Andaman Vs Thailand | Which Is Better?

Written By Go2andaman Editorial Team on November 11, 2024 Andamans or Elsewhere?Planning Your Holiday

Andamans or Elsewhere?Planning Your Holiday

Andaman Vs Thailand | Which Is Better?

Table of Content

Off Beat Andaman Or Mainstream Thailand – Which One Should You Choose?

Andaman and Thailand are popular destinations on the tourist map. Both terrains are perfect for beach lovers looking for relaxation and adventure. 

Andamans offers the quintessential island life complete with laidback afternoons and bustling mornings. Thailand on the other hand is glitzy, glamorous and bustling all through the day and night. Deciding on either  is hard.

To make your decision easier we tell you  how to reach these spots, visa requirements to follow, best ways to travel in the islands, what you should try and everything in between.

Andaman vs Thailand

Need To Know – Get Your Basics SortedAndamanThailand
How Do I Get There?Fly into Port Blair and take ferries to reach other islands Fly into Bangkok and take connecting flights to connect to other islands.
Do I Need A Visa?Indians don’t need a visa;
International tourists need a visa and passport to enter the Andamans.
Tourists travelling from Bhutan and Nepal don’t need a visa.
Foreigners mandatorily need a RAP (Restricted Area Permit)
Tourists need a visa. Free Visa on arrival is also available for tourists from select countries.  
Best Time To VisitOctober to March, though there is something to do in Andamans through all seasonsNovember to March; anytime before this is too hot.
How Many Days Do I Need?Minimum 5 daysMinimum 4 days.
Local Currency?Indian Rupee (INR)Extremely safe for solo travellers and women backpackers
SafetyExtremely safe for solo travellers and women backpackersSafe but stay vigilant as petty crimes are common
Visa CostRanges from 2000 INR- 10000 INR Depending on type of VisaRanges from 4000 INR- 29000 INR Depending on the type of Visa

#G2A Travel Tips: Planning Your Budget
Do account for visa costs and currency fluctuations when planning your trip. These are often hidden costs that can increase your overall budget.

Island Hopping in Andaman VS Thailand

Island HoppingAndamanThailand
Total Islands8361430
Tourists Islands29 inhabited and 11 uninhabited34
Popular IslandsNeil, Havelock, Port Blair, Ross, Baratang, North Bay Island, Long Island, Middle and North AndamanKo Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Lipe, Ko Samet, Ko Lanta
Best Way To ReachPrivate or Government FerriesFerry, speed boats and local buses.
Unique FindsTake a private charter boat to secluded islands like Long Island, Cinque Island, Little Andaman, Barren Island and South ButtonPrivate island experience in islands like Koh Muh Nork.

34 Amazing Thai Islands To Explore

Thailand

Thailand has 1430 islands. Out of these 34 islands are popular amongst tourists which include Koh Samui, Ko Lipe, Ko Tao and many more. All these are  little pockets of paradise for beach lovers.

You can book a private ferry or a sea plane to hop from one island to the other.

What To Expect:

The drawback here is large crowds that throng these islands. You will encounter crowds even during the off season.

 

Secluded Beauty of The Many Andaman Islands

Lalaji Bay Beach

The Andamans are the quiet counterpart of Thailand. The Archipelago is home to 836 islands of which 31 are inhabited. Havelock, Neil, Port Blair are 3 of the most popular islands frequented by tourists. Bright sunny weather, clear waters and sandy beaches offer the perfect sunbathing weather.

What To Expect:

You can reach the islands via private ferries – which are economical and clean. Hop on a ferry to the secluded Radhanagar Beach, Ramnagar Beach, Lalaji Beach, Wandoor beach, Ross and Smith – to get a private island experience.

Things To Do in Andamans VS Thailand

Popular Adventure ActivitiesAndamanThailand
PopularScuba Diving,
Snorkelling,
Kayaking,
Trekking,
Sea Walking,
Game Fishing,
Glass Bottom Boat Rides,
Water Sports.
SkyDiving,
Mountain Biking,
Kiteboarding,
White Water Rafting,
Bungee Jumping,
Kayaking,
ATV Rides,
Snorkeling,
Scuba Diving
Try Something NewGet your Scuba Diving certifications from PADI certified and prestigious dive-shops Muay Thai Camp is a great way for beginners to test their agility.

Fly, Dive or Sail | Thailand’s Diverse Adventures

Thailand offers a mix of land and sea adventures. You can try SkyDiving, Mountain Biking, Kiteboarding, White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Kayaking, ATV Rides, Snorkeling and so much more. This mix is perfect for adventure lovers who want to try diverse activities in one trip. Though keep an eye on your pocket as these activities can be expensive to try.

 

A Haven For Water Sports & Nature Lovers | Andaman Islands

Adventure activities in the Andamans are centered around Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Kayaking, Trekking, Sea Walking. These options may seem limited but once you dive into the Andaman waters you will want to live there. The Andaman sea is home to some of the most spectacular corals, under sea creatures which are vibrant and gorgeous.

The islands are also home to professional PADI schools that offer courses for all levels. This coupled with a community that is passionate about diving and the sea lend the Andamans a unique adventurous twist.

 

OffBeat Tourist Attractions in Andaman VS Thailand

While Thailand and Andamans are both popular beach destinations, they have a lot to offer for tourists looking for something a little more offbeat.

Your ItineraryAndamanThailand
Popular AttractionsCellular Jail, Natural Bridge, Limestone Caves, Mud Volcanoes, and MuseumsFloating Markets, Visit Buddhist Temples, Visit Khao Yai National Park, Visit Chiang Mai,
Offbeat ExperiencesVisit Asia’s only active Volcano on Barren Island.Experience the unique nightlife of Thailand.
Unique ExperiencesWitness Turtle Nesting in DiglipurVisit the Amulet Market in Bangkok

Temples, Floating Markets and Late-Night Adventures In Thailand

If you aren’t island hopping or scuba diving, then you can visit Buddhist temples like The Big Buddha Temple, The Temple of Emerald Buddha. You can also experience the unique Floating Markets, watch a Muay Thai fight, visit the Grand Palace or soak in nature at the Khao Yai National Park.

While your day is filled with seeing these attractions, your nights will come alive with great food, music and amazing attractions.

 

Volcano Sightings, Bird Watching, Nature Treks and A Walk Through Time

barren island in Andaman

The Andaman Archipelago is home to the only active volcano in India located in Barren Island. You can also witness the spectacular beauty of Limestone Caves, experience a unique hobby of bird watching in Parrot Island or even undertake a trek to Chidiya Tapu. The famed Cellular Jail is also located here, giving you a glimpse of the unique history of the land.

The nights in Andamans are quiet and calm. There is peace in the air and the occasional music on the beach from cafes and resorts.

Food, Culture and History of Andamans VS Thailand

What To ExpectAndamanThailand
History & CultureRetains an old world charm of a quintessential fishing town. An erstwhile colony, Andamans is a unique blend of hyper local and Western cultures.Thailand was founded in the 13th Century AD. Its history is marked by the rule of great leaders. The unique culture of Thailand is a result of its regal past, spiritual leanings and its embracement of the modern present.
FoodIndulge in local vegetarian and fresh seafood delights including fish pakoras. The Andaman cuisine is primarily made of Bengali, North Indian, South Indian and Continental influences.Street food is a must try with versions of Pad Thai, Mango Sticky rice, Tom Kha Gai, Khao Soi served everywhere across the region.

Land of Sticky Rice, Full Moon Escapades and Joyous Celebrations

Thailand is an extrovert’s paradise. The islands of Thailand are also a hub of parties including the famous ‘Full Moon’ parties. While here you can gorge on some fresh seafood, meats, exotic vegetables and delicious desserts.

Dig into some famous Pad Thai, Mango Sticky rice, Tom Kha Gai, Khao Soi and many other local dishes that have a wonderful play off of spicy and sweet flavors.

 

Land of Indigenous Tribes, Flavours of India and Sanctity

The Andaman islands are steeped in local culture and one that has retained its sanctity. An erstwhile British colony, the Archipelago is today home to several indigenous tribes including the extremely reserved Sentinalese, Onge and Jarawa tribes. Their presence has helped retain the natural habitat of the region.

When it comes to food, the Andaman cuisine is a beautiful blend of South Indian, North Indian Bengali and Continental delicacies. So your dining experience will be a tour of India through its diverse flavors and not to forget some fresh seafood.

What’s The Vibe? Andamans VS Thailand

Thailand and Andamans are known for their beaches. Yet the vibe of both places is starkly different.

Mostly Rustic, Sometimes Luxurious – Andamans

While in Andaman you can almost soak in the Goan equivalent of  Susegad – a relaxed and content existence. The island transports you back in time where McDonald signs or the towers of malls didn’t exist.

Here you can experience the authentic lifestyle of erstwhile fishing communities.

The Andaman locals believe in a sustainable and minimalist way of living. Yet Andamans manages to strike a balance. The influx of tourists and their needs has created a niche environment of luxury stays, great fine dining spots and rejuvenating experiences

Here’s a sneak peek into these:

Top Picks To Get You StartedAndaman
Uber Luxurious StaysTaj Exotica Resort & Spa, Radha Nagar Beach | Munjoh Ocean Resort, Havelock | Welcome Hotels by ITC Hotels, Port Blair | Symphony Summer Sands Beach Resort, Neil Island | Barefoot at Havelock, Havelock
Fine DiningThe Settlers, Radha Nagar Beach | Red Snapper, Wild Orchid Resort Havelock Island | Barefoot Bar & Restaurant, Radhanagar Beach | Mandalay, Fortune Resort Bay Island, Port Blair
Rejuvenating ExperiencesSvarasyaa Wellness Spa in Port Blair | Ayur Spa & Wellness, Port Blair | OMA Spa, Havelock | YOGLOVE Retreat, Havelock Island,

Party Harder, Unwind Deeper – Thailand

Thailand is the extroverted counterpart of Andamans. The party spots and adventure activities create a melting pot of thrill, adventure and energy. Thailand is youthful and wears its hearts on its sleeve.

 

Choosing a Destination based on Traveler Persona

Traveler VS DestinationAndamanThailand
Honeymoon CouplesYayYay
Solo Traveller / BackpackerYayYay
Family HolidayYayNay
Budget HolidayYayNay
DIY Travel (Self Curated)YayNay

Conclusion

We hope this quick comparison between Thailand and Andamans has helped you decide your next destination. The Andamans is all about peaceful adventures while Thailand is more mainstream with more options but sadly also lots of crowds. Whatever floats your boat!

Happy Holidays To You!

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Author
Go2andaman Editorial Team

Hello! We’re a bunch of content enthusiasts writing about all things Andaman. Our blogs are the result of our immersive first-hand travels to the Andamans and the experiences of those we know closely. We keep a close watch on the travel space in the Andamans, so we can always bring to you the most updated information. Hope you enjoyed reading this blog as much as we enjoyed writing it!