, which offers a stunning view of the ocean. This restaurant serves mouthwatering seafood dishes, as well as a variety of North Indian and Chinese delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, January 10: Havelock Island
Embark on a day trip to Havelock Island, known for its pristine beaches and tropical beauty. In the morning, take a ferry to Havelock and visit the iconic Radhanagar Beach, ranked as one of Asia's best beaches. Enjoy water sports and relax on the sandy shores. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting underwater world with a snorkeling or scuba diving session at Elephant Beach. Return to Port Blair in the evening.
Radhanagar Beach: Free entry. Optional water sports cost extra. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
Elephant Beach: Estimated cost - Boat transfer: INR 1200 per person. Snorkeling or scuba diving: INR 500-2000 per person. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
Ferry to Havelock Island: Estimated cost - INR 700-1000 per person (round trip). Time spent: 1-2 hours each way.
Restaurants
Mangrove Cafe: Start your day at Mangrove Cafe, a charming beachside restaurant known for its delicious breakfast options. From fluffy pancakes to local delicacies, there's something for everyone. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Anju Coco Rest-and-Grill: For lunch, head to Anju Coco Rest-and-Grill, a popular waterfront eatery offering a variety of seafood and Indian cuisine. Enjoy fresh catches of the day served with flavorful spices. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Barefoot Bar & Brasserie: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Barefoot Bar & Brasserie, a renowned restaurant serving fusion cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and organic ingredients. The cozy ambiance and unique flavors make it a memorable dining spot. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Thursday, January 11: Ross Island and North Bay Island
In the morning, explore Ross Island, once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands. Discover the ruins, lush greenery, and deer roaming freely. In the afternoon, visit North Bay Island, famous for its coral reefs and abundant marine life. Engage in snorkeling or take a glass-bottom boat ride to witness the colorful underwater world. Return to Port Blair in the evening for a relaxing dinner.
Ross Island: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 30 per adult, INR 15 per child. Boat transfer: INR 200-300 per person (round trip). Time spent: 2-3 hours.
North Bay Island: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 10 per adult, INR 5 per child. Optional activities cost extra. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
Friday, January 12: Baratang Island and Limestone Caves
Embark on a full-day trip to Baratang Island, known for its mangrove forests and fascinating limestone caves. In the morning, take a scenic boat ride through the mangroves to reach the entrance of the caves. Explore the awe-inspiring formations and marvel at nature's wonders. Afterward, visit the Mud Volcano, a unique geological phenomenon. Return to Port Blair in the evening and enjoy a traditional Andamanese dinner.
Limestone Caves: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 50-100 per person. Boat transfer: INR 1000-1500 per person (round trip). Time spent: 4-5 hours (including travel time).
Mud Volcano: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 20-50 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Saturday, January 13: Jolly Buoy Island
Experience the sheer beauty of Jolly Buoy Island, part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. In the morning, take a boat ride to the island and indulge in snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on the pristine beaches. Admire the coral reefs and diverse marine life. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature's tranquility. Return to Port Blair in the late afternoon for some shopping and souvenir hunting.
Jolly Buoy Island: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 750-1000 per person. Boat transfer: INR 1500-1800 per person (round trip). Time spent: 5-6 hours.
Shopping in Port Blair: Cost varies. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Sunday, January 14: Ross and Smith Island
Visit the twin islands of Ross and Smith, forming one of the most picturesque destinations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In the morning, take a boat to the islands and spend the day exploring the pristine beaches, shallow coral reefs, and lush green forests. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Capture beautiful family photographs against the stunning backdrop. Return to Port Blair in the evening.
Ross and Smith Island: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 100 per person. Boat transfer: INR 2000-2500 per group. Time spent: 5-6 hours.
Monday, January 15: Departure
Savor your last morning in Port Blair by visiting the Anthropological Museum to learn about the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Take a stroll along Marina Park, enjoying the scenic views before bidding farewell to this paradisiacal destination. Head to the airport for your departure, cherishing the wonderful memories created during your family-friendly adventure.
Anthropological Museum: Estimated cost - Entry fee: INR 10 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Marina Park: Free entry. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Neil Island, known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and coral reefs. Take a leisurely bicycle ride around the island, interact with friendly locals, and enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries. Another hidden gem is the Little Andaman Island, offering breathtaking scenery, pristine beaches, and opportunities for adventurous water sports like surfing and trekking. These lesser-known islands provide a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots and are perfect for a family-friendly exploration.
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