09:00 - Visit to the famous Radhanagar Beach: Start your day with a visit to the stunning Radhanagar Beach, often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia. With its pristine white sands, crystal clear waters, and lush greenery, it's the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the serene beauty of the Andaman Islands. The beach is also a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. Did you know? Radhanagar Beach was awarded the title of 'Asia's Best Beach' by Time Magazine in 2004.
3-Day Adventure in the Andaman Islands: Beaches, Treks, and Culture
Embark on a 3-day adventure in the Andaman Islands, exploring stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant markets. Dive into water activities, savor local cuisine, and immerse in the rich culture.
Day 1: Beach Exploration:
11:00 - Head to Elephant Beach: Next, make your way to Elephant Beach, a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Here, you can indulge in snorkeling and explore the vibrant marine life of the Andaman Sea. The beach is also known for its stunning coral reefs and clear waters, making it a perfect spot for underwater photography.
13:30 - Lunch at Anju Coco Resto: After a morning of beach exploration, head to Anju Coco Resto for a delicious seafood lunch. This popular restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from fresh grilled fish to succulent prawns, all prepared with local spices and ingredients. The restaurant's relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
15:00 - Scuba diving session at Barefoot Scuba: In the afternoon, dive into the underwater world with a scuba diving session at Barefoot Scuba. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, the dive center offers a range of courses and dive trips to suit all levels. Explore the colorful coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle!
18:00 - Relax at Kalapathar Beach: As the day winds down, head to Kalapathar Beach to watch the sunset. This secluded beach offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea and is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure. The beach gets its name from the surrounding black rocks ('Kala Pathar' means 'Black Stone' in Hindi) that add to its unique charm.
20:00 - Dinner at Something Different Cafe and Beachside Bar: End your day with a hearty meal at Something Different Cafe and Beachside Bar. This beachfront restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from traditional Indian cuisine to international favorites. Enjoy your meal with a view of the sea, under the starlit sky - a perfect end to your first day in the Andaman Islands.
Day 2: Island Adventure:
09:00 - Trek to Mount Harriet National Park: Start your day with an exhilarating trek to Mount Harriet National Park, one of the richest areas of biodiversity in the Andaman Islands. The park is home to a variety of endemic species of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and the azure blue waters of the Bay of Bengal. Did you know? Mount Harriet is the third highest peak in the Andaman Islands and was featured on the back of the ₹20 Indian note!
12:00 - Visit Cellular Jail National Memorial: After the trek, head to the Cellular Jail National Memorial, a poignant reminder of India's struggle for independence. This colonial prison, also known as 'Kala Pani', was used by the British to exile political prisoners. The jail complex now serves as a national memorial and houses a museum that provides insights into the life of the prisoners. Did you know? The jail had seven wings, each shaped like a spoke of a bicycle wheel, a design intended to keep prisoners from communicating with each other.
14:00 - Lunch at New Lighthouse Restaurant: Enjoy a traditional Andamanese lunch at the New Lighthouse Restaurant. This popular eatery offers a variety of local dishes, including seafood delicacies like crab curry and grilled fish. The restaurant's beachfront location provides a perfect setting to relax and enjoy your meal.
15:30 - Boat ride to Ross Island: Take a boat ride to Ross Island, the erstwhile capital of the Andaman Islands during the British rule. The island is dotted with ruins of old buildings like the church, bakery, press, swimming pool, and the Chief Commissioner's residence, all of which narrate a tale of the bygone era. Did you know? Ross Island is now under the control of the Indian Navy, which has established a small museum on the island named 'Smritika'.
18:00 - Light and sound show at the Cellular Jail: As the day winds down, return to the Cellular Jail for a mesmerizing light and sound show. The show narrates the saga of the heroic freedom struggle, bringing alive the dark days of the Indian freedom struggle. It's a must-watch for history buffs and those interested in India's past.
20:00 - Dinner at Ananda Restaurant: End your day with a delicious dinner at Ananda Restaurant. Known for its seafood and Indian cuisine, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Try their grilled lobster or the Andaman fish curry for a taste of the islands. After dinner, retire to your hotel and rest up for another day of adventure in the Andaman Islands.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion:
09:00 - Visit the traditional Anthropological Museum: Start your day with a visit to the Anthropological Museum in Port Blair, a fascinating institution dedicated to the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands. This museum offers a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage of the islands, showcasing a variety of tribal artifacts, photographs, and models. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in anthropology and the history of the Andaman Islands. Did you know? The museum houses an extensive collection of tools and weapons used by the Andaman tribes!
11:00 - Explore the vibrant markets of Aberdeen Bazaar: After the museum, head to Aberdeen Bazaar, the bustling heart of Port Blair. This vibrant market is the perfect place to shop for local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs. From colorful textiles to intricate shell jewelry, Aberdeen Bazaar offers a wide range of unique items that reflect the rich culture of the Andaman Islands. Don't forget to haggle to get the best deals!
13:30 - Enjoy a delicious lunch at Lighthouse Residency: For lunch, visit Lighthouse Residency, a popular restaurant in Port Blair known for its delicious seafood and local Andamanese dishes. With its friendly service and cozy atmosphere, Lighthouse Residency offers a delightful dining experience. Try their grilled fish or prawn curry for a taste of the islands' culinary delights.
15:00 - Take a ferry to Jolly Buoy Island: In the afternoon, embark on a ferry ride to Jolly Buoy Island, a part of Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. This island is famous for its clear water, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a paradise for snorkeling and swimming. Remember to bring your camera to capture the stunning underwater scenery! Did you know? Jolly Buoy Island is a no-plastic zone to preserve its pristine environment.
18:00 - Relax at the serene Corbyn's Cove Beach: As the day winds down, head to Corbyn's Cove Beach, a serene and picturesque beach in Port Blair. With its swaying palm trees and calm blue waters, Corbyn's Cove Beach is the perfect place to relax and watch the sunset. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea.
20:00 - Indulge in a seafood dinner at Bayview Restaurant: End your day with a sumptuous seafood dinner at Bayview Restaurant, a charming eatery with stunning views of the Andaman Sea. Known for its fresh seafood and local cuisine, Bayview Restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. Try their lobster thermidor or crab curry for a gastronomic end to your day in the Andaman Islands.
Tips & Recommendations
- Havelock Island: Beach Activities: While exploring the beautiful beaches of Havelock Island, don't forget to try out the thrilling water sports. Snorkeling at Elephant Beach is a must-do for adventure enthusiasts.
- Havelock Island: Scuba Diving: For an unforgettable underwater experience, go for a scuba diving session at Barefoot Scuba. It's a great opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life of the Andaman Sea.
- Port Blair: Historical Exploration: When in Port Blair, make sure to visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial. It's a significant landmark that offers insights into India's freedom struggle.
- Port Blair: Island Hopping: Don't miss the chance to explore Ross Island and Jolly Buoy Island. These islands are known for their scenic beauty and rich history.
- Port Blair: Cultural Immersion: A visit to the Anthropological Museum is highly recommended for those interested in learning about the indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands.
- Port Blair: Shopping: For souvenir shopping, head to Aberdeen Bazaar. It's a vibrant market where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
- General Tip: Transportation: To reach the Andaman Islands, you can either take a flight to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair or opt for a ship from Chennai, Kolkata, or Visakhapatnam. Please note that the ship journey can take around 60-70 hours.
Climate & Weather
- Havelock Island: Havelock Island, part of the Andaman Islands, experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The weather is warm and humid throughout the year, with the monsoon season from May to September. If you're planning to visit Radhanagar Beach or Elephant Beach, make sure to carry sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Also, if you're planning to dine at Anju Coco Resto or Something Different Cafe and Beachside Bar, it's advisable to carry a light jacket as the evenings can get a bit breezy.
- Port Blair: Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman Islands, also experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The city is warm and humid throughout the year, with the monsoon season from May to September. If you're planning to visit Mount Harriet National Park or Ross Island, make sure to carry a raincoat or umbrella, especially during the monsoon season. Also, if you're planning to explore Cellular Jail National Memorial or Anthropological Museum, it's advisable to carry a water bottle as the weather can get quite hot.
What Locals Love
Havelock Island, Andaman Islands:
- Nemo Cafe: A local favorite for its fresh seafood and beachfront location.
- Havelock Island Farmers Market: A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Port Blair, Andaman Islands:
- Samudrika Naval Marine Museum: A museum dedicated to the marine life of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Sagarika Emporium: A government-run emporium selling a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Icy Spicy: A popular local eatery known for its delicious Indian and Chinese dishes.
Remember, the best way to experience a place is often to step off the beaten path. Engage with locals, try the street food, and let the rhythm of the cities guide you.