White beaches, coral reefs and island ferries — a 6-day Andaman itinerary from Mumbai covering Port Blair, Havelock and Neil, with the best time to go, ferry tips and scuba advice.
Turquoise water, powder-white beaches and colourful coral reefs — the Andaman Islands feel like a trip abroad, without the passport. For travellers from Mumbai it's the perfect island holiday for couples, families and friends. Six days is enough to see the highlights of Port Blair (now officially Sri Vijaya Puram), Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep) at a relaxed pace.
Best time to visit the Andamans
- October to May is the main season, with calm seas, sunny days and good visibility for snorkelling and scuba diving.
- December to February is the most pleasant — and the most in demand. Christmas and New Year sell out early.
- March to May is warm but excellent for water sports, with clear water.
- June to September is monsoon season: ferries and water activities may be cancelled in rough weather, though hotels are cheaper.
6-day Andaman itinerary from Mumbai
- 1
Day 1 — Arrive in Port Blair, Cellular Jail show
Fly to Port Blair (Veer Savarkar International Airport) and check in. Visit the historic Cellular Jail in the afternoon, then stay for the moving light and sound show in the evening. Corbyn's Cove beach is close by for a quiet sunset.
- 2
Day 2 — Ferry to Havelock, Radhanagar Beach
Take a morning ferry to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep). After check-in, head to Radhanagar Beach, often rated among Asia's best beaches, for swimming and a spectacular sunset.
- 3
Day 3 — Elephant Beach and water sports
Take a boat to Elephant Beach for snorkelling, sea walking and glass-bottom boat rides over the coral. In the evening, relax at Kalapathar Beach. Beginners can do a try-dive with a certified scuba centre here.
- 4
Day 4 — Ferry to Neil Island
Cross to Neil (Shaheed Dweep), the quietest of the three islands. See the natural rock bridge at Laxmanpur Beach 2 at low tide, swim at Bharatpur Beach and watch the sunset from Laxmanpur Beach 1.
- 5
Day 5 — Back to Port Blair, Ross Island and North Bay
Morning at Sitapur Beach for sunrise, then ferry back to Port Blair. Visit Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep) with its colonial ruins and deer, and North Bay for coral viewing or a semi-submarine ride, depending on the schedule.
- 6
Day 6 — Fly home
Pick up souvenirs like shell crafts and local spices, then fly back to Mumbai.
Scuba diving and snorkelling in the Andamans
- No swimming experience is needed for a beginner try-dive — an instructor stays with you throughout.
- Havelock and Neil have the most dive centres; choose a PADI- or SSI-certified operator.
- Snorkelling at Elephant Beach and North Bay is great for families with children.
- Do not fly for at least 18 to 24 hours after scuba diving, so plan your dive early in the trip.
- Carry swimwear, a quick-dry towel and reef-safe sunscreen.
Good to know before you go
- Indian citizens do not need a special permit for Port Blair, Havelock and Neil; just carry a government photo ID.
- Mobile network and internet can be slow on the islands — download tickets and bookings beforehand.
- Carry some cash; ATMs on Havelock and Neil can run out during peak season.
- Plastic is restricted in many areas, so pack a reusable water bottle.
- Seafood is excellent, and vegetarian food is easily available in hotels and restaurants.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for an Andaman trip?
Five to six days is ideal to cover Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Island at a relaxed pace. With seven or eight days, you can add Baratang's limestone caves or more beach time.
Which is the best month to visit the Andamans?
October to May is the best season, with calm seas and clear water. December to February has the most pleasant weather, while March to May is best for scuba diving visibility.
Is there a direct flight from Mumbai to Port Blair?
Flights from Mumbai to Port Blair run on some days, along with frequent one-stop options via Chennai, Kolkata or Bengaluru. We confirm the best timings when planning your trip.
Do I need a passport or permit for the Andamans?
No. Indian citizens only need a valid government photo ID, such as an Aadhaar card, passport or driving licence, to visit Port Blair, Havelock and Neil.
Is the Andamans good for families with kids and senior citizens?
Yes. The beaches are calm, the islands are safe, and activities like glass-bottom boats and semi-submarines suit all ages. Choose comfortable private ferries and fewer hotel changes for elderly travellers.
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