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From Delhi to Andaman: Exploring the Islands in Style

From Delhi to Andaman: Exploring the Islands in Style

Introduction

Are you looking for a brief escape from the urban chaos of India’s capital city Delhi? Look no further than the Andaman Islands, a serene retreat and tropical paradise away from the city’s hustle and bustle that attracts travelers from all across the globe. With pristine white beaches, azure waters, rich aquatic life, lush green rainforests, natural beauty, and magnificent sunrise and sunsets, your Andaman holidays promise an adventure you will remember for life. In this blog, we will embark on a journey from Delhi to Andaman, exploring how to prepare and travel, the top places to visit, and the activities to undertake once you reach Andaman.

Setting Sail from Mumbai

Mumbai, India’s financial and entertainment capital, is a bustling city that draws you with its rich past. However, when you leave the tumultuous shores of Mumbai for the more peaceful ones in Andaman, you will experience a harmonious symphony that beckons you in the form of endless stretches of the sea.

How to Travel from Delhi to Andaman

You can travel from Delhi to Andaman using various means of transportation, as highlighted below:
  • By Air: Air travel is the most convenient and quickest way to travel from Delhi to Andaman. Several airlines operate regular flights between Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. The flight distance between Delhi and Port Blair, Andaman’s capital, is around 2,485 km. It takes 6.5 – 7 hours to reach Andaman by flight, including 2 hours of average layover time, making it a relatively quick journey. Air India and Indigo Airlines operate flights from New Delhi to Port Blair every 4 hours.
  • By Rail: Unfortunately, there is no direct train from Delhi to Andaman, as there is a sea in between. The best way to reach Port Blair by train is to travel from Delhi to Chennai and board a flight from Chennai to Port Blair. You can also take a train from Delhi to Ahmedabad and then board a flight to Port Blair.
  • By Road: Unluckily, you cannot travel from Delhi to Andaman by road for the abovementioned reason. You can only undertake road travel to and from Delhi and Port Blair airports. Once in Port Blair, you can hire a bike or taxi for local sightseeing.
  • By Sea: There is no direct ship from Delhi to Andaman. You can fly to Kolkata, Chennai, or Vizag and board a ship or ferry to Andaman. Traveling by sea can take between 50 – 60 hours and is not a viable option for those short on time. However, if you have the luxury of time, sea travel offers a mesmerizing, adventurous, and leisurely experience worth its weight in gold.

Preparing for Your Andaman Adventure

1. Research and Itinerary – Before taking off on your incredible Andaman journey, you must diligently do your homework. Ensure you thoroughly research the Andaman Islands’ geography, culture, and the activities you can indulge in. Create an organised itinerary that allows you to make the most of your journey.

2. Booking Travel and Accommodation – Whichever way you choose to travel, we recommend booking your travel arrangements well in advance, especially during the peak season, as you might not get tickets if you look to make last-minute arrangements. The same holds for accommodation also.

3. Packing Essentials – Pack smartly and include essentials such as swimwear, lightweight clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear. If travelling from outside India, remember to carry your travel documents, including your passport and necessary permits.

What to Do Once You Reach Andaman?

Your Andaman adventure truly begins once you arrive in Port Blair. Here are some of the top places you can visit and activities you can undertake to make your Andaman vacation enjoyable.
  1.  Cellular Jail
    As soon as you land in Port Blair, Andaman’s capital city, you are engulfed by its rich colonial heritage. The Cellular Jail, in particular, is a historical landmark that reminds you of India’s struggle for independence. A must-visit attraction, the once-British jail was used to hold and execute political prisoners. The sound and light show in the evening narrates the jail’s dark history and is one event you cannot afford to miss.
  2. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island
    The timeless beauty of Havelock Island offers Radhanagar Beach, a gem often rated as one of Asia’s best beaches and the seventh most beautiful beach globally. Its powdery white sand, fantastic view of crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunrise and sunsets offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy basking in the sun and undertake water activities.
  3. Neil Island
    Neil Island, also known as Andaman’s ‘Vegetable Bowl’ due to its rich cultivation of fruits and vegetables, is a scenic paradise. Famous for its natural rock bridge formation at Laxmanpur Beach and unhurried pace of life, the island offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect to be explored on a bicycle or scooter.
  4. Ross Island
    Once the administrative headquarters of the British, Ross Island takes you back into a magnificent and exciting era with its colonial architecture and spooky structures.
  5. Trekking Lush Green Forests
    Besides numerous beautiful beaches, the Andaman Islands boast dense forests and hills perfect for trekking. A trek to Mount Harriet or Saddle Peak rewards you with a bird’s-eye-view of the islands and the widespread green landscape.
  6. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
    Your Andaman tour plan is incomplete without including snorkeling and scuba diving in it. A dive into the crystal-clear waters allows you to discover Andaman’s vibrant and diverse aquatic life and colorful coral reefs. You can try snorkeling if you are a novice or explore deeper waters and hidden underwater caves if you are a certified or professional diver.
  7. Treat Yourself to Gastronomic Delights
    When in Andaman, treat yourself to a delectable mix of local and Southeast Asian gastronomic delights. Dining on the beach with the sound of waves and tasting seafood curries, coconut milk gravies, and fresh tropical fruits is an experience that will last a lifetime.
  8. Enjoy Riveting Sunrises and Sunsets
    A celestial and divine warmth caresses the Andaman Sea as the sun sets below the horizon and paints the sky with vibrant colors. Whether sailing over azure waters, sitting on top of a hill, or treading the coastline, the sublime feeling will make you want more and stay with you for a long time.
  9. Interact with Indigenous Tribes
    The Andaman Islands are home to indigenous tribes such as the Sentinelese and the Jarawas. A tour to Andaman allows you to interact and gain insights into the cultures and lifestyles of these tribes through guided tours, as direct contact is restricted.
  10. Island Hopping
    The Andaman archipelago is not just about Port Blair, Havelock, Ross, and Neil Island. Instead, it consists of many other islands, a few famous ones being Baratang, Little Andaman, Long Island, Guitar Island, North Bay Island, Barren Island, and North and South Sentinel Islands. If time permits, you can hop aboard a ferry or cruise and explore the unique charm of these islands for a memorable journey.

Conclusion

The journey from Delhi to Andaman is one for a lifetime. Every place you visit, every adventure you undertake, and every cuisine you savor keeps adding to the thrill. So, pack your bags and prepare to embark on an island exploration journey that promises nothing but an extravaganza. Maharaja Travels is a trusted and reputable tour operator in Andaman with more than 16 years of experience in offering customized and economical Andaman tour packages from Delhi and major Indian cities that offer a unique and lasting experience for you and your loved ones.
From Delhi to Andaman: Exploring the Islands in Style