Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Andaman: An Island Adventure Awaits

1. Radhanagar Beach
The Time Magazine crowned Radhanagar Beach as ‘Asia’s Best Beach’ over a decade ago. Since then, its appeal has stayed the same. Radhanagar Beach is among the most beautiful places in Andaman and India, known for its white powdery sand beach, spectacular sunset, and greenish-blue waters. Located on Havelock Island, the picture-perfect landscape is ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, and swimming. Its serene ambiance will unlock the romantic lover, the quiet contemplator, and the naughty child in you.

• Location: Havelock Island, Andaman
• Best Time to Visit: December – February; 9 am – 3 pm
• Things to do: Canoeing, Kayaking, Snorkeling & Scuba diving

2. Cellular Jail National Memorial
Once known as Kaala Pani, which may give you the impression it is dark and depressing, the ‘Cellular Jail National Memorial’ is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Andaman. The Britishers used the jail to exile and executed political prisoners, and the Japanese destroyed most of it during World War II. However, the national monument still stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by our brave forefathers and is a shrine to the dissidents of the prisoners once lodged there.

• Location: Atlanta Point, Port Blair
• Visiting Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (closed on Mondays and public holidays)
• Things to do: Pay homage, Explore photo galleries and old artifacts

Entry Fee: Rs. 10. An extra Rs. 25 and Rs. 100 are charged for using cameras and video cameras.

3. Havelock Island
Havelock Island is one of Ritchie’s Archipelago’s most popular tourist places. It boasts sandy white beaches, deep blue waters, lush green surroundings, mesmerizing sunrises, and sunsets that offer a relaxed atmosphere against a picturesque backdrop. Havelock Island is a haven for water sports, such as snorkeling, deep-sea diving, and scuba diving. The Barefoot Scuba Resort offers fun diving options and PADI certification to rookie and professional divers alike.

• Location: 70 km from Port Blair
• Best Time to Visit: October – May
• Things to do: Beach hopping, Water sports

4. Mount Harriet National Park and Madhuban
Andaman offers excellent trekking options for adventure seekers and nature lovers, and Mount Harriet National Park is the best among all. It offers dense trekking trails that take you on a riveting journey through exotic flora and fauna. You can also undertake an elephant safari to explore the dense forests of Mount Harriet. The summit offers scenic views of the surrounding islands and blue waters. The 16-kilometer trek from Mount Harriet to Madhuban offers a stunning view of the quaint environs.

• Location: Hope Town, Port Blair
• Best Time to Visit: October – May; 9 am – 3 pm
• Things to do: Elephant safari, Nature walks, Trekking

5. Samudrika Naval Marine Museum
Exploring a museum is an excellent way of acquainting oneself with a place’s culture and history. The Samudrika Naval Marine Museum should be high on your Andaman tour plan as it offers a glimpse into the lives of Andaman’s indigenous tribes and marine lifestyle. Located in Port Blair, the museum is managed by the Indian Navy as a part of their initiative to spread awareness about marine life and boasts a vast collection of fishes, corals, seashells, and other sea creatures.

• Location: Haddo Road, Port Blair
• Best Time to Visit: 9 am – 1 pm; 2 pm – 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
• Things to do: Witness artifacts and displays showcasing Andaman’s marine life

6. Baratang Island
Baratang Island is a paradise still untouched by human intervention and is home to one of the oldest existing human races, the Jarawa tribe. It boasts limestone caves, mud volcanoes, secluded beaches, tropical forests, mangroves, and a gorgeous wilderness that eludes a mystical vibe and leaves you wanting more, even after exploring every part.

• Location: 150 km from Port Blair
• Best Time to Visit: October – February
• Things to do: Explore Parrot Island, Baludera Beach, Limestone Caves, Mangroves, and Mud Volcanoes

7. Neil Island
The reason why Neil Island is so popular is its sandy beaches. Its climatic conditions make Neil Island ideal for growing fruits and vegetables, earning it the reputation of being the “vegetable bowl” of the Andamans. Shiny blue waters and exotic wildlife make this majestic island stand out further. You can witness fishing boats lined up, sit in glass bottom boats marveling at the vibrant marine life, walk along the shore with the waves singing, or indulge in various watersports, like scuba diving and snorkeling, to enjoy a thrilling holiday experience.

• Location: 42 km from Port Blair
• Best Time to Visit: October – February
• Things to do: Beach hopping, Water sports

8. Ross and Smith Island
You may run out of breadth counting the number of islands; however, Andaman will keep bringing them up one after the other. The twin islands of Ross and Smith are a perfect example. Located in North Andaman, a few miles from Diglipur jetty, the twin islands are connected by a 50 m-long sand bar. Once known as the ‘Paris of the East,’ the twin islands now only sport the ruins of buildings once inhabited by the British and transport you back to a bygone era. The good part, though, is the islands are seldom crowded, meaning you can enjoy the virgin beaches, turquoise waters, high tides, and tropical rainforests in peace with your near and dear ones.

• Location: Aerial Bay
• Best Time to Visit: October – March
• Things to do: Beach hopping, Visit the animal sanctuary and Japanese bunkers.

9. Guitar Island Beach
The Guitar Island Beach derives its name from its guitar-like formation, making the Andaman tour even more musical and exciting for tourists. It is an uninhabited island with exceptional beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green surroundings. Once there, you will be at peace with yourself and enjoy a serene environment away from the urban hustle and bustle. You can relax, read, picnic, or walk along the shores to rejuvenate yourself.

• Location: 180 km from Port Blair
• Best Time to Visit: October – March
• Things to do: Relax on the beach, Visit small Guitar Island and Long Island

10. North Bay Island
North Bay Island is a tempting location for beach lovers and offers a stunning look into Andaman’s diverse marine life, including clownfish, stonefish, lobsters, and many more. The vibrant corals adorning the seashore give this island the nickname ‘Coral Island,’ further adding to its attraction. The fascinating island boasts vibrant beaches, azure and calm waters, and various thrilling watersports that will make you fall in love with this island.

• Location: 15-20 minutes ride to the North of Port Blair
• Best Time to Visit: November – May
• Things to do: Get tanned on the beach, Visit the Lighthouse, Indulge in watersports