Travel time: Year-round
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is defined by its tropical maritime climate, characterized by high humidity, consistent warmth, and significant seasonal shifts driven by the monsoons. Located in the Bay of Bengal, the island experiences weather that is almost entirely dictated by its proximity to the equator and the surrounding sea.
On Havelock, the weather follows a predictable daily rhythm. Mornings usually begin with high humidity and clear skies. As the sun ascends, typically peaking around 3:00 PM, the temperature rises to its daily maximum, often feeling several degrees hotter due to the moisture-laden air.
Relief comes in the late afternoon through consistent sea breezes that moderate the tropical heat. These breezes are a vital part of the island experience, making beachside locations significantly more comfortable than the densely forested interior. Nights are warm and balmy, with temperatures rarely dipping below 23°C (73°F).
This is the most stable time of year. Rainfall is minimal, especially in January and February, which are the driest months.
As the dry season transitions toward the monsoon, temperatures climb to their yearly highs, often reaching 32°C to 35°C (90°F–95°F).
Havelock is reshaped by the Southwest monsoon. The island receives the bulk of its 3,000mm+ annual rainfall during these months.
While Havelock is small, it exhibits distinct microclimates. The western side, home to Radhanagar Beach, often experiences slightly different wind patterns and wave intensities than the eastern side (Nemo Reef or Govind Nagar). The island's interior is covered in dense tropical rainforest; these areas act as heat traps with significantly higher localized humidity and less wind than the exposed coastlines.
Historically, the Andaman archipelago is situated in a cyclone-prone belt. While direct hits on Havelock are rare, the tail-ends of depressions in the Bay of Bengal often bring stormy weather and increased wind speeds between October and December.
Locals have adapted to this volatility by building a culture around the sea's moods. Island life slows down significantly during the monsoon; ferry schedules are viewed as "suggested" rather than fixed, and traditional architecture often incorporates high ceilings and open ventilation to maximize natural cooling.
In Havelock, the thermometer is often misleading. With average humidity ranging from 70% to 85% year-round, 28°C can feel like 34°C. The air often feels "heavy" or "thick," particularly just before a rainstorm. For travelers, the most important factor isn't just the temperature, but the wind; a day with a 10-15 mph sea breeze feels vastly different from a still, stagnant day in the forest.