Best places to visit in Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Best places to visit in Andaman & Nicobar Islands
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands, an archipelago of 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal, is India's tropical island paradise — home to some of Asia's finest beaches, world-class diving and snorkeling in pristine coral reefs, dense tropical rainforests, and some of the world's last surviving isolated indigenous tribes. Port Blair, the capital, is home to the historic Cellular Jail — a sobering reminder of India's freedom struggle — while the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep) Islands consistently rank among the world's best beaches. The marine biodiversity, including sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, and rare endemic bird species, make the Andamans a dream destination for divers and nature lovers.
Radhanagar Beach
→Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island is consistently ranked among Asia's finest beaches — a 2 km arc of powder-white sand meeting turquoise Andaman Sea waters, backed by dense tropical forest. Famous for legendary sunsets and excellent snorkelling, it is the definitive Andaman sightseeing and beach experience. Entry fee applies after 5 PM. Arrive early for shade; the beach fills by mid-morning. Reached by ferry from Port Blair. Absolutely unmissable on any Andaman itinerary.
Cellular Jail
→Cellular Jail — Kala Pani — is India's most haunting colonial monument. Built by the British in 1906 in Port Blair to isolate Indian freedom fighters in solitary confinement, its seven-wing radial design is chilling even today. The nightly Sound and Light Show narrating the freedom struggle is one of the most moving heritage experiences in India. A mandatory Port Blair sightseeing destination. Entry fee applies; the show runs in Hindi and English on alternate nights.
Elephant Beach
→Elephant Beach on Havelock Island is the Andaman's finest snorkelling destination — a pristine bay teeming with vibrant coral reefs, colourful fish, and sea turtles just metres from shore. Accessible by boat (30 min) or a forest trek, it is a top Andaman sightseeing and water sports destination for sea-walking, glass-bottom boat rides, and snorkelling. Entry fee and boat charges apply. Best visited on morning trips before winds pick up. Book water sports in advance during peak season.
Ross Island
→Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) is Port Blair's most atmospheric heritage destination — a tiny jungle-reclaimed island that served as the British administrative capital of the Andamans. Its colonial ruins — ballroom, bakery, church, tennis courts — are now draped in enormous banyan roots, with deer and peacocks roaming freely. A top Andaman sightseeing and photography landmark. Accessible by ferry from Port Blair jetty in 15 minutes; entry fee applies.
North Bay Island
→North Bay Island is Andaman's most popular day-trip destination from Port Blair — a coral-rich island offering glass-bottom boat rides, sea-walking, snorkelling, and scuba diving above remarkable underwater landscapes. One of the top Andaman sightseeing experiences for non-swimmers and families seeking accessible marine adventure. Accessible by ferry from Phoenix Bay Jetty; activity packages available on-site. The semi-submarine ride offers an underwater view without getting wet — a unique Andaman experience.
Baratang Limestone Caves
→Baratang Island's Limestone Caves are among India's most extraordinary natural wonders — dramatic cathedral-like cave formations reached via a thrilling journey through Jarawa tribal reserve forest and a mangrove creek boat ride. The stalactite and stalagmite formations are exceptional in scale and beauty. A top Andaman adventure sightseeing experience; tribal area permits and guides are mandatory. Located 100 km from Port Blair; best arranged as an organised overnight or long-day trip.