How Many Days Should You Vacation in Andaman?

How Many Days Should You Vacation in Andaman?

If you’re dreaming of a vacation to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, one question always comes up first – how many days should you spend to make the most of it? You want a trip that’s not just scenic, but also fulfilling, fun, and packed with #moments that matter to you and your loved ones.

At Go2Andaman, we prize ourselves on putting out authentic and local-verified information about the islands. So, we have curated 5 different sample itineraries for you to get a sense of how your vacation could be like depending on the time you choose to spend in the islands. 

In Short: What You Can Expect Based on Your Days:

1. 5-Day Itinerary: A fast-paced introduction to the islands. You’ll cover key highlights like Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil Island with time for scuba diving, beach hopping, and a bit of nature. Ideal for couples and short holidays.

2. 7-Day Itinerary: A balanced vacation with more room to breathe. Includes main island hopping, multiple water activities, and time to relax on iconic beaches like Radhanagar and Chidiya Tapu. Perfect for friends, couples, or small families.

3. 10-Day Itinerary: For those who want more than the usual. Along with the classic trio (Port Blair, Havelock, Neil), you’ll explore remote islands like Long Island and Diglipur, visit Ross & Smith Islands, take a day trip to Barren Island, and explore Baratang’s caves and volcanoes. Best for nature lovers and explorers.

4. 15-Day Itinerary: A slow, immersive loop through the islands. This itinerary includes a ferry trip to Little Andaman, Scuba diving and kayaking in Havelock, peaceful days in Neil, and a full circuit of North Andaman including Long Island, Diglipur, and Baratang. Ideal for backpackers or anyone looking to explore remote spots, get PADI certified, and soak in the islands at their rawest and most rewarding.

5. 20–30 Day Itinerary: Built for serious backpackers with time to spare. Spend a full week in Havelock earning your scuba certifications from Discover Scuba diving to Advanced Open Water. Then sail to Little Andaman and Great Nicobar for an off-grid experience few ever try. Wrap it up with slow travel through Neil, Long Island, Diglipur, and Baratang, with plenty of downtime to explore, unplug, and roam at your own pace.

The Ideal 5-Day DIY Andaman Itinerary

Perfect for couples or a small group of friends, this 5-day plan gives you just the right mix of laid-back beach time, scenic walks, and unforgettable water adventures, without rushing through the experience. It’s short, sweet, and stunning.

Islands to Visit – The Happening Spots of Andaman

1. Port Blair: Your introduction to the islands starts here. Explore historical landmarks like the Cellular Jail, relax at Corbyn’s Cove, and enjoy rooftop dining with views of the sea.

2. Havelock Island: Known for its turquoise waters and coral reefs, Havelock is where adventure meets beauty. Scuba diving, kayaking, and every moment here is postcard-worthy.

3. Neil Island: Small, scenic, and slow-paced, Neil is perfect for nature walks and beach hopping. Discover its natural bridge, tide pools, and laid-back coastal beauty, ideal for the last day of your trip.

Activities to Try

1. Scuba Diving in Havelock: Dive into the Scuba Diving Capital of India and swim with reef fish, soft corals, and underwater landscapes that feel straight out of a dream. 
2. Sunset Kayaking in Havelock: Glide through mangrove creeks as the sky turns gold. A peaceful, unforgettable way to end your day. 
3. Nature Walks in Neil Island: Join an expert-led walk to discover the island’s marine biodiversity, intertidal life, and hidden wonders most people miss. 
4. Boat Trip to Elephant Beach: Reach the beach through a short speedboat ride. It’s quiet, beautiful, and full of life, both on land and underwater. 
5. Experience History at Cellular Jail: A walk through the infamous British-era jail, followed by the Light & Sound Show, gives you a deeper understanding of Andaman’s role in India’s freedom struggle.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Port Blair – History & Beach Vibes

• Land in Port Blair, check into your hotel, and rent a scooter for easy movement. 
• Kick off your trip with a ride to Corbyn’s Cove Beach. Go for a jet ski ride or just chill by the water with a coconut in hand. 
• Next, visit the Cellular Jail, an introduction to Andaman’s colonial history. 
• Stay back for the Light & Sound Show at the Jail in the evening for an immersive experience.

Day 2: Forest Trails, Ruins & A Fancy Night Out

• Start early and take a short boat ride to Ross Island and explore moss-covered ruins and deer roaming freely. 
• Post lunch, head to Chidiya Tapu for a walk through the Munda Pahad Trek. Expect forest trails, birds, and stunning sunset views. 
• In the night, relax at Marina Park before heading to Amaya for dinner, one of the best rooftop restaurants in town, for cocktails and seafood with a city view.

Day 3: Off to Havelock – Kayak into Sunset

• Take the morning ferry to Havelock Island.  
• Once you arrive, check into your resort and rent a scooter. 
• Post lunch, head to Radhanagar Beach for swimming or just a lazy stroll, it’s sunsets are postcard-perfect. 
• Spot sunset on Radhanagar beach or go for Sunset Kayaking, a peaceful paddle through mangroves as the sky turns golden. 
• Relax with drinks and dinner at Bonova, known for its lively ambience and fresh seafood.

Day 4: Scuba, Treks & Tropical Cocktails

• Start your day early with a Discover Scuba Diving session.. 
• After breakfast, take a speedboat ride to Elephant Beach. Try snorkelling and water sports here, it’s a hotspot for water sports in Havelock. 
• Post Lunch, spend the afternoon at Kalapathar Beach, a quiet stretch with turquoise waters and soft sand, perfect for a swim or nap under the trees. 
• Catch the last ferry to Neil Island, and check into your accommodation.

Day 5: Neil Island & Nature Walks

• Start your day by heading to the iconic Natural Bridge, a rocky marvel shaped by the sea. 
• Join a nature walk with a local biologist to spot native flora, fauna, and hidden marine life. 
• Spend some time at Laxmanpur Beach, known for tide pools and scenic views. 
• By late afternoon, take the ferry back to Port Blair. Freshen up and get ready to fly home with your heart full.

#GO2ANDAMAN Andaman Travel Hacks

• Opt for stays closer to the beach, since it reduces commute time.
• Pack for a short trip, but don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen and other essentials.
• Book ferry tickets in advance if you are commuting via private ferries (which is what the G2A team recommends)
• Rent bikes in Port Blair, Havelock and Neil to explore the island at your time.
• Since it’s a short duration, don’t squeeze too many activities into your plan and leave some room for surprise.

The Ideal 7-Day DIY Andaman Itinerary

If you’re a nature lover or a group of friends looking to explore the Islands, this itinerary is for you. This plan offers the perfect combination of outdoor fun and cultural experiences across the Andaman Islands.

Islands to Visit

1. Port Blair – Havelock – Neil Island Circuit: This classic circuit gives you the complete Andaman experience. History, beaches, nightlife, coral reefs, and adventure, everything flows smoothly in this route.
2. Baratang Island: A great add-on for those with 7 days in hand. Explore limestone caves, mud volcanoes, and drive through dense tropical forests.
3. Chidiya Tapu: Located near Port Blair, it’s ideal for forest walks, birdwatching, and one of the best sunsets on the islands.

Activities To Try

1. Scuba Diving: Try a boat dive in Havelock, perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. Expect coral gardens and vibrant marine life.
2. Sunrise Kayaking: Paddle through calm mangrove waters in Havelock at sunrise, a great way to connect with nature before the day begins.
3. Night Kayaking: Experience the magic of bioluminescence in Port Blair. A magical night-time adventure.
4. Limestone Cave Trek (Baratang): Boardwalks, boat rides, and a short jungle trek lead you to this natural wonder.
5. Beach Hopping by Scooter: Renting a scooter is the best way to explore beaches like Kalapathar, Radhanagar, Bharatpur, and Laxmanpur at your own pace.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Port Blair – Start with Stories & Street Food

• Land in Port Blair and check into your stay. Rent a scooter to get around easily.
• Visit Ross Island and walk among eerie, beautiful ruins from the British era.
• Head to the Cellular Jail to explore its grim history and stay back for the Light & Sound Show – a must-see introduction to Andaman’s past.
• End the evening exploring Aberdeen Bazaar to try local snacks, sip on fresh juices, and hunt for souvenirs.

Day 2: Port Blair – Beaches, Forest Trails & Bioluminescence

• Start the day with a ride to Corbyn’s Cove. Chill by the beach or try jet skiing and banana boat rides.
• Later, ride down to Chidiya Tapu,a paradise for birdwatchers and forest lovers. You can do a short trek through mangroves here.
• Stay till sunset, this spot offers one of the most stunning golden-hour views in the Andamans.
• Feeling adventurous? Join a night kayaking session through the glowing waters (advance booking recommended).

Day 3: Off to Havelock – Dive & Relax

• Catch an early morning ferry to Havelock Island. Once there, check in and grab a scooter.
• Begin your day with a Discover Scuba Diving session – Dive in the Scuba Diving Capital of India.
• After lunch, head to Radhanagar Beach, Asia’s #1 Beach. Swim, sunbathe, or just laze around.
• Relax with cocktails at Narra and dinner at Full Moon Café – both are local favourites.

Day 4: Sunrise Paddle & Ferry to Neil

• Kickstart the day with Sunrise Kayaking, a peaceful paddle through mangrove creeks as the sky lights up.
• Later, visit Kalapathar Beach for a quiet dip or a stroll.
• By afternoon, take the ferry to Neil Island.
• Check in and head to Laxmanpur Beach to catch a spectacular sunset with coral-strewn shores.
• Stay at a beachside resort for that perfect island vibe.

Day 5: Discover Neil & Return to Port Blair

• Start with the unique Natural Bridge, a beautiful rock formation that appears during low tide.
• Then head to Bharatpur Beach, ideal for a swim or snorkelling.
• Catch the last ferry back to Port Blair and settle into your stay.
• Take it easy tonight,maybe a quick walk or dinner at a local restaurant.
  

Day 6: Day Trip to Baratang

• Book a cab early in the morning for a full-day trip to Baratang Island.
• Drive through the tribal reserve forest (no photography allowed here).
• Explore the famous Limestone Caves and visit the only Mud Volcano in India.
• Return by evening, grab a hearty local dinner, and relax.

Day 7: Last-Minute Moments & Departure

• Wrap up with last-minute shopping at Sagarika Emporium or local craft stores.
• Pick up shell-based souvenirs or spices to take back home.
• Head to the airport with your heart full and bags packed with stories.

#GO2ANDAMAN Andaman Travel Hacks

• Carry mosquito and insect repellant with you at all times.
• Wear comfortable shoes for your trek.
• Carry extra cash with you as ATMs are rare in remote areas.
• Ferry schedules can change at the last minute, so keep a buffer time of 60 minutes for connecting ferries.

The Ideal 10-Day DIY Andaman Itinerary

For Travellers Who Want It All – History, Water Sports, Remote Islands & Local Life

This itinerary is for explorers who have the time and energy to go deep. Over 10 days, you’ll dive into marine adventures, uncover colonial stories, visit offbeat islands, and even reach the northernmost corners of the archipelago.

Islands to Visit – The Happening Spots of Andaman

1. Port Blair: The heart of the Andamans and your gateway to the archipelago. Explore its colonial history at the Cellular Jail, chill at Corbyn’s Cove, and explore vibrant bazaars and cafes.
2. Havelock Island: This is where adventure kicks in scuba diving, snorkelling, sunset kayaking, and even a day trip to Barren Island. Spend a few days here and you’ll see why it’s everyone’s favourite.
3. Neil Island: Small and peaceful, Neil is ideal for a slow day of exploration. Natural Bridge, Laxmanpur Beach, and more.  it’s the perfect contrast to action-packed Havelock.
4. Ross Island (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island): Just off the coast of Port Blair, this former British settlement is now a hauntingly beautiful island with vine-covered ruins, peacocks, and deer roaming freely.
5. Long Island: Remote and refreshingly quiet, Long Island offers a rare chance to disconnect. Visit Lalaji Bay Beach, stroll around the village, or just enjoy the isolation.
6. Rangat & Diglipur: Break the journey between the south and north islands with stops at Amkunj and Moricedera Beach near Rangat. In Diglipur, visit Ross & Smith Islands, Kalipur Beach, and mud volcanoes tucked in the wild north.
7. Baratang Island: A land of natural marvels with Limestone Caves, Mud Volcano, Mangrove Creeks, all accessible after a scenic drive through the Jarawa Reserve Forest.

Activities To Try – Balance Rest With Thrills

1. Scuba Diving: No worries if you’re and non-swimmer, sites like Nemo Reef in Havelock and Bharatpur Reef in Neil offer incredible visibility and coral life. You can even upgrade to a PADI certification while you’re here.
   
   
2. Barren Island Boat Tour: Take a day trip to India’s only active volcano. The ride, the view, and the chance to spot dolphins or flying fish make it one of the most extraordinary experiences in the Andamans.
   
   
3. Snorkelling & Water Sports: Snorkel at Elephant Beach and Bharatpur Beach, or try jet skiing and banana boat rides at Corbyn’s Cove. Elephant Beach also offers a great mix of adventure options.
   
   
4. Sunset & Sunrise Kayaking: Paddle through mangrove creeks in Havelock or Port Blair during early morning or sunset hours, its peaceful, magical, and one-of-a-kind.
   
   
5. Limestone Cave Exploration: Take a short boat ride through mangrove tunnels in Baratang to reach these magical caves made entirely of ancient limestone formations.
   
   
6. Beach Hopping & Nature Walks: Kalapathar Beach, Lalaji Bay Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, and Ross & Smith Islands, each beach feels like a different world. When in Neil or Havelock, join a nature walk with a biologist to learn about island ecology.
7. Mangrove Cruising & Birdwatching: If you’re in Baratang, ask locals about Parrot Island, A scenic boat ride to visit here when thousands of parakeets fly in at sunset for an unforgettable show.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Port Blair – Begin with Stories & Seaside Relaxation

• Arrive in Port Blair and settle into your stay.
• Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Cellular Jail, a place that shaped India’s freedom struggle.
• Cool off at Corbyn’s Cove Beach, perfect for a swim or some light water sports.
• In the evening, attend Light and Sound Show in Cellular Jail and explore Aberdeen Bazaar for street eats, souvenirs, and a taste of local life.
  

Day 2: Havelock – Havelock – Welcome to Island Life

• Take an early morning ferry to Havelock Island and check into your resort.
• Head to Kalapathar Beach for soft sands and quiet coastal views.
• Post lunch, try sunset kayaking through mangrove creeks.
• Later, join a Night Nature Walk led by naturalist for an thrilling adventure.

Day 3: Havelock – Dive, Beach-Hop & Sunset Drinks

• Start early with a Discover scuba diving at popular sites like Nemo Reef or Dixson’s Pinnacle.
• Post-dive, take a short speedboat ride to Elephant Beach, famous for snorkelling and water sports.
• From there, trek through the forest to Radhanagar Beach– Spend your afternoon here swim, nap, or just relax till sunset.
  
• End your day with cocktails at Narra or Bonova, followed by a delightful dinner. Rest up at your resort.

Day 4: Barren Island Day Trip – Volcano & Ocean Views 

• Join a pre-booked shared private charter for a day trip to Barren Island, India’s only active volcano.
• Spot flying fish, dolphins, while cruising around the Active volcano.
• Return to Havelock by afternoon and relax for the evening with a cappuccino in Full Moon Cafe
  
• This is your final night in Havelock, enjoy a relaxing night stroll on Govind Nagar Beach.

Day 5: Neil Island – Coral Formations & Silent Beaches

• Take a morning ferry to Neil Island.
• Visit the famous Natural Bridge and then relax at Laxmanpur Beach with a spectacular sunset.
• Visit AVISA, a beachside restobar for chilled beers and fresh seafood.
• Stay overnight in a beach resort.

Day 6: Long Island – Where Offbeat Begins

• Take an early government ferry to Long Island, one of the least commercialised islands in the Andamans.
• Relax by the Blue Planet Beach orexplore short forest trails that connect different parts of the village
  
• For a more comfortable stay and delicious home-cooked meals, check in at Yougu’s Woodside, a local favourite in Long Island.

Day 7: Long Island to Diglipur – Remote Beaches & Travel through Rangat

• Visit Lalaji Bay Beach early in the morning for sunrise and swimming.
• Start early and travel up via Rangat, stopping at scenic beaches like Amkunj or Moricedera en route.
• Reach Diglipur by evening and settle in for the night.

Day 8: Diglipur – Ross & Smith Islands and More

• Take a short boat ride to Ross & Smith Islands, twin islands connected by a natural sandbar.
• Spend time walking, swimming, or snorkelling here.
• Back in Diglipur, visit spots like Kalipur Beach or Mud Volcano (Alfred Caves) if time allows.
• Stay another night here and rest well.

Day 9: Baratang – Forest Drive & Natural Wonders

• Start early and drive through the Jarawa Forest Reserve (no photography allowed).
• Explore Limestone Caves, Mud Volcano, and take a creek ride through Baratang’s mangroves.
• In the evening, take a sunset boat ride to cruise around Parrot Island to witness thousands of parakeets flying in formation.
• If you’re able to secure a stay, overnight at Dew Dale Resort by pre-booking in Baratang. However, if accommodation isn’t available, skip Parrot Island and return to Port Blair by the last convoy.

Day 10: Return to Port Blair

• Leave Baratang early and return to Port Blair.
• Take a boat ride to Ross Island to explore overgrown colonial ruins.
• End your Andaman journey with a peaceful sunset at Chidiya Tapu.
• Do any last-minute shopping at Sagarika Emporium.
• Prepare for departure.

#GO2ANDAMAN Andaman Travel Hacks

• Coordinate with a local guide to get the necessary permits for Baratang Island.
• Book hotels and transfers in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.The trek to Lalaji Ray Beach takes 2 hours and is quite rigorous. So carry ample water and snacks to keep you sustained.
• Pack light but include swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes.
• When passing. through the Jarawa Reserve, respect the local customs and environment. Don’t initiate contact with the tribals.
• Weather related delays are common, so keep ample buffer time between transfers.
• Consider renting scooters on Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Islands for easy and cost-effective transportation.
• Most ferry operators stop transfers after 3:00 PM, so plan your travels accordingly.

The Ideal 15-Day DIY Andaman Itinerary

For Backpackers Who Want The Real Andamans – Long Rides, Raw Beaches & Slow Travel

If you’ve got two weeks and an appetite for the road less taken, this plan is for you. It mixes island-hopping with government ferries, bus rides up the Andaman Trunk Road, hidden beach stops, and long afternoons doing nothing much, just exactly how backpacking should feel. You’ll go south to Little Andaman, cut through remote villages in the north, live out of a backpack, and come home with salty skin and stories that actually matter.

Islands to Visit

It’s Not About How Many, But How Deep

1. Port Blair: Start and end here. It’s where the history kicks in, the ferries leave from, and the gear is cheapest. Easy to get stuck here, but don’t.
2. Little Andaman: This one’s for the patient. Overnight ferry to a sleepy island of waterfalls, surf breaks, forest treks, and near-empty beaches. Not touristy, not easy, but very worth it.
3. Havelock Island: Your adventure zone. Learn scuba, kayak through mangroves, and kick back on world-class beaches. A few hostels here offer the right backpacker buzz.
4. Neil Island: Tiny and calm. Cycle the entire island in a couple of hours, catch sunsets at Laxmanpur, and chat with locals over coconuts.
5. Long Island: Totally off-grid. No big resorts. No cars. Just forest paths, quiet beaches like Lalaji Bay, and one or two solid stays like Yougu’s Woodside with home food.
6. Rangat, Diglipur, Baratang: Use Rangat as a break point. Diglipur has the famous twin islands and black-sand beaches. Baratang brings caves, creeks, and parrot-packed sunsets. All best explored by bus or shared jeep.

Activities to Try

Cheap Thrills, Real Skills

1. Learn Scuba Diving: Havelock is the cheapest and most scenic place to get PADI certified. Takes 3–4 days, includes four dives. You’ll never look at water the same again.
2. Govt. Ferry Hopping: Port Blair to Little Andaman. Havelock to Long Island. These rides are half the fun. Cheap, scenic, unpredictable, its the perfect backpacker combo.
3. Surf in Little Andaman: You won’t find surf schools easily, but Butler Bay has real waves. Rent a board from a shack, or just swim, nap, repeat.
4. Beach Bumming at Unknown Spots: Skip the popular. Try Lalaji Bay, Kalipur, or Amkunj Beach. You’ll usually be the only one there,  with the occasional curious crab.
5. Walks and Waterfalls: The Whisper Wave trek in Little Andaman or the short forest trail to Lalaji Bay are low-effort, high-reward.
6. Parrot Island Cruise: In Baratang, take a local boat at sunset to see thousands of parakeets fly home. It’s loud, weird, and kind of amazing.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1–5: South Andaman & Little Andaman – The Real Start

• Land in Port Blair. Do the classic loop – Cellular Jail, Corbyn’s Cove, Light & Sound Show, it’s worth ticking off.
• Board the overnight government ferry to Little Andaman (check schedule ahead).
• Spend 3 nights there. Hire a scooter, visit Butler Bay, Whisper Wave, and White Surf Waterfall.
• No cell service, no fancy stays, just time and space. Stock snacks, book return ferry early.

Day 6–8: Havelock & Neil – Time to Get Wet

• Get down on Havelock on the return ferry from Little Andaman.
• Check into a hostel (Classic Hostel) or beach shack.
• Do your PADI course (or a Discover Scuba session if short on time).
• Sunset kayaking, Elephant Beach by boat, Radhanagar for sunsets, and cocktails at Bonova or Narra.
• On Day 8, ferry to Neil Island. See Natural Bridge, Laxmanpur Beach, and sleep with the sound of waves.

Day 9–13: The North Loop – Real Roads, Remote Places

• Catch an early government ferry to Long Island (you can hop on the ferry on Neil Island).
• Stay a night. Visit Lalaji Bay, walk the quiet forest paths, and eat whatever Yougu’s kitchen makes.
• Head to Rangat by government ferry. Break the journey with a chill evening at Amkunj Beach.
• Take the bus to Diglipur, stop at Kalipur, and do the Ross & Smith Island trip.
• Begin heading back south. Stop in Baratang, explore the Limestone Caves, cruise the mangrove creeks, and if you’ve booked a stay, cruise around the Parrot Island sunset.
• If not, skip it and return to Port Blair via the last convoy.

Day 14–15: Back Where You Started – With Extras

• After a lot of travel, ease out with a Ross & North Bay Island boat tour (classic, but scenic).
• End your final day at Chidiya Tapu for one last killer sunset.
• Grab souvenirs at Sagarika, eat well, and catch your flight the next morning, slightly sunburnt, a bit salty, and completely satisfied.

#GO2ANDAMAN Travel Hacks for Backpackers

• Check ferry timings: Government ferries to Little Andaman and Long Island don’t run daily. Book in person or through STARS well in advance.
  
• Carry a water filter or purification tablets. Some remote places may not have bottled water.
  
• Download offline maps – Long Island & Little Andaman have almost zero connectivity.
  
• Stick to one backpack. You’ll carry it a lot.
  
• Bus it when possible: The Andaman Trunk Road connects most towns and is cheap and reliable (if slow).
  
• Skip if it’s too tight: If something feels rushed (like Parrot Island), don’t squeeze it in. Leave it for the next trip.
  
• Talk to locals: You’ll get ferry tips, food recs, and stories you’ll never find online.
• Respect restricted areas – especially while passing through tribal zones or forest reserves. No photos. No interaction. Just observe quietly.

The Ideal 20- 30 Days DIY Andaman Itinerary

For Hardcore Backpackers & Dive-Heads Who Want It All

This is not a holiday – it’s a slow-burning adventure. You’ll start in Port Blair, dive deep (literally) in Havelock with full scuba certifications, ferry your way to the southern edge of Great Nicobar, chill out in Little Andaman, and then ride north through jungles, creeks, caves, and quiet villages. The luxury here is time and the chance to let the islands change your pace.

Islands to Visit

1. Port Blair: Your logistical base. This is where you book tickets, stock up on essentials, visit historic spots like Cellular Jail and Corbyn’s Cove, and swap ferry gossip with fellow travellers.
2. Havelock Island: Your diving home base. You’ll spend at least 6–7 days here for scuba training (DSD → Open Water → Advanced Open Water). It’s also perfect for meeting other backpackers at hostels, eating cheap thalis, and catching sunset kayaking trips post-dives.
3. Neil Island: Ideal for a short break during your scuba journey or after. Peaceful and walkable, it’s all about natural bridges, reef flats, and budget-friendly beach shacks.
4. Great Nicobar: Hard to reach, absolutely worth it. A true expedition. You’ll need a permit and patience, expect remote beaches, tribal buffer zones, and possibly the southernmost point of India: Indira Point.
5. Little Andaman: Waterfalls, surf waves, scooter rides through jungles. No resorts. Just you, a couple of huts, and time.
6. Long Island: Forest paths, Blue Planet Beach, and the chance to unplug completely. No vehicles here and no one to sell you a tour package.
7. North Andaman Loop (Rangat, Diglipur, Baratang): The rugged road trip. Buses, beach breaks at Amkunj or Kalipur, a day at Ross & Smith, and boat rides through mangrove tunnels to limestone caves.

Activities to Try

Long-Term Travel Means You Can Do It All – Slowly

1. Scuba Diving Certifications: Start with DSD (Discover Scuba Diving) and, if you’re hooked, move on to Open Water (3–4 days) and then Advanced Open Water (2–3 days). By doing this you’ll become certified diver who can dive anywhere in the world.
2. Island Ferries & Bus Journeys: Hop from island to island using government ferries – Port Blair to Little Andaman, Great Nicobar, Long Island, and Diglipur. For the North Loop, catch early morning buses through the Andaman Trunk Road and pass through Jarawa territory (no photography, no stops).
3. Remote Island Camping or Beach Bumming: Spend extra time at Butler Bay, Lalaji Bay, or Kalipur Beach doing nothing – maybe reading, swimming, or joining a beach cleanup.
4. Night Kayaking & Mangrove Walks: Havelock’s sunset and night kayaking through bioluminescent creeks are unmissable. You can also walk through mangrove forests in Baratang or Long Island.
5. Sunrise Treks & Nature Walks: Hike to Whisper Wave in Little Andaman, or explore forest trails around Long Island and Diglipur. Carry snacks and water, there’s no one selling cold drinks here.

Daily Itinerary

Days 1–2: Port Blair

• Chill at Aberdeen Bazaar, Cellular Jail, and Corbyn’s Cove
• Sort ferry bookings and permits for Nicobar & Little Andaman
• Stay at Park Inn or Aashiaanaa Residency (budget-friendly, clean)

Days 3–8: Havelock (with a quick visit to Neil)

• Begin with a DSD dive in Havelock or Neil.
• Enroll in Open Water + Advanced Certification with a PADi certified dive school.
• Use off-days and evenings to explore Kalapathar Beach, sunset kayak, and chill at Full Moon Café.
• Consider 1 day trip to Neil Island mid-way or post certification for a breather.
• Stay at Classic Hostel, Budget Hostel, or beach huts

Days 9–16: The Southern Leg – Great Nicobar & Little Andaman

• Return to Port Blair, take government ferry to Great Nicobar (permit needed)
• Explore Indira Point, Campbell Bay, and stay in basic government lodges
• Ferry back and head to Little Andaman for Butler Bay Beach, Whisper Wave waterfalls, and surfing
• Budget stays: Blue View, Hut Bay Guesthouse
• Return to Port Blair via ferry

Days 17–19: Slow Days in Port Blair

• Visit Ross Island, North Bay, Chidiya Tapu
• Catch a film at the cinema hall, roam Marina Park
• Use this as a laundry, rest, and resupply window

Days 20–26: North Loop by Road & Sea

• Port Blair → Long Island → Rangat → Diglipur → Baratang
• Visit Lalaji Bay, Amkunj Beach, Ross & Smith Islands, and Kalipur Beach
• In Baratang, take the sunset boat to Parrot Island and visit limestone caves
• Stay at Dew Dale Resort (Baratang), Pristine Beach Resort (Diglipur), local lodges elsewhere

Days 27–30: Bonus Days to Breathe

• Catch up on missed spots
• Try snorkelling, jet skiing, or just chill at Wandoor Beach or Chidiyatapu again
• Buy souvenirs at Sagarika Emporium, and maybe do a final sunset dive if you’re still hooked.

#GO2ANDAMAN Tips for the Long-Stayers

• Dive schools offer stay discounts if you book a course. Ask upfront.
• Apply early for Great Nicobar permit, expect wait times and limited sailings. Don’t plan any long trips too close to your departure date, as ferry schedules can shift without warning.
• Carry offline music, books, and backup chargers, you’ll have entire days of no signal.
• Budget meals = veg thalis, samosas, and fruit carts near every ferry terminal.
• Always check ferry schedules before jumping islands, some sailings are once every 2–3 days.
• Consider volunteering for a beach cleanup or reef check project, ask dive schools.