Island India offers a pristine tropical vacation distinct from the mainland. The Andaman Islands are the most accessible for tourists, with Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) being the star attraction. Radhanagar Beach is consistently voted one of Asia's best beaches, featuring soft white sand and shallow, calm waters perfect for young swimmers. Activities like the 'Sea Walk' allow non-swimmers and older children to walk on the ocean floor wearing a helmet, surrounded by schools of fish.
History lessons come alive in Port Blair at the Cellular Jail, where a light and sound show narrates the story of India's freedom struggle. For a day trip, Ross Island offers eerie, jungle-clad ruins of British colonial buildings that kids love to explore, along with friendly resident deer and peacocks. The islands are also great for introductory scuba diving courses.
Lakshadweep, on the western side, consists of coral atolls with stunning lagoons. Tourism here is more restricted and requires permits, making it quieter and more exclusive. It is ideal for families who really want to disconnect and focus on snorkeling and water sports. Connectivity to the islands is by flight or ship from the mainland. The best time to visit is between October and May to avoid the heavy monsoon rains which can disrupt ferry schedules.
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Activities & Best Times
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Home to Radhanagar Beach and the Lakshadweep atolls, this region offers world-class turquoise waters and pristine reefs comparable to the Maldives. Peak months (Jan-Mar) provide optimal sea visibility and calm conditions, while the heavy monsoon (May-Nov) brings rough seas and limited boat access.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Features unique tropical ecosystems, endemic bird species, and sea turtle nesting grounds in an authentic, non-commercialized wilderness. The dry season (Jan-Mar) is essential for trekking and exploring remote limestone caves, as heavy rainfall (May-Oct) makes jungle trails impassable.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
High-end eco-resorts offer secluded, world-class wellness experiences focused on tranquility and natural beauty. Lower humidity and clear skies from January to March provide the perfect environment for outdoor yoga and spa retreats, whereas the monsoon season's extreme humidity can be uncomfortable.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
A premier global destination for scuba diving and sea kayaking with high marine biodiversity and exceptional reef health. Diving visibility is at its peak during the driest months (Jan-Mar); monsoon conditions from May to November result in poor underwater visibility and safety hazards.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Provides significant historical insights through the colonial-era Cellular Jail and unique marine biology research centers. Peak dry weather is ideal for visiting these heritage sites and museums, which can be difficult to access during the frequent and heavy rains of the monsoon season.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
While Port Blair offers a poignant look at India's independence struggle, it lacks the broader infrastructure of a world-class cultural capital. Best visited in the drier months when outdoor historical sound and light shows are operational and museum access is guaranteed.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
The Island Tourism Festival in January is the region's main cultural event, showcasing local traditions and crafts. Outside of this specific window, there are few events of significant international appeal for sophisticated travelers.
Attractions (41 total)
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Andaman Trunk Road (National Highway 4)
Port Blair
330km paved highway (10-12 hours) traversing South, Middle, and North Andaman. Requires a convoy-led passage through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve and two vehicle ferry crossings. Highlights include the Baratang limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and the twin islands of Ross and Smith at the northern terminus.
Visit website →Chidiya Tapu Scenic Drive
Port Blair
25km paved coastal and forest road (1 hour) from Port Blair to the southernmost tip of South Andaman. The route winds through dense mangrove forests and tropical evergreen canopies, offering frequent sea views and ending at a famous sunset viewpoint and biological park.
Visit website →Port Blair Marine Drive
Port Blair
10km paved shoreline road (20 minutes) running along the eastern coast of Port Blair from Flag Point to Corbyn's Cove. This scenic stretch offers unobstructed views of the Bay of Bengal, passing by colonial landmarks and well-maintained seaside parks.
Visit website →Swaraj Dweep Forest Road
Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
12km paved island road (30 minutes) connecting the Havelock Jetty to Radhanagar Beach. The drive passes through ancient mahogany and mahua forests, rural coconut plantations, and vibrant local villages, leading to one of the most famous white-sand beaches in Asia.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Bangaram Island
Bangaram
A stunning coral atoll with a shallow turquoise lagoon, offering families a secluded paradise for snorkeling and observing vibrant marine life.
Visit website →Natural Bridge
Shaheed Dweep
Also known as Howrah Bridge, this unique rock formation is a massive limestone archway accessible at low tide, where families can explore tide pools filled with sea creatures.
Visit website →Agatti Island Lagoon
Agatti
The gateway to Lakshadweep, featuring a breathtakingly clear lagoon where families can see colorful corals and fish right from the shore or glass-bottom boats.
Visit website →Limestone Caves
Baratang Island
Reached via a scenic boat ride through mangrove forests, these ancient geological formations feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites that fascinate visitors of all ages.
Visit website →Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Biological Park, Chidiyatapu
Port Blair
An expansive tropical biological park featuring endemic Andaman species like saltwater crocodiles and macaques in a lush rainforest setting.
Visit website →Mini Zoo, Haddo
Port Blair
A compact zoological facility in the city center showcasing regional fauna, including endemic birds and large saltwater crocodile enclosures.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Cellular Jail National Memorial
Port Blair
A significant national memorial where families can learn about India's independence struggle through museum exhibits and a poignant evening light and sound show.
Visit website →Chatham Saw Mill
Port Blair
One of Asia's oldest and largest saw mills offers families a look at historic timber processing and a forest museum with rare wood carvings.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island (Ross Island)
Port Blair
Families can explore the atmospheric ruins of a colonial-era British settlement where tame deer roam freely among impressive vine-covered buildings.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island
Port Blair
Explore the atmospheric ruins of a colonial-era British administrative settlement, where nature has reclaimed ornate ballrooms, churches, and houses.
Visit website →Zonal Anthropological Museum
Port Blair
A cultural hub documenting the life, tools, and traditions of the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Visit website →Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Radhanagar Beach
Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
Consistently ranked as one of Asia's best beaches, it offers families pristine white sands and calm turquoise waters for swimming and sunsets.
Visit website →Agatti Island Beach
Agatti Island
The gateway to Lakshadweep, featuring stunning emerald waters and accessible coral reefs that are perfect for family snorkeling excursions.
Visit website →Bharatpur Beach
Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island)
Known for its shallow and calm waters, this beach is ideal for young children to enjoy swimming and coral viewing in safety.
Visit website →Bangaram Beach
Bangaram Island
A breathtaking coral atoll with a shallow lagoon that provides a safe and serene environment for family water activities and exploration.
Visit website →Elephant Beach
Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
A popular spot for families seeking adventure with its vibrant coral reefs accessible via snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides.
Visit website →Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
Port Blair
A premier public hub in Port Blair offering a wide range of water sports including jet skiing, parasailing, and speed boat rides for all ages.
Visit website →Kadmat Island Water Sports Centre
Kadmat Island
A dedicated outdoor activity center known for its shallow lagoons, offering professional scuba diving courses and kayaking for international travelers.
Visit website →Bangaram Island Water Sports Centre
Bangaram Island
A world-class government-run water sports facility on a pristine coral atoll offering scuba diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing in turquoise lagoons.
Visit website →Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Wandoor
An expansive marine conservation area serving as a hub for supervised snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and island-hopping adventures.
Visit website →Hiking & Cycling Routes
Saddle Peak Trail
Diglipur
18.6km challenging round-trip trek to the highest point of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (732m). The trail passes through tropical evergreen forests and requires approximately 6-8 hours. Elevation gain: 732m. A guide from the forest office at Lamiya Bay is mandatory.
Visit website →Elephant Beach Trek
Swaraj Dweep (Havelock)
4km moderate round-trip trek through mangrove forests and tropical marshlands to reach the secluded Elephant Beach. Duration: 1.5-2 hours. Elevation gain is minimal. The trail is known for its muddy sections and ancient trees. Local guides are often available at the trailhead on Radhanagar Road.
Visit website →Munda Pahar Trail
Chidiya Tapu
3km easy round-trip forest trail leading to a scenic cliff viewpoint on the southernmost tip of South Andaman Island. Duration: 1-2 hours. Minimal elevation gain. The path winds through a biological park known for birdwatching and ends at a rocky cliff overlooking the sea.
Visit website →Mount Manipur to Madhuban Trek
Hope Town
16km moderate point-to-point trek from Mount Manipur (formerly Mount Harriet) to Madhuban beach. Typical duration is 5-6 hours with approximately 400m elevation gain. The route features rare birds, exotic butterflies, and dense jungle canopy. Accessible via ferry from Port Blair to Hope Town.
Visit website →Aquarium / Sea Life Centre
Samudrika Marine Museum
Port Blair
Run by the Indian Navy, this museum offers an excellent overview of the region's marine life, tribal culture, and geography, featuring a large blue whale skeleton.
Visit website →Marine Museum Kavaratti
Kavaratti
The primary aquarium attraction in Lakshadweep, housing a variety of colorful ornamental fish and marine artifacts to educate visitors on the atoll's biodiversity.
Visit website →Fisheries Museum
Port Blair
This museum showcases over 350 species of marine life endemic to the islands, including live fish in glass tanks and various preserved specimens.
Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Science Centre
Port Blair
An interactive facility featuring a 3D theater, marine galleries, and outdoor physics exhibits perfect for children and families.
Visit website →Marine Museum
Kavaratti
A specialized museum and aquarium that educates visitors on the diverse coral species and aquatic fauna unique to the Lakshadweep archipelago.
Visit website →Anthropological Museum
Port Blair
A scientific repository showcasing the lifestyle, tools, and evolution of the indigenous Paleolithic tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Visit website →Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Manglutan Rubber Plantation
Port Blair
An immersive rural experience where visitors can see the extraction of natural latex from rubber trees in a lush, forested setting.
Sippighat Agricultural Farm
Port Blair
A sprawling 80-acre government-run facility showcasing tropical spice cultivation like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for curious families.
Visit website →National Park / Nature Reserve
Saddle Peak National Park
Diglipur
Home to the highest peak in the archipelago, this park offers adventurous families trekking trails through tropical rainforests to spectacular views over the North Andaman Sea.
Visit website →Mount Manipur National Park
Port Blair
Formerly known as Mount Harriet, this park features lush evergreen forests and offers families panoramic views of the Andaman coastline from the highest point in the South Andamans.
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Viper Island
Port Blair
A historical site featuring the ruins of a colonial-era gallows and jail situated on a serene, picturesque island.
Minicoy Lighthouse
Minicoy
An iconic white-painted lighthouse built by the British in 1885, offering panoramic views of the turquoise Arabian Sea.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Dhanikhari Botanical Garden
Port Blair
A lush conservation site managed by the Botanical Survey of India featuring rare endemic plants, a vibrant orchid house, and medicinal herb sections.
Visit website →