The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a tropical paradise in India that offers beautiful white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, centuries-old British-era ruins, and endless water sports. Here, you’ll find a lost world of cascading waterfalls and lush jungles. Dive into vibrant coral reefs, go kayaking and snorkeling, zip line across tree-tops, trek up misty mountains, or find peace on long stretches of private beach.
If you’re dreaming of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands but are unsure where to start or what to see, don’t worry! This archipelago can be overwhelming at first. With over 500 islands, hundreds of beaches, and an incredible range of wildlife, ruins, forests, and adventure, it isn’t easy to know where to go.
Local experts like Andaman Fiesta, an Andaman-based tour operator, can help filter options by your travel time, preferences, and comfort level so you don’t waste time or overschedule. Based on local expertise and reader reviews, here are the 15 best tourist places in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands you can’t miss.
Top 15 tourist places and destinations in andaman and nicobar islands
1. Radhanagar Beach (Havelock Island)
Why Visit?
Radhanagar Beach is always in the top-ten beaches of Asia lists for good reason. It is one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world, where you can relax and simply soak up the natural beauty of the Andaman Sea.
Highlights:
The white sands, turquoise water, gentle waves, and tropical greenery offer the perfect setting for a beach day. Rent a chair, order some food, and watch the sunset over the ocean.
Local Tip:
This beach can get very sunny and harsh during peak hours. We recommend going here early (before 10 am) or later (after 4 pm) to avoid being directly under the sun. Plus, you’ll get the best pictures this way.
2. Cellular Jail (Port Blair)
Why Visit?
This iconic colonial prison is an important site in India’s freedom struggle. You’ll have a chance to see actual cells and areas where prisoners were tortured, plus the graves of Indian freedom fighters.
Highlights:
The massive structure is an impressive example of British colonial architecture. Don’t forget to catch the daily Light and Sound Show that will move you to tears.
Local Tip:
Booking is required for the show, and weekends and peak season (October–March) sell out quickly. You can buy tickets online or at the counter.
3. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Why Visit?
Havelock Island, now known as Swaraj Dweep, is a major hub for water sports, adventure, and some of the best beaches.
Highlights:
Spend a day snorkeling, scuba diving, or kayaking. You can also enjoy some downtime at Elephant Beach or Kalapathar Beach.
Local Tip:
Ferries from Port Blair to Havelock can sell out quickly. Ask locals at Andaman Fiesta to reserve your ferry and water sports activities in advance.
4. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)
Why Visit?
Ross Island has a spooky charm and offers incredible nature and wildlife.
Highlights:
Walk through the ruins of British colonial buildings, spot wild deer, lush trees, and grass, and go on a beautiful trail.
Local Tip:
Combine this island with North Bay Island for an exciting day trip from Port Blair, which is a photographer’s dream.
5. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Why Visit?
This beautiful island is relatively peaceful and not very crowded.
Highlights:
Visit Laxmanpur Beach, Bharatpur Beach, and the Natural Bridge.
Local Tip:
If you’re looking for an island retreat without many tourists, book a room on Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep). This is a popular spot for couples and those seeking a slower, quieter pace. Plan on spending 1–2 nights.
6. Baratang Island
Why Visit?
This island is known for its cultural sensitivities, mud volcanoes, limestone caves, and tribal reserve.
Highlights:
Visit the mud volcanoes and limestone caves. You may also see some of the tribal reserve here.
Local Tip:
Baratang Island requires a permit to visit. Call in advance to check permit availability (every ferry time). You can have an on-ground tour operator like Andaman Fiesta take care of logistics and permits for you, allowing you just to get up early in the morning, pack, and go.
7. North Bay Island
Why Visit?
Head here for non-stop water sports and corals.
Highlights:
Try snorkeling, sea walking, and riding in a glass-bottom boat to get close to the amazing underwater life.
Local Tip:
You can combine this with Ross Island for a full-day excursion from Port Blair.
8. Chidiya Tapu
Why Visit?
This spot is great for seeing birds and watching the sunset.
Highlights:
Wander the cliffside trails and mini jungle trekking. You’ll reach a peak with a stunning view of the sun as it sets in the sea.
Local Tip:
Try to reach here before sunset. Wear good shoes and bring mosquito repellent.
9. Mount Harriet National Park
Why Visit?
This is the highest point within visiting distance of Port Blair and has incredible views and biodiversity.
Highlights:
Beautiful scenery, butterflies, and photo ops abound here. Watch the sunrise or sunset from the park, or enjoy the panoramic view of the Andaman Sea.
Local Tip:
This place is a little less crowded than other viewpoints and makes for a nice nature walk and quiet picnic.
10. Jolly Buoy Island
Why Visit?
Go to Jolly Buoy for the best water clarity and marine life.
Highlights:
Snorkel in the clear water and get up close with colourful corals and fish.
Local Tip:
Permits are needed to enter Jolly Buoy. Contact your hotel to get the necessary permits in advance, or just let Andaman Fiesta take care of everything. You should book permits at least 2–3 days in advance.
11. Diglipur (North Andaman)
Why Visit?
This is a lesser-known destination for the more adventurous.
Highlights:
You can see the Ross & Smith twin islands here. Head here to trek to Saddle Peak, the highest point in the Andaman.
Local Tip:
We recommend spending 2–3 nights if you are doing Diglipur. It is not very near Port Blair and takes 6+ hours by ferry, so it can get tiring to reach. But if you’re up for an offbeat adventure in North Andaman, this is a great choice.
12. Wandoor Beach
Why Visit?
This is a peaceful beach near Port Blair.
Highlights:
The beach is a good gateway to Jolly Buoy Island and Red Skin Islands. It has soft sands and some shaded areas. There are some restaurants here.
Local Tip:
This beach is great for a picnic or a slow stroll on the beach. It is family-friendly and has some facilities like toilets and changing rooms.
13. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Why Visit?
One of India’s best marine parks.
Highlights:
Spanning over 15 islands, it features coral reefs, mangroves, and turtles. It is a great eco-tourism spot.
Local Tip:
The best time to visit this place is between October and May, when the underwater clarity is at its peak.
14. Cinque Island
Why Visit?
Beautifully photogenic island with many activities.
Highlights:
There are two islands here, which are connected by a thin layer of sand. You can visit both of them to capture the turquoise water and visit this unique destination.
Local Tip:
Cinque Island is off the regular tourist path and requires special permission to visit. Coordinate with a local tour operator, like Andaman Fiesta, for all boat transfers and entry permissions.
15. Barren Island
Why Visit?
The only active volcano in India, Barren Island, is an active volcano that is only visible from the sea.
Highlights:
You will see volcanic black rock and blue waters all around.
Local Tip:
Landing is not permitted here. The best way to visit is to go on a boat ride or a seaplane from Port Blair.
How to Choose Where to Go
Your travel time and interests will determine what places to add or not add to your trip. Below is a basic template:
3-Day Trip (Short Getaway)
- Port Blair-based attractions:
- Cellular Jail
- Ross Island
- North Bay Island or Chidiya Tapu
- City strolls and local markets
5-Day Trip (Leisure + Water Adventures)
- Add Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Radhanagar Beach
- Add Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) for an island escape
7+ Day Trip (Explorer’s Itinerary)
- Add Baratang Island, Jolly Buoy, or Diglipur
- Add offbeat gems such as Cinque Island or Mount Harriet
Locals at Andaman Fiesta can also help customize and change plans based on factors such as weather, ferry timings, or how fast you prefer to travel. It’s better to plan to cover as many places as possible rather than have things fall through at the last minute.
Local Travel Tips for Visiting These Places
Permit Information
Baratang, Jolly Buoy, and Cinque Islands require special government-issued permits.
If you are staying at a hotel, they will help you obtain permits. But, it’s always better to book and confirm all these in advance with an on-ground tour operator such as Andaman Fiesta.
Best Months to Visit
Between October and May is the best time for water-based activities such as snorkeling and diving.
The monsoon season (June–September) is not recommended for island hopping and ferries, as the sea is rough and ferries can be canceled.
Ferry and Boat Tips
Ferries for Havelock, Neil, or Baratang should be booked at least one week in advance.
Always use government or registered private operators. Carry seasickness pills if you are prone to it.
Eco-Travel Reminders
Plastic bottles are banned on most islands in the Andaman. So, carry your refillable water bottles.
Apply reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life. Do not touch or stand on coral reefs while snorkeling or scuba diving.
Conclusion
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a once-in-a-lifetime destination that offers stunning beaches, white-sand coves, incredible coral reefs, adventurous sports, untouched jungles, rolling hills, thundering waterfalls, powerful history, and a whole lot more.
From the popular Radhanagar Beach to the lesser-known Mount Harriet, there is a place for every kind of traveller in the Andaman.
Explore famous landmarks like Havelock and Cellular Jail, but also check off your bucket list and head to less touristy spots like Cinque Island or Barren Island for a more fulfilling travel experience.
Suppose you’re still not sure how to plan your first trip to the Andaman Islands. In that case, local experts like Andaman Fiesta are available to help travelers customize their trips to include more than what’s on the common list and ensure a memorable journey. Reach out to Andaman Fiesta by clicking here.
No matter if you’re a beach bum, history buff, or nature lover, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have got you covered, and sunlit beaches are waiting for you!
