Top 20 Famous Places of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are where turquoise waters meet powdery sands, where ancient history whispers through colonial ruins, and where every turn reveals something new from vibrant coral reefs to serene tropical forests. Nestled in the Bay of Bengal, this remote archipelago is made up of over 500 islands, though only a handful are open to visitors.

Suppose you’ve ever dreamed of exploring untouched beaches, spotting rare birds, diving into crystal-clear waters, or walking through history. In that case, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a paradise waiting for you. But with so much to see, knowing where to start can be overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide to the Top 20 Famous Places of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with insider tips, travel advice, and suggestions on how to make the most of your visit the way only local experts can.

A Quick Glimpse at the Islands’ Charm

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are more than just holiday destinations; they’re a blend of cultures, nature, and stories. While their pristine beaches and coral reefs draw in sun-seekers and scuba divers, the islands’ history and biodiversity give them a depth few tropical destinations can match.

This is where Andaman Fiesta, the leading and largest tour operator in the region (approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Andaman Nicobar Chamber of Commerce and Industry), comes in handy. With years of experience guiding both domestic and international travellers, they help create itineraries that balance famous landmarks with hidden treasures.

Historical & Cultural Landmarks

History here isn’t just found in books; it’s scattered across the islands in the form of old prisons, British administrative buildings, and museums preserving indigenous heritage.

1. Cellular Jail, Port Blair

Perhaps the most famous landmark in the Andamans, the Cellular Jail stands as a silent witness to India’s struggle for independence. Built by the British in 1906, it housed political prisoners who endured unimaginable hardships.

Don’t Miss: The evening Light and Sound Show, narrating the history of the freedom fighters imprisoned here.
Travel Tip: Go early to explore before the crowds, and then stay for the show.

2. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)

Once the British administrative headquarters, Ross Island is now a haunting yet beautiful ruin — old churches, officers’ quarters, and bakeries overtaken by banyan trees.

Don’t Miss: A short boat ride from Port Blair makes for an easy half-day trip.
Insider Advice: Pair this with a visit to North Bay Island for snorkelling.

3. Viper Island

Before Cellular Jail, this island served as the site for the first prison in the Andamans. Today, it’s a quiet historical spot with panoramic harbour views.

4. Chatham Saw Mill

Asia’s oldest and largest sawmill, still operational, showcases the islands’ timber industry history.

Best Time: Morning visits avoid the rush of school tours.

5. Anthropological Museum

An excellent place to learn about the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, their culture, and their crafts.

6. Samudrika Marine Museum

Run by the Indian Navy, this museum showcases the islands’ marine biodiversity and ecosystems.

Local Travel Insight: Heritage tours can be combined in a single day with pre-arranged transport. Local operators like Andaman Fiesta often create compact itineraries for travellers who want to cover maximum history in minimal time.

Beaches & Natural Wonders

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are synonymous with beaches, but each one has its personality — from secluded hideaways to bustling water sports hubs. Beyond the turquoise waters and white sands, these shores hold stories, natural marvels, and adventures waiting to be discovered.

1. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep)

Repeatedly ranked among Asia’s best beaches by TripAdvisor and international travel magazines, Radhanagar Beach is a postcard-perfect stretch of white sand meeting crystal-clear blue waters. Surrounded by dense tropical forest, it’s ideal for swimming, long walks, or simply watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, photography, beach walks
Best Time: Late afternoon for sunsets; early morning for solitude and photography
Travel Tip: Carry reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine environment.

2. Cellular Jail, Port Blair

A place that holds deep historical significance, Cellular Jail was once a colonial prison used by the British to exile political prisoners during India’s independence struggle. Today, it’s a national memorial that tells stories of resilience and sacrifice. The evening light-and-sound show is a must-attend, narrating the tales of brave freedom fighters.

Activities: Explore prison cells, attend the light-and-sound show, and visit the museum
Best Time: Evening for the show; mornings for uncrowded visits
Travel Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early for the light-and-sound show to secure good seats.

3. Elephant Beach, Havelock

Known for its vibrant coral reefs and exciting water sports, Elephant Beach is perfect for adventure lovers. Accessible via a short boat ride or a trek through the forest, the beach offers jet skiing, snorkelling, banana boat rides, and glass-bottom boat tours.

Activities: Snorkelling, jet skiing, sea walking, underwater photography
Best Time: Morning to mid-afternoon for clear visibility underwater
Travel Tip: Book water sports in advance during peak season to avoid long waits.

4. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island)

Once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andamans, Ross Island now stands as an intriguing blend of history and nature. You’ll find ruins of old buildings, a church, and a bakery, now intertwined with banyan roots and lush greenery.

Activities: Historical exploration, photography, deer spotting
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes — much of the exploration involves walking.

5. North Bay Island

Famous for the lighthouse featured on India’s ₹20 currency note, North Bay Island offers one of the best spots for underwater adventures. Scuba diving and snorkelling here reveal coral reefs teeming with colourful fish.

Activities: Scuba diving, snorkelling, sea walking, lighthouse visits
Best Time: October to May for calm seas
Travel Tip: Combine your North Bay Island trip with Ross Island in a single day.

6. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) – General

Beyond Radhanagar and Elephant Beach, Havelock Island itself is a destination worth days of exploration. Its relaxed vibe, lush interiors, and pristine shores make it a backpacker’s favourite.

Activities: Beach hopping, scuba diving, kayaking, cycling
Best Time: November to April for outdoor activities
Travel Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the island at your own pace.

7. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)

Smaller and quieter than Havelock, Neil Island is known for its laid-back atmosphere, scenic beaches, and stunning natural rock formations. Laxmanpur, Bharatpur, and Sitapur beaches each offer unique experiences — from sunset views to snorkelling spots.

Activities: Snorkelling, sunset watching, photography
Best Time: Sunrise at Sitapur Beach; Sunset at Laxmanpur Beach
Travel Tip: A one-day trip is possible, but staying overnight lets you soak in the tranquillity.

8. Natural Rock Bridge, Neil Island

Also called the “Howrah Bridge” by locals, this natural arch was formed by years of wave erosion. During low tide, you can walk on the exposed seabed to see marine life in the tidal pools.

Activities: Photography, tide-pool exploration
Best Time: Low tide (check tide timings in advance)
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy sandals for walking on rocky surfaces.

9. Baratang Island – Limestone Caves & Mud Volcano

An adventurous day trip from Port Blair, Baratang Island is famous for its limestone caves, mangrove creeks, and the rare mud volcano. The journey itself — through tribal reserves and dense forests — is part of the adventure.

Activities: Cave exploration, mangrove boat rides
Best Time: November to February for comfortable weather
Travel Tip: Book through a registered tour operator — permits are required.

10. Wandoor Beach

A serene beach and the gateway to Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Wandoor Beach is ideal for picnics, swimming, and short island-hopping trips.

Activities: Swimming, boat rides to nearby islands
Best Time: Morning to afternoon
Travel Tip: Pack food and water — facilities are limited.

Local Travel Insight: Island-hopping tours allow you to experience multiple beaches in a single day. With ferries and transfers booked in advance, you can avoid wasting time in queues and focus on enjoying the sand and sea. Don’t forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen, as protecting the delicate marine ecosystem is as important as enjoying its beauty.

Also read: – Top best beaches in andaman

Adventure & Wildlife Hotspots

For those who prefer more than just sunbathing, the Andamans offer trekking, diving, birdwatching, and rare natural sights.

11. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

Covering 15 islands, this marine park is a biodiversity hotspot. Glass-bottom boat rides reveal coral reefs, and diving trips offer encounters with turtles, reef sharks, and colourful fish.

Activities: Snorkelling, scuba diving, birdwatching
Best Time: November to April
Travel Tip: Some islands require permits; check in advance.

12. Chidiya Tapu

Also known as the “Sunset Point” of the Andamans, Chidiya Tapu is a small village surrounded by lush mangroves and hills. It’s a favourite for birdwatchers and photographers.

Activities: Sunset photography, trekking to Munda Pahad
Best Time: Late afternoon
Travel Tip: Bring mosquito repellent if visiting around sunset.

13. Jolly Buoy Island

A part of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Jolly Buoy Island is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a no-plastic zone, ensuring pristine beauty.

Activities: Snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides
Best Time: Open only for part of the year (usually Nov–May)
Travel Tip: Carry drinking water in reusable bottles.

14. Cinque Island

One of the most beautiful yet least-visited islands, Cinque Island boasts white sandy beaches and a sandbar connecting its north and south parts.

Activities: Diving, snorkelling, photography
Best Time: November to March
Travel Tip: Access is limited; best visited with an organised tour.

15. Long Island

An offbeat destination, Long Island offers quiet beaches, lush forests, and a close-knit local community. Lalaji Bay Beach here is a hidden gem.

Activities: Beach camping, trekking, snorkelling
Best Time: November to April
Travel Tip: Facilities are basic and perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude.

16. Mount Harriet National Park

The second-highest peak in the Andamans, Mount Harriet, offers panoramic views and rich biodiversity. It’s also featured on the back of India’s ₹20 note (old series).

Activities: Trekking, birdwatching
Best Time: Morning for pleasant weather
Travel Tip: Carry light snacks and plenty of water.

17. Samudrika Marine Museum, Port Blair

Operated by the Indian Navy, this museum showcases the islands’ marine life, history, and tribal cultures.

Activities: Museum tour, learning about marine biodiversity
Best Time: Any time during opening hours
Travel Tip: Great indoor activity for rainy days.

18. Corbyn’s Cove Beach

A lively beach close to Port Blair city, perfect for short evening trips. Palm-lined shores make it ideal for relaxing or trying quick water sports.

Activities: Jet skiing, sea karting, evening strolls
Best Time: Evening for cooler weather
Travel Tip: Pair your visit with the Cellular Jail light-and-sound show.

19. Merk Bay Beach, North Passage Island

Secluded and untouched, Merk Bay Beach offers crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. It’s ideal for travellers seeking an offbeat beach day.

Activities: Snorkelling, kayaking, swimming
Best Time: Morning till early afternoon
Travel Tip: Bring food and supplies, as there are no facilities.

20. Viper Island

Once home to a jail predating the Cellular Jail, Viper Island holds a sombre past. The ruins are set against a scenic backdrop of palm trees and calm waters.

Activities: Historical exploration, photography
Best Time: Morning visits
Travel Tip: Can be combined with Ross Island and North Bay trips.

Also read: – Top adventure activities in andaman and nicobar islands

Travel Tips for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands

1. Best Time to Visit

Peak Season: October to March (pleasant weather, calm seas)
Off-Season: April to September (good deals, but expect monsoon rains)

2. How to Get There

By Air: Direct flights to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
By Sea: Passenger ships from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam (60–70 hours).

3. Entry Permits

Indian Nationals: No permit for most tourist spots.
Foreign Nationals: Restricted Area Permit (available on arrival or via designated offices).

Sample 7-Day Itinerary for the Top 20 Places

Day 1: Arrive in Port Blair, visit Cellular Jail & Corbyn’s Cove Beach

Day 2: Ross Island & North Bay Island day trip

Day 3: Early ferry to Havelock, visit Radhanagar Beach

Day 4: Elephant Beach & Kalapathar Beach

Day 5: Ferry to Neil Island, explore Laxmanpur Beach & Natural Rock Bridge

Day 6: Return to Port Blair, day trip to Chidiya Tapu & Wandoor Beach

Day 7: Baratang Island excursion, depart in the evening

Insider Tip: By booking all inter-island ferries, permits, and transfers in advance, you can avoid wasting hours in ticket queues —a massive plus for short trips.

Why Local Expertise Makes a Difference

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands may be small on the map, but logistics can get tricky with limited ferry seats, weather-dependent schedules, and entry restrictions for specific areas. This is where local expertise changes everything.

Instead of juggling last-minute bookings, travellers can have:

Flights and ferries are booked in sync with each other
Permits handled in advance
Accommodation chosen close to key attractions
Activities timed for the best conditions

That’s the difference between visiting the islands and experiencing them.

Also Read: – Best food of andaman and nicobar islands

Conclusion

From the haunting walls of Cellular Jail to the dreamy shores of Radhanagar Beach, from the colourful reefs of Elephant Beach to the mysterious limestone caves of Baratang the Top 20 Famous Places of Andaman and Nicobar Islands each offer something unique.

The magic of the Andamans lies in how you connect these dots. And when you do it with local insight, every day feels like the best day of your trip.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets, history, or adventure, the islands are ready for you. All you need to do is take that first step across the Bay of Bengal.