30 Places to visit in Andaman

Explore the top places to visit in Andaman, featuring stunning beaches, beautiful islands, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life and exciting adventure activities.

Andaman Tourist Places

The Andaman Islands bring together everything that makes a tropical holiday memorable: turquoise water, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, dense forests, historic landmarks and quiet islands where the pace of life feels wonderfully slow. Located in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are made up of hundreds of islands, although only some are open or developed for tourism. The destination is known for its combination of natural beauty, marine life, adventure activities and colonial history.

The places to visit in Andaman go far beyond its famous beaches. You can walk through the historic Cellular Jail, explore the ruins of a former British settlement at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, snorkel around colourful coral reefs, take a boat through mangrove forests or spend an evening watching the sunset at Chidiya Tapu.

For travellers planning their first Andaman trip, Havelock Island, now officially known as Swaraj Dweep, is a major attraction because of Radhanagar Beach and Elephant Beach. Shaheed Dweep, formerly Neil Island, is known for its beaches and relaxed atmosphere, while Port Blair, now officially Sri Vijaya Puram, provides access to important historical and cultural attractions.

This guide brings together the best places to visit in Andaman, including beaches, islands, historical sites, marine attractions, nature trails and quieter corners. Whether you are planning a family holiday, a romantic escape or an adventure-filled island vacation, these are the places worth considering for your itinerary.

  • Cellular Jail

    Cellular Jail

    Cellular Jail is one of the most significant historical landmarks in the Andaman Islands. Located in Sri Vijaya Puram, formerly known as Port Blair, the prison was built by the British between 1896 and 1906 to imprison Indian freedom fighters. It became known as Kala Pani, or Black Waters, because of its isolation across the sea.

    The prison originally had seven wings arranged around a central tower, with individual cells designed for solitary confinement. Only part of the original structure survives today, but the remaining complex houses galleries, photographs and exhibits that document the lives and struggles of prisoners.

    The evening Light and Sound Show adds another dimension to the visit, narrating the history of the prison and the freedom struggle. For anyone interested in India's history, Cellular Jail is among the most important famous places to visit in Andaman.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹30 per adult for the jail. The Light and Sound Show has a separate ticket.
    • Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Light and Sound Show timings vary by language and day.
    • Location: Sri Vijaya Puram, South Andaman.
  • Radhanagar Beach

    Radhanagar Beach

    Radhanagar Beach is the signature beach of Swaraj Dweep, formerly Havelock Island. Its wide stretch of soft sand, clear water and thick tropical greenery has made it one of the most recognised beaches in the Andaman Islands.

    The beach is particularly beautiful around sunset when the sky takes on warm colours and the surrounding forest creates a natural frame around the shoreline. Swimming conditions can vary depending on the season and sea conditions, so visitors should follow local safety instructions.

    Radhanagar is among the best places to visit in Andaman for travellers who simply want to spend a few hours beside the sea. It is also a popular stop for couples looking for scenic surroundings without needing a packed schedule.

    Highlights:

    Entry Fee: Free

    Timing: Generally around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, subject to local regulations.

    Location: Swaraj Dweep, formerly Havelock Island.

  • Elephant Beach

    Elephant Beach

    Elephant Beach is one of the most popular marine activity destinations on Swaraj Dweep. The beach is surrounded by clear water and coral reefs, making it particularly suitable for snorkelling and other water activities.

    Visitors usually reach the beach by boat from Havelock or through a forest trekking route depending on current arrangements. Snorkelling is one of the main attractions, with the shallow waters allowing visitors to see coral and tropical fish.

    Water activities can include scuba diving, sea walking, jet skiing and boat rides, although availability and pricing depend on operators and weather conditions.

    Elephant Beach is one of the top places to visit in Andaman for travellers who want their holiday to include more than swimming and sunbathing.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Beach access may be included in boat packages; water activities are charged separately.
    • Timing: Usually visited between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
    • Location: Swaraj Dweep.
  • Kalapathar Beach

    Kalapathar Beach

    Kalapathar Beach is located on the eastern side of Swaraj Dweep and is known for its striking combination of pale sand, blue water and dark rocks scattered along the shoreline.

    The beach is generally quieter than some of the island's major activity hubs. There are fewer commercial attractions here, making it a pleasant place for photography, a slow walk or simply sitting beside the sea.

    The road to Kalapathar passes through tropical vegetation and small settlements, making the journey itself part of the experience.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free
    • Timing: Generally accessible during daylight hours.
    • Location: Swaraj Dweep.
  • Bharatpur Beach

    Bharatpur Beach

    Bharatpur Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Shaheed Dweep, formerly Neil Island. The shallow water and coral-rich surroundings make it a favoured location for snorkelling and glass-bottom boat rides.

    The beach is particularly convenient for visitors because it is close to the island's jetty. The water can be remarkably clear during favourable weather, allowing visitors to observe marine life without needing to go far offshore.

    Bharatpur is one of the best tourist places in Andaman for families and first-time visitors who want an easy introduction to the islands' marine environment.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free for beach access. Water activities cost extra.
    • Timing: Generally 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
    • Location: Shaheed Dweep, formerly Neil Island.
  • Laxmanpur Beach

    Laxmanpur Beach

    Laxmanpur Beach is another beautiful attraction on Shaheed Dweep and is especially known for its sunset views. The shoreline has a relaxed atmosphere, with rocky formations adding character to the beach.

    Natural rock structures along the shore become particularly interesting around low tide. Visitors often combine a walk along Laxmanpur Beach with a visit to the nearby Natural Bridge.

    For travellers searching for places to see in Andaman beyond Havelock, Laxmanpur provides a quieter island experience.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free
    • Timing: Daylight hours, with sunset being a popular visiting period.
    • Location: Shaheed Dweep.
  • Natural Bridge

    Natural Bridge

    The Natural Bridge, sometimes called Howrah Bridge by locals, is one of the most distinctive natural formations on Shaheed Dweep. The rock structure has been shaped over time by waves and weather, creating an arch-like formation along the coastline.

    The site is best explored around low tide when the rocks become more accessible. Small marine creatures can sometimes be seen in the tidal pools around the formation.

    It is a short but worthwhile stop when exploring the island's beaches.

    Highlights:

    Entry Fee: Free

    Timing: Best visited around low tide during daylight hours.

    Location: Near Laxmanpur Beach, Shaheed Dweep.

  • Corbyn's Cove Beach

    Corbyn's Cove Beach

    Corbyn's Cove is one of the most accessible beaches near Sri Vijaya Puram. Coconut palms line the shore, while the relatively easy road access makes it a convenient stop for travellers with limited time.

    The beach is used for swimming, relaxation and selected water activities when conditions permit. Because it is close to the capital, it is often included in short sightseeing itineraries.

    The beach is also useful as a quick stop before or after visiting Cellular Jail.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free
    • Timing: Generally accessible during daylight hours.
    • Location: Around 7 km from Sri Vijaya Puram.
  • Chidiya Tapu

    Chidiya Tapu

    Chidiya Tapu, meaning Bird Island, is a popular nature destination located around 25 to 30 km from Sri Vijaya Puram. The area is known for birdwatching, tropical vegetation and coastal scenery.

    The region has several viewpoints and forested areas where visitors can observe birds and enjoy the quieter side of South Andaman. The destination is particularly popular around sunset, when the coastline becomes a beautiful viewpoint over the surrounding sea.

    Incredible India notes that Chidiya Tapu is known for birdlife and includes endangered bird species and spotted deer within the wider area.

    For nature lovers, Chidiya Tapu is among the offbeat places to visit in Andaman that can be added to a Port Blair itinerary.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: None for general sightseeing; activities may have separate charges.
    • Timing: Generally best visited between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
    • Location: South Andaman, around 29 km from Sri Vijaya Puram.
  • Ross Island

    Ross Island

    Ross Island is now officially known as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island. Located close to Sri Vijaya Puram, the island was once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andaman Islands.

    Today, visitors walk among the ruins of colonial buildings that have been gradually reclaimed by tropical vegetation. Remains include the former Chief Commissioner's House, church, bakery and other structures.

    The island also contains a museum and memorial dedicated to its history. The combination of old buildings, forest trails and coastal views gives Ross Island a distinctive atmosphere.

    It is among the famous places to visit in Andaman for travellers interested in colonial history.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹90 to ₹100 for the island, excluding ferry charges, subject to current rates.
    • Timing: Generally 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
    • Location: Near Sri Vijaya Puram.
  • North Bay Island

    North Bay Island

    North Bay Island is one of the most popular destinations for water activities near Sri Vijaya Puram. The island is surrounded by coral reefs and is commonly visited for snorkelling, scuba diving and glass-bottom boat rides.

    The clear waters allow visitors to see colourful marine life, although visibility depends on weather and sea conditions. The island is particularly convenient for travellers who want to experience marine activities without travelling to Havelock or Neil Island.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Boat package and activity charges apply.
    • Timing: Generally visited during daytime boat tours.
    • Location: Near Sri Vijaya Puram.
  • Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

    Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

    Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is a protected marine ecosystem near Wandoor. The park includes a group of islands, mangrove creeks, coral reefs and rich marine life.

    Jolly Buoy and Red Skin are among the islands associated with marine tourism in the park, with access regulated according to conservation requirements and seasonal arrangements. Incredible India identifies the park as an important destination for coral reefs and island exploration.

    Visitors may experience coral reefs through snorkelling or glass-bottom boats, depending on which island is open to tourism and the current operating schedule.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Permit, boat and activity charges apply.
    • Timing: Usually explored through daytime boat trips.
    • Location: Wandoor, South Andaman.
  • Jolly Buoy Island

    Jolly Buoy Island

    Jolly Buoy Island is known for its clear water and coral reefs and is one of the marine attractions within Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.

    The island has strict environmental regulations to protect its fragile ecosystem. Plastic use and visitor movement are regulated, and access is dependent on current permissions and seasonal arrangements.

    Snorkelling and glass-bottom boat rides are among the main activities.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Permit, boat and activity charges apply.
    • Timing: Day trips generally operate during daylight hours.
    • Location: Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
  • Red Skin Island

    Red Skin Island

    Red Skin Island is another marine attraction associated with Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. It is sometimes opened to visitors during periods when Jolly Buoy is closed as part of the park's rotational tourism system.

    The island is known for coral reefs, clear water and marine biodiversity. Since access schedules can change, travellers should confirm which island is open before planning their trip.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Permit, boat and activity charges apply.
    • Timing: Daytime tours only.
    • Location: Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
  • Baratang Island

    Baratang Island

    Baratang Island is one of the most unusual destinations in the Andaman Islands. Instead of focusing solely on beaches, the island offers mangrove forests, limestone caves and natural landscapes that feel completely different from the popular beach islands.

    The journey itself is an attraction. Visitors travel through forested areas and waterways before reaching the caves. The island is generally explored as a day trip from Sri Vijaya Puram or as part of a longer Middle Andaman route.

    Baratang is among the best places to visit in Andaman for travellers who want to add adventure and nature to their itinerary.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Island access and boat/cave tour charges vary.
    • Timing: Usually explored during a full-day excursion.
    • Location: Middle Andaman.
  • Limestone Caves

    Limestone Caves

    The limestone caves of Baratang are among the most unusual natural attractions in the Andaman Islands. The caves have been formed over long periods through natural erosion and geological processes.

    Reaching them usually involves a boat ride through mangrove channels followed by a walk. Inside, visitors can see naturally formed rock structures and cave passages.

    The experience is more adventurous than a conventional beach excursion, so comfortable footwear and protection from the tropical sun are useful.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Generally included within the local boat/cave excursion; prices vary.
    • Timing: Daylight hours.
    • Location: Baratang Island.
  • Mangrove Creek at Baratang

    Mangrove Creek at Baratang

    The mangrove waterways around Baratang are another highlight of the island. Boats travel through narrow channels lined with dense mangrove vegetation before reaching the limestone caves.

    The quiet journey through the forested waterways provides a glimpse of one of the Andaman's most important coastal ecosystems. Mangroves also provide shelter and breeding grounds for numerous marine and bird species.

    For travellers looking for unique things to do in Andaman, travelling through these creeks is an experience worth including.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Included within applicable boat tour charges.
    • Timing: Daytime, according to tour schedules.
    • Location: Baratang Island.
  • Mount Manipur National Park

    Mount Manipur National Park

    Mount Manipur National Park, formerly Mount Harriet National Park, is one of the important forested landscapes in South Andaman. The park offers dense tropical vegetation, viewpoints and opportunities for birdwatching.

    The area is home to a variety of plant and animal species and provides a welcome change from the beaches and marine attractions found elsewhere.

    The park is also associated with panoramic views across the surrounding islands and sea. Incredible India lists Mount Manipur National Park among the prominent attractions around Sri Vijaya Puram.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹25 to ₹50, subject to current forest department rates.
    • Timing: Generally daytime, with exact entry timings subject to forest regulations.
    • Location: South Andaman.
  • Chatham Island

    Chatham Island

    Chatham Island is home to the historic Chatham Saw Mill, which has played an important role in the island's industrial history. The island is connected to Sri Vijaya Puram by a bridge, making it easy to include in a city sightseeing route.

    The sawmill complex includes displays related to timber processing and the history of forestry in the islands. It also has World War II associations.

    The official Incredible India itinerary currently lists Chatham Saw Mill as open to visitors from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹20 to ₹50, subject to current rates.
    • Timing: Around 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
    • Location: Chatham Island, near Sri Vijaya Puram
  • Samudrika Naval Marine Museum

    Samudrika Naval Marine Museum

    Samudrika Naval Marine Museum is a useful stop for travellers who want to understand the marine environment of the Andaman Islands. Managed by the Indian Navy, the museum displays information about marine biodiversity, coral ecosystems, shells and other aspects of island life.

    The museum is relatively easy to visit and works well for families because the exhibits provide an introduction to the underwater world before visitors head out for snorkelling or diving.

    Incredible India includes Samudrika among the key attractions in Sri Vijaya Puram.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹10 to ₹20 per person.
    • Timing: Generally 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a weekly closure possible.
    • Location: Sri Vijaya Puram.
  • Anthropological Museum

    Anthropological Museum

    The Anthropological Museum offers an introduction to the indigenous communities and cultural history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Displays include photographs, objects, tools and information about the traditional lifestyles of island communities.

    The museum is particularly useful for travellers who want to understand the region beyond beaches and water activities.

    Because the islands are home to indigenous communities with distinct cultures and legal protections, visitors should approach this subject respectfully and avoid any tourism that intrudes into protected communities.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹10 to ₹20 per person.
    • Timing: Generally 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, subject to weekly closure.
    • Location: Sri Vijaya Puram.
  • Fisheries Museum

    Fisheries Museum

    The Fisheries Museum, also known as the Fisheries Aquarium, displays marine species found in the waters surrounding the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and other parts of the Indo-Pacific region.

    It provides an easy introduction to coral ecosystems, fish species and marine biodiversity. The museum is compact enough to include alongside other attractions in Sri Vijaya Puram.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Approximately ₹10 to ₹20.
    • Timing: Generally daytime, subject to museum schedule.
    • Location: Sri Vijaya Puram.
  • Wandoor Beach

    Wandoor Beach

    Wandoor Beach is located in South Andaman and serves as one of the gateways to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. The beach itself has a peaceful setting surrounded by tropical vegetation.

    Visitors often combine Wandoor with marine excursions to the park. The shoreline also provides a pleasant place to relax before or after a boat journey.

    Unlike the activity-focused beaches of Havelock, Wandoor is more closely associated with nature and the surrounding protected marine ecosystem.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free
    • Timing: Generally daylight hours.
    • Location: South Andaman.
  • Sitapur Beach

    Sitapur Beach

    Sitapur Beach is one of the scenic beaches on Shaheed Dweep. It is particularly popular for sunrise views because of its eastern orientation.

    The beach has a peaceful setting with tropical vegetation and relatively open surroundings. Early morning is the ideal time to visit if you want to see the sun rising over the sea.

    Sitapur is one of the places to visit in Andaman that works particularly well for travellers who prefer quiet mornings and photography.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free entry
    • Timing: Open during daylight hours.
    • Location: Shaheed Dweep.
  • Vijaynagar Beach

    Vijaynagar Beach

    Vijaynagar Beach is located on Swaraj Dweep and is known for its relaxed shoreline and tropical surroundings. The beach is less about organised activities and more about enjoying the island environment.

    The combination of coconut trees, sand and calm-looking waters makes it a pleasant place for a morning or late-afternoon walk.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free entry
    • Timing: Daylight hours.
    • Location: Swaraj Dweep.
  • Govind Nagar Beach

    Govind Nagar Beach

    Govind Nagar Beach is situated near the main settlement of Swaraj Dweep and is convenient for visitors staying around the island's central areas.

    The beach offers an easy opportunity to enjoy the sea without travelling far from hotels and restaurants. It can also be useful as a quiet stop between other excursions.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free
    • Timing: Daylight hours.
    • Location: Swaraj Dweep.
  • Long Island

    Long Island

    Long Island is a quieter destination in Middle Andaman known for its forests, beaches and relatively low-key atmosphere. It is less developed for mass tourism and therefore appeals to travellers looking for a slower island experience.

    The island is surrounded by tropical greenery and offers opportunities for nature walks, boating and beach exploration depending on local arrangements.

    For travellers looking beyond the standard island circuit, Long Island is one of the offbeat places to visit in Andaman.

    Highlights:

    Entry Fee: Free for general sightseeing; boat and activity charges apply.

    Timing: Daylight hours.

    Location: Middle Andaman.

  • Rangat

    Rangat

    Rangat is a town in Middle Andaman surrounded by forests, beaches and mangrove ecosystems. It is a useful base for travellers who want to explore parts of the island away from the main tourist circuit.

    Nearby attractions include mangrove walkways, beaches and nature areas. Cutbert Bay is also known as an important turtle nesting area.

    Incredible India highlights Rangat as a destination for nature lovers and identifies Cutbert Bay as a turtle breeding site.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free for general sightseeing; individual attractions may charge separately.
    • Timing: Daylight hours.
    • Location: Middle Andaman.
  • Karmatang Beach

    Karmatang Beach

    Karmatang Beach is located near Mayabunder and is known for its relatively quiet shoreline and turtle nesting significance.

    The beach is surrounded by tropical greenery and has a peaceful atmosphere. During appropriate seasons, the area can provide opportunities to learn about turtle conservation, although nesting activity should never be disturbed.

    Mayabunder's tourism information also highlights Karmatang Beach among its natural attractions.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Free beach access.
    • Timing: Daylight hours.
    • Location: Mayabunder, Middle Andaman.
  • Avis Island

    Avis Island

    Avis Island is a small island near Mayabunder known for its quiet beaches and tropical surroundings. It is not part of the standard Andaman itinerary, which makes it appealing to travellers looking for less commercialised scenery.

    Boat access depends on local arrangements and sea conditions, so this destination requires more planning than the major tourist islands.

    Highlights:

    • Entry Fee: Boat charges may apply.
    • Timing: Daytime visits subject to local boat schedules.
    • Location: Near Mayabunder.

FAQ

Yes, five days can be enough for a focused Andaman holiday. A practical five-day route can cover Sri Vijaya Puram, Cellular Jail, Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. You can spend one day on local sightseeing, two days around Swaraj Dweep and one day exploring Shaheed Dweep before returning to Sri Vijaya Puram. However, five days leaves little room for remote destinations such as Baratang or Rangat.

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