Top 21 Things To Do In The Andaman and Nicobar Islands

1. Delve into the region's history at Cellular Jail

Best for: History buffs

Known by the locals as Kala Pani (Black Waters), Cellular Jail was a colonial prison mostly used to detain political prisoners. Constructed in 1896, the jail is a symbol of the darkest era in the history of India. The history of the jail is palpable and you just cannot help but be overcome with a strong patriotic fervour. Some of the notable figures who were hosted at the jail include Yogendra Shukla, Batukeshwar Dutt, and Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Currently, the jail is maintained by the Government of India who turned it to a national memorial monument that showcases how the prisoners survived during this dark era.

Cellular Jail

Address: Atlanta Point, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744102

Website: Cellular Jail

Opening hours: 9am - 12:30pm, 1:30pm - 4:45pm (daily)

2. Know more about the islands' tribes at Zonal Anthropological Museum

Best for: Culture enthusiasts, families

Located in Phoenix Bay, Port Blair, Zonal Anthropological Museum is the most explored destination by visitors of the island. A tour of the museum gives every visitor the opportunity of learning more about the culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the Khasis, the Achik, and the Jaintia communities, the major tribes that inhabited the island. The museum is home to several collections of handicrafts, arts and crafts, rare articles, photographs, and implements all describing life during the tribal era. A visit to the anthropological museum is very educative hence it is always advised to bring your kids along.

Zonal Anthropological Museum

Address: Phoenix Bay, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 1pm, 1:30pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)

3. Explore the limestone caves of Baratang

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, nature lovers

Strategically situated at the heart of Andaman Islands, Baratang is an island famous for its pristine beaches, mud-volcanoes, and of course, the natural limestone caves. Located only 15 minutes’ walk from Nayadera, the caves evolve in terms of shape and size each year. Inside the caves, you will love the massive sedimentary limestone formations that form different shapes and sizes, most of them hanging from the top while some can be found growing from the ground. Given the fact that most of the caves are dense and dark inside, it is always recommended that you carry a flashlight. Additionally, it is always advisable to bring shoes with strong grips.

Limestone caves of Baratang

Address: Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744210, India

Opening hours: 7am - 3pm (daily)

4. Learn all about marine life at Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Best for: Families, nature lovers, couples, solo travelers

If you are looking for the perfect place to spend some quality time with your friends and family, you have to check out Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. The park is located near Wandoor in the Andaman Islands stretching over 15 islands. The marine national park features vast areas of marine waters with coral reefs, plenty of lushly vegetated islands, and of course, sandy beaches. Most destinations in Andaman have the mentioned features but what makes Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park so special to tourists is its proximity to the equator hence ensuring you of the perfect weather for your vacation.

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Address: SH8, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 24 hours (closed on Mon)

5. Challenge yourself with a banana boat ride

Best for: Thrill seekers, watersports enthusiasts

There is no better way to have fun with your family or friends in the Andaman Islands than enjoying a thrilling banana boat ride. A banana boat ride is simply an inflated boat that is attached to a speedboat. The real fun comes when you have to hold on as tight as possible as the speedboat attempts to flip your boat–you would be lucky if you avoid falling off. Considering the safety equipment offered such as life jackets and a professional guide, this activity is safe for anybody above the age of 10 years.

Banana boat ride

Website: Banana boat ride

6. Engage in various water sports at Havelock’s Elephant Beach

Best for: Watersports enthusiasts, thrill seekers, beachgoers, hikers, birdwatchers

Elephant Beach is the perfect vacation destination for those who are looking forward to enjoy water sports during their leisure tour. The beach can be easily accessed through public bus or a hired bike but the best way to reach the beach is through a 20-minute boat drive from the Havelock Island dock. Many who come here are attracted to the beach thanks to its coral reefs and the amazing wildlife. The beach also offers so many activities to indulge in such as swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and bird-watching. Among all the activities that can be enjoyed, sea walking is by far the best experience you can have.

Havelock’s Elephant Beach

Address: SH4, Havelock Island, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744211, India

Website: Havelock’s Elephant Beach

Opening hours: 7:30am - 3:30pm (daily)

7. Explore Mount Harriet National Park

Best for: Nature lovers, birdwatchers, hikers, campers, culture enthusiasts

Ever since it was established in 1969, Mount Harriet National Park has been receiving thousands of visitors from the corners of the globe. Tourists come to experience many nature activities including bird-watching, butterfly-watching, hiking, and camping. For history buffs, there are lots to discover at the park including a traditional Nicobari hut which will give you a glimpse of the distinct culture of the Nicobarese tribes. The hut is similar to a tree and features wooden pillars to support it. With so much to learn, it is always advised to visit the park with family.

Mount Harriet National Park

Address: Hope Town, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744107, India

8. Discover the gems of North Bay Island

Best for: Nature lovers, couples, families, watersports enthusiasts

Many will tell you that North Bay Island is the most popular island in the Andaman Islands, and that might just be a fact. Rather than just sunbathing, the island offers so many activities to indulge in such as scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing, boating, fishing, and specially designed activities such as the Andaman Dolphin glass bottom boat ride and Coral Safari Semi Submarine. Sea walking at North Bay Island is another activity you have to enjoy, especially if you are accompanied by your partner. During your romantic sea walk, discover reef and varieties of fishes that cannot be found in many other places. During your visit to the island, you can opt for the company of a guide who will brief you about the history of the island.

North Bay Island

Address: Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744107, India

Website: North Bay Island

Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)

9. Sunbathe at Corbyn Cove Beach

Best for: Beachgoers, couples, families, solo travelers

Located just 8 kilometres (4.9 miles) from Andama’s city centre Corbyn’s Cove Beach is a secluded beach featuring crystal clear waters, coconut palms, and benches for visitors to relax. In addition to providing a cool environment to relax, the beach also offers the best location for surfing, scuba diving, swimming, and boating. When done with all the fun activities that the beach has to offer, you should head to Snake Island located only 10 minutes’ boat ride away. Snake Island is known for its colourful corals, rare fish species, and deadly snakes. It goes without saying that when you visit Snake Island, you should always have protective gears and a first aid kit just in case.

Corbyn Cove Beach

Address: Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744101, India

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

10. Marvel at mesmerizing sunset views at Kalapathar Beach

Best for: Nature lovers, beachgoers, couples, families, solo travelers

A long stretch of soft silky sands and big black boulders are the common sights you will encounter at Kalapathar Beach. It is a very popular beach in Havelock Island and it is mostly loved for its location, blue waters, and the incredible sunset views it usually has. Since it is clean, never crowded and peaceful, it might as well be the place you need to be every evening holding the hands of your loved one as you enjoy the cool sea breeze and watch the sunset on the horizon.

11. Try scuba diving and snorkeling at Govind Nagar Beach

Best for: Watersports enthusiasts, thrill seekers

If you love scuba diving and exploring the vibrant life that exists near the ocean floor, then one of the beaches you need to visit in Havelock Island is the legendary Govind Nagar Beach. The crystal clear waters, the corals, and the warm temperatures at this beach just make the conditions right for you to take your gear and venture into the deep. If you want to make the most of your time on this beach, it is recommended that you go in the morning since this is when you will have higher chances of spotting colorful schools of fish and other fascinating marine life beneath the surface.

12. Go for a refreshing swim at Radhanagar Beach and Neil’s Cove

Best for: Beachgoers, couples, families, solo travelers

Powdery white sands and turquoise blue waters await you at Radhanagar Beach and Neil’s Cove. It is an award-winning beach that has consistently featured on the lists of the top best beaches in Asia, and as such, it is always a top destination for visitors coming to Andaman. Though it is a very popular beach, it is never crowded so you will have all the space to have a great swimming experience in the cold, but refreshing blue waters.

Radhanagar Beach and Neil's Cove

Address: No. 7 Radhanagar Beach, Havelock, Andaman and 744211, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Opening hours: 5am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free

13. Enjoy a wide array of thrilling outdoor adventures at Vijaynagar Beach

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, watersports enthusiasts, birdwatchers, trekkers

This happens to be one of the most popular beaches on the island, and it is mostly visited by outdoor enthusiasts. It is expansive and comes with a plethora of thrilling outdoor opportunities. This is where you head when you want to indulge in activities such as surfing, sailing, trekking, beach exploration, and bird-watching among others. And since it is very picturesque, you can also visit it for postcard-like photoshoots.

14. Explore the underwater world in Havelock

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Best for: Scuba diving enthusiasts

Havelock Island is a dream destination for passionate scuba divers. Its range of beaches with warm crystal clear waters and well-formed coral eco-systems gift it with some of the best dive spots in the region. Beaches such as Radhanagar, Kalapathar, and Elephant Beach are some of the most frequented by tourists who want to go deep and appreciate the magnificent marine life beneath the surface.

15. Go hiking and discover the Natural Coral Bridge

Best for: Hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers

Put on your trekking shoes and discover the Natural Coral Bridge, which is formed by two living corals. Though the place is open 24 hours a day, it is best to view the bridge during low tide. Most trekkers like to visit its tip, which leads to a muddy path and a small man-made garden. You can also explore the island’s tropical jungle while witnessing a breathtaking view. If you’re new to hiking, fret not as this activity is suitable for all levels of hikers. You can even hire a guide, which is highly recommended to avoid getting lost in the jungle. Meanwhile, the roads on the island are narrow and long. As you traverse these roads, get ready to be mesmerized by the surrounding paddy fields, long banana plantations, and other forms of agriculture.

Natural Coral Bridge

Address: Shahid Neil Island, Andaman Sea, India

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

16. Experience sea walking at Bharatpur Beach

Best for: Watersports enthusiasts, families, couples, solo travelers

The island’s pristine clear water makes it an ideal place for snorkeling and sea walking enthusiasts. Explore the hidden gems such as the vivid corals, colorful fishes, and thriving marine life. All you need is a mask, a snorkel, and an adventurous soul. Bharatpur beach is the prime destination when it comes to the island’s water sports activities. The best thing about snorkeling is that it doesn’t have any age barrier. Moreover, you can easily rent snorkeling gear since it is available in most resorts on the island. With some luck and patience, you may even spot the state animal of Andaman, the dugong (sea cow), in your snorkeling session.

Bharatpur Beach

Address: Bharatpur, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744104, India

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

17. Have a scuba diving adventure on Neil Island

Best for: Scuba diving enthusiasts

Scuba diving is a great way to discover and explore the beautiful marine life that Neil Island is known for. Have a breathtaking underwater adventure when you swim among the colorful fish. Admire the rich and beautiful corals which remain untouched by human activities. The adventure begins at Bharatpur Beach, where several dive centers are located. This is where you gear up with the scuba jackets, oxygen masks, and other necessary equipment. Neil Island has a number of diving schools that offer short-term diving courses, so you don’t have to worry if you’re a beginner. The best season to go scuba diving is from December to May.

Scuba Diving at Neil Island

Address: Shahid Neil Island, Andaman Sea, India

18. Enjoy sightseeing at Laxmanpur Beach

Best for: Nature lovers, beachgoers, couples, families, solo travelers, photographers

Endowed with water that is crystal clear and has a deep blue hue, Laxmanpur Beach is a white-sand beach that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys sightseeing and doing casual trips. Regarded as a non-commercial travel destination, this beach is included in many tourists’ itineraries. One of the major highlights of the beach is the coral reefs which you can easily observe on the seashore and while you are snorkeling. It is also a kid-friendly beach as it offers a variety of activities to keep your children occupied. These include playing on the white sand, collecting seashells, and swimming in shallow waters. If you have a knack for photography, Laxmanpur Beach is blessed with stunning natural beauty that makes it a perfect spot for taking colorful snapshots. So go ahead and release your creative side by clicking the shutter button and choosing a great angle for your photos. Other activities you can enjoy at Laxmanpur Beach include sunbathing, bird watching, scuba diving, and sunrise and sunset watching. Although the weather is pleasant all throughout the year, the peak tourist months in Laxmanpur Beach are from October to May.

Laxmanpur Beach

Address: Village road, Laxmanpur, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

19. Try night kayaking at Mangrove Forest

Best for: Thrill seekers, couples, solo travelers

Going for night kayaking at Mangrove Forest is another experience you must not miss when in Havelock Island. It sounds scary, but the experience is unique and comparable to nothing you’ve ever had before. The smooth gliding over the waters, the mixed sounds of nature, the glowing waters every time you paddle, and the frightening thoughts of encountering anacondas, add to the flavor of going for the thrilling night kayaking.

20. View marine life by riding a glass-bottom boat

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Best for: Nature lovers, families, couples, solo travelers

This unique ride on a glass-bottom boat allows visitors to witness the island’s alluring marine life from a different perspective. It’s perfect for those who do not desire to go underwater but do not want to miss the spectacular view that’s waiting to be unveiled underneath. With a glass-bottom boat, visitors can enjoy viewing mammals, fishes, colorful corals and dense reefs while feeling the wind and the warm weather of the island. Being the safest ride to discover underwater paradise, the glass bottom boat ride is mostly enjoyed by children who wish to experience a fun underwater adventure.

Heaven Rider Glass-Bottom Boat Ride

Address: Bharatpur Beach, Neil Island, South Andaman, Andaman & Nicobar, India

Opening hours: 7am - 4:30pm (daily)

21. Marvel at the breathtaking sunrise and sunset at Sitapur Beach

Best for: Beachgoers, families, couples, solo travelers, photographers

Situated on the southern tip of Shahid Neil Island, Sitapur Beach is famous for its iconic sunrise and sunset. It is also regarded as one of the most peaceful and serene beaches on the island. With fewer travelers visiting the beach, it’s no wonder why it’s been well-preserved while retaining the raw state of nature and wildlife. Officially named “Sunrise Beach” by the administration, Sitapur Beach is directly exposed to the open sea on one side, allowing a clear view of the sunrise. After watching the sunrise, you can walk along the shoreline and enjoy the ocean breeze. Continue walking until you reach “Sunset Point” where you can get a better view of the daily scene it’s named after. It is a vantage point that you can easily find at the entrance side of the beach. The best time to visit Sitapur Beach is during the months of January to May of every year. This is the peak season and visitors can appreciate the pleasant weather at the beach.

Sitapur Beach

Address: Beach No.5, Neil island, Andaman and Nicobar island

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Discover some of the most amazing things that you can do in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

If you are planning to spend your vacation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it is a given fact that you will have so much to discover as you enjoy your stay. In case you run out of ideas on what to do during your stay here, above are just a few activities you can indulge in. Make sure you enjoy them.