Do I need a permit to visit?

Indian nationals require no permit for most islands. Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), available on arrival at Port Blair airport or seaport for 30 days, extendable. Some islands remain off-limits.

Is internet connectivity available?

Mobile networks (BSNL, Airtel, Vodafone) work in Port Blair and main islands. Internet is slow and unreliable on remote islands. Wi-Fi is available at major hotels but often limited.

What is the currency and are ATMs available?

Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are available in Port Blair and Havelock, but carry sufficient cash as ATMs on smaller islands may be scarce or run out.

Can I visit tribal areas?

No. Visiting areas inhabited by indigenous tribes like Sentinelese, Jarawa, and Onge is strictly prohibited by law to protect their isolation and safety.

What are the must-try local foods?

Fresh seafood—especially fish curry, lobster, and crab. Coconut-based dishes, tropical fruits, and South Indian influences. Try local specialties like Andaman fish curry and coconut prawns.

Yes, foreign nationals need an Indian visa. Citizens of some countries can get e-Visa. Check official Indian visa website.

How to reach Andaman?

Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (Port Blair) from Chennai, Kolkata, or Delhi. Direct flights available.

Is alcohol available?

Yes, but only in licensed bars and hotels. No liquor shops on some islands. Carry from Port Blair if needed.

What currency is used?

Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are limited outside Port Blair; carry cash.

What is the best island to visit?

Havelock Island for beaches and diving, Neil Island for tranquility, and Port Blair for history.

Yes, with reputable operators. Check equipment and weather. Life jackets are provided.

Indian citizens need no permit; foreigners require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for some islands, obtainable on arrival.

What language is spoken?

Hindi, English, Bengali, Tamil, and local dialects. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Are credit cards accepted?

In major hotels and some shops, but cash is king on smaller islands.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, BSNL and Airtel have coverage in populated areas. Jio works in Port Blair. Expect patchy signals on remote islands.

Light cotton clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, water shoes, and a power bank.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Travel destination image

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

StateIndia, Asia

Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a STATE in India, Asia.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a breathtaking archipelago of over 570 islands in the Bay of Bengal, where turquoise waters meet pristine white-sand beaches and lush rainforests. This remote Indian union territory offers unparalleled natural beauty and adventure. Havelock Island (now Swaraj Dweep) features the world-renowned Radhanagar Beach, consistently ranked among Asia's best beaches with its powdery sand and stunning sunsets. History enthusiasts can explore the Cellular Jail in Port Blair, a poignant reminder of India's freedom struggle. The islands are a diver's paradise with vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life at sites like North Bay and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Unique indigenous tribes like the Sentinelese and Jarawa inhabit protected areas, adding cultural mystique. From kayaking through mangrove forests to witnessing bioluminescent waters at night, the islands offer magical experiences. Don't miss the limestone caves at Baratang Island or the active mud volcano. With its blend of colonial history, ecological wonders, and adventure activities, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands create an unforgettable tropical escape.

Best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands

October to May is ideal, with pleasant weather (24-32°C) and calm seas perfect for water activities. Peak season is December-January. Avoid monsoon season (June-September) due to heavy rains, rough seas, and many activities/ferries being suspended. March offers cultural festivals like Island Tourism Festival.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Partly cloudy
Temperature: 25°
Feels like: 31°
Humidity: 98%
Wind: 5 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 26-31°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Post-monsoon, seas calm

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

IXZ

Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair

International

2 km away

Getting around

"Inter-island travel primarily via government and private ferries from Port Blair. Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season. On islands, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rented two-wheelers/scooters are common. No ride-sharing apps; use pre-paid taxi counters or negotiate fares. Limited public buses operate on main islands. For remote islands, charter boats may be required. Domestic flights connect Port Blair to mainland India; no inter-island flights. Walking and cycling are pleasant on smaller islands like Havelock."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in Port Blair and Havelock

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+91

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scams rare but watch for overpriced taxis and tours.

Night safety

7/10

Scams rare but watch for overpriced taxis and tours.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in isolated areas. Avoid restricted tribal territories (particularly North Sentinel Island) where entry is illegal and dangerous. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas—secure valuables. Swimming safety: heed warning flags on beaches, as currents can be strong. Only use licensed operators for water sports and diving. Be cautious when renting two-wheelers—wear helmets and check vehicle condition. Political demonstrations are rare but avoid if they occur. Emergency services may have delayed response on remote islands. Respect local customs and dress modestly outside beach areas."

Police

100

Ambulance

102

Fire

101

Tourist Police

1091

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are limited, especially on outer islands. Port Blair has the main hospital (GB Pant Hospital) and private clinics. Carry comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus. Malaria and dengue risk exists—use mosquito repellent and nets. Drink only bottled or boiled water. Avoid raw seafood. Dehydration and sunburn are common concerns—stay hydrated and use sunscreen. For serious medical issues, evacuation to mainland India may be necessary. Carry personal medications and a basic first-aid kit."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting villages, markets, or religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is acceptable only at beaches/resorts. Respect indigenous tribes' privacy—photography and contact are strictly prohibited. Remove shoes before entering homes or certain shops. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Small tips for guides and drivers are customary. Greet with 'Namaste'. Avoid public displays of affection. Seek permission before photographing locals. Alcohol is available but consumption in public places is discouraged."

HindiBengaliTamilTeluguMalayalamEnglish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR) · ₹

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

Hotels

$40-80

Local transport

Cost notes

Prices higher on remote islands; budget for ferry tickets.

Timezone

Asia/Kolkata +05:30 (GMT)

More facts

Population

380,000

Area

8,249 km²

Government

Union Territory of India with Lieutenant Governor and elected legislature

ISO code

Type

State

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: AN, అండమాన్ నికోబార్ దీవులు, अंडमान और निकोबार द्वीपसमूह, Quần đảo Andaman và Nicobar, ആന്തമാൻ നിക്കോബാർ ദ്വീപുകൾ, Andamanen en Nicobaren, جزائر انڈمان و نکوبار, Andamanoj kaj Nikobaroj, Kepulauan Andaman dan Nicobar, 安达曼-尼科巴群岛, Andamany a Nikobary, Andamane e Nicobare, Andamanen und Nikobaren, Islas Andamán y Nicobar, 안다만 니코바르 제도, ਅੰਡੇਮਾਨ ਅਤੇ ਨਿਕੋਬਾਰ ਟਾਪੂ, Îles Andaman-et-Nicobar, Andamanid ja Nicobarid, अंदमान व निकोबार द्विप समुह, Inizi Andaman ha Nikobar, அந்தமான் நிக்கோபார் தீவுகள், আন্দামান ও নিকোবর দ্বীপপুঞ্জ, Андаманские и Никобарские острова, Андаманські і Нікобарські острови, ಅಂಡಮಾನ್ ಮತ್ತು ನಿಕೊಬಾರ, איי אנדמן וניקובר, アンダマン・ニコバル諸島, Andamán- és Nikobár-szigetek, آندامان و نیکوبار آدالاری, ಅಂಡಮಾನ್ ಮತ್ತು ನಿಕೊಬಾರ್, IN-AN, Andamanerne og Nicobarerne, Giravên Andaman û Nîkobar, جزر أندمان ونيكوبار, انڈمان تہٕ نِکوبار, 安达曼-尼科巴群岛中央直辖区, Андаманські та Нікобарські острови, अण्डमान और निकोबार द्वीपसमूह, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, IXZ, Port Blair, Port Bler, Port Bleras, Port-Blehr, Port-Bler, Portus Blairensis, Sri Vijaya Puram, bu lai er gang, porata bale'ara, port bler, port piler, porta blera, porta bleyara, portableyara, poteubeulleeo, potoburea, pwrt blr, pwrt blyyr, Порт Блер, Порт-Блер, Порт-Блэр, פורט בלייר, پورت بلر, پورٹ بلیئر, पोर्ट ब्लेयर, पोर्ट ब्लेर, पोर्टब्लेयर, পোর্ট ব্লেয়ার, ਪੋਰਟ ਬਲੇਅਰ, પોર્ટ બ્લૅર, ପୋର୍ଟ ବ୍ଲେୟର, போர்ட் பிளேர், ಪೋರ್ಟ್ ಬ್ಲೇರ್, പോർട്ട് ബ്ലെയർ, พอร์ตแบลร์, პორტ-ბლერი, ポートブレア, 布萊爾港, 포트블레어

Capital CityMajor HubBeachDivingSnorkelingNatureAdventureIslandHistoricFamily-FriendlyHoneymoon